Grinding and hustling is glorified just as expected in a consumption-based, capitalist society. Until recently, I was in the grips of this activity-based-self-worth pattern.

When you value the inner monologue’s opinion the same as a four-year-old who believes in Santa explaining how presents are delivered on Christmas, you’ve reached the level of observation necessary to move to the next step…

If you want to wake up, you must see that a regimented schedule is another way the egoic self exerts the illusion of control. The ego (character) seeks to reinforce its existence and (I believe) that the notion of “time management” is one of the most pervasive traps out there.

I have no compulsion to learn and grow. Quite a statement coming from someone who has built an image around reading, intellectual pursuits, and spiritual growth. What appeared once as a ceaseless desire for improvement has vanished. What happened?

In consensus reality, you are the main character in a play, with many other characters playing their roles. In the awakened state, it’s as if you were playing a character in a theatrical production, but you stepped out of character while everyone else maintained their fictional personas.

A morning journal entry contemplating ego, nonduality, separation, and fear.