Ben Katt, an author focusing on personal growth and spirituality in midlife, shares his inspiring journey of embracing change and creativity after a career shift in his 40s. He discusses his book, "The Way Home", emphasizing the pursuit of a soul-centric life over monetary gain. Katt reflects on navigating seasons of risk, the balance of passion and financial stability, and the power of self-discovery. He highlights the importance of surrendering to life's journey and aligning personal values with financial choices for true fulfillment.
Ben Katt emphasizes that pursuing passion can lead to fulfillment, even if it doesn't guarantee financial stability.
The podcast highlights the importance of resilience and communication regarding finances to maintain a healthy relationship with money.
Deep dives
Navigating Purpose and Financial Stability
The podcast discusses the intricacies of balancing one's passion and purpose with financial stability. The guest, Ben Cott, emphasizes the tension many feel when pursuing their calling, which often does not align with financial gain. He shares his personal experience of transitioning from a stable job to a more uncertain path focused on writing and meditation, highlighting the uncertainty that comes with such choices. Despite the financial risks, Ben underscores the importance of finding meaning and fulfillment over monetary success.
The Reality of Risk and Uncertainty
Ben Cott shares insightful reflections on the seasons of risk he has faced throughout his career, particularly during significant transitions such as moving cities and job changes. He recalls the uncertainty that came when he lost his job shortly after a relocation, which left him questioning his financial future and life choices. During these challenging moments, he learned to embrace the unknown and found opportunities that aligned with his passion. This experience illustrates the importance of resilience and adaptability in the face of uncertainty.
The Challenge of Aligning Money with Values
The conversation delves into the misconception that following one's passion will inevitably lead to financial success. Ben mentions the allure of societal narratives that equate passion with prosperity while debunking the idea that pursuing one's true calling guarantees wealth. He discusses how internal factors, such as self-worth and societal pressures, contribute to this struggle, stressing the need for individuals to develop a personal understanding of what constitutes 'enough' financially. This perspective encourages listeners to consider their unique paths and resist conforming to outside expectations.
Cultivating a Healthy Relationship with Money
The podcast emphasizes the need to foster a healthier outlook on money and its relationship to personal identity. Ben talks about how several life experiences shape his approach to finances and importance of maintaining a sense of inner stability regarding financial uncertainties. He reflects on shared responsibilities and compromises with his wife concerning their financial situation, highlighting how communication about money can reduce tension in relationships. Ultimately, this insight aims to guide others in recognizing the significance of aligning their values with their financial practices.
The world is a better place when we are all trying to do the thing that lights us up. Ben Katt shares his experience of following his intuition and making a job change to focus on writing a book and rebooting his meditation teaching practice while in his 40s. Ben recently authored a book called “The Way Home: Discovering the Hero’s Journey to Wholeness at Midlife”, and on this episode of 50 Fires, he and Carl discuss many of the principles in that book that helped him embrace his uniqueness and live a life that inspires others to do the same. Ben emphasizes the importance of choosing your heart and living a soul-centric life, even if it doesn't always lead to monetary gain.