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Infinite Self

Infinite Self

33 Steps to Reclaiming Your Inner Power
by Stuart Wilde 1996 242 pages
4.37
500+ ratings
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Key Takeaways

1. Embrace the God Force Within: Internalize, Don't Externalize

When you perceive God as a force outside of you, you can’t really use its energy properly.

Internalizing the Divine. The initial step towards reclaiming inner power involves recognizing and accepting the God Force as an intrinsic part of oneself, rather than an external entity. This internalization shifts the locus of control from an external source to within, empowering individuals to tap into a wellspring of perception and goodness.

Rejecting Externalization. Many individuals either dismiss the concept of God entirely or relegate it to an external figure, thereby limiting their access to its potential energy. By internalizing the God Force, one transcends the limitations of intellectualizing the divine and begins to experience it as a tangible, transformative presence.

Practical Application. This concept doesn't negate existing beliefs but rather reframes them. Whether Christian, Buddhist, or otherwise, the key is to perceive the divine energy as residing within, fostering a sense of personal agency and connection to the infinite. This shift empowers individuals to believe in their capacity to create energy and effect change in their lives.

2. Expand Awareness: Everything is a Feeling

Realizing that everything is a feeling, you can begin to place your awareness into things to discover how they feel.

Beyond the Five Senses. Expanding awareness entails moving beyond the limitations of the five senses and tapping into a more subtle, extrasensory perception. This heightened awareness allows individuals to perceive the world as a tapestry of interconnected energies, where everything, even inanimate objects, emits a distinct feeling.

The Universe Speaks. By honing this extrasensory perception, individuals can decipher the subtle language of the universe, recognizing that external events and symbols often carry profound messages about their inner selves. This heightened awareness transforms daily life into a continuous dialogue between the individual and the divine.

Practical Exercises. To cultivate this expanded awareness, one can practice focusing on the subtle energies emanating from trees, humans, and various situations. By asking "How does this feel?" individuals can develop a deeper understanding of their surroundings and their connection to the broader universe.

3. Courage to Go Beyond: Trust the Spontaneous Dynamic of Free-Flow

You have to have the courage to embrace an idea, accept it, and believe it—before you have any real proof that the energy is there for you, or that the idea will work.

Letting Go of Control. The journey from ego to spirit requires relinquishing the need for control and embracing the spontaneous dynamic of free-flow. This involves trusting in the unknown, taking life as it comes, and resisting the urge to force experiences into preconceived patterns.

Paradoxes of Existence. This transition entails resolving the inherent paradoxes of human existence, such as embracing infinity within a mortal body, believing in an unseen God, and discovering freedom within a world of control. It is a journey of faith, requiring individuals to embrace ideas and beliefs before tangible proof emerges.

Embracing Vulnerability. The courage to go beyond also necessitates embracing vulnerability, setting aside the need for macho posturing, and entering into the intense spiritual beauty of moving and flowing without necessarily knowing which way to go or how you’ll get there. This vulnerability allows individuals to tap into a deeper wellspring of inner power and guidance.

4. Accept Spirit as Your Inner Guide: Move Effortlessly from Intellect to Feeling

In any given situation, it doesn’t matter so much what is logical; what matters most is asking what feels right.

From Logic to Intuition. This step involves shifting from a reliance on intellect and logic to a reliance on feelings and spiritual guidance from within. Rather than overanalyzing decisions, individuals are encouraged to trust their intuition and follow the path that feels most aligned with their inner truth.

The Inner Compass. By consistently asking "What feels right?" individuals can develop a strong inner compass that guides them through life's complexities. This inner guidance, often dismissed in favor of rational thought, becomes a reliable source of wisdom and direction.

Practical Application. This shift requires a conscious effort to bypass the intellect and tune into subtle feelings. Whether deciding to call a friend or embark on a new venture, the key is to prioritize the intuitive sense of rightness over logical considerations.

5. Transform Negativity: See Misfortune as a Learning Experience

Emotional pain is all self-inflicted.

Reframing Misfortune. This step involves changing one's attitude towards seemingly negative experiences, recognizing that misfortune is often a contradiction of the ego's opinions. By detaching from the ego's perspective, individuals can begin to see challenges as opportunities for growth and learning.

Beyond the Ego's View. The ego, with its rigid rules and expectations, often perceives any deviation from its desired state as a negative event. However, from the perspective of the Infinite Self, these "negative experiences" are simply part of the soul's journey, offering valuable lessons and opportunities for transcendence.

Practical Application. When faced with adversity, individuals are encouraged to ask themselves what they can learn from the experience. By reframing misfortune as a learning opportunity, they can transform negative energy into positive growth and resilience.

6. Transcend Tribal Beliefs: Forge Your Own Spiritual Destiny

If you are not very evolved, the tribal mind is a good thing because it offers you the familiarity and safety of a collective consciousness—a collective strength.

Breaking Free from Conformity. This step involves recognizing and transcending the limitations of tribal belief patterns, which often prioritize conformity and control over individual expression. By questioning and challenging these ingrained beliefs, individuals can forge their own spiritual destiny.

The Tribal Mind's Grip. Tribal beliefs, while offering a sense of belonging and security, can also restrict individual growth and limit one's perception of reality. These beliefs, often laced with fear and dysfunction, serve to maintain the status quo and suppress dissent.

Practical Application. To break free from the tribal mind, individuals are encouraged to challenge societal norms, question authority, and embrace their unique perspectives. This may involve distancing oneself from certain relationships or institutions that perpetuate limiting beliefs.

7. Discipline Overcomes Weakness: Control the Mind, Not Be Controlled By It

If you can’t control yourself, you are always a victim of the brat within; instead of becoming a spiritual grown-up, you remain, in the spiritual sense, an adolescent.

Taming the Ego. This step emphasizes the importance of discipline in controlling the mind and overcoming the weaknesses of the ego. Without discipline, individuals remain victims of their impulses and desires, unable to access the power of their Infinite Self.

The Power of Self-Control. Discipline is not about rigid adherence to rules but rather about cultivating self-mastery and directing one's energy towards meaningful goals. This involves making conscious choices that align with one's values and resisting the temptations of the ego.

Practical Disciplines. To cultivate mental discipline, individuals can adopt various practices, such as meditation, early rising, cold showers, and acts of service. These disciplines serve to disempower the ego and strengthen the connection to the Infinite Self.

8. Masters Were Not Miraculous, Just More Aware

You have the same amount of power that the masters had.

Demystifying the Masters. This step challenges the notion that spiritual masters possess supernatural abilities, arguing that their power stems from a heightened awareness and understanding of universal energies. The Christ consciousness, the Buddhahood, the flow of energy these masters tapped into, is available today.

Accessing the Infinite Potential. The energy and wisdom of past masters are not lost but rather remain accessible to all individuals who cultivate a similar level of awareness and discipline. By internalizing the qualities of these masters, individuals can tap into their own innate potential for greatness.

Practical Application. Rather than viewing spiritual masters as unattainable figures, individuals are encouraged to emulate their qualities of compassion, wisdom, and self-mastery. By aligning with these qualities, they can unlock their own potential for transformation and service.

9. Power Rises From Within: Be the Magnet, Not the Projector

You are a magnet for energy as well as a projector of energy.

Attracting, Not Chasing. This step emphasizes the importance of attracting opportunities and resources from within, rather than chasing them through external efforts. By cultivating a strong inner energy, individuals can become magnets for the things they desire.

The Law of Attraction. This concept aligns with the Law of Attraction, which states that like attracts like. By focusing on positive thoughts and emotions, individuals can attract positive experiences and opportunities into their lives.

Practical Application. To cultivate this magnetic energy, individuals are encouraged to focus on their inner state, cultivating feelings of abundance, gratitude, and self-worth. By radiating these positive energies, they can attract the resources and opportunities they need to fulfill their goals.

10. Action Through Nonaction: Align to the Natural Flow

Perfect activity leaves no track behind it; Perfect speech is like a jade-worker whose tool leaves no mark.

The Taoist Principle of Wu-Wei. This step introduces the Taoist principle of wu-wei, which emphasizes the importance of aligning with the natural flow of life and acting without force or resistance. By surrendering to the Tao, individuals can achieve effortless success and harmony.

Effortless Action. Wu-wei is not about passivity but rather about acting in accordance with the natural order of things. This involves cultivating a deep understanding of the situation, aligning with the needs of others, and acting with grace and precision.

Practical Application. To embody wu-wei, individuals are encouraged to cultivate mindfulness, observe the ebb and flow of events, and act with intention but without attachment to the outcome. This involves trusting in the process and allowing things to unfold naturally.

11. Dedicate Your Life to the Sacred Way: Make Every Action a Prayer

If you are to become a spiritual warrior and to honor the God Force within, you will agree to accept circumstances as you find them—remembering, of course, that almost everything can be improved and that things change.

Infusing Life with Meaning. This step involves transforming mundane activities into sacred rituals, imbuing every action with intention and reverence. By dedicating one's life to the sacred way, individuals can experience a profound sense of purpose and connection to the divine.

The Sacred in the Ordinary. This transformation begins with a shift in perspective, recognizing that even the most ordinary tasks can be imbued with sacredness. Whether washing the dishes, driving to work, or interacting with others, each moment becomes an opportunity to express gratitude, compassion, and love.

Practical Application. To cultivate a sacred attitude, individuals are encouraged to create personal rituals that infuse their daily lives with meaning. This may involve setting aside time for prayer, meditation, or acts of service.

12. Fear Not Death: Accept It, Live Life

You’ll never be more alive than the moment after your heart beats its last beat and stops.

Embracing Mortality. This step challenges the ego's fear of death, encouraging individuals to accept mortality as an integral part of the human experience. By confronting and embracing death, individuals can liberate themselves from the anxieties that limit their lives.

The Illusion of Death. From the perspective of the Infinite Self, death is not an end but rather a transition to another dimension of existence. By recognizing the eternal nature of the soul, individuals can transcend the fear of death and live more fully in the present moment.

Practical Application. To cultivate acceptance of death, individuals are encouraged to contemplate their own mortality, reflect on their legacy, and make peace with the inevitable. This may involve writing a will, expressing gratitude to loved ones, or simply spending time in nature, contemplating the cycle of life and death.

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FAQ

What's "Infinite Self: 33 Steps to Reclaiming Your Inner Power" about?

  • Author and Purpose: Written by Stuart Wilde, the book is a guide to reclaiming one's inner power through spiritual growth and self-discipline.
  • Structure: It is divided into 33 steps, each designed to help readers transcend the limitations of the ego and embrace their Infinite Self.
  • Core Concept: The book emphasizes the journey from ego to spirit, encouraging readers to internalize the God Force and live a life of serenity and balance.
  • Practical Guidance: Wilde provides practical exercises and disciplines to help readers achieve spiritual enlightenment and personal empowerment.

Why should I read "Infinite Self: 33 Steps to Reclaiming Your Inner Power"?

  • Spiritual Growth: The book offers a comprehensive guide to spiritual development, helping readers connect with their higher selves.
  • Practical Exercises: It includes actionable steps and exercises that can be integrated into daily life for personal transformation.
  • Unique Perspective: Wilde's approach combines elements of Taoism, meditation, and self-discipline, offering a unique perspective on personal empowerment.
  • Empowerment: Readers are encouraged to take control of their lives, overcome fear, and embrace their true potential.

What are the key takeaways of "Infinite Self: 33 Steps to Reclaiming Your Inner Power"?

  • Internalize the God Force: Recognize that the God Force is within you, not external, and use this power to guide your life.
  • Discipline and Control: Emphasize the importance of self-discipline in controlling the ego and achieving spiritual growth.
  • Embrace Change: Accept that life is a journey of constant change and growth, and learn to flow with it rather than resist it.
  • Live in the Present: Focus on the present moment, letting go of past regrets and future anxieties to find peace and balance.

What are the best quotes from "Infinite Self: 33 Steps to Reclaiming Your Inner Power" and what do they mean?

  • "I Am God": This quote emphasizes the idea that the divine is within us, and by internalizing this concept, we can access immense power and wisdom.
  • "Life Was Never Meant to Be a Struggle": Wilde suggests that struggle is a construct of the ego, and by embracing the Infinite Self, we can live with ease and grace.
  • "The Power Rises from Within": This highlights the belief that true power and change come from within, not from external sources or validation.
  • "Hold on to Nothing": Encourages readers to let go of attachments and material possessions, understanding that true freedom comes from within.

How does Stuart Wilde define the "Infinite Self"?

  • Beyond the Ego: The Infinite Self is the part of us that transcends the ego and its limitations, connecting us to a higher consciousness.
  • Omnipresent and Eternal: It is described as omnipresent, existing beyond time and space, and is the essence of who we truly are.
  • Source of Power: The Infinite Self is the source of true power and wisdom, guiding us towards spiritual enlightenment and personal growth.
  • Feeling Over Thinking: Wilde emphasizes that the Infinite Self is more about feeling and intuition than intellectual understanding.

What is the significance of the 33 steps in "Infinite Self: 33 Steps to Reclaiming Your Inner Power"?

  • Ancient Teaching: The 33 steps are based on an ancient teaching that describes energies flowing from a higher plane to help humans achieve higher consciousness.
  • Structured Path: Each step is designed to guide readers through a structured path of spiritual growth and self-discovery.
  • Holistic Approach: The steps cover various aspects of life, including physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual disciplines.
  • Progressive Journey: The steps are meant to be followed progressively, each building on the previous one to deepen the reader's understanding and experience.

How does Stuart Wilde suggest we deal with negativity in "Infinite Self: 33 Steps to Reclaiming Your Inner Power"?

  • Learning Experience: Wilde encourages viewing negativity as a learning experience rather than something to be avoided or feared.
  • Detachment: He advises detaching from negative emotions and understanding them as contradictions of the ego's opinions.
  • Compassionate Perspective: By adopting a compassionate and infinite perspective, we can see negativity as part of our spiritual evolution.
  • Transmutation: The goal is to transmute negative energy into positive energy, using it as a tool for growth and empowerment.

What role does discipline play in "Infinite Self: 33 Steps to Reclaiming Your Inner Power"?

  • Foundation of Power: Discipline is seen as the foundation of true power, necessary for controlling the ego and achieving spiritual growth.
  • Various Forms: Wilde discusses different forms of discipline, including physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual, each contributing to overall balance.
  • Consistency: Regular practice of discipline helps to establish control over the mind and emotions, leading to a more serene and empowered life.
  • Self-Mastery: Through discipline, readers can achieve self-mastery, allowing them to live in alignment with their Infinite Self.

How does "Infinite Self: 33 Steps to Reclaiming Your Inner Power" address the concept of death?

  • Fear of Death: Wilde suggests that the fear of death is a major source of ego-driven anxiety and should be addressed to achieve true freedom.
  • Acceptance: He encourages accepting death as a natural part of life, which can liberate us from the fear of change and loss.
  • Eternal Perspective: By embracing the Infinite Self, we can see death as a transition rather than an end, understanding our eternal nature.
  • Living Fully: Accepting death allows us to live more fully, appreciating each moment without the burden of fear.

What is the concept of "Action Through Nonaction" in "Infinite Self: 33 Steps to Reclaiming Your Inner Power"?

  • Wu-Wei: This Taoist concept emphasizes aligning with the natural flow of life, allowing things to unfold effortlessly.
  • Detachment: It involves detaching from the ego's need to control and manipulate, trusting in the natural order of the universe.
  • Inner Power: By practicing nonaction, we access our inner power, allowing us to achieve more with less effort.
  • Balance: It teaches the balance between action and inaction, encouraging us to act from a place of inner peace and clarity.

How does "Infinite Self: 33 Steps to Reclaiming Your Inner Power" suggest we handle relationships?

  • Non-Attachment: Wilde advises against holding on too tightly to relationships, understanding that true love allows freedom and space.
  • Respect and Compassion: He emphasizes respecting all living things and approaching relationships with compassion and understanding.
  • Energy Exchange: Relationships are seen as an exchange of energy, and maintaining balance is key to healthy interactions.
  • Personal Growth: Relationships are opportunities for personal growth, teaching us about ourselves and helping us evolve spiritually.

What is the ultimate goal of following the 33 steps in "Infinite Self: 33 Steps to Reclaiming Your Inner Power"?

  • Spiritual Enlightenment: The ultimate goal is to achieve spiritual enlightenment, transcending the limitations of the ego and embracing the Infinite Self.
  • Personal Empowerment: By following the steps, readers can reclaim their inner power, leading to a more balanced and fulfilling life.
  • Connection to the Divine: The journey aims to deepen the connection to the divine within, allowing for a life of serenity and purpose.
  • Living Authentically: Ultimately, the steps guide readers to live authentically, in alignment with their true nature and highest potential.

Review Summary

4.37 out of 5
Average of 500+ ratings from Goodreads and Amazon.

Infinite Self by Stuart Wilde is highly praised for its humor, wisdom, and life-changing insights. Readers appreciate Wilde's irreverent style and practical approach to spirituality. The book's 33 steps offer guidance on connecting with one's inner self and embracing personal power. Many reviewers found the content transformative, with some rereading it multiple times. While a few critics found it boring or strange, the majority of readers recommend it for its unique blend of metaphysical teachings and entertaining delivery, particularly in audiobook format.

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About the Author

Stuart Wilde was an English-born author and lecturer specializing in New Age and alternative spirituality. Born in Farnham, he began his career in London's entertainment industry before transitioning to spiritual teachings. Wilde emigrated to the United States at age 33, writing his first book, "Miracles," in 1983. He became a prominent figure in the New Thought movement, often touring with other well-known spiritual authors. Wilde's work includes 18 published books translated into over 15 languages, as well as music albums and an oratorio. His teachings blend Eastern philosophy, particularly Taoism, with modern metaphysical concepts, delivered in a uniquely humorous and accessible style.

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