I have studied numerous spirituality and all sorts of self help across the board. My number one thing I still struggle with is insecurity and confidence. On a spiritual standpoint; I believe confidence comes from believing in yourself- knowing, that your capable of doing things..but in order to believe in oneself you need experience to have the belief???? I get torn because I take chances, step out of my comfort zone and do things to push myself; but then become reliant on those “things” for my confidence that isn’t right is it? My question is based on your teachings and on a spirituality level how do I find true confidence in myself without relying on “external events” to drive my confidence? I know how I think about myself is only a thought and isn’t real; is there something I can do besides meditation, journaling, affirmations, that I do on a regular basis? I’m not going to give up, and I know that’s a huge part of it!

I have been told that Eastern wisdoms teach people how to restrict their egos, their desires, to free themselves from suffering, is this true?
Do Eastern techniques effect a person so that their egoistic desires diminish until eventually they are united with the One, with the non-local?

I would be interested in what the Vedic or Eastern position is with regard to our modern western society’s “midlife crisis” or “midlife transition?”

I’m having difficulty understanding detachment, specifically relating to my children. I want to rid myself of material and emotional attachments but I have (as we all do) a deep bond and love for my children. I really want to understand.

How does one go about trying to persuade others to awaken their spirit, and to pursue enlightenment – if those that one wishes to help are too stubborn and egotistical to allow themselves to be helped?