What in your life is trying to break open right now?One of the most sacred parts of my work as a consultant and coach is that I get to see ‘behind the scenes’ in what it actually takes to build influence.The success, the moments of inspiration - when nothing can hold you back - to the painful moments of failure, exhaustion and reinvention.Those moments where the life you wanted, what you thought you had built, the identity you had worked hard to create, suddenly begins to burn - and you’re left staring at the ashes wondering what on earth happens next.The truth is that anyone that decides to put their ideas out into the world - to make a difference - to drive a change – to step out of the sidelines and into the arena will in the eternal words of Brene Brown “eventually get their ass kicked.” That is part of the deal.One of my favorite quotes is one from Paolo Coehlo says “A fall from the 3rd floor hurts as much as a fall from the 100th. If I fall – may it be from a high place.”And yet… we very rarely talk about those moments.Those moments of a 100th floor ass kicking.Or as my guest on today’s episode would call it – those moments of breaking open.Today’s GuestElizabeth Lesser is the author of several bestselling books, including her New York Times bestselling book, Broken Open: How Difficult Times Can Help Us Grow, has sold almost 500,000 copies. She is the cofounder of Omega Institute, recognized internationally for its workshops and conferences in wellness, spirituality, creativity, and social change. She is also the creator of two amazing TED talks on civility, understanding and the power of truth telling. As well as being one of Oprah Winfrey’s Super Soul 100.Elizabeth is also the person who’s work I turn to during times in my life where I’m not sure where to turn. When I don’t want to be inspired, or motivated, or told to dig in and dial up the hustle - but just to know that it’s enough. Enough to show up, enough to take the next breath, enough to trust that the most transformational moments in our lives always happen when we step into the gap – the gap between what’s burning away and what’s trying to emerge.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethlesser150/Instagram: @elizlesserYou’ll LearnThe difference between breaking down and breaking open – and why staying awake as we fall holds the key.The Phoenix process – how to stand in the fire of what’s burning away, while trusting that you will rise again.References and links mentionedmy new ebook The Influencer Codehttps://www.elizabethlesser.org/videoThank you for tuning into this week’s episode. If the information in my interviews have helped you please head to iTunes, subscribe to the show, and leave an honest review. Also, don’t forget to hop on my website juliemasters.com and download my new ebook The Influencer Code or become an insider by signing up to my newsletter. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.