The School of Greatness: How To CREATE Your Life With Your MINDSET - Shape Your Reality With Your Thoughts & Feelings | Eric Thomas
Released on November 20, 2024
Host: Lewis Howes
Guest: Eric Thomas
Introduction and Eric’s Personal Journey
In this compelling episode of The School of Greatness, host Lewis Howes welcomes renowned motivational speaker Eric Thomas, also known as the Hip Hop Preacher. Eric opens up about his transformative journey from homelessness to becoming a New York Times best-selling author and influential speaker.
Notable Quote:
“I never even realized I was where I was because of who I was. And I was actually getting the physical manifestations of my thoughts, of my feelings, my emotions. I was creating this.”
— Eric Thomas [00:00]
Shift from Victim to Creator Mindset
Eric delves deep into his past, discussing how he initially adopted a victim mindset, attributing his struggles to external factors such as absent parents and a challenging environment. This perspective kept him trapped in his circumstances until he made a pivotal realization that he was the common denominator in his life’s challenges.
Notable Quote:
“The hardest thing I've ever done was look in the mirror and tell myself I was sorry.”
— Eric Thomas [00:20]
Overcoming Challenges and Mental Rock Bottom
Eric shares the critical moment when he decided to change his mindset. At 16, after discovering the truth about his biological father and living in abandoned buildings, Eric confronted himself in the mirror and took responsibility for his life. This act of self-forgiveness and accountability marked the beginning of his transformation.
Notable Quote:
“Why would you allow that thing they did to hurt you? Now define the rest of your life.”
— Eric Thomas [00:39]
Importance of Mentorship and Coaching
Throughout the episode, both Lewis and Eric emphasize the significance of mentors and coaches in their paths to greatness. Eric credits much of his success to the guidance he received from influential figures who helped him harness his potential and stay focused on his goals.
Notable Quote:
“Coaching is everything. Think of Michael Jordan without Phil Jackson.”
— Eric Thomas [58:44]
Creating a Disciplined, Fact-Based Approach
Eric advocates for a disciplined approach to mindset, emphasizing the need to separate emotions from decision-making. He discusses how controlling one’s mind through practices like meditation can lead to rational, fact-based actions that drive success.
Notable Quote:
“It's time to activate. Don't let emotions consume your actions. Use fact-based strategies to move forward.”
— Eric Thomas [53:17]
Steps to Develop a Success Mindset
Eric outlines a clear, actionable framework for listeners to cultivate a mindset geared towards success:
-
Take Control of Your Life:
“Take the keys back to your life.”
— Eric Thomas [38:36] -
Be Your Own Best Friend:
“Figure out who you are and love you.”
— Eric Thomas [38:57] -
Identify Your North Star:
“Figure out your North Star and wake up every single day going after it.”
— Eric Thomas [41:55]
Balancing Give and Receive in Relationships
Lewis and Eric discuss the importance of not only giving to others but also being open to receiving support. Eric highlights that mutual relationships where both parties contribute and benefit are essential for personal growth and sustained success.
Notable Quote:
“You deserve to receive. It doesn't have to be a one-way street. Allow yourself to get something back.”
— Eric Thomas [74:30]
Spirituality and Its Impact on Life
A significant portion of the conversation touches on the role of spirituality in Eric’s life. He credits his spiritual relationship with God as a cornerstone of his resilience and success, providing him with guidance and purpose during his darkest times.
Notable Quote:
“What happened when I made a commitment to God is that I connected with the person that made me, that knew me like nobody else knew me.”
— Eric Thomas [64:18]
Definition of Greatness
Eric defines greatness as fulfilling one’s purpose as intended by the creator. He emphasizes that true greatness involves maximizing one’s potential and using innate talents to make meaningful contributions to the world.
Notable Quote:
“Greatness is fulfilling the purpose of the manufacturer.”
— Eric Thomas [79:34]
Final Thoughts and Call to Action
As the episode concludes, Eric and Lewis encourage listeners to take actionable steps towards transforming their lives through mindset shifts, discipline, and proactive personal development. Eric introduces his upcoming 21-day challenge at u2025.com, aimed at helping individuals harness their inner greatness and achieve their ambitious goals.
Notable Quote:
“Check you. Look yourself in the mirror and go, 'Yo, I am my lottery ticket.' Invest in yourself before anything else.”
— Eric Thomas [30:44]
Key Takeaways:
- Self-Responsibility: Taking ownership of your life is crucial for personal transformation.
- Mindset Shift: Transitioning from a victim to a creator mindset can fundamentally change your reality.
- Mentorship: Seeking guidance from mentors and coaches accelerates personal and professional growth.
- Discipline: Maintaining a disciplined approach to thoughts and actions leads to sustained success.
- Balanced Relationships: Engaging in mutual, supportive relationships enhances personal well-being.
- Spirituality: A spiritual foundation can provide purpose and resilience in overcoming life's challenges.
- Purpose-Driven Greatness: True greatness lies in fulfilling one's innate purpose and potential.
Resources Mentioned:
- Eric Thomas's Website: ericthomas.com
- 21-Day Challenge: u2025.com
- Social Media:
- Instagram: @ETTheHipHopPreacher
- YouTube: Eric Thomas
Whether you're grappling with external challenges or seeking to elevate an already stable life, Eric Thomas's insights offer a blueprint for harnessing the power of mindset to create the life you desire. By taking control, seeking mentorship, and maintaining discipline, you can unlock your inner greatness and achieve remarkable success.