DISQUS

Susie Hutchinson · 1 year ago

Talking to my sister, Mary, who lives far away. Sitting still when my baby, Imogen, falls asleep in my arms. Cuddling in bed at the end of a long day, for a moment all the stress, worry and fear goes away. Walking for hours on a Saturday with a huge coffee, Dan and Imogen, and knowing I get to do it all over again on Sunday.

Steve Harvey · 1 year ago

Looking back on a few weeks of hard work and discovering professional growth. On the tee box and having a beer with the boys after 18. The 30 second day dream sessions at my desk...thinking about that time in Cambodia, Melbourne or Hong Kong. During those moments of creative excellence. When I listen to my gut. At the market and in the kitchen...where the flame resides.

Judi Wong · 1 year ago

Congratulations on a beautiful site. Elegant, easy and informative - the "style" of your new site is very welcoming and inspiring - wishing you the best of luck Carrie&Danielle.
Best self?....
Giving & accepting : this makes me feel alive & connected.

Luc · 1 year ago

I’m not my best in English when expressing thoughts and feelings. I’m my best when sitting on the floor, my knees bend, my fore arm resting on my knees, my back against the metal fence, still shaking from the rush of adrenaline going through my whole body, my heart still pumping body fluids through the veins and arteries, a slight burn in my eyes cause by the sweat dripping off my fore head, still thinking about how better i could’ve made my moves, i think how i played them like puppets. Right now, right then, it’s all about me. I feel good. Men I love this game! Thank you James A Naismith

Eva · 1 year ago

I am my best when I have had time to be quiet and thoughtful. When I have had time to listen to myself and the world around me. When I have had time to really be present.

Elizabeth · 1 year ago

I'm my best self when I'm giving and learning and laughing all at the same time. When I'm collaborating with creative thinkers and making something that makes a difference whether its cookies or packaging or advertising or something I've never done before. Especially when its something I've never done before.

One Chic Mama · 1 year ago

I have to agree with Danielle - I'm my best self when I've had some time to myself. Being a busy mom to two kids, even my work energizes me when I have the time to focus on it without distractions, and really pour my passion into it. Also, an evening out with close friends and good conversation is very invigorating! Time to cook, not just the family dinner, but something delicious and sensual where I can use what's really fresh at the farmer's market, and time to really sit and enjoy it makes me feel very connected to myself, and helps to give me energy going forward.

Chantal · 1 year ago

I am my best when I connect with my true self and can see above the chaos, detached from ego, and centered in my heart.
Painting is where I live in the moment, fully connected and dreaming, always dreaming.

Xai Vicente Charles · 1 year ago

I am at my best self early in the morning. That hour between darkness and light. This is when my mind and heart are completely open. When my feet feel closest to the ground.

This is the time when I write, paint and even forgive.

Sue · 1 year ago

I'm at my best when I pause, think, and then find a creative and positive way to respond to temper tantrums, sibling fights or my kids' emotional overload. Or when I remember to thank my great husband for all the effort he puts into our everyday lives. Or when I'm swimming in a lake, with only the muffled sounds of birds, kids laughing, and my brain quieting.

Lisa · 1 year ago

I am my best self when I am appreciating - - beauty, loved ones and just the amazing miracle of life itself. I can't get enough of art & photography and the glories of nature. Peonies especially; they are my favorite flower - like sexy, colorful flamenco skirts.
Also, a soulful, connecting hug from my husband is pure heaven.

Lisa · 1 year ago

Lovely...and very inspiring.

Lisa · 1 year ago

Amen. Wonderfully expressed. There can be beauty in the chaos!
When working through the daily challenges of child rearing, I look at my husband and say "this truly is flawed perfection."

Romana Mirza · 1 year ago

I am my best self when I am rested, inspired and in the company of someone with a dream. Dreams and a strong vision for the future inspire great creativity within in me. When that happens I am my best self.

Lynn · 1 year ago

I am at my best when I am fully aware of God flowing through me. When I am in a God-centered place and not coming from my ego, I know I am being most useful to those around me. This most often occurs after taking a long walk by myself in the woods near my home, or meeting with my like-minded friends.

Ella · 1 year ago

When I approach life with curiosity. When I do the tiniest bit of yoga in the morning. When I write. When I am in a movie theatre by myself. Always.

Lynda · 1 year ago

I am at my best when designing new initiatives…..talking new ideas..implementing new ideas. I guess you could say I’m definitely a “big picture” kind of gal:-) I’m also at my best when I am learning! I love to learn. Reading is my passion!

Shannon · 1 year ago

I am my best self when I act on heartfelt and well meaning intentions. There is nothing quite like taking action when inspired and passionate about great ideas, even if that means giving them away to someone who will or can “run with it” …. we all have them (great ideas that is), it’s knowing what to do with them that makes the difference!

Paige Zinn · 1 year ago

I’m my best self after my morning run, which takes place at 5:30 AM on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. My I-Pod accompanies me and I listen to songs that make me feel young - 311, Kanye West, Rhianna. The songs transport me to a place where I can outrun all professional athletes. Win marathons. Take home trophies. At the end of the run, I’m soaked with sweat, yet I feel my most beautiful. Even without an ounce of makeup and crazy-looking hair. I end my workout by dancing around my exercise room to the beat of the music. Now I’m a professional dancer, dancing back up to a hip-hop group. Thank god for my ability to daydream and be transported!

Carolee Flatley · 1 year ago

When surrounded by my family, blood or found. Having them near me revives me, no matter how bad life has been.

Marissa · 1 year ago

I connect with this very deeply. That time between night and day is like tangible "newness," or "re-newness." As a night owl, I've seen that time on my way to bed and on my way into the day after a night of sleep, and it moves me every time. I feel all the potential that "new" offers--and you're right, it's like my heart is somehow extra open for forgiveness then too. Beautifully described, Xai.

RecollectedStephanie · 1 year ago

I am my best self whenever there is a movement of energy or understanding or communion between truly genuine places. Groups of people singing in concert with each other, or the moment when a student is wholly within the joy of understanding, or a conversation in which the other person knows I have understood are the joyful ways for me. But the moments of genuine sorrow or pain passing between two people who each know the other is just as beautiful for me. To see another person do exactly what he is ... or to find exactly the right words or music for expression of the thought ... I'm my best self whenever the moment rings true.

Marissa · 1 year ago

I echo Danielle's response, including the Monk envy--I laughed when I saw that, as Danielle is the first person I've heard use that term other than me. Usually I receive puzzled looks when I say that.

I am my best self the morning after a family get-together at which both of my brothers were there, and there was a great deal of story-telling, all stories we'd heard and told a hundred times before, but that still make us all laugh until our sides ache. That next morning, back in the stillness of my own house, I always feel so fulfilled and content and open to whatever lies before me. And I never feel as much a "part" of any group as I do when I am with my two brothers, which is a healing and re-energizing experience!

Daniel Gibbons · 1 year ago

Thanks to everyone for these inspiring replies. A glitch on the website meant that a blog post was showing up in the Daily Q&A;, so I've moved over the replies from that post to the Daily and all is now well. Ghosts in the machine, I suppose.

OK, as for my answer: Ironically I am my best self when I'm not putting on my best face for others, when I'm doing things because they are the right thing, rather than to seek the approval of others.

Ngonzi Truth Crushshon · 1 year ago

I'm my best self on the 7th of every month because I expect something good to happen! I set aside one day a month as "Ngonzi's Day" to do whatever I want (read a book, gaze out the window, think in silence, walk in the park)- since I tend to feel guilty saying NO when others ask me to do something or go somewhere- I use the 7th of the month as my planned excuse for some much needed "ME TIME".

lezin bogan · 1 year ago

i am at my best self in the morning when everyone has left for school/work. when i am having my morning cup of coffee and reading the newspaper. this alone time lets me ease into the day and prepare for whatever hits me.

verysilly · 1 year ago

Just coming back from vacation I must say I had an entire week of lying on the beach with my eyes closed and hearing the sound of the ocean and the waves, it cleared my head and allowed me to re-prioritize what's really important and what's not. Finishing my Saturday morning bootcamps with my wonderful trainer Mindi who makes me go for more, invigorates me, gives me the confidence to stand tall and handle what ever comes my way in the given week....

Maria Roberts · 1 year ago

I am at my best after facing and dealing with any problem life brings my way. Also, after completing any job or task. It is then that I feel confident and capable of responsibility, pride in myself, and magnanimous toward the world. It is then that I have a smile on my face and can bring some cheer to those around me...making me feel even better!

Ellen Falkenberry · 1 year ago

When I choose love, not fear. Opening to my profession with generosity and grace. At a live outdoor performance by Carlos Santana. Talking with my best friend. Nurturing my sweetheart.

B.L. Wagner · 1 year ago

Ahhh - well, I'm at my best when I am completely in the interview zone as a director - listening openly, gently guiding subjects where I want them to go but also able to let them take me new places - follow their lead always bringing them back to point. Best compliment is that people enjoy the experience and find the questions probing and different to what they expected.
Also I am at my best in complete solitude, replenishing and resting my mind which is way too busy and annoying.

Krystl · 1 year ago

When I am at my father's house, surrounded by family. Their total lack of judgment, combined with love, great conversation and laughter (and cookies) really opens me up to my true self and allows my light to shine.

Carol Zubick · 1 year ago

I am at my best self when a wave of verbal creativity runs through my mind. If I can get it on paper then it's a bonus.

Lisa · 1 year ago

I am my best self when giving back to my community. Like Carrie, when I listen and contribute. When I breathe deeply and live in the moment instead of churning through the mental to-do list.

stella tinglin · 1 year ago

For me it's when I am with my most trusted friends, talking and laughing and supporting one another. I also feel like my best self after a yoga class. Namaste indeed.

Annah · 1 year ago

I am my best self at night, when getting my daughter to sleep. I make up stories and songs for her (which definitely stretches my creativity!) and we laugh with our whole hearts. After she falls asleep, I take a moment to just look at her and appreciate how angelic she appears. Then, it's my time to unwind, with a cup of tea, a book, and music on my headphones so i won't wake her.

BTW - C&D, i love this idea and this site. Thanks so much!

Jules · 1 year ago

I am at my best when I am in nature and have a conscience awareness of my breath and connection to God. When I can dig my hands in the dirt and be in my garden and see the colors come to life. Joy in action.

sharon smith-swan · 1 year ago

when i am completely present with no mind chatter i feel powerful and authentic. it makes me fully aware and available to really hear myself and others and magic happens - intuitive hits - inspired answers and the feeling of really living in the moment. i also am not aware of any time pressure. i am really good at doing this except when i don't!!!

Larissa · 1 year ago

I'm my best when I'm dancing, when I completely lose myself to the rhythms and just let my body flow to the music. I become completely intuned to my emotions and end up feeling whole when it's all over. It's like meditation to me.

Jennifer · 1 year ago

I'm at my best self when I'm laughing with my husband.

kristopher grunert · 1 year ago

When taking photographs at night - time slows. I find myself connecting or re-connecting to the environment around me.
All of my senses come alive and I focus. My head clears, I contemplate. then I notice Where the clouds are…which the
direction their moving, the position of the moon, the phase that it's in, the direction of the wind, I notice the trees sway and
understand that they will blur. Once the composition in fine tuned I may even become aware the faint stars and the movement of the earth in relationship to them. Then I take a breath…and open the shutter. Most often my exposure is 10 or 11 seconds. During this time I
conscisouly visualize the light enter the lens and travel though the f/8 aperture and finally record permanentally onto the
transparency film. In doing this I feel as though I develop a relationship with the light. I sort of become one with the scene.
It is difficult to describe in words how this feels but it is as though I become connected to something infinitely larger than
me.

Danielle LaPorte · 1 year ago

Kris! so lovely to hear you. Love this: "I develop a relationship with the light" I think a relationship with light is a magnificent thing. Need to drop by and see your latest photographs.
Love D

Danielle LaPorte · 1 year ago

A friend and I used to gauge the success of an evening on whether 'we felt more like ourselves'. That's what best friends do.
xo
Danielle

Danielle LaPorte · 1 year ago

Monk Envy, yes. My ideal living situation: a monastery with a great sound system thru which to crank dance tunes.
xo
Danielle

Danielle LaPorte · 1 year ago

ditto. Dreams make me feeling real.
xo
D

Danielle LaPorte · 1 year ago

"giving and learning and laughing all at the same time" is my idea of heaven. THAT'S what I want 'round here everyday.
xo
D

Audrey · 1 year ago

I feel most myself at the end of the day especially walking my dog around dusk, when everything is cool, the birds are singing night songs and the rays of the sun are so soft and glistening, being like this truly puts me into a mediative state and I feel how truly blessed I am to be alive and experiencing the universe... By the way this is such a great tool to share with others, I love it!

Carrie McCarthy · 1 year ago

Alive & connected that is how I feel today. Thanks Jude

Carrie McCarthy · 1 year ago

So beautifully said. To begin the day with forgiveness.

C

Carrie McCarthy · 1 year ago

A scheduled day of bliss. Brilliant!

C

kristopher grunert · 1 year ago

To more specifically answer the question:

I am my best self when I share my photographs with others.

K.

Carrie McCarthy · 1 year ago

I have spent many hours dancing with my sisters loosing ourselves to Donna Summer and Diana Ross. Sweaty and free!

Carrie McCarthy · 1 year ago

When I thank my husband we become our best selves together.

Thank you for the reminder.

C

Candace · 1 year ago

I am my best when I am watching change in progress. I do a lot of work with women & children in dramatic situations of all backgrounds. When I am helping someone else learn something new for the first time in any area I feel that my devine gifts are bringing flights of growth in someone else. In those moments life tends to have purpose.

Karryn · 1 year ago

Awesome insight even if it's not your first language! May you play the game with increased vigor and joy! Thank you Luc!

Chuck Vidalin · 1 year ago

Of course there are so many answers for every situation relating to this Q that coming up with one that attempts to summarize them all seemed impossible to me. Thus, I will use your LS Map to expand my thoughts (I'm sure you can sense my analytical nature already!)

H&S: My home and possessions are extensions of my personality, vintage mixed with modern to create balance...when I achieve a sense of balance, harmony and creativity follow.
F&S: When I put on the perfectly fitting outfit, my confidence and flirtatiousness instantly peaks. Shyness evaporates!
S&L: When I read/see something/one that reminds me of how extremely lucky I am to live in my world...my reflections on our society and how I can impact positive change usually culminate in very deep and thoughtful revelations.
S&W: When I realize that average people have the ability to impact another person's view or life, I am motivated to seek opportunities to support another person's dream. Philanthropy is rewarding, but dream facilitation is euphoric.
R&C: When I listen first and talk later...it is amazing how understanding another's issue supplies answers/insights into your own challenges.
C&C: Creativity arrives when I am most relaxed and have unencumbered time, while still having a topic at the tip of my consciousness. Sitting alone by the fire, staring at the view, finishing that last glass of red after everyone else has called it a night...pure inspiration often beckons!
B&W: Given the way I treat my body, perhaps this should read "Body minus Wellness! When my adrenaline and competitiveness are high enough to perform at my peak, but not so high as to over-attack, inspiration on the sporting ground usually arrives an instant before the play needs to be made.
N&R: Anywhere in the proximity of flowing water. The white noise and unchanging motion leads to relaxation and clarity.

Good luck with the new site!

Karryn · 1 year ago

When my children are snuggling up with me and we're reading a story together. The warmth and softness of their little bodies are tangible reminders of how blessed I am. It's in this state of grace that I flourish.

Carrie McCarthy · 1 year ago

“Dreams are illustrations... from the book your soul is writing about you. Marsha Norman

C

Carrie McCarthy · 1 year ago

Ah, yes to have an idea and then execute makes the difference.

C

Carrie McCarthy · 1 year ago

Analytical and amazing you are Chuck!


C

Danielle LaPorte · 1 year ago

geesh...a girl can only take so much inspiration. what a great way to start the day. Can't wait to hear your answer to tomorrow's question!
D

Nancy "Scooter" McMoneagle · 1 year ago

Way to go, Danielle and Carrie! I loved your book and am delighted by the on-going opportunity you all are providing via this site for further self-exploration and understanding as we strive to be our optimum selves. Brilliant!

In terms of when am I my best self...I'd have to say it's when I quiet my self-critical, inner Virgo "judge" and instead, focus on what I can do to make the world a better place - especially by getting people excited about who and what they are and have to offer the world, using their astrological charts as my guide. That's when my Best Self emerges!

Derek Abdool · 1 year ago

First of all, i want to congratulate you both on your book(sorry i missed u n T.O)you are so inspirational. Would you believe i don't know when i'm at my best, life has been more of a process of elimination. I'm a bit like you Dan, the introverted extrovert, i envy Marlon Brando and his island, i need reflection and solitude, my small talk is'nt too bad though, i spent alot of years just listening.

Michelle · 1 year ago

One of my best self moments happens when I'm singing in Church. I returned to the Catholic Church a few years ago after 25 years or so away. There is a deep cellular communion with the divine when I'm signing, surrounded by a community of worshipers, my husband and daughter at my side, and ancient words and music filling the air. I love it. Antoher moment is when I'm dancing. I live a lot of live in my head and my heart, not so much in my body so when I get there.... its gooooooooooooood.

Benita Ha · 1 year ago

I'm my best after meditating in silence, during complete presence, when I am awake-conscious, when I remember the truth of who I am, when I'm in my shavasana pose in yoga class, when I'm communing with nature, when I'm experiencing yumminess in food and in people, when I'm enveloped in cozy, warm, deliciousness. Thank you for a beautiful site that offers such inspiration and wisdom. I'll be visiting often...

leila · 1 year ago

I'm at my best when there is a crisis or I'm needed, or I think I'm needed. I'm at my best when I'm cooking for people and they are around me talking and laughing. I'm at my best when I'm laughing; with my husband, with my kids or with my treasured girls. I think too much so I'm at my best when I'm dancing. I'm at my best after sex.
Congratulations and love to you 2. xo.

stuartswing · 1 year ago

Im my best self after some quiet introspection: a morning walk by the ocean, an afternoon meditation in the dappled sunlight on my living room sofa, or as I fall asleep after time spent reflecting and journalling. I'm also a pretty good version of my best self when I'm giving by connecting others and making things happen for them. I get a thrilling surge of adrenaline when I am able to connect people who have something to offer (friendship, spaces to rent, superior professional services etc.) with those who are in need of the very things they have to offer.

rebecca bourgault · 1 year ago

When I am in the studio and in the flow. When something happens that works beautifully and it was not even planned but i just know for sure that it works. That best self is not only me, it exceeds me, it happens 'beyond' or 'despite' me somehow. It happens when I step out of the way.

(I loved the image of the house with the drawbridge. That's when one wears sunglasses and sets the cell phone to "silent all").

GaileForce · 1 year ago

I'm at my best between 5 and 9 am, when the day is fresh and the world occurs newly. It's a soft and lush time, some might say quiet, but I find rich with possibility. I use this time to charge up for the day ahead; to be grateful for my LIFE; and to feel my heart and soul aligning with what I'm up to for the day. I especially appreciate this time during the summer, when I get to watch the sun rise.

Danielle LaPorte · 1 year ago

Rock on Virgo woman.
BTW everyone...Scooter is a wonderfully gifted astrologer--her science and wisdom has really helped me keep a clear head and open heart.
xo
Danielle
http://www.mceagle.com/

Danielle LaPorte · 1 year ago

Abdool -- you're at your best when you're making me laugh my ass off.

Danielle LaPorte · 1 year ago

you're back! love that.

leia · 1 year ago

I am my true self when I look at my daughters and remember how I felt as a child, and how I want them to feel completely different- empowered and encouraged!!! My two girls are my blessings........

Molly · 1 year ago

I'm at my best when I'm laughing, invigorated by a group dynamic of connectedness and growth. We're creating, we're jiving -- it's authentic and I love it.

Connie · 1 year ago

I'm my best self when I'm with someone I care about a great deal and we are sharing ideas, a beautiful place, something funny. In love,surrounded by beauty inside and out and having fun--best for me, best of me!!

Cindy · 1 year ago

Well...I like myself best when I am laughing "It's like jogging on the inside!" (BTW...my laugh is ridiculous.) I do my best when I remember to share what worked before discussing what still needs work.

carla morales · 1 year ago

walking through the streets of florence, italy...in motion during yoga...sharing what I feel to be true with good friends...closing my eyes while bathed in sunlight...

Lisa · 1 year ago

When I'm home, amongst the flowers, the birds and the trees, the books and the old family furniture. When I'm in front of the fire, staring at it and thinking. When I'm listening to someone I care about. When I'm learning something new and then doing my "convergent thinking thing." When I'm rested and dining with friends, exploring ideas, making music and loving life.

Beth C. · 1 year ago

I am my best self after an hour and a half hot yoga class when I am laying in corpse pose with my mind cleared of all the clutter and noise that is normally there. I feel focused, clear and freed of the confines of my body and my mind.

Scott · 1 year ago

I like time with my family. I like winter camping, canoe trips and draught beer with a group of good friends. Good food. Cottage vacations. Travel.

ElegantDiscovery · 1 year ago

When I dare my soul to go beyond what my eyes can see. Helping people find their signature style that is reflective of who they truly are. "Beauty is eternity gazing at itself in a mirror. But you are eternity and you are the mirror." - Kahlil Gibran

Sara · 1 year ago

I'm at my best self right after a great cardio workout, I feel blissed out, calm, in love with the world and generally at peace with everything. This lasts until I pick up my kids from the childcare at my gym.

Denise LeCroy · 1 year ago

I am at my best late at night, alone with my thoughts, dreams, imagination ... cup of tea at my side, relaxed. I've always been a night owl. Even when I was a little girl, I hated having to go to bed at night!

Danielle LaPorte · 1 year ago

ahhh...Gibran. A master.

Cameron · 1 year ago

After a long week of challeging work to wake up at 5am
saturday morning and work on my weekend island property with my Dad.

Running in the trails with my dog, connecting with new people and asking my wife how her day went.

Jennifer Sage · 1 year ago

I strongly beleive in the statement by Parker Palmer "In our time we have forgotten the ancient wisdom that the self will wither if we seek it directly, and will flower only as we lose it in service of others"
This is a reminder to me that my personal fulfilment is gained through being generative and that personal growth is established through self giving not self seeking. As a palliative care nurse I know how important time out to recreate is.

The intense work with patients and their families is a healing gift to me and also when I most fully experience a sense of myself as gift to others. The beauty, courage and exquisite vulnerablity of our joint shared humanity. That is when true self is birthed most completely in the moment.

Janet L · 1 year ago

When my schedule is full of lots of interesting things to do. Busy-ness breeds action on my part and the other things in my life seem to fall into place easily. When I don't have much on the schedule and am staying home most nights, then the trouble starts. My mind goes to work on my with negative thoughts.

Cindy · 1 year ago

i am my best self with my puppy...unconditional love...unfettered joy

Alison · 1 year ago

Gorgeous. I'm with you on that one. My puppy is silly, and he brings out the best in me.