To Join or Not?

Some men are ripe for the Awakened Masculine program and some men aren't. It's better for you, the facilitator, and the other men if we know which of those two groups you're in before you've joined the program. It's recommended that you review the following two sections prior to contacting Jim for an interview.

 

Reasons NOT to join the Awakened Masculine Program

1. My girlfriend/wife/partner thinks it would be good for me.
Often our loved ones have clear insight about something that would be beneficial for us and push us towards our growth. However, the most important question is whether or not you think the Awakend Masculine program would be good for you. If "pleasing your partner" is your main reason for joining, you may find that you are not truly able to be committed and receive the full benefit of the group.

2. I can't afford therapy. This is the next best thing.
Group work does not take the place of the need for individual therapy. While the Awakened Masculine program will offer one-on-one attention from the facilitator at times, it is, at essence, group-focused, and each member is expected to give and receive.

3. I don't have much to contribute to a group, but I sure need help!
Then perhaps an emotional support/therapy group would work better for you. The Awakened Masculine program is designed around the principle of synergy of contribution. As each man gives more of his gift, the entire group benefits. We are looking for men who know what they have to offer a group, as well as how they wish to grow.

4. I'm only comfortable talking about my experiences.
Practices in the Awakened Masculine program are usually experiential. Many of them are designed to break us free of the ego — the ego that loves to talk about its story. So while there will be some amount of speaking, each man should be prepared to explore his inner landscape using somatic techniques such as movement, sound, breath, and silent sitting.

5. I am currently struggling with a mental illness.
Jim is not a licensed therapist, and is therefore not capable of the diagnosis or treatment of mental illness. If you are currently under care for a known mental illness and feel ready for a program that is challenging, opening and highly relational, contact Jim and talk about it in your interview.

6. I am looking for a group to take the place of my 12-step group (AA/SLAA/OA/NA).
The Awakend Masculine program is not an appropriate substitute for a 12-step program. While we may address active addiction (to porn, for example), the program is not designed to meet the needs of someone whose inner world is fundamentally occupied by managing their relationship to their addiction. Often men who are not "clean" experience only a temporary benefit from attending the Awakened Masculine program.

 

Reasons TO join the Awakened Masculine Program

1. I want to release longstanding issues I have with men, such as lack of trust, insecurity and competetiveness.
The Awakend Masculine program is an ideal environment for changing your beliefs and misperceptions around men. Every man leaves this program feeling more trusting of and close with other men.

2. I am aware of my masculine energy, but I don't know how to best bring it out.
Simpy being in the presence of other conscious men will begin the process of aligning your inner masculine with your outer actions. In addition, specific exercises desgined to increase awareness of your musculine presence, natural instincts, and greatest integrity will help you identify your own unique masculine "superpower."

3. I want "guy time," but not in a locker room or a bar.
We are all familiar with common male bonding; this program offers uncommon time for men to be with each other with heightened intention, experimental action and heartfelt engagement. In previous groups, we have taken full-moon hikes and sea kayak outings, flown on trapezes, and visited karaoke bars, all the while maintaining the intention of "practicing presence." What you do is very important; how you do it is even more so.

4. I'm aware of my limits and I seek the support of other men to help me move beyond where I'm stuck.
If this describes you, you're an ideal candidate for the Awakened Masculine program. You will never be forced to do something that is over your edge, but you will have your toes touching the edge — regularly. The container of the program provides the right mix of safety and challenge. Each man is responsible for his own experience, and also held accountable for any challenges to which he agrees.

5. I'm ready for a group that goes beyond therapy.
Again, you're the ideal candidate for this program. While there are moments of sharing feelings or involovement in one man's personal process, our time is more often spent with experiential processes where we learn to embody change, not just talk about it.

6. I want to find the right relationship of my masculine to the feminine.
Don't we all! Seriously, conscious relating to the feminine (including your own inner feminine) is a life-long practice. In this program you'll find plenty of opportunity to deepen your understanding of the feminine, make more conscious choices in relationship, and learn to live with the results. (Hopefully with a smile on your face!)

 

Thank you for reviewing these lists. If you're ready for you and Jim to interview each other, you can contact him at the phone number or email address below.