Sometimes the most important thing you can do is to stop everything and take a rest.
We have a rule at Wizard Academy. We are 100% an opt-in culture. Just because you paid to come to our campus, doesn’t mean you have to participate in everything on the schedule.
One of the most important things people can do is stop everything, pause, and take stock.
Look back, and celebrate the milestones you missed while your nose was in the weeds.
Listen to your body and realize you’ve been burying your anxiety and exhaustion in busyness and action.
See the faces that surround you and remember why you chose these people and this time.
The people who attend Wizard Academy tend to be just like that. Only more so. Because entrepreneurs always feel the need to do it more and do it better than everyone else. (Look, a new t-shirt slogan!)
On the first day of class at Wizard Academy, I walk to the front of the room and say these words.
“You are here today because you thought you would be helped by whatever we are teaching. But last night, you checked into a beautiful private room in a mystical valley on ancient holy land. It’s possible you took a true deep breath for the first time in months.
In that moment you might have felt your soul breathe a sigh of relief and whisper a gentle, “Thank you.”
If that’s you, know this.
It’s possible that the most important thing you can do for the next three days is to leave the tower, head back to the valley, and rest.
Drink a cup of tea.
Sit in the courtyard and read a book.
Take a day trek to Austin.
Then join us for dinner and whisky in the vault after you’re done.
If that’s you, then at the first break, sneak out of here. Or you can do it now, if you’re bold enough. I promise you can take this class again for free the next time you’re able.
We’ll see you at dinner.”
I love that about us. Sometimes, I forget that I need it too.
But just so you know, you don’t have to wait for a class. Alumni can stay on campus anytime they want as long as there are rooms available. A nightly donation helps us cover the expenses of preparing your room and cleaning it after. But all you have to do is ask, and we put it on the calendar.
Let us know if what you really need is a deep breath at your home in Austin, Texas.
Daniel Whittington – Chancellor
