I came with an open heart and willingness to really look deeply at myself. I have had a smile on my face and in my heart all week! I had so many ‘wow’ moments whereby I came to the true realization that I am in charge of my own destiny and am able to see the world and the people in it in a new light—one of acceptance and love. I will do it to make myself feel good. I choose to live my life in a more positive way and make happiness my priority.
– Teresa Grannell, Administrator, England
In my early twenties, before I went to The Option Institute — I was lost. I had come to the end of my academic path and realized that I didn’t actually know who I was. I got myself into a really unhappy place, feeling completely disconnected from what I wanted and who I was. I felt confused and adrift. And then I went to The Option Institute for the Inner Strength two-week program. I went there wanting to find myself. I went looking for answers. What I found were questions. This has been the biggest gift! I came to realize that I am my own best expert. I can trust myself! I can love myself! I am all I need! What huge, amazing, totally self-changing messages – and I am so grateful to have learned them at 24. Recently I have faced some real challenges, from my parents’ divorce to my mum’s serious illness. I know that without having gone to The Option Institute, I would be an angry, unhappy individual right now. Instead, I learned at the Institute that I can choose how to feel in the face of these challenges. Being happy and comfortable means I have more space for love, gratitude and laughter! I not only give myself a better experience but it also means I can be a better support for my family. And yes, there are times when I don’t chose happiness, but it sure feels a whole lot better to know that I’m creating it! What an empowering thing to realize that life isn’t about finding yourself, it’s about creating yourself! None of this would have been possible without the financial aid given to me. I cannot express enough how grateful I am for this aid. To be able to know yourself this deeply and to learn that all the happiness you ever imagined is actually in your control is the biggest gift you can give anyone. There’s nothing else more important than investing in that. If you can, please enable someone less able to attend a program and create the changes in their life as I have in mine. I am grateful for the scholarship aid every single day of my extraordinary life. Thank you for reading this. Have a truly awesome day! Big love,
– Madeleine Woolgar, Public Relations/Media, UK
What a mind-blowing experience!!! I came to The Option Institute not being sure about who I was and where I wanted to go. I haven’t got all of the answers but I’m leaving with a bag full of tools and the foremost belief that I can trust myself to use them in any circumstances.
– Pierre Betoin, Builder, France
When I came to The Option Institute 4 ½ weeks ago for Fearless, Exceptional Woman, and Inner Strength I had survived the loss of my husband, my home, my social environment, my mother. I was in deep pain, new and old. I was closer to death than really alive. I decided to invest in feeling better inside, instead of starting to build a new shelter around me. I tried ‘Happiness is a Choice’—it is! Now I am grateful to be alive and to be myself. There is so much to love and embrace from my past life and a new world is opening—I can trust myself and the universe around me—I see great opportunities in my new situation.
– Heidi Kittler Passma, Germany
Rohan (my 8.5 year old son) had a huge seizure Wednesday morning, my 7 year old daughter (Serena) was with me and joined me in calmly coaching him to breath and relax his body. When it was over I asked her how she felt when Rohan was seizuring?, she said “I was a bit scared because he was screaming”…so I asked ” why because he was screaming, were you scared?” she answered…”because I thought he might die and I don’t want him to die”. We chatted about this very subject and how being really present with someone in their time of need is useful and a really loving thing to do. Serena was really cute she said “I was just calm because I watch and copy you Mum…” so different to where I used to be! The really fun thing is that I have only just realized, how comfortable I was about that possible outcome and also about talking about death with my child about another child two things I used to be REALLY uncomfortable with! A few years ago I would have just panicked, then assumed how she felt and but never questioned. Thank you Bears for the gift of being able to create that space and comfort within myself to help both my kids with the challenges they have.xxx
– Rekha Neilson, Certified OP mentor, United Kingdom
Old and, for me, uncomfortable beliefs are dropping like flies – I am more and more ready to achieve my ambitions for the rest of my life and have been able to clearly define my direction for the first time. Yahooooooo!
– Tissie Roberts, Environmental Consultant / Writer, England
I had been depressed for 20 years, with only some minor relief using medications. I was at rock bottom, my marriage had broken up, and I thought and wished that my life was over. I decided to attend Revitalize Your Spirit and then did four Option Process® Dialogues right before the program — my depression was already lifting. By the third day of the program when asked about my depression, I calmly exclaimed, ‘What depression!’ This has been the best week of my life.
– Tom Cunningham, Certified Public Account, Virginia
My experience at The Option Institute has been so exciting. It has helped me recognize and take a hard look at the areas in my life I’d always been ‘meaning’ to change, but never had, and understand why I’ve made the choices I’ve made. It helped me become comfortable, at peace and confident about decisions I’ve made, that prior to The Option Institute, filled me with worry and doubt. I feel refreshed, alive, and excited to face the day and everything and everyone in it! From all of my heart, thank you.
– Pessy Goldman, Teacher, California
I knew it was time for a change in my life, a big change. I got exactly what I was looking for with the Inner Strength program. I now feel rock solid inside and confident that no matter what difficulties comes my way, I have the power and tools to move through them with comfort. I’m so excited about starting over and creating a new life!
– Jennifer Hautman, Website Design, Virgin Islands
Extraordinary! At last a program that fully delivers on its promise. This experience so demonstrated the ways in which I “hide” from being fully real and present in the world – and most importantly – how to make concrete steps to change that fact. The take away: inner and outer alignment and a true sense of self. What a gift!
– Bob Blenn, Organizational Training and Development, New York
I loved having this opportunity at such a young age and I hope more people are able to experience it. The Happiness Option has taught me tools that I can use for the rest of my life and intrigued me to take additional classes here. The loving, accepting environment is a treat from the outside world. I am very grateful for these past three days.”
– Karah Ley, Student, Michigan
After my 17 year old son passed away suddenly, I didn’t believe I had the strength and courage to go on. The Fearless Program made me aware that I am fully equipped to take care of myself and that I can move forward and celebrate my son’s wonderful life.
– Rick Dempsey, Marketing Consultant, Maine
I feel as if I have been waiting all my life for this program without knowing it. However much I have embraced The Option Process, I have always struggled with my own neediness and attachment to the outcome, which has fueled my own powerlessness, fearfulness and habit of always setting limits on myself and my possibilities. I am SOOOO grateful to have had this week, to have seen clearly how to change this, and to learn how to fill myself to bursting and beyond with self-love and joy, instead of looking outside for validation. I AM the empowered person. I love myself.
– Anne-Marie Grafton, Organizational Development, United Kingdom
I am forever grateful to you for how you helped me change my life. In reality, these words only scratch the surface of a truly indescribable awakening that is taking place in me. And it started the moment I declared I wanted to do whatever it took to be happy, and stepped onto the grounds of The Option Institute . From the bottom of my heart, thank you, thank you, thank you. With great joy and love,
– Sonika Tinker, Investment Counselor, California
The Option Institute philosophy has been entirely transformative for me. I have tried religion, counseling, self study and anything else I could find-nothing has created such profound and lasting change as the Option Process. My marriage has never been as wonderful as it will be because of the Couples Course Program.
– George Remus, Software Sales Executive, Illinois
The biggest thing I learned is that the job of finding out how to be strong and confident is mine, no one can do that for me – and by taking back the job and owning it again, I made me strong and confident!
– Aschena Larsen, Student, Denmark
I really feel I am stronger within after participating in Inner Strength. Some of the things we did were so radical that they were like a flashlight in the darkness. I really liked the meditations we did. It made me realize that only I am limiting myself. If I stop limiting myself in every way then I am free to do what I want and I have started making myself free from my self imposed limitations.
– Gaurand Khatri, Software Engineer, Japan
I have had the most wonderful transformations and ‘ah-ha’ moments over the last two weeks. I have realized behavior patterns and beliefs that no longer serve me, and I am so grateful that I choose now to let them go. I am taking ownership of my life and will be learning to explain myself to myself from this point on. Thank you!
– Kerry Kenna, Clinical Specialist, New Jersey
I came to The Option Institute feeling I was a failure, and that I hadn’t succeeded in so many areas in my life. I would literally shake at the thought of speaking in public and used to talk myself out of jobs before I’d even gone for the interview–a classic case of self sabotage. Oh, how I have blossomed! I have never in my whole life felt so sure of myself and I believe I can be anything I want to be. I now know I am a fantastic mother/daughter and I really love myself and who I’ve become.
– Vicki McCarthy, Registered Nurse, Scotland
“Through Inner Strength, I learned the fundamental concepts of inner strength. I was challenged to explore the beliefs that were leading to unhappiness and left with the tools to change my life every single day. I came to the program very unhappy, spinning in circles and left utterly changed. I am happy, enjoying my life and sure that I had done it for myself.”
– Sarah Figueroa, Nurse, Colorado
I feel so empowered and excited about being so clear and specific about my wants and really believing I can have everything I want. It has been such a fun week and a joy to be at The Option Institute again. This really is a place for miracles, a place so filled with love and openness.
– Lawrence Chapman, Professional Model/Student, England
Whoa!!! What powerful concepts, yet so simple that we can apply them to any situation. For myself, this is the best thing that ever happened because I came here to look for an answer, but I got way more than that. This is something I will practice for the rest of my life to be good and happy and to share with the world to make this a better place.
– Brian Lo, Physician, California
My biggest learning is definitely that I am not scared of other people’s judgments as I thought. I have been scared of my own! I have finally taken ownership and changed many things. There is still work to be done, and I now know how to do that. Thank you!!!
– Asger Leth, Head of Logistics/Faculty of Health Services, Denmark
During Optimal Self-Trust, I have gone from self-distrust and not feeling loveable to self trust and I’m OK. I have cleared out areas of guilt and deep unhappiness in my life. This program is awesome and wonderful. I can’t praise it too highly.
– Helen Lee-Johnson, Retired, New Zealand
I have been given a second chance in life to actually be happy. I feel again! I almost cannot write down in words what I have experienced here in 1 week. You’ve given me the tools to choose, be non-judgmental, accept, love, and be present. This is a life-changing experience for me to bring back into the real world. I have never been in such a loving, caring, giving environment before – The Option Institute is truly a special place. I will return again.
– Ken Metzger, Geologist, Colorado
When I arrived here, my mind was a maelstrom of judgments and repressed anger causing me to see-saw from unhappiness to happiness without ever being able to pin down why. I hid myself behind a mask of caring and love and never realized that I was having the total opposite effect on those I come in contact with. I was radically inauthentic. Through the love, acceptance, and most importantly, the challenges that were put before me, I have learnt to accept my judgments and have chosen to ask in a loving way, why I am doing them. Miracles do happen at The Option Institute. Thank you.
– Eileen Bone, Mom, United Kingdom
It has been wonderful and very helpful to take Optimal Self-Trust with my teenage daughter. We’ve had the opportunity to look at and change beliefs we’ve had about each other. I am so sure that our life together will be much more relaxed, loving and respectful from now on.
– Anne-Grete Hav Hermausen, Teacher, Psychotherapist & Coach, Denmark
I have to say that NEVERsettle Singles genuinely exceeded my expectations throughout the entire program. The tools were presented in a logical and easy to understand way, and the exercises not only perfectly complemented the curriculum, but they were a blast as well.
– Brian Ellis, Realtor, California
I perceived my goals for Optimal Self-Trust to be a huge leap for me and had previously decided that attaining a small portion of them would be sufficient. I outstripped my hopes!! The program design and the practical tools it gave me, together with the safe and loving environment that the teaching staff created, enabled me to reach for my personal heights. It is so wonderful to be able to possess a daring passion for myself!!!
– Kate Henderson, Retail Designer, United Kingdom
The NEVERsettle Singles Program allowed me to identify beliefs about myself that were keeping me from being in a happy and healthy relationship. I learned to trust what I think and to be real and not adjust myself for the benefit of fitting in or being liked.
– Cindy Thompson, Professor, Illinois
I came here unable to listen to myself and to truly believe I was my own greatest resource. I would second guess everything I did or said to make sure everyone else was OK with it. I have had a revelation over this week. I know I can trust wholly my decisions, be happy with them and comfortable. Thank you!!
– Lee James, Police Officer, United Kingdom
This was a great experience for me to explore issues I have about relationships; the class environment was a warm and caring environment and I was able to share my feelings and not feel I was being judged, a good and well needed experience.
– Bruce A. Hayden, Property Maintenance, Connecticut
I loved Optimal Self Trust and am taking with me invaluable tools for transformation; I am also trusting myself 100% to use them. Through the Option Process my life has transformed dramatically and for the better. I will never go back to a life where I don’t value, love or trust myself.
– Rebecca Shaheen, Life Coach / Mentor, Costa Rica
This is truly a place of miracles! I have been able to change from within my core beliefs that have been holding me back for 51 years. With the tools I have been given and self trust that I have developed in the Optimal Self-Trust Program, I know I can now live a more productive, fearless, trusting life of joy and curiosity each and every day.
– Karen Healey, Operations Manager, New Hampshire
Attending Optimal Self Trust increased my self-trust in a profound way. I feel so much more comfortable with myself and with people around me than I used to. I learned that going towards my discomfort is so much easier than going away from it AND I TRUST THAT WHATEVER I LEARNED WILL BE WITH ME IN MY LIFE WHENEVER I NEED.
– Gaurang Khatri, Software Engineer, Japan
I have been “stuck” with the endless torture of indecision for over a year. DuringOptimal Self-Trust I learned that I could trust what I wanted and I would not be bad for myself. I left with a decision and a clear plan on how I would proceed.
– Jennifer Hautman, Designer & Artist, Virgin Islands
What would you do if you weren’t afraid? Go to The Option Institute! What would you do if you were afraid? Go to The Option Institute! I found tools to be stronger, more accepting and non-judgmental of myself and others. I practiced listening to myself, trust and accept my feelings and thoughts. I discovered that every person is such an amazing human being if we approach them with love, acceptance and non-judgment. Thank you to all wonderful teachers, from my heart, THANK YOU!
– Natalya Walton, Medical Clinic Accounts Payable, California
I came to Revitalize Your Spirit with a past history of abuse, abandonment, and a great deal of past judgments. I came fully armed with my usual self-protective mechanisms that I had finely tuned over 52 years. Without anxiety, fear, trepidation, or regret, I left them outside the door at the beginning of the second class. That was the first time in my life that I ever knew I could choose differently. I chose happiness and it only took me 2 ½ hours after 52 years of pain. Thank you!
– Laureeann Porter, Writer, Florida
I came to Revitalize Your Spirit with such harsh judgements of myself. I was a depressed and frightened person. I saw no hope or change in my future. Now, I feel excitement for the future and incredible love for myself and others.
– Debbie Hall, Mom/Student, Canada
Advanced Power Dialogues gave me the opportunity to dive as deep as I could into the process of mentoring and surrounding myself with an attitude of love and acceptance for others and for myself. The curriculum of the course was optimal to attain the highest level of learning the Option Process Dialogue, grasping the concepts and tools used in the dialogue and finding joy in myself around the learning process. I feel clearer in myself and truly accepting and loving of others.
– Leeza Steindorf, Mentor, Feldenkrais Practitioner and Peace Educator, Germany
I took Revitalize Your Spirit looking for a break, a little relief from the stress I have been living for the past ten months since my husband’s sudden death. After two or three days, I had begun laughing and it felt wonderful. I realized I had not laughed in the past ten months but I finally gave myself permission to.
– Barbara Breidenstein, Interior Decorator, New York
This has been a ‘brilliant!!’ week. I feel I have learned so much about myself. Most importantly I learned that to trust myself and be present with others when mentoring really gives their issues in the way they want. Totally Brilliant!!!
– Jo Bailey, Dyslexia Consultant, England
When devastating illness entered my life, I became lost and, for years, wandered so far from myself, full of self-doubt and negative judgments. The Option Institute lit the path for me to find my way back home to a non-judgmental love and acceptance and re-learn to love myself and my life.
– Rachel Freedman, Publicist, Georgia
Although I have been coming here for many years, it never ceases to amaze me how much I discover about how I operate in my life. Each time I come closer and closer to being who I really want to be in my life by truly getting to know myself. My giving myself the gift of the Option Process Dialogue on a cellular level, I will never be uncomfortable in my life again no matter what the stimulus. How wonderful to be going home with a big smile on my face.
– Denise Dalton, Lawyer, Ireland
Advanced Power Dialogues was an in-depth exploration not only of the Option Process Dialogue, but also of the many things which arise in us as potential mentors that keep us from fully being in the attitude of being present, non-judgmental and non-directive. Thus, this course is a very personal and useful inner exploration also. The teaching was especially effective, as you get so much individual attention in the small groups.
– Phil Lomas, Psychiatrist, Wisconsin
Advanced Power Dialogues is a great program to learn in a deep way about a wonderful method to help yourself of others to grow. To grow in a way you can live your life the way you want. Get liberated from any obstacles that stop you to get the very best out of yourself and your life.
– Bright van der Loo, Director, Netherlands
I’ve taken almost all the programs at the Option Institute and I have to say thatAdvanced Power Dialogues seemed to bring all those programs together for me. Understanding the Option Dialogue Process and the attitude of a mentor are the underpinnings that hold this institute together. It’s why we love the teachers, why all the programs work and why the relationships you form here are deeper than anywhere else in your life. This class holds the key to your happiness. Just take it!
– Nancy Haas, Realtor, Writer, Pennsylvania
To really understand the dynamics and the technique of the dialogues, Advanced Power Dialogues is absolutely amazing! We get to dive into all the technical stuff – and at the same time practice to just be in the attitude! If you love the dialogues – you just have to come to Advanced Power Dialogues!
– Sanne Schroll, Ph.D. Student and Economist, Denmark
I soared to new heights. I learned more about myself and grew more in four days than I have in four years of therapy. I am especially appreciative to have learned that I am loveable exactly as I am and that I will be OK no matter what life brings.
– Stacy Berrin, Neuropsychologist, New York
I came in thinking that my life was over, that I didn’t have the right to want anything in my life, that I deserved to feel bad about myself all of the time. I had almost convinced myself that I didn’t deserve to go on living. I feel that this week has given me back my life. I love these women, myself, and this place. If you question whether you are valuable, please come here and learn that you are.
– Judith English, Programmer, Canada
When I arrived at the Option Institute last Sunday, I had spent years struggling with self judgment, judgment of my body, yearning for a “mother” to heal me. Now, after this outstanding program, I have, for the first time ever, been able to feel my perfection at this moment, look in the mirror and see beauty, feel that I have healed myself by taking in the comfort of being held, and have felt my own strength and power to direct my growth.
– Amy Aronoff, Cardiology Practice Administrator, Maryland
You could spend your whole life waiting to go on holidays to make you feel better. Coming to Exceptional Woman was the best holiday for my soul. Instead of the quick fix of the traditional holiday, I have gone away with so much healing of my soul and re-discovered who I am and loving myself. What a great gift this course was for me, the best holiday I would ever take would not compare to this journey of myself.
– Irini Katsogiannis, Homemaker, Australia
I came to Exceptional Woman grieving the loss of my son who is grown and off to college. I am leaving this week excited to develop and enjoy a new relationship with him and with myself. I am comfortable embracing change and looking forward to this next chapter of my life. I have tools to take with me that I will use for the rest of my life to create the most amazing life possible.
– Tiahna Skye, Manager NHI, California
Exceptional Woman will help you stand tall in who you are. This week I changed from a small, hiding person who was afraid to speak out my story into someone who believes that I am more than my history and that I am strong and can stand tall in who I am.
– Alison Taylor, Mom, United Kingdom
Extraordinary Man has been an amazing journey with a band of brothers from all over the world with stories and experiences and outlooks as wide ranging as our geography. By turns boisterous, gentle, challenging, intimate, powerful and sweet, we’ve learned that our true strength lies in love and acceptance of our selves, each other and all the other lives we touch.
– Chris Kisling, Business Development Manager, Louisiana
I have taken other Option Institute programs, which have been life-changing, butExceptional Woman was exceptionally life-changing. I shifted a limiting belief that I honestly had believed I could not change, and that belief was to love the way my body looks. Prior to this week, I thought I could change any other belief but this one was implacable. I was wrong! I have come out of this program truly, madly, deeply in love with my body as it is today. I also want to say that the 4 exceptional women who teach this class each bring unique style and those styles are like 4 pieces of a puzzle that, when put together, create a learning experience that is amazing and powerful and joyous. I will take this again.
– Jeanie Irwin, Antique Dealer, England
The Option Institute is like opening up your grandfather’s tool box and discovering an exceptional cache of age-old devices enabling one to construct the home of your dreams, a life almost unimaginably magical.
– Ted Regan, Social Entrepreneur, Maryland
In one week, I’m a totally different person. I can love everyone in my life now! And most important love myself. I even stopped smoking because I’m taking care of myself now. You will meet the most wonderful person here at the Option Institute — yourself!!!
– Sylvia Gijsen, Office Manager, Netherlands
Extraordinary Man has helped me learn more about the issues of masculinity, competitiveness, sexuality and how I “show up” than has any other course. I have come to many different courses here at the Option Institute. Each one has provided me with valuable learning’s along my life’s path. I’m coming back next year for even more!
– Martin Krag, Spine Surgeon, Vermont
I felt the course was so rich and full I honestly got to the end of the week feeling I had learned and gained so many powerful tools. I learned to love the parts of my being and body that I judge the most. To really truly love and accept myself and to realize I am truly beautiful and perfect as I am. That wanting to change didn’t mean having to be unhappy about where I am now, but that I could use love and acceptance as a vehicle to get me where I need to go. I feel every woman, young lady or girl should give herself the gift of this course.
– Zobeeda Madsen, Mom, Spain
Coming together with 22 men from around the world and sharing our experiences with no judgment from them was liberating. The love that I felt was different than I have ever felt in my 51 years on this planet. The questions and answers that were put up made for great exploration of what being a man is.
– Ray Rodriguez, Entrepreneur, Florida
I came to Empowering Yourself in grief and with the “label” of widow. I was tired of crying. Even with the help of counseling and support groups, I had not really accepted my reality that I am a single woman with many opportunities. Within five days, I am completely changed! I embrace my life, know that my decisions are perfect for me, and see the validity of myself without filtering through another person.
– Barbara Hauck, Fundraiser / Weaver / Writer, Pennsylvania
Just when I thought I had nothing left to learn, Exceptional Woman taught me for the first time in my life what being a woman is really all about. Not only am I now proud to be a woman, but I have the ability to express what is exceptional about being a woman. And I now have the tools to really show who I am and to love me as an exceptional woman!
– Roxanne Litherland, Administrative Assistant, South Africa
I came here with health issues I have had for twenty years. My body was reacting to almost every type of food I put into it. I had constant stomach aches and a skin rash and was underweight. Being here helped me explore the possibility. I can choose to be healed. No where else on earth provides a laboratory for exploring such exciting possibilities for ourselves. I am so blessed!
– Christi Schwarz, Mom / Fairy Artist, Texas
The Extraordinary Man program allowed me to look at how I operate from a different perspective as a man. I have sought external validation to prove to myself that I am enough in my sporting endeavors, work environment and ultimately in my relationships. I no longer need validation from other people-my dad, my mom, my kids, my colleagues and my friends. What a load off my shoulders!
– Tony Dalton, Civil Engineer and Construction Manager, Ireland
I took a class years ago from someone who is now a mentor for the Option Institute…Changed Me!! I learned so much about myself, and unlearned things that no longer served me, (that was huge!)! I realized my power over myself, and the choices that I make that determine my own experience in this life. I’ve been able to help my son to free himself from his private world of high functioning autism/Aspergers through acceptance without judgment. My marriage has been saved from adopting a change in my beliefs about the idea of what I thought love was about. (I realized that I had been in love with the idea of the person I thought he should be….I changed that belief, and found a wonderful man standing before me, and fell in love with him all over again!) I watch every video you post, and look forward to every status post! Thank you for the work you do! Your family is beautiful! You are truly an amazing force!
– Kari Hughes-Wint, Loving Mother, Ohio
Extraordinary Man has been an amazing week and program for me. I call it inner strength for men. It is so important to see a group of men talk in an open, honest way that normally in our society does not happen. Being a man in the modern world is hard and has so many pressures that to be in this group and listen to men share how they feel and lay it out there about sex, marriage, being a wimp or strong, who am I, how should I be? It has been an incredible learning experience for me. I’m leaving here ready to be an Extraordinary Man. Thanks to everyone at Option Institute for this fantastic gift. Cheers.
– Mark Smith, Singer, Ireland
I came to The Option Institute at the age of fifty, desperate, depressed and in a deep fit without a way to climb out. Many years of therapy, anti-depressants and other medications from former physicians and institutions had left me hopeless. Twelve days at The Option Institute changed the manner in which I view my entire life. The choice is mine – create the greatest version of me possible or remain miserable. If I choose the former, The Option Institute has the framework, tools and love for me to get there.”
– Stephen Bochner, Executive Search Consultant, New York
The Option Institute is a haven to nourish your spirit, revitalize your joy and profoundly deepen your love for life. Through the week of Empowering Yourself, I have grown hugely-shredding limiting beliefs about what I can and cannot have, what I deserve and how capable I am to get what I want. I leave knowing I have the power to have what I want and to want what I have. This isn’t chicken soup for the soul-it’s a double espresso shot! And this time, you provide all the ingredients!
– Jack Mason-Goodall, Child Facilitator, United Kingdom
Inner Strength was an incredible two weeks! I have been challenged to face my fears and judgments and my ways of concealing authenticity. I have laughed and I have cried but I have grown in leaps and bounds – in ways I never dreamed possible. I have recognized the ways I have been using unhappiness as a choice and I have received the tools I need to change my beliefs to claim my right to be happy. I am a new person – confident and strong. I love myself now – and therefore am able to give genuine, non-judgmental love to others. Thank you for the gift of health and hope!
– Elaine Shaw, Registered Nurse, Maryland
I came to Empowering Yourself in midst of my divorce – really working hard to push back fear, anger and grief, clinging to a belief that me and my children would make it! In coming to a realization on what I want and shifting to empowering beliefs – I leave for home, full of strength, love, clarity – ready to show my children that changes are blessings and opportunities in disguise.
– Bente Spissoy, Project Manager, Norway
Radical Authenticity has been so extremely amazing. I realize that when I am absolutely authentic, I give myself and my partner the opportunity to be open and honest on issues, like sex, family, partnership in decision making, money and emotional intimacy. Before Radical Authenticity, I thought I was taking a risk and now I know that the risk isn’t in being authentic, it’s in not being authentic.
– Kathleen Corelli Byrne, Mental Health Worker, Connecticut
My passion for my husband and other aspects of my life have exploded. I’m feeling so strong and loving and empowered. I’ve learned that being authentic is safe and I can stand alone. When I do stand alone, I do so with love not defensiveness or fear. I know that I can and I am will continue to create much deeper relationships by being authentic-giving all of the real me all the time.
– Diana Freed, Massage Therapist & Instructor, Maryland
The unique, loving, nurturing, growing experience of Empowering Yourself has wrapped 15 years of rehab therapy, counseling and self-help groups into a neat and beautiful parcel. My gratitude is profound as I can now start to live again. I am looking forward to this fantastic, beautiful life I shall have with hope instead of fear.
– Rob Sinclair, Management Consultant, England
Radical Authenticity offers a stunningly effective alternative to society’s persuasive culture of lies, deceit, omissions and judgments. It provides tools to help you let go of your own judgments, embrace love and truth, and to let go of your worry about judgments of others.
– Mike Wagner, Military Planner, Maryland
Wow! Empower Yourself is like a tune-up for your mind – the opportunity to examine every aspect of how you live your life and why. I used to think, ‘I’m happy enough. I don’t need a course like this.’ Wrong! If you’re still breathing, no matter how happy you think you are, you can still transform your life in ways you have never even dared to dream were possible. Do this program!
– Jonathan Weedon, Child Facilitator Trainee, Scotland
Year after year I came up with reasons why I could not do Certification 2008-too much money and not enough time seemed to come up the most! Finally, after all is said and done, with a full month in my gut, I have to ask you the reader of this…”When are you going to decide that you are worth the money and the time to finally know yourself this deeply?” This month was a perfect example of jumping without a parachute and no stone has been unturned in my life…in the end I have landed on my feet-fully grounded at last. It was worth every penny!! AND ALL OF MY TIME!!
– Nancy Haas, Writer/Option Process Mentor, Pennsylvania
I believed the world and life in general was an unsafe and frightening place. Bad things happened, especially to me. Since coming to The Option Institute, I have changed my beliefs and now see life in a totally different way! I make happiness my priority. Life is truly a gift and a blessing.
– Stelios Angelides, Care Manager-JRP Coordinator, United Kingdom
Dear Bears, Samahria, Raun, Beverly and Clyde, Stan, and of course, Zoela! I thought I would write notes of thanks to each of you, but as I think of one, I think of all. There is love and power in the group you have created. You are all so passionately and perfectly living the Option Attitude, teaching through your living example and your superb execution of the dialogue, so the laser sharp clarity, powerful commitment and conviction of the group have become so much greater than the sum of its parts – a force of nature that I celebrate in love. My wildest dreams could not have hinted at the bigness of the gift I gave myself in participating in the mentoring program you so lovingly created. I’ve never been happier! From the moment I left the Institute after graduation you have been in my thoughts. Each of you, all of you, every morning as I open my eyes in gratitude for another day to joyfully play in. Every morning as I ask myself what my intention is, I think of you. Throughout my day as I check in to see how accepting and happy I am with myself and the world around me, I think of you. If my answer is ‘yes’, I’m living my intention. If my answer is ‘no’, a quick question of ‘what do I want more – the unhappiness or whatever it is that I’m using the unhappiness to get?’ has become my quick-draw tool of choice to help me crystallize and go after what I want. I embrace you throughout my travels beautifully wrapped in the sublime glow of your smiles, words and footsteps. Yes, yeah, yippy, thank you, each of you, all of you! In love, Roe
– Roe Dibona, Restaurant manager & Certified Option process Mentor, New Jersey
Coming from a very logical, scientific background, on my first visit to The Option Institute I was filled with caution and skepticism, despite the fact that I had read some of the books and listened to some of the CDS and loved them. What I learned here was so much deeper and more useful to me than I could have even imagined. The Option Institute teaches a very simple model of stimulus-belief-response. How we feel (happy, unhappy, excited, angry, etc.) is entirely due to our beliefs, NOT the things that happen around us. By learning this formula, we can then implement this practice every day in every situation in our lives. If you decide to live this way, it will be the end of blaming, complaining, and being a victim. Simply put, I am much happier now.
– Lisa Lee-Johnson, Engineer, New Zealand
I signed up for the Inner Strength program with a feeling that if this didn’t help, I would be lost. Not only did the program give me practical and easy-to-use tools to help build my inner strength, it also helped me discover strengths I did not know I had. I am now equipped to face anything the universe places in my path, and to deal with all issues with clarity and happiness. My life is no longer a battleground – it’s a playground!
– Keith Hindmarsh, Chef/Caterer, Canada
I have suddenly become more aware of myself and I’m more accepting of myself. I know that if I am unhappy (or angry, sad, etc.) I’m choosing that. I realized how judgmental I have been of others, but how I was mostly judgmental of myself. I have the power to change myself and my beliefs. Recently, my father passed away and I was very angry. I blamed my mother for his death and I wanted people around me to feel as badly as I did. I have chosen not to be sad and angry anymore. I loved my father and now I’m able to enjoy the times we celebrated life together rather than be sad and angry about the time we no longer have. I have also chosen to speak with my mother and told her I had been angry with her, but I have now let it go.
– Amanda Louison, Son-Rise Program Intensive Coordinator, Massachusetts
I feel like I lost 10 pounds of unhappiness in three days. I feel more motivated to continuing living a happier and more loving life.
– Al Appelman, EVP, Chief Credit Officer & Retired Doctor, Arizona
I was apprehensive and skeptical when I arrived! Within 4 hours I felt more love and acceptance than my prior 50 years. (If I could bottle this weekend and take a sip everyday of my life – How happy I would be!)”
– Ann Alexakos, Para Professional, New Hampshire
Inner Strength has helped me become aware / identify areas of myself and my life that need to be put to work to my advantage. Inner Strength is one of those “must take” programs the Option Institute offers that is undoubtedly useful no matter where you are in your life. Dare to take it and flip your life around for the better!!!”
– Yinan Estrada, Freelance-TV and Film Production, Puerto Rico
This weekend has been life changing for me. Personally I had always believed that the traumas I experienced in childhood would always influence me. Professionally I have dragged my clients back to their painful childhoods in hopes of helping them heal. I now believe that I can change my life and help my clients change theirs by focusing on changing attitude and beliefs, and believing that this can happen in a moment.
– Linda Thompson, Psychotherapist, Massachusetts
Being radically authentic is the only way to have real and sincere relationships with the people I love – because then I am really me! But even more, I find being radically authentic with myself is the greatest gift I can give myself. When I see myself judging or doing other things that I don’t like, I own it! That is the only way I can change! So being radically authentic with myself and everybody else is not only the safest way to travel, it will also be the only way to get me where I want!”
– Sanne Schroll, Economist/Ph.D. Student, Denmark
The weekend made all that I read in Bears’ books come alive. All of it is true! “Life changing” may be cliché but it is the truest expression of what happened on this perfect weekend. Worth every minute of our long trip!
– Rich Gorsline, Civil Service, Alaska
WOW!!! I thought I had it all together before I came here (taken other programs 4-5 years ago). In Radical Authenticity I opened myself up to areas in my life I was still being inauthentic. A fascinating learning experience!! I now realize that 100% authenticity is the path for my emotional and physical well-being. I will continue to return to the Option Institute for fun and self-learning. With the concepts I have learned here over the years I have created an absolutely incredible life for myself. I have immense gratitude for the people who work here and for the Option Process.
– Julie Ann Panneton, Accountant, Canada
Before coming to Fearless I was a paralyzed person; couldn’t make a decision to save my life, afraid I would make the wrong one – so I didn’t make one at all. I was afraid that I couldn’t take care of myself and that life would pass me by and I would miss my chance and purpose. I am now unstuck, have made a decision, have let go of judgments, found my purpose in life and feel so free and excited that I am moving forward.
– Gail Ferver, Homemaker, Pennsylvania
After 51 years of fear, I was able to let my guard down and show my emotions without fearing what others thought. There is now much more clarity in understanding why I was so full of fear. There is also clarity in understanding how to release my fears to experience happiness.
– Greg Hundersmarck, Commercial Real Estate Sales, Minnesota
In radical authenticity I realized I was lying all the time to protect myself and others. I found peace simply by being myself without playing roles. I am no longer a compartmentalized person- I am no wholly myself and congruent in all interactions. Challenges come, but I handle them effortlessly without anxiety. Thank you.
– M Thompson, Entrepreneur, Netherlands
I came not realizing how paralyzing fear was gripping my life in so many areas. I did not even know the depth fear drove me every day-not even the tip of the iceberg! Now, I am awake, I can recognize it, the beliefs feeding it and choose differently. I finally feel safe inside myself and the universe.
– Jennifer Grady, First Grade Teacher, Connecticut
Certification 2009 went way beyond my wildest dreams. Not only did I learn the basic skills needed to mentor, but I experienced an exponential growth in myself and my 7 sisters. I leave transformed, I start a new episode in my life. These 4 weeks I have laughed, loved and had joy that I hadn’t known before.”
– Clio Osman, Teacher, Germany
Certification 2007 has without a doubt been one of the most significant and powerful months of my life. The program has been delivered with excellence; the classes were fun, clear, well-balanced and very useful. The love and support from all the staff to learn and grow has been outstanding. Thank you so much for your willingness to take each step in training and self-studentship with each of us. It is an honor and a delight to now be a fully equipped mentor and an ambassador for this process in the world.
– Rachel Jacobson, Psychology/Neuroscience University Student, United Kingdom
Taking Option Process® Mentor/Counselor training at 57 years of age has allowed me to understand myself in a way I could never before have imagined possible. It’s like starting the rest of my life anew with the unlimited experience love and fun can bring. I’m so grateful!”
– Ron Holland, Yacht Designer, Ireland
Calm Amid Chaos was excellent. I have always been resistant to change. Through the Intelligrid I can see that change is good. I have found it is important to believe in a benevolent universe and the reward will be in the future.
– David Wallace, Senior Program Manager, Massachusetts
The Option Process is about learning to be the best version of yourself! It is about finding your own inner core and peel away all the layers of discomfort and unhappiness! Certification 2009 has exactly been above that – in a huge way! Not only have I learned so much about myself for these 4 weeks – so many layers of discomfort have been discovered and peeled away – but I have also gained the skill to continue the process and the journey on my own! And the ability to give this gift to other people in my life!
– Sanne Schroll, Economist & PHD Student, Denmark
How can something so simple be so effective and all-encompassing? I have searched most of the major religions for principles to live by and beliefs that would be useful for me, comforting in time of pain. The Intelligrid is the first system I have found which inspires me to make a “leap of faith,” the first set of beliefs I’d want to embrace in any office, in the car and on my deathbed. Thank you so much for this powerful gift.
– Bob Van Tassell, Front Office Manager, California
After attending various workshops over the last 7 years, one hour at the Happiness Option Weekend gave me clear and practical tools to allow me to create real changes in my life. I found unhelpful beliefs can be changed.
– Ron Holland, Designer, Ireland
My husband and I have learned how to love each other in ways we never thought possible. We had a shut down in our relationship. He went his way, outside of our marriage and I went my way, to shut down emotionally and sexually. We chose not to give up on our marriage and look at our choices as a gift. We have begun anew and with that are all the possibilities we can achieve and have in an authentic and loving partnership.
– Kathleen Corelli Byrne, Mental Health Worker, Connecticut
I experienced the Happiness Option as an eye opener! The Option Dialogue is the most direct way to get to know yourself and your behaviors to others. Teaching is loving and extremely helpful. For everyone who wants to know why, how and when they react the way they do. A challenge to get the most out of your lives. Doing The Happiness Option is reaching out to yourself and creating the life you want!
– Mary van der Valk, Psycho-Therapist, Holland
My first experience of a course in the USA has felt safe, secure and life-changing. Before I arrived I was nervous and wondered if I was letting myself in for meeting people who weren’t living in the real world. I wanted practical stuff to apply to everyday living. That is most definitely what I got! It’s good to know that there are lots of resources here I can access even after I leave here. Thanks!
– Julie Tasker, Health Therapist and Teacher, United Kingdom
Couples Course has been the best investment of time and money that I have ever spent. This is better than any vacation, cruise, or honeymoon I could ever imagine. Our relationship and our lives are forever changed. This is a week of happiness, love, and learning that will last a lifetime. I highly recommend Couples Course to all couples old and young, long or short.
– Kendal Webster, U.S. Navy, South Carolina
So very, very useful! You laid out tools for us each day, explained them, showed us how amazingly effective they were and invited us to pick them up. The learnings build up to an impressive tool kit of different ways to choose fearlessness. Fantastic. I know I am taking a new me home; so much more powerful and effective in my world – and happy!
– Jules Knight, University Administrator, United Kingdom
Couples Course has been a life changing experience. I arrived on Sunday with a large burden of doubt and lack of clarity for my twenty year marriage. After only one and one half days both my wife and I through the exercises we participated in, created intention and a commitment to create a new and loving relationship together. This is truly a wonderful and magical place. Thank You All.
– Steven Williams, Business Consultant, New Hampshire
I came to Fearless thinking how the hell is this going to help me with my fears , but came anyway. It has been the best week of my life; for the first time I understand me and love others around me in the world. I really had to look at myself which is not something I have ever done because I judged myself and others in my life. I have found my own power and self trust and believe in myself seeing the world as a friendly place, happy to live and be grateful for all in my life, mostly myself and really understood that to make sense of the world I just need to make sense of myself and that everything that happens is for my benefit and the world is my teacher
– Nasreen Hussain, Property Developer, United Kingdom
Finding light in your own tunnel of darkness is not always easy to do on your own. I came here lost about how to get forward movement in my life. I suffered for too long thinking I should be able to do this on my own, also not totally admitting the depth of my despair. To my surprise it is really very simple. Now I can see how I am only one in control of my destiny.
– Totem Shriver, Artist, Florida
I came to Fearless riddled with fear and learnt the tools to remove it. I learnt to have a great sense of gratitude for everything and I am not fearful of fear as I leave this course.”
– Helen Cherry, Artist / Alexander Teacher, United Kingdom
Wide Awake is filled with people who want the same thing, to sincerely grow themselves and become more loving and accepting. I came to this program with a lot of things I wanted to change and I leave with each thing on my list being checked off. I was fearful of men rejecting me, I was functioning from a place of not believing I could do things I said I wanted to do, this has all changed. And on top of that I can see myself more clearly, hence a new insight to how I was operating in my life and from that understanding, it now seems easy how to change and not a mystery. I will take this program every year.
– Kate Wilde, Son-Rise Program Teacher, Connecticut
Fearless has been a rollercoaster of emotions for me. I’ve dropped beliefs that have haunted me all my life and am loving myself with the one I still have.
– Debbie Anne Binnie, Full Time Student, Scotland
Wow! This has been the best week of my life! Hard to believe, considering how many life-changing weeks I have already had here, but it’s true! I took my issue with alcohol and worked with it, and it’s done, forever. I looked at my issue with weight, worked with it, and it’s done, forever. I took leap after leap for the things I wanted with a sense of freedom and fearlessness like I’ve never felt before in 45 years of life! Wide Awake has been the highest step so far to me being exactly the man I’ve always wanted to be.
– Brian Ellis, Project Coordinator, Massachusetts
Fearless was cool. A fantastic learning experience. Life is busy when your running around, working, you’re married or you have other problems in your life and it was great to come here, relax and learn and see how much fear has ruled my life. I was amazed that people in my Fearless class had so much fear, too, a lot similar to myself and we spent one week learning how we can change, we approach and face life fearlessly. I have discovered that my fear is in my head, it’s not out there. Even when I am faced with problems I have a choice so thanks Option Institute for showing me I have that choice and I choose to be fearless.
– Mark Smith, Singer, Ireland
I have been coming to the Option Institute for more than 10 years. I continue to become more self-aware and more loving with each unfolding day. I assisted my father as he died this year from bone-cancer. Because of what I have learned here, it was the most amazing, peaceful, miraculous event of my life and I believe I helped my Dad be more comfortable in his final days. What is truly amazing is that this process of learning the Option Process has been such great fun and yield benefits too numerous to count.
– Mary Church, Business Owner, Indiana
I struggled with a decision for two years, after one morning here I was completely clear and profoundly free of confusion. Not only was a dark cloud lifted, but I saw that the dark cloud itself was a beautiful thing
– Maria Sando, Program Coordinator, Canada
Top Vacation Choice of 2006! There is nothing that can’t be said, no places that one is barred from exploring, within this fabulous group of open, dynamic people. Bears creates a magical, safe cocoon where each and every participant can dig deep and claim gems for themselves.”
– Liz Sturm, Controller, Massachusetts
My life seemed chaotic until I took Calm Amid Chaos. Nothing about my life will ever again be chaotic or seem random. Everything is changing so I won’t be digging in but will change with it and loving myself and the changes.
– Murry Epple, Secretary, Treasurer And Housewife, Canada
My experience as a student in Wide Awake (at the Option Institute) has been profound, but wonderful in a very light and easy way. The subjects of how to love, how to let go of judgments, how to be happy are taught with a gentleness that encourages a willingness to explore how I have been “operating” in the world and permits a desire to make changes. For me making decisions from peace, not fear, choosing to be open, letting go of self judgments and presenting myself to others authentically. Wow!”
– Ted McCarthy, Physician, Maine
I came here to deal with my husband being killed. I came to realize over the five days that I can let the pain and grief go, but keep Paul forever in my heart. Change my beliefs – change my life. Now I see a future, I used to think my life was over. This is indeed a place for miracles for it has given me and my two boys back our lives. It’s time to be happy! The best week ever – thanks guys. I felt loved and secure being amongst the other participants – some will be friends forever.
– Linda McGinn, Mom, Scotland
Intelligrid is a fully functional, all-encompassing tool for happiness. I can be anywhere, in any situation, without fear. I am able to do this because Intelligrid is simple, easy to use and leads me straight to happiness. I recommend Calm Amid Chaos as one of the most profound courses at the Option Institute.”
– “Szos” Mark Tyrrell, Artist, Canada
Power Dialogues has not only provided the tools for my own exploration, it has helped me empower myself to question my own beliefs more in one week than in 30 years.”
– Vito Tanzi, Vice President of Sales, New York
My experience as a student in Wide Awake (at the Option Institute) has been profound, but wonderful in a very light and easy way. The subjects of how to love, how to let go of judgments, how to be happy are taught with a gentleness that encourages a willingness to explore how I have been “operating” in the world and permits a desire to make changes. For me making decisions from peace, not fear, choosing to be open, letting go of self judgments and presenting myself to others authentically. Wow!”
– Ted McCarthy, Physician, Maine
In 30 years as a psychiatrist, never has any process taught me so much about how to be with others. The Option Process is a great gift. I am grateful.
– Ted McCarthy, Psychiatrist, Maine
I came to Power Dialogues in order to add dialoguing to my Son-Rise Program at home. I am leaving today with so much more than I had expected to get. Such as: 1. A much more in-depth understanding of the incredible miracle of the dialogue. 2. A new conviction about my ability to choose my degree of happiness and comfort in my life. 3. A deepened joy and excitement about my relationship with my mother, who attended Power Dialogues with me as a celebration of her 75th birthday.
– Susan Levin, Mom, Maine
This is my favorite program. Having taken it for a second time now and having used the intelligrid to make sense of events in my life already. I now see opportunities I missed. How exciting. I feel equipped for life.
– Tony Dalton, Engineer Project manager, Ireland
Transforming, wonderful, awesome, worth every penny, actually in retrospect it would easily been worth five times as much; in reality though it’s priceless.
– Nils Andersson, IT Manager, Sweden
Advanced Power Dialogues is the most challenging and rewarding program I have attended. The dialogue is the heart of the Option Process and Advanced Power Dialogues has brought my understanding of the dialogue to a whole new level. I find myself wanting to advance my learning and take it further and further.
– David Gaudry, Musician, California
I thought I had a pretty good relationship with my husband. I came here to make sure I was getting the most out of it. I leave now knowing that I have so much to give to and so much to receive from my partner. The possibilities are endless. I will be forever grateful to the Option Institute for opening my eyes to this wonderful relationship I have discovered with my husband.
– Wendy Edwards, Pediatrician, Canada
I realized only a week or two before coming to Advanced Power Dialogues that I want to become a mentor for myself! How exciting! I have learned that I can love myself through my exploration of myself and it creates such a great clarity in my exploration. I have always struggled with the “why” questions because of my self judgments. Now when I begin asking myself the “why” – why am I doing, saying, feeling this…I can become really present and identify the stimulus and belief instead of beating myself repeatedly with the response! Hooray. I am growing!
– Toni Wisher, Mom and Party Planner, Ohio
Every couple should take the opportunity to nurture their marriage in this way. I have never had an experience with my husband that has drawn us closer or more satisfied than this. Practical tools coupled with love made the delivery of materials delicious!”
– Toni Lander, Foster Parent, Canada
If you want to immerse yourself in the best process on the planet for promoting peace and love in the world starting in the most powerful place within-THIS IS IT. Look no further, you have found it!
– Colin Dunbar, Caregiver, Connecticut
I have learnt how to transform my relationship in just one week. Don’t wait to do Couples Course, take the decision to go as soon as possible.
– John Murphy, Company Director, Ireland
If you think you know how to teach, think again! Group Facilitator Training highlights foundational and attitudinal skills, as well as technical skills that will launch you into a whole other realm of teaching! The skills I learned here in 1 week have done more to advance my skills as a teacher than 5 years of college and 15 years in the field!
– Ellen Stanley, Developmental Therapist Educator, Maine
I wish every couple this program. For me it has been a revolution. It has changed our relationship into something GREAT and made it an ADVENTURE and a GIFT OF LOVE.
– Kay Pollak, Film Director, Sweden
Group Facilitation Training Program gave me a fantastic set of skills and tools to help me implement them in both my professional and personal life. However, the biggest thing I am taking away has been a better understanding of myself and how I show up in my life and why, where I short circuit myself and how I do that in an attempt to look after myself, even if it’s not effective. I have made huge leaps in self acceptance and I am so grateful for the chance to do that as it will change absolutely every aspect of my existence. I intend to build further on this. The only way is up for me now!!!
– Kate Henderson, Retail Designer, United Kingdom
With our 10th anniversary approaching, my husband suggested we come to CouplesCourse. It has been a beautiful week and I can think of no better way to enhance a relationship. Our relationship has been very loving, but with the complicated lives we were living, it was not as full of the intimate connections we used to have. The tools we were given and the authentic sharing of the couples around us sent us away with a real sense of excitement for the adventure ahead. It was really special to do this course facilitated by such loving teachers who were willing to share their experiences as well as question ours.
– Gail Pettinger, Realtor, Canada
Group Facilitation Training was like being a sorcerer’s apprentice – you let us take the wand (in this case, the mic) and opened up the spellbook that you use to create the magic in the classroom, to let us play, stretch, and experience our own power. Even though the “focus” wasn’t on personal development – and perhaps because of it – I felt myself making some major shifts inside. The implied “should” (that I historically have given myself) was gone and I was moving from want.
– Chris Kisling, Business Development Manager, California
Wide Awake just topped the list of my favorite programs! I can’t imagine a more wonderful way to spend a week of my life. It was so incredible to fly with Bears and my classmates with no curriculum whatsoever, constructing our own completely unique, completely perfect program, moment by moment, just as we construct ourselves, our love, our experience in every individual instant. It has been so peaceful for me; I have reached a truly deeper connection within myself. Even my understanding of time, I now view as a sense of moments, each unique, each bursting with possibility, none dependent on the one before.
– Alex Woogar, Cognitive Neuroscientist, United Kingdom
So you think you know how to be an effective group leader and facilitator, eh? Try Group Facilitation Training on for size and see what mere heights you can reach. Truly a one-of-a-kind experience from a one-of-a-kind operation. Group Facilitation Training –Option Institute style. Well worth every dollar.
– Larry Freed, Business Coach, Maryland
Going deep, deep, deep with much love and happiness, Wide Awake is a program like no other program which provides a frame to fundamental changes. It allows me to work on every day challenges deeper and more profound area anywhere else. Wide Awake is where you go when “good” is not enough; you want outstanding. In Wide Awake I experienced so much love, fun and changes. It has been the most life changing program ever!”
– Joy, Senior Analyst & Teacher, Denmark
My purpose in coming here was to jump out into the world and be the biggest, bravest, most beautiful version of myself. During this week, I gained some amazing, sustainable insights into my beliefs and how I operate in the world. I quit playing it safe and took some authentic risks in a nurturing environment. It really paid off. I practiced how I want to show up in the world, accepted feedback about how I presented myself, while still feeling that I was being loved. I laughed at myself and saw it too! I want to attract like-minded people into my life, therefore I now model what I want to attract.
– Denise Dalton, Lawyer, Ireland
Group Facilitation Training opened my eyes to what group facilitation is really all about. I went from being clueless and thinking it was all about the content, to understanding and believing it is about loving connection and your attitude: curious, loving, present flexible delighted. Thank you for the road map to greatness.
– Louis Rosenbaum, Businessman, California
WideAwake- I took this advanced course 2 years ago and loved it. This year I loved it ever more. No matter how many courses you’ve done this one tops them all. Although there is no specific focus in this week the topics and discussions are so advanced and insightful given the fact that Bears teaches the entire program off curriculum and you’re surrounded by other like minded participants who dig deep and truly are students of themselves.
– Tilly Larment, Family Counselor, United Kingdom
When I take classes at The Option Institute, it’s like giving myself soul food. My inner being gets nourished and, just like feeding our physical bodies, one meal is not enough. Coming regularly every year keeps my sense of self healthy.
– -Heather D’Amore, Photographer & Mentor, Washington, D.C
When I came, I wanted to work on my being very judgmental. After Power Dialogues, I have not only benefited from being more non-judgmental, I have found myself a lot more comfortable within myself, able to be more present during classes and interactions outside the classroom. This way I have learnt more, felt more loving and excited about taking this into my world for the benefit of myself, my family and those I come in contact with
– Bester Caroline Chamboko, Senior Midwife, United Kingdom
Coming to The Option Institute for multiple programs in a row has helped me to make profound changes in my belief structures and about myself. I have gone from being so unsure of who I was to having now within me the tools for self-studentship, the fascination to explore ME and the determination to be true to myself.
– Chas Barber, Executive Assistant, Hawaii
I looked for the best professional development and leadership training in the world and I found it in Power Dialogues at The Option Institute. The program and the Institute are outstanding and far beyond what I thought was possible.
– Leif Ogard, Management Consultant, Sweden
My experience here as a “First Timer” was very pronounced, very illuminating and beneficial in so many ways. I leave here excited about the information that has been awakened inside me to be used to move me into the light of ongoing love. The teaching techniques I have been exposed to were outstanding and very effective and I look forward to using the new tools to create ongoing happiness and sweetness in my life. I would love to come back one day again for more.
– Howard Gorbach, Investment Advisor Representative, California
In Power Dialogues, I learned to be 100% present, be non-judgmental, non directive and loving as a mentor. I will take this attitude home and apply it to all of my relationships. I created for myself an experience of utter fascination with listening and tracking conversations and dialogue. This is the 6th Option Institute program I have attended and I believe I have a deeper understanding of the Power Dialogue process. The mentor attitude will enrich my life and relationships.
– Julie Ann Panneton, Accountant & Dance Instructor, Canada
When I first came into Inward Bound I was skeptical in a sense that this was not the place for me. I kept an opened mind because I really wanted to change my life and my habits. As I sat through each class, I found that every lesson had a point to it and that each person can take something different out of it and use that to help them change. Everything we did related differently to each individual and I found that if one really wants to make a change in their life, this is the place to come to. This week has changed my beliefs and views dramatically and has allowed me to make many life-long friends.
– Mike Borrel, Student, Texas
Power Dialogues has totally changed my life. I have overcome challenges I have been facing since I was a child – lack of self-esteem, needing others to like me in order to like myself, hiding my true self. I know now which path I want to take and am certain that even if I stray from the path occasionally, I have everything I need to get back on track every time.
– Davina Bannister, Executive Development Manager, England
One of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had with my grown children is doing an Option Institute program with them. It has paid huge dividends and transformed the way we relate in the most positive ways possible!
– Louis Rosenbaum, Business Owner, California
After taking Power Dialogues I have deeply understood that I choose my own happiness and have the tools and have the experienced how to do that. This has resulted in a physical change within my system and I am now more mobile/able to walk and at times I am running. This is a fantastic turn around for someone with multiple sclerosis.
– Helen Cherry, Artist, A.T. Teacher, United Kingdom
I came to The Option Institute to volunteer after 6 months of exploring the world. I had no idea that my two months at Option would be the best part of my trip. Every day here is a new experience. Never before have I been in an environment so full of love and acceptance and people willing to be spontaneous. Being here has showed me that every day in life can be an adventure. Whether it’s gaining new experience working in the Worldwide Communications Department or learning to be my best self in volunteer classes or exploring nature’s playground all over campus there is always something happening. It’s pretty much the complete package; I’m learning great skills in marketing for my resume, I’m discovering so much about myself in volunteer classes and I’m having the time of my life exploring the Berkshires with 8 other amazing volunteers. I feel so lucky that people pay to come here and I get to experience all of this for free. I would recommend volunteering to absolutely anyone who wants to experience life to the fullest and is interested in learning how to choose happiness in their life every day.
– Melica Ladd, Traveler and Snowboard Instructor, Missouri
Swimming at waterfalls, lakes and rivers, bike riding on long country roads, bon fires, hiking up mountains and trails are just some of the things I had the opportunity to enjoy while volunteering at The Option Institute. As a volunteer I have a full work week at various departments on property. I get the opportunity to work with different people all the time giving me the chance to make new friends for life. Just be prepared to work hard to the best of your abilities. The living arrangements are fun. I live with a roommate and seven other volunteers so there is always someone to talk to or go on an adventure with. The staff is outgoing and helpful, I always learn something new every day. We also have the chance to observe classes which is great. I have the best of both worlds; I work during the day with my housemates, attend classes a few times a week and explore the beautiful environment that nature has provided us with. Overall this is a great place to volunteer, make new friends, learn new skills that are helpful in life, discover new things about yourself, and a great working vacation.
– Thiago Andrade, Disc Jockey and Student, New Jersey
Advanced Power Dialogues really takes the Option Process Dialogue to the next level by total immersion in both the mentor attitude and the technical details of the process. For anyone wanting to explore more about themselves and others and how that can lead to a new spiritual and loving dimension to their life, this program is awesome.”
– Jim Blomfield, Musician & Teacher, United Kingdom
I came to Group Facilitation Training Program expecting to learn presentation techniques. How awesome that I learned many things about myself and how I interact with people. The presentation techniques taught here are truly amazing and unique. Toastmasters and Dale Carnegie courses have very little to offer compared to Group Facilitation Training. I am returning home with a tool box full of techniques and the knowledge that when I love my students I feel relaxed, I become playful and my class is already a success the moment I say my first words. Everyone can benefit from this course, even those who do not give presentations.
– Julie Ann Panneton, Accountant & Dance Instructor, Canada
I came to Revitalize Your Spirit with a past history of abuse, abandonment, and a great deal of past judgments. I came fully armed with my usual self-protective mechanisms that I had finely tuned over 52 years. Without anxiety, fear, trepidation, or regret, I left them outside the door at the beginning of the second class. That was the first time in my life that I ever knew I could choose differently. I chose happiness and it only took me 2 ½ hours after 52 years of pain. Thank you!
– Laureeann Porter, Writer, Florida
I loved Group Facilitation Training. It has been two delicious weeks of self-discovery and skill building. I came with a clear sense that the program would help me move on issues in my family and professional life and have got everything I came for. I’m going home with real excitement at the prospect of putting into practice and seeking out more opportunities to practice and model the Option Process
– Dr. Cathy Betoin, Clinical Psychologist, United Kingdom
I took Revitalize Your Spirit looking for a break, a little relief from the stress I have been living for the past ten months since my husband’s sudden death. After two or three days, I had begun laughing and it felt wonderful. I realized I had not laughed in the past ten months but I finally gave myself permission to
– Barbara Breidenstein, Designer, New York
I have learnt many of the facilitating tools that have been such a joy for me to experience over the many programs I have taken at the Institute. I now feel well equipped to start facilitating at a level far higher than most of the planet. The standard you set is so high that I know I’m at a big advantage to see where it’s possible to go in the field of leading and facilitating. Hugely practical information taught in an engaging and effective way
– Mark Walker, Life Coach, United Kingdom
The NEVERsettle Singles Program provided useful tools for clarifying what you want in a partner, identifying and breaking unwanted relationship patterns and knowing when it is time to quit and getting out gracefully.
– Julie Dougherty, Student, California
On a scale of 1 to 10, Inward Bound was 100! I am leaving with a heightened awareness of myself, of God and the world I’ve created. I have deepened my sense of who I am and what my purpose is: to live life fearlessly, to love unconditionally, to laugh regularly and to learn continuously!
– Dayton Semerjian, Management Consultant, Massachusetts
I continue to be amazed at the extraordinary happenings at The Option Institute. What I observe happening to others and what I feel happening to myself are truly gifts. One rarely provides oneself the opportunity and luxury of delving into such fundamental issues as ‘Who am I?’ and ‘What is my purpose in life?’ Here at Inward Bound I was not only provided that opportunity, but stretched in ways that both allowed and lovingly pushed me to analyze parts of me I have previously kept buried deep within. You have provided the perfect environment for growth, peace, and joy. Thank you all.
– Bob Allcorn, Attorney/Mediator, New Jersey
I am 51 – just. I have a deeply happy and satisfying life. I am at the top of my game in terms of my career and with my partner and many other relationships. I came because I wanted to stretch further, to see what in my game could be polished, challenged and improved. It seems a lot. A week here (even with clients calling constantly) has left me rejuvenated, eager to continue to work on living in the moment and loving every minute of each day at a high flame of intensity and delight.
– Ann Olivarius, Lawyer, United Kingdom
Inward Bound was life-changing and uplifting. The amazement of going from an angry, bitter person to a soft, gentle, loving, accepting and – oh wow! – free, peaceful, and happy person! I was skeptical that I could change my life in 1 week but, hey, I did and I’m amazingly grateful. Do you know how powerful it feels to know peace, happiness and freedom? It’s the greatest gift I ever gave myself – I wish this for everyone in the world
– Marylene Labrie, Catering Director, Canada
Nowhere else in the world can you find somewhere so beautiful and so full of friendly, inspiring, loving people – The Option Institute is the best place to challenge yourself to be the best version of you. The weekly dialogues have helped me to let go of self-judgments and I know that when I return home I’ll be more confident in going for what I want. Everyone looks forward to the volunteer classes as they deliver so many opportunities to create authentic friendships, and learn more about the dialogue process with experienced teachers. I came here expecting to work on myself – and I have definitely done that, but I did not expect to leave with great friends, hilarious memories, and valuable new work and business skills that I can use in my CV – awesome! I’ve had the best time volunteering!
– Alexandra Hopwood, Son-Rise Program Volunteer, United Kingdom
My Inward Bound experience was one of coming home. The thoughts, beliefs, concepts are ones I had once embraced wholeheartedly but somewhere along the journey I lost my capacity to feel hope. I don’t beat myself up anymore about this – I am busy celebrating that, wherever it went, it came back to me this week. Now I can only appreciate that I had more to learn – perhaps more compassion for those I used to pity or believe could just snap out of it if they really tried. Perhaps it was worth the dark days to learn a deeper level of compassion and humility. Whatever the purpose, I take these learnings with me and leave the negative behind
– Linda Cone, Psychotherapist, Texas
The Revitalize Your Spirit program was a wonderful space to take self-limiting beliefs and actually become aware of them an explore them. I particularly liked the basis /foundation of the program, ‘you are your own expert’, ‘take what works for you’. It’s the non-judgmental way that it is presented that is new to me. I am the expert!
– Margaret Adams, Tutor/Complimentary Therapist, Northern Ireland
I came into The NEVERsettle Singles thinking I’d learn what I wanted in a partner. I gained ten times that. I can now ask for what I want in any relationship and not be attached to the outcome. I’ve learned it’s easier to ask than not ask. I will have better relationships with friends, family, in business and love.
– Debbie Hall, Professional Organizer, Canada
I learned more about myself and grew more in five days than I have in five years of therapy. I am especially appreciative to have learned that I am lovable exactly as I am and that I will be OK no matter what life brings.
– Stacy Berrin, Neuropsychologist, New York
I had a transformational experience at Extraordinary Man. I had been carrying around feelings of failure from a business venture for a few years. Consequently, I found it difficult to move into new ventures with confidence. During the week, I realized my “failure” was actually a rich experience filled with learning and growth. Now, I’m looking forward to my new ventures with eagerness. I know they will be successful in terms of learning more about myself, whether they make money or not. There is no such thing as failure!
– Kevin Bennett, Investor & Explorer, Oklahoma
Before I came to Fearless, I was so fearful and having panic attacks. I was so depressed; it was hard to get out of bed. This program has completely changed my life.
– Teresa Knutson, Mom, Minnesota
When I came here to attend Fearless, I was in a really challenging place; fear impacted almost every area of my life; relationships, work, etc. I felt so trapped and paralyzed by fear that there was no way out. I learned so many life changing steps this week that now I am able to go home and address these challenges from a place of comfort and trust in myself. I have control in my life!
– Wendy Mean, Embalmer, United Kingdom
The Option Institute has been a very supportive environment to get to know myself. Living with the attitude of being loving, nonjudgmental, non-directive, wanting the best for myself and others has been a wonderful gift. I am the captain of my ship, my own best expert and I know the answers I seek are right here within me. I have found a place of peace and harmony within myself to take throughout my life’s journey. I am very excited about the future and know that whatever comes my way, I can choose happiness. Thank you for your love and support.
– Kathy Wallace, Director, Quality Improvement, Massachusetts
Unbelievably warm, authentic and present. Bears is the “real deal.” After taking dozens and dozens of course trainings, often with highly skilled and charismatic trainers, it is with utmost respect, I can attest he is by far in a league of his own.
– Lucia M. Pinizotti, Wholemind Coach, New York
Coming to Optimal Self-Trust I was at a point in my life where I had some serious decisions to make and a great degree of difficulty in sorting out the best choices to make for myself. Three days into the program, every issue was resolved. I emerged feeling empowered, grounded and filled with energy and love. This program enabled me to sort out some key beliefs for myself, leaving me with a joyful sense of utter happiness and absolute confidence that I will embark on the rest of my life’s wondrous journey, with Optimal Self-Trust, optimal self love, and to really take personal responsibility for all I am and all I do.
– Bente Spissoy, Senior Analyst, Norway
Everyone I have referred to The Option Institute has gotten an amazing gift. For my friend, a way to cope with cancer. For my ex-wife, moving past her deep fears. And for my mother and I, taking Radical Authenticity together created the ability for us to talk about absolutely anything, any time–what an amazing gift for me as well!
– Brian Ellis, Manager, New Hampshire
Sean and I just returned from The Option Institute, home of The Son-Rise Program, where we spent the week attending a program on Parenting. We learned more than I could ever write, including tools and techniques for parenting from a place of happiness and trust, rather than tension and control. There were many Son-Rise parents there, and Sean and I saw—I think he would agree with this statement—that the real challenge to our parenting has little to do with our children, and 99.9% to do with our relationships with ourselves and in our marriage. We are still processing and exploring the take-aways. I am truly thrilled to be learning how to be a happier person, partner, and parent (in that order!).
– Susan Levin, Mom & Graphic Consultant, Massachusetts
I brought my two daughters with me to a program at The Option Institute and it was a fabulous experience for the three of us. Though my girls have been raised with The Option Process® principles as a large part of their lives, and I love and listen to many of the CD’s, what was so great was them experiencing the classroom for themselves! It is such profound and loving arena for self-exploration, and I often feel at a loss for the words that will motivate my loved ones to experience it for themselves. Just go! It is that amazing.
– Amy M, Sales Rep, California
Coming to Exceptional Woman was the best holiday for my soul. Instead of a quick fix, I came away with so much healing and re-discovered who I am and to love myself. What a great gift this course was for me.”
– Irini Katsogiannis, Homemaker, Australia
At The Option Institute, I have experienced the most powerful learning situations I have ever participated in (and I’m a professional corporate trainer). In the Group Facilitation Training program, I learned the tools and processes that create these powerful dynamics, and I learned how to become comfortable in implementing them with my own teams and group situations. I love personal and group transformation and movement, and now I’ve learned how to facilitate that in the most powerful way imaginable.
– Jon Hillegeist, Workforce Development and Organizational Effectiveness, Connecticut
Exceptional Woman taught me for the first time in my life what being a woman is really all about. Not only am I now proud to be a woman, but I have the ability to express what is exceptional about being a woman with the tools to really show who I am and to love me as an exceptional woman!
– Roxanne Litherland, Administrative Assistant, South Africa
Certification was far and away the most powerful program I have ever taken anywhere. I learned more about myself and more about living a truly accepting life than I had ever imagined. I will be a totally different person and foster parent because of this experience. I see my love as spreading out like ripples on a pond and touching everyone.
– Bob Roos, Foster Parent, Minnesota
Never in my wildest dreams could I have imagined being so completely transformed. I was once a woman who was uncomfortable, uneasy, and used pressure to motivate my every move. Now, with Mentor training, I allowed myself to see that I was choosing that. How wonderful it is to change my beliefs and walk through life in love, peace, and joy. The most valuable concept for me is being present and living the attitude!”
– Kathleen Corelli Byrne, Mental Health Worker, Connecticut
Extraordinary Man has been an amazing week and program for me. I call it inner strength for men. It is so important to see a group of men talk in an open, honest way that normally in our society does not happen. Being a man in the modern world is hard and has so many pressures that to be in this group and listen to men share how they feel and lay it out there about sex, marriage, being a wimp or strong, who am I, how should I be? It has been an incredible learning experience for me. I’m leaving here ready to be an Extraordinary Man. Thanks to everyone at Option Institute for this fantastic gift. Cheers.
– Mark Smith, Singer, Ireland
My experience here has been fantastic, amazing & Wondrous! I arrived battling clinical depression…but no longer. I arrived feeling cut off from my heart…but no longer I arrived feeling uncomfortable about sex…but no longer I will leave with a bounce in my step, love in my heart and the tools to maintain both. Thank you, thank you thank you, thank you.
– Paul Weichselbaum, Business Management Consultant, Massachusetts
I came to The Option Institute dragging my past and wanting someone to fix me. Each course that I have taken has helped me get in touch with a piece of myself. I am waving my arms in the air and so happy to be alive knowing that my “fix-it kit” is right inside me! I can take this knowledge with me everywhere I go. Deep, deep gratitude to all the spectacular teachers.
– Gerty Handelman, Retired, Canada
I am so very grateful for The Option Institute. I learned about ATTITUDE in my every day life and how effective that has been for me. Another big lesson I learned going to the personal growth programs is OWNERSHIP. Once I understood that I create my own happiness and unhappiness, my world changed completely. I know that I can change my belief and create a much more enjoyable, happy experience. Thank you for a dream come true! …..As Louis Armstrong would say ~ “What a Wonderful World” ♥!”
– Jamie R Lambert, Homemaker, Indiana
I was severely depressed, on the verge of suicide, when I realized I was choosing my unhappiness, and that I was seeing myself as a victim. I realized I could choose to be happy. Now I am the happiest I have ever been thanks to the books, CDs and programs of The Option Institute, and the love and compassion of those I met, and the many dialogues I have done since. My body feels different, I think differently and I am much more positive and enthusiastic. Bears and the others at The Option Institute have helped me completely change my physiology and attitude to life in a short space of time. I quit my job and have completely renegotiated my marriage and every aspect of my life is now different — as though I‘m reborn into a much better version of myself. As Bears says, “possibility thinking can create ease instead of dis-ease”, so let’s love and embrace our health issues. I would say to anyone feeling depressed: ‘Jump into The Option Process and be happy!
– Mark Oakley, Journalist, France
Living The Dream is ‘life university,’ the best courses you could ever take. In these weeks I intensely examined my deepest beliefs about everything. I learned I can always choose happiness, love, acceptance and inner peace in any situation. Each and every day the instructors lovingly challenged me to confront myself, take responsibility for my thoughts, feelings and actions, and encouraged me to take a step, then another, and then another, towards a more powerful, happy, focused, present and aware person. I now have the most amazing and powerful tools to get to happiness in an instant. I’ve made lifelong friends I will cherish and love forever.
– Michael Phillips, Composer, California
If you teach or give presentations Group Facilitation Training is an excellent course to jump into. Because of the integration of attitude and content, to practice what works and what not, to learn new skills and how to use feedback.”
– Ria van Rooijen, Sports Physician, Netherlands
Living The Dream this summer I had the opportunity to explore the nooks and crannies of my beliefs – I broke through many of the old molds I had formed. I learned that it is fantastic to be a dynamic, beautiful soul and to let that beauty radiate. I found joy in my own voice and the gift of being authentic. I learned that my love is an infinite, renewable resource. I am forever grateful for this amazing and transformative summer.
– Christen Ring, Massage Therapist, Wisconsin
Mentor training was one of the most challenging and fun programs I have done. The love and support that I got from all the teachers and my co-participants was insurmountable. The program is so well designed and the facilitators are so great at teaching this material, I just let go and enjoyed the ride. Each week, I would surprise myself with my growth and then grow again. This was a great gift not only for myself, but for my family and my son’s Son-Rise Program.”
– Rekha Neilson, Mom/Certified Option Process Mentor, United Kingdom
Thanks for a really special summer of FANTASTIC programs 🙂 When I got home I could tell that I felt differently about myself and the world around me! I’ve been more open to meeting new people and trying different things since I arrived at the Edinburgh Festival, and I feel great …about myself! There are some things I’m still not clear on but I have my notebook from this summer at home and a mother who is trained in Dialoging thanks to you guys 🙂 so I’m going to keep going to help myself become happier and more comfortable!
– Tom McGinn, Student, Scotland
The Living the Dream summer sequence of programs was great; the best decision I could make to help myself!! I feel so comfortable and really feel like I have the tools to be happy and achieve all my goals. I think you all made a great investment in me as well; thank the donors for their giving so that I could afford to come financially! Here I come: Mentor Training &, if I get the invite, WIDE AWAKE!!
– L.G., Medical Student, Poland
I thought I was coming to a training program that would teach me a practical skill, but that was maybe 5% of it—the other 95% was learning-once and for all-to get really comfortable in my own skin- because it is only from this space of self-acceptance and love that I can deliver the simple, useful questions of the dialogues.
– Erik Linthorst, Mentor / Film Maker, California
I can’t think of someplace else in the world I’d rather be right now. I’m 44 and finally learning tools with which to navigate through life’s challenges. I’ve been going through life wanting to change everything outside of me. With the tools taught in the Inner Strength program at The Option Institute I can now change what’s inside of me. I feel like I just landed on the planet for the first time. Yaaaaaahoooo!!! I thank all of you for “being” the dedication, love, acceptance that you show us every day. I love being here
– Shayu Talbot, Community Service Worker, Canada
The Option Institute is a fast track to learning and understanding the beauty of relationships, family, community and deep, loving human interaction. This experience has nourished and filled a starving part of my soul. I look forward with anticipation to maintaining joyful friendships I have made here and to ‘playing it forward’ in my life.
– Jeni Felton, Early Education Officer, Australia
This is the third time I have taken Empowering Yourself, and each time I wonder if it will lose something. No way! New discoveries every time. I will take Empowering Yourself every year to make my life the most spectacular experience possible.
– Brian Ellis, Publicist, Massachusetts
Calm Amid Chaos helped me so much to let go and trust without stopping to go for what I want and really enjoying the journey. It helped me to take my non-judgmental attitude to a deeper level I can relate into life now.
– Priya Peters, Student, Netherlands
My all time Top Vacation Choice ! Bears creates a magical, safe cocoon where each and every participant can dig deep and claim gems for themselves. There is nothing that can’t be said, no places that one is barred from exploring, within this fabulous group of open, dynamic people
– Liz Sturm, Controller, Massachusetts
In Calm Amid Chaos, we are given the Intelligrid, a fully functional, all-encompassing tool for happiness. I can be anywhere, in any situation, without fear. I am able to do this because Intelligrid is simple, easy to use and leads me straight to happiness. I recommend Calm Amid Chaos as one of the most profound courses at the Option Institute.
– Mark Tyrrell, Artist, Canada
Certification has been a fantastic journey for me, and a really amazing education in understanding the human dynamic. My intention was to learn The Option Process® Dialogue fully so that I could help other people, but throughout the program I learned so much more about myself than ever before, and that was the greatest gift I have ever received. I am refreshed, ready, and capable to give and share love with other people. Thank you very much for all we have learned.”
– Niels Hojer, Manager, Denmark
Most of my life I have been wearing masks to protect myself and others from who I really am. I hated people judging me and hated unfairness. Radical Authenticity was liberating! Not only do I no longer hold those fears, but I now have freedom to be me. Truly life changing.
– Katrina Tse, Self Student, Australia
I signed up for Inner Strength with a feeling that if it didn’t help, I’d be lost. Not only did the program give me practical, easy-to-use tools to help build my inner strength, it also helped me discover strengths I did not know I had. I’m now equipped to face anything in my path, and to deal with all issues with clarity and happiness. My life is no longer a battleground – it’s a playground!
– Keith Hindmarsh, Chef/Caterer, Canada
I came to really realize how much I’ve been lying and how exhausting it has been. I haven’t been showing up in my own life enough as me. I’m so excited and relieved to now have the tools and knowledge to live my life how I want to live it.
– Jenn Rosenthal, Radio Personality, Ohio
I thought I was empowered until I took this class. I saw how much I take care of others to make myself more comfortable; wait for my turn and hide myself; get frustrated and then detach from life. Empowered people get what they want and live the lives of their dreams because they know what they want, confidently and passionately pursue it, freely share themselves in all that life brings. Empowering Yourself! brought all that to me and I am now living an empowered life!
– Kathy Kiepura, Medical Doctor, Georgia
I had spent years struggling with self judgment, judgment of my body, yearning for a “mother” to heal me. After this outstanding program, I have, for the first time ever, been able to feel my perfection, look in the mirror and see beauty, healed myself by taking in the comfort of being held, and have felt my own strength and power to direct my growth.
– Amy Aronoff, Cardiology Practice Administrator, Maryland
Unbelievably warm, authentic and present. Bears is the “real deal.” After taking dozens and dozens of course trainings, often with highly skilled and charismatic trainers, it is with utmost respect, I can attest he is by far in a league of his own.
– Lucia M. Pinizotti, Wholemind Coach, New York