One of the main principles of the yogic path is self-study (svadhyaya). While this is one of my favorite portions of yoga, I have to admit that I have NOT been a fan of learning from other people’s lives.

Facts? Yelp, I love learning facts.

Methods? Yelp I love learning methods!

But I often discount the stories that are behind those very facts and methods. Until recently.

It’s funny how your yoga practice blends over into your everyday life. And part of my life is as a business owner.

If you own a business or are reaching to achieve any goal, it’s a good idea to surround yourself with people who have been where you want to go. As a yogini, on our mats we want to learn from teachers that have achieved a certain level of practice. And in business we want to learn from people who have reached the level of success we’re striving for.

Just remember that the stories of these successful people’s lives often are the most educational and enlightening.

This is why many sacred texts (like the bible) are a collaboration of stories. NOT how to methodology. Its why fables teach children better than any scolding.

Other people’s stories help us learn better because they help us relate to the characters. We can see ourselves in the characters. And we can empathize.

When we can put ourselves in the shoes of another as they are learning a life lesson, I believe, the lesson has more significance and meaning in our own journey.

So recently I’ve taken to reading biographies of people I admire. Some are women in business. Some are yogis like the founder of my teaching lineage. And some are simply great leaders of history.

As I learn about their humanness and the greatness they were able to achieve despite their flaws, I am encouraged.

As I see myself in them I realize that they are people, just like me. That the lessons they learned along the way are my lessons, my struggles and my triumphs.

I’m learning that the stories of others help me see myself more clearly- and isn’t that why we practice yoga?

Who do you (or have you) studied. I’d love to learn about your heroes and she-roes.

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