Serene Readiness in Challenging Times with Eric Maisel, Ph.D.

In an age of constant change and uncertainty, how can we remain calm, centered, and able to respond wisely? Creativity coach and psychotherapist Eric Maisel introduces the practice of serene readiness—a mindset that blends inner tranquility with the nimbleness to act decisively. He offers practical tools for managing anxiety, maintaining focus, and living with purpose, showing how serenity can be cultivated not only in meditation, but in the midst of daily life. Serene readiness, Maisel explains, means being mentally and emotionally prepared for life’s surprises while staying anchored in one’s values and creative intentions. He invites us to take personal responsibility for meaning-making and to design a calm, purposeful “inner architecture” that nurtures courage, presence, and self-compassion. Maisel also explores the essential balance between head and heart. For anyone seeking to meet turbulent times with grace and clarity, this conversation offers a powerful reminder: Serenity is not withdrawal—it’s readiness in motion. (hosted by Justine Willis Toms)

Bio

Eric Maisel is a retired, licensed psychotherapist and an internationally respected coach specializing in creativity, existential wellness, and relationship coaching. He trains coaches and offers workshops and webinars nationally and internationally. The author of more than fifty books, he also writes the long-running “Rethinking Mental Health” blog for Psychology Today and contributes to outlets such as The Good Men Project and Fine Art America.

Eric Maisel’s books include:  

• Night Brilliance: The Sleep Thinker's Guide to Powerful Problem-Solving (BTSL – Jim Dandy Publishing 2026)
• Brave New Mind: The Art of Serene Readiness (BTSL- Jim Dandy Publishing 2025)
• Choose Your Life Purposes: A Step by Step Guide to Self Awareness, Empowerment, and Success (TMA Press 2024)
• The Coach's Guide to Completing Creative Work: Top Tips for Working with Procrastination, Perfectionism and More (Lynda Monk) (Routledge 2023)
• The Coach’s Way: The Art and Practice of Powerful Coaching in Any Field (New World Library 2023)
• Why Smart, Creative and Highly Sensitive People Hurt: A Toolkit for Thriving in a Chaotic World (TMA 2023)
• The Great Book of Journaling: How Journal Writing Can Support a Life of Wellness, Creativity, Meaning and Purpose (Conari Press 2022
• The Power of Daily Practice: How Creative and Performing Artists (and Everyone Else) Can Finally Meet Their Goals (New World Library 2020)

To learn more about the work of Eric Maisel go to www.ericmaisel.com

Topics explored in this dialogue include:

• How serene readiness emphasizes the need to be nimble, courageous, and calm in today's challenging times
• Serenity involves acquiring portable anxiety management tools that work in the moment, not just during meditation
• Why we must have a personal understanding of what we can and cannot control
• How making mistakes is part of a successful creative process
• How the broader implications of being ready are more than being poised at the starting line
• What are some of the blocks to readiness, such as procrastination and addiction to perfection
• How our self-talk can be a barrier to readiness
• What is the importance of creating a life philosophy and personal mantra such as “do the next right thing”
• How making a list of life purposes will assist in aligning our actions with our highest ideals
• What are some practical tools to have on hand for immediate response for serene readiness
• Why is a regular practice of readiness tools needed to develop habits of serenity and readiness
•  What is the importance of imagination and personal responsibility for making meaning of our life purpose choices
• How we must balance our cognitive mind with our heart mind

Host: Justine Willis Toms    Interview Date: 1/30/2026   Program Number: 3857

Music Playlist

Album: Bring the Flavors.
Artist: Jack Gates
<https://jackgatesmusic.com/>

Track: 04 Waterfalls