In his 2019 book Metahuman, Deepak Chopra explores ideas about awareness, the self and what it might mean to live beyond our everyday stories. Whether or not you agree with him, some of his themes are worth reflecting on.
Here are a few of his big ideas, gently explored.
Our stories aren’t the whole of us
Chopra suggests that much of what we think of as “me” is made up of stories: memories, beliefs and roles. These stories are useful, but they aren’t the whole of who we are. Many contemplative traditions share a similar idea.
To reflect on: What stories do you tell about yourself? Which ones feel true, and which feel limiting?
Resting in awareness
Chopra invites readers to rest in simple awareness, noticing experience without getting lost in thoughts about it. This is similar to many forms of meditation.
To reflect on: Can you take a minute to simply notice what you’re aware of right now?
Awareness and daily life
He suggests that greater awareness can bring more freedom in how we respond to life. You don’t need to accept every claim in the book to try noticing your thoughts and choosing your responses more consciously.
Holding big ideas lightly
Some of Chopra’s ideas draw on physics and spiritual traditions in ways that many scientists and scholars would question. It’s worth approaching them with curiosity and discernment. Ordinary life, with its stories, struggles and joys, still matters.
How little is enough
Today, spend two minutes simply being aware of your breath and surroundings, without trying to change anything.
For more, read How to use your consciousness for a better life.
When you’re ready to go a little deeper, the Guides page has a guided journal for walking through change at your own pace.