“Vulnerability Is Scary As F*** But So Worth It” - You Can Heal Through Creativity w/ IN-Q

Added: May 21, 2024

Poetic Reflections on Surrender

IN-Q shares a writing prompt he gave online, encouraging people to write a poem to their past selves. He also discusses the importance of being willing to surrender and let go of control in order to find peace. He believes that peace is a process, not a destination, and that it requires uncovering layers within oneself.

Exploring the Source of Problems

The conversation delves into the idea of how to talk about problems without feeding into them. IN-Q suggests that exploring and understanding the source of problems is key to healing, even though it may be challenging. He emphasizes the importance of holding two truths simultaneously and finding a balance between exploring and reinforcing issues.

Healing Through Poetry: Reflections and Growth

IN-Q reflects on his personal journey of healing through poetry, particularly a poem about his father's absence. He shares that forgiveness and gratitude were key themes in this piece, and that the process of healing is ongoing. He highlights the importance of accepting and integrating all parts of oneself, even the painful ones, in order to move forward.

The Healing Power of Writing

The discussion shifts to the power of journaling and writing as tools for healing. IN-Q believes that expressing emotions through writing can help release trapped energy and lead to clarity, peace, and self-awareness. He shares that creating and sharing art has brought him closer to others and helped him feel more connected.

The Power of Authenticity

IN-Q talks about his experience of sharing vulnerable stories and art with others. He acknowledges the fear of rejection and judgment that comes with being truly authentic, but emphasizes the importance of showing up as oneself. He believes that creating art that is true to oneself is more important than trying to please others or seek validation.

Embracing Authenticity Through Poetry

IN-Q performs a poem titled "Bird Song" that explores the idea of authenticity and self-acceptance. The poem encourages embracing one's true self and letting go of the need for external validation. IN-Q reflects on the process of writing and performing poetry, emphasizing the importance of being true to oneself and allowing creativity to flow authentically.

The Power of Love in Poetry

The discussion continues with a reflection on love and self-love in poetry. IN-Q shares a poem about love not being a guarantee but worth the pain it brings. He emphasizes the importance of belief and vulnerability in experiencing love fully. The conversation touches on the depth of emotions and risks involved in loving authentically.

Embracing Love Without Fear

IN-Q shares another poem about not letting the fear of losing someone limit how one loves them. The poem explores the idea of loving without reservation and embracing vulnerability in relationships. He emphasizes the power of love to overcome fear and the importance of being fully present in relationships.

The Transformative Love of Parenthood

IN-Q and the host also touch on the topic of becoming parents and the type of love that comes with parenthood. They reflect on the unconditional love and trust that parents have for their children, highlighting the transformative nature of this experience. IN-Q shares his thoughts on the profound love and responsibility that come with being a parent, emphasizing the importance of trust and harmony in relationships.

Navigating Intimate Relationship Challenges

The conversation shifts to the challenges of intimate relationships and the struggle to create peace and harmony with a partner. IN-Q discusses the concept of non-negotiables in relationships and the importance of recognizing and respecting boundaries. He reflects on his own journey of learning to love himself and others, acknowledging past mistakes and the process of growth and self-discovery.

Overcoming Self-Worth Struggles Through Creativity

IN-Q opens up about his struggles with self-worth and the belief that he was worthless for many years. He shares how he overcame this mindset through self-reflection, therapy, and creative expression. He acknowledges the role of pain and trauma in shaping his artistry but emphasizes the need to move beyond suffering as a source of inspiration. He encourages listeners to embrace vulnerability and authenticity as a path to healing and self-discovery.

IN-Q's Reflection on 30 Years of Poetry

IN-Q reflects on his 30-year career as a poet, highlighting the importance of using pain and suffering as fuel for creativity while also emphasizing the need for happiness and self-care. He encourages listeners to tap into their creativity as a means of processing emotions and finding peace. He shares that he has written over a thousand poems and continues to create from a place of authenticity and openness.

Fear of Repeating Success

The conversation delves into the fear of repeating past success and the importance of staying true to one's creative vision. IN-Q shares a personal story about a whale-watching experience that inspired a children's book he wrote, illustrating the power of being present and open to new ideas. He emphasizes the importance of trusting one's internal compass and being willing to explore new creative avenues.

The Never Ending Now Poetry Journal

IN-Q introduces "The Never Ending Now Poetry Journal," a project that combines his poetry with prompts for readers to engage in their own healing journey. He explains the journal's conceptual through line, which takes readers through growth, fear, sadness, and empowerment. The journal is designed to help individuals explore their inner stories and emotions in a safe and supportive environment.

Raw and Authentic Journey: IN-Q's Album

IN-Q shares a personal story about recording a conversation with his wife during a transformative journey, which became a central theme in his album. He discusses the evolution of the album and the decision to keep it raw and authentic. The album serves as an audio movie that listeners can engage with to explore themes of growth, fear, and empowerment.

The Power of Storytelling for Personal Growth

The podcast explores the impact of storytelling on personal growth and healing. IN-Q emphasizes the power of changing one's story to change one's life and, ultimately, the world. He shares a powerful poem titled "I'm Proud of You," which celebrates self-acceptance, self-care, and self-empowerment. The poem encourages listeners to embrace their worth and celebrate their journey.

Legacy of Love and Truth

In the closing moments of the podcast, Lewis Howes acknowledges IN-Q for using his gift of poetry to inspire and uplift others. He commends IN-Q for his continued growth as an artist and his commitment to authenticity and self-love. IN-Q reflects on the importance of leaving behind three truths for his children, emphasizing the value of love, compassion, and kindness in shaping one's legacy.