About Me

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Chuck Jones is an award-winning speaker, trainer, e-learning developer, and professional magician. He holds a B.A. in Psychology and an M.A.Ed. with a specialization in Curriculum and Instructional Design for Adult Learners. With more than 30 years in the corporate training and development arena, he has spoken at many conferences for the E-Learning Guild, Association for Talent Development, and Training Magazine. As a magician, he has performed in close-up, parlor and stage venues throughout the US and can be found most weekends performing at Poe's Magic Theatre in Baltimore, MD. Visit him online (as his stage persona, Chuck Thomas) at www.chuckthomasmagic.com.

Thursday, September 28, 2023

Unleashing Your Inner Magic: Harnessing Personal Power for Positive Change

Executive in suit and cape, standing on top of the world as though he is Superman!Do you sometimes feel as though your life is mundane and unpredictable, and that each day is nothing more than going through the motions? Do you feel as though there’s no difference between days – that each day is just like the one that came before it, and that it will most likely be nearly the same as the day after it?

Look beneath those feelings and you may just find something extraordinary: the realm of magic. But magic is not limited to wizards like Harry Potter or Merlin, or to magicians like Harry Houdini or Penn and Teller. Each of us is our own magician because we possess the ability to unlock our inner strengths, and the power within to create positive change and achieve personal growth.

Embracing the Magic Within.


Each of us has our own unique abilities and strengths. As a magician, I recognize and embrace the tools I have and the skills I learned to practice my craft. Those are my passions and talents.  Your passions, your talents, and your experiences are what make you truly extraordinary. Maybe you’re a good listener. Maybe you have exceptional problem-solving skills. Whatever it is about you, these qualities are the key to unlocking your personal power.


Recognizing Limiting Beliefs.


The most common type of magic is transformation. A square of cloth is changed from white to red. A one-dollar bill transforms into a twenty. In the same way, we each want to transform ourselves. Perhaps we want to lose weight. Maybe we want to get a promotion. Or realize a dream. If we want to reach our full potential, we must identify any negative beliefs that are holding us back and deal with them. Where doubt and self-limiting beliefs exist, there can be no magic!


Setting Intentions and Visualization.


As a magician, I think of the outcome I want and then I find a way to make it happen. I want to create an effect where spectator cuts the deck of cards four times, each time to an Ace. I imagine that happening, and then develop a method and story to help me achieve that. In other words, I’ve defined a clear goal and visualized the steps needed to achieve it. What is it that you aspire to? Draw a detailed mental image of yourself embodying those qualities and achieving those outcomes. Use that image to align your thoughts, your emotions and your actions so that they are all focused on helping you achieve the growth you desire.


Use Everyday Rituals.


To improve as a magician, I’ve adopted a ritual of spending 30 minutes a day reading about magic. Not about magic tricks mind you, but rather about showmanship, performance, or theory. I also spend 30 minutes a day on rehearsal – even more if I have an upcoming show. Developing everyday rituals remind us of our own personal power and intentions. Maybe your ritual is meditating each morning or writing in your journal before bedtime. Whatever routine you choose, create that sacred space where you can connect with your inner magic and check on your personal path to progress.


Embracing Resilience and Adaptability.


Magic is the art of making the impossible seem possible. But to do this means being adaptable and resilient when adversity does come along. To truly be that magician with the power to transform ourselves means we embrace challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth and transformation. Learn from them, make needed adjustments, and then continue your path, bound and determined to achieve your goal. Remember, the magic is not just in the success itself, but also in the journey that gets you there.


Wrapping It Up.


By applying the magic principle of power, you can find your inner strengths and resolve to achieve personal growth and create the change you desire. Find and embrace your inner magician. Conquer your self-limiting beliefs. Determine your goal. Set those daily rituals to help you achieve it. Be resilient when faced with a challenge. Embrace the magic within you and transform your life and unleash your true potential.


You don’t need a black hat or a rabbit to harness the power within to realize the change you desire. Embrace your magic and become your best self!


In Honor of Worldwide Mentoring Day, a Personal Thank You to My Mentors

Today (January 17) is International Mentoring Day . In the past week, I have posted two blog articles related to mentoring. The first provid...