We were lucky to catch up with Aaron Ableman recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Aaron , thank you for being such a positive, uplifting person. We’ve noticed that so many of the successful folks we’ve had the good fortune of connecting with have high levels of optimism and so we’d love to hear about your optimism and where you think it comes from.
Lost in a jungle outside of Managua, Nicaragua, amidst the aftermath of 20 yrs old civil war in the 1980s, my seven-year-old self encountered a world far removed from the innocence of childhood. Amidst this landscape, scarred by conflict, I walked with a heart full of longing, a young soul yearning for peace. My eighth birthday wish was simple yet profound: “world peace.”
My mother, a beacon of compassion for me, worked in an orphanage, her days dedicated to bringing solace to lives fractured by war. Amongst the children there, I found a friend unlike any other – a boy who, though blind, ran through the jungle with the confidence of one who could see more than most. He became my guide, not just through the labyrinth of trees and undergrowth but into the realms of insight and deep gratitude.
He taught me to navigate the world not with my eyes but with my other senses, to listen to the whispers of the wind, to feel the heartbeat of the earth beneath my feet, and to touch the very soul of the world around me. In our adventures, I learned that vision is not only what we see with our eyes but what we perceive with our hearts.
This little friendship illuminated for me what real gratitude meant. It was more than just being thankful for what we have; it was appreciating the beauty of life even amidst pain and loss. It was seeing the dance of light in the darkest of places.
As we roamed the jungles, a realization dawned upon me – optimism is not merely a feeling but a way of being. It’s an attitude, an outlook, a form of training the mind to seek the good. And by the law of resonance, the good does indeed show up. This became a kind of personal mantra, my guiding light, teaching me to see the glass as half full, regardless of the situation!
This experience in Nicaragua, in the shadow of war and in the company of a friend who saw the world in a way most never could, profoundly shaped my outlook on life. It instilled in me a relentless optimism and a deep-seated belief in the potential for good in every situation. It was one of those lifelong lessons in the enduring power of the human spirit to overcome adversity.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
My work centers around the power of creative consciousness and spiritual vision to enact positive change in the world. I blend art, music, storytelling, and activism to inspire and mobilize people towards a more compassionate and sustainable future. What excites me the most is the potential of creative expression to transcend barriers, whether they are cultural, linguistic, or ideological. It’s about tapping into that universal language of the heart, which can foster profound connections and shared understanding.
My art and brand are reflections of my deep commitment to social justice, environmental stewardship, and spiritual exploration. They are vehicles to explore and express the myriad ways we, as humans, can interact with our world more harmoniously. Whether it’s through a song, a book, or a community project, the goal is to ignite a sense of wonder and responsibility towards our planet and each other. I believe in the transformative power of kindness, and this is a central theme in all my works.
Here are several exciting ventures currently underway. As an ambassador for GenZeroAction.com, I am deeply involved in creating a series of musical anthems for the climate movement. These songs are designed to inspire action and bring a deeper awareness to the urgent environmental challenges we face globally. In addition, I serve as a spokesperson for GojiLife, a wellness brand dedicated to bringing healing products to the LOHAS (Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability) marketplace. Our focus is on nurturing holistic health and promoting a sustainable way of living. I am also collaborating with Kindhumans, a B-Corp that is committed to creating products and experiences centered around loving-kindness. Our goal is to foster a culture of empathy and compassion through our initiatives. Beyond these roles, I am actively involved in writing, advising, and producing impact-oriented TV and film projects. While I can’t divulge too much at this stage, I am incredibly excited about these upcoming projects and look forward to making formal announcements soon!
Looking ahead, I envision my work continuing to bridge divides and foster a global community grounded in empathy, creativity, and ecological consciousness. I hope to keep contributing to a narrative of hope and action, where each individual feels empowered to make a difference. Ultimately, it’s about co-creating a world where the beauty of our planet and the human spirit are celebrated and preserved for future generations.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting a bit on my journey, I can identify three key qualities that have been pivotal:
Creativity and Artistic Expression! My ability to communicate through art and music has been central. It’s crucial for connecting with diverse audiences and simplifying complex ideas. If you’re starting out, immerse yourself in various art forms – or any creative discipline/language that inspires you. Experiment, explore different mediums, and learn from a range of artists. This exploration is vital in finding and honing your unique creative voice.
Empathy and Compassion! My work in social justice and environmental advocacy is driven by empathy and loving-kindness. Understanding and sharing the feelings of others is essential for making a positive impact. Develop empathy by actively listening and trying to see the world through others’ eyes, knowing that everyone we meet is fighting a battle we know nothing about. Engage with different stories and experiences through the simple power of humility. Volunteer work or community involvement can profoundly expand your empathy.
Knowledge of Environmental Sustainability and Social Justice! My understanding of these issues aren’t just a passing study, they are a way of life: they inform every aspect of my work! I try to always stay curious and cultivating a beginner’s mind so that my appreciation for intersectional environmentalism and justice can expand to include 100% of humanity and the biosphere. Whether through formal education with teachers and mentors or self-guided learning via books, documentaries or podcasts, a deep love for learning and service can be key.
For anyone at the start of their journey, focusing on these areas can lay a strong foundation for impactful work. Remember, growth is ongoing, and each step builds upon the last. Stay open, committed, and let love be your guide!
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
When facing overwhelm or exhaustion, it’s crucial to step back and take care of your mental and physical well-being. Here are some effective strategies I use to rejuvenate and regain clarity:
Meditation: Meditation is a powerful tool for centering the mind and finding peace amidst chaos. I often set aside time for a brief meditation session, focusing on my breath and allowing thoughts to pass without judgment. This practice helps in regaining focus and perspective.
Nature Walks: Connecting with nature can be incredibly therapeutic. I find that a walk in a park or along a trail can refresh my senses and clear my mind. The tranquility of natural surroundings provides a serene backdrop for contemplation and rejuvenation.
Exercise: Physical activity is not only good for the body but also for the mind. Engaging in exercise, be it a brisk walk, a run, or a yoga session, helps in releasing endorphins, the body’s natural mood lifters. This often results in a clearer, more positive mindset.
Play and Leisure Activities: Sometimes, the best way to deal with overwhelm is to momentarily step away from the stressors and engage in something enjoyable. Be it playing a musical instrument, painting, or even playing a sport, such leisure activities can be a great way to divert the mind and return to the task at hand with renewed energy.
Strategic Breaks: Incorporating short, regular breaks into my routine is crucial. During these breaks, I might do something as simple as stepping outside for fresh air, enjoying a cup of tea, or engaging in a brief mindfulness exercise. These pauses help prevent burnout and maintain productivity.
Remember, it’s important to listen to your body and mind. Overwhelm and exhaustion are signals that you need to pause and take care of yourself. By adopting these practices, you can return to your challenges with a fresh perspective and an open mind.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.aaronableman.com
- Instagram: @aaron.ableman
- Facebook: Aaron Ableman
- Linkedin: aaronableman
- Youtube: Aaron Ableman
- SoundCloud: Aaron Ableman
