Personal Philosophy
Dr. Michael Gervais: Thoughts, Words, & Actions Lined Up
1 min read · 5.7.2025
“What is philosophy?
“Everybody has a philosophy;
whether you can articulate it or not is about deeply understanding it.
“Personal philosophy is a set of guiding principles.
“Guiding what?
“Guiding your thoughts, your words, and your actions.
“So the principles you hold dearly help inform the thoughts you have, the words you choose, and the actions you take.
“When your thoughts, your words, and your actions are lined up, that’s really powerful.
“It allows you to have that sturdiness [of your psychological framework], and you can progressively move into more challenging environments.
“You are then testing your technical skill lined up against—
can I really maintain the integrity of me—my thoughts, my words, and my actions.
“Actions are really about the technical skill.
“And if the integrity of the framework starts to rock or shake or break or crumble, you have to go back to the drawing board.
“Your principles are foundational.
“We challenge people to do a lone work, nobody will do it for you.
“You can adopt and use other people’s brilliance but you are the one to do your lone work—nobody can give you your purpose, give you your philosophy.
“As an awake adult it is your responsibility to know them.
“What is a good exercise to outline personal philosophy?
“It’s sit and understand, and there are three good ways to get at it.
“Mindfulness is one.
“The second is conversations with wise people; and the third is writing.”
References:
Dr. Michael Gervais. Uncovering Peak Performance and Maximizing Human Potential with Dr. Michael Gervais. Flow Research Collective. Apple Podcast. Episode 10. 2021
Dr. Michael Gervais. Develop a Peak Performance Mindset with Dr. Michael Gervais. YT Channel: Steven Kotler. 2023.
