Gabrielle Interviews Gotham Chopra, American author and entrepreneur

You have been at the frontlines of many world conflicts. Can you speak on how the energy of the world must shift in order positively transform these conflicts?
I think we could use a shift in the consciousness of our leaders. Endless war in pursuit of endless peace is an oxymoron and we have seen throughout the course of history an absolutely fallible way to create a harmonious civilization. In this brave new globalized world where we are co-dependent on one another like never before, where our survival as a civilization relies on collaboration rather than confrontation, we require leaders that are capable of creative solutions to some of the problems that plague us. I’d prefer not to passively expect the Universe to shift but trigger that transformation through our own active pursuit of creative leadership.

How can we as individuals help impact this energetic shift? (Can you speak directly to Gen Xers and Y’s.)
I believe it’s our responsibility to contribute to this evolution in consciousness. And I think it’s already happening in that we are increasingly becoming aware of our inter-dependence on one another when it comes to global resources. I also believe the advent of social networks – from twiiter to facebook to myspace – is enabling a global conversation in a way we have never seen before. Sharing our ideas on economic wellness, conservation, social justice, compassion, non-violent communication, and creative leadership is the functional way toward a better, more holistic future.

Please speak on the power of collective prayer and how it can heal on a mass level.
Critical mass theory suggests that when 1% of any given population have a collective intention, it mobilizes a shift in the consciousness of all. The mechanics of intention and attention therefore are very powerful and can have a tremendous impact on evolving our civilization.

How can we create positive change in the world through the internet? (With websites like intent.com etc.)
As discussed above, the internet and social networking sites in particular have enabled us all to participate in a collective conversation. It has also enabled us to share the lessons we have learned from our respective cultures and situations with one another in the hopes that we can emulate what works. As we have seen with popular pieces of content or video on the likes of Twitter or Youtube, we can now galvanize the attention of millions through the internet. This is a hugely powerful resource we can harness for the betterment of the planet.

How do you connect to your inner guidance (ing or God) daily? Can you share some of your daily spiritual practices?
1) I meditate twice a day. Being rooted in that silence provides a great sense of stability and calm even within the storm of an average day.
2) I walk my dog with baby boy and indulge in their playfulness and sense of timelessness.
3) I exercise (preferably outside) where I can focus my mind away from distractions, obligations, and responsibilities.

Please speak on the importance of empowering young people to connect to their inner guidance and bridge practicality with spirituality.
It’s absolutely critical that young people – who are on the cusp of such tremendous physical, emotional, and psychological transition are able to be in touch with that sense of silence. It enables us to tap into our intuition which is free of the distractions of ordinary living and instinctively computes all the various influences of the world and enables us to make the right choices in our lives. Everyone has the power to create their best life. Empower ourselves to do so by getting in touch with your inner self – or soul – is the best way to create a fulfilling and full life.