by Soror Astrum Serpente

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Many of us who serve in Thelemic organizations struggle with exhaustion, depression, and burnout. As leaders in the community, what can we do to help members get through similar struggles?

Encourage members to look within and use the power of their own True Will to find motivation.

Remind them that the Will of Thelema is all-powerful and will provide the strength they need. Encourage them to engage in meditation to connect with and understand their True Will.

True Will, or the concept of an individual’s destiny or calling, is a core principle of thelemic philosophy. By connecting with their True Will, members may draw from already existing motivations and possibly dormant callings they did not know they valued.

Remind members that by identifying and following their True Will by partaking in the organization’s mission, they are exercising their full potential as well as those around them.

Connect with the group’s mission and find inspiration.

Reflect with members on the shared values and goals of the group, and ask them to take ownership of that mission and the part they can play in it.

Challenge members to push their boundaries. Remind them that by attempting something that scares or pushes them out of their comfort zone, they will have a more meaningful experience and more developed sense of themselves.

Seek inspiration from inspirational leaders. Ask members to think of someone who inspires them to keep going and to seek out stories or advice from that person that may offer renewed motivation.

Help them to remember that the path of Thelema is a journey, and it is perfectly ok to take their time.

Remind them that the rituals and practices of Thelema are about self-discovery, not about speed or competition. Lead by example and show that everyone’s journey is unique and that there is no shame in taking a break or taking it slow. Encourage occasional “retreats” to refocus on the original motivating spirit behind the calling to the Great Work.

Encourage them to seek out like-minded people in the community for support and friendship. Many other people have struggled with stress and burnout like them, but burnout can make you feel isolated. Experienced members are ideally there to guide the way through their example, having endured similar struggles previously.

Always help members to recognize their achievements, no matter how small, and celebrate their progress. Write one article. Perform one ritual. Teach one class. Create one piece of art. Encourage small acts of tangible progress that are in accordance with the organization’s mission and the individual’s Will.

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