Unbothered, p.1
Unbothered, page 1
Contents
Cover
Title Page
Foreword by Michael B. Beckwith
A Note on Yantras: The Sacred Symbol Anchoring This Book
Introduction
Part 1: Spiritual 1: Purpose
2: Fear
3: Manhood
Part 2: Physical 4: Mastering Emotions: Unbothered
5: Sex, Energy + Life Force
6: Start Where You Are
Part 3: Mental 7: Infinite Possibilities + The Power of Choice
8: Growth
9: Gratitude Is My Attitude
10: Relationship with Rhythm + Spirituality
11: Happiness + Wholeness
Acknowledgments
About the Author
Copyright
About the Publisher
Foreword
Omarion is a great spirit full of creativity and enthusiasm. You might know him mostly as a singer, dancer, and actor; however, beyond those roles, Omarion is a Truth seeker and a Truth teller. I had the joy of working with Omarion on a project to raise funds for the nonprofit MusiCares during the COVID-19 pandemic at one of Agape’s online services. It included offering a musical challenge to folks to sing Bill Withers’s seminal song, “Lovely Day,” as a way to help lift people’s spirits. I discovered at the time that Omarion had been following my teachings and had a spiritual practice of his own. During our interview and dialogue, it was clear to me that Omarion was more than an entertainer: he was and is a disciple of Spiritual truth who seeks to live his life in accordance with Spiritual principles. Like most of us, Omarion’s life experiences have been both very wonderful and very challenging. However, it is his deep Spiritual longing that has allowed him to unfold into his own unique expression of inspiration and upliftment, as demonstrated by his latest creative offering, Unbothered: The Power of Choosing Joy. To be “unbothered” is to live in a high state of mind and consciousness. It does not mean being indifferent to, ignoring, tuning out, or avoiding our thoughts, emotions, and feelings, especially during challenging times, which we as men have a tendency to do, but having the mental, emotional, and spiritual tools and resources to better understand them and navigate through our life experiences and relationships in self-loving and self-affirming ways, regardless of any circumstance. In fact and in Truth, no matter what problems, challenges, or even crises we experience that might grab hold of our hearts and minds, our Souls, the Spiritual core essence of who and what we are, remain untouched (and unbothered) because Spirit only knows the high vibration of Love, peace, compassion, clarity, joy, generosity, freedom, grace, abundance, and beauty. What’s more, It constantly beckons us, calling us home to align with that Truth of our being, which we can access at any time we choose to. See, Life loves us so much that It built within each of us an unwavering support and guidance system that is always available to us. Through his Spiritual practice, Omarion has learned how to tap into that in ways that have allowed him to move through and transcend personal challenges and emerge with the wisdom learned and earned through insight and inspiration. And in Unbothered his readers benefit from the lessons and takeaways of his journey, which offer tools and principles on how to do the same, as well as navigate the inevitable ups and downs of life with more ease and grace. If you have ever had questions about how to live your life with more purpose, happiness, and resiliency, this book is your answer. In-joy the journey it takes you on.
Peace and Richest Blessings,
Michael B. Beckwith
Founder and CEO, Agape International Spiritual Center
Author, Life Visioning and Spiritual Liberation
A Note on Yantras: The Sacred Symbol Anchoring This Book
At the beginning of each meditation, you will find yantras: sacred symbols used as visual tools for meditation in Hinduism and Buddhism. A yantra is composed of geometric shapes generating a subtle range of cosmic forces matching the invoked energy. The O yantra that appears throughout this book works with divine vibrations to connect to the energies of the divine, illuminating positive energies and destroying negative energies, which can help an individual elevate spiritually. This particular yantra has an enso circle within it—this is a sacred symbol in Zen Buddhism representing the circle of togetherness. The enso has a special meaning to me because of its spiritual roots and its mirror to my name. I hope that it helps you in your practice as it has for me.
Introduction
I take pride in being who I say I am, in and out of the public eye. Being unbothered is more than just a catchy saying or a fitting title. It’s truly my way of life. When I think about my growth as a man, and my ability to persevere, greet adversity head-on, and be unswayed by negativity, everything feels like it’s come full circle. I didn’t get to where I am overnight. I’ve practiced and worked hard to reach this level of maturity. Over the years, my life has come full circle. Enso is a sacred symbol in Zen Buddhism meaning circle or, sometimes, circle of togetherness. I feel aligned with the power that the enso shape holds. Like me, it is more than what meets the eye. Being unbothered is a sacred practice. It serves as a reminder that I am surrounded by wholeness and protection no matter what comes my way. My ability to live an unbothered life is connected to a deeper meaning. To be unbothered, to me, means to be grounded and connected to your truth. No one can shake or destroy a foundation that is built on solid ground. I look at being unbothered as a lifestyle and daily practice of protecting my peace and energy. We have a choice in how we react and respond. I have been evolving into my entire and highest self since the beginning of my career. A lot has unfolded for me over the years. A lot of things have come together too. I’ve grown as a man, become a father to two beautiful children, and I’ve done my best to figure out how to be a man of integrity, good character, and honesty. Unbothered represents my growth as a man, father, musician, and human being—getting it right and getting it wrong. You’ll find some of my greatest lessons and takeaways in this book. From how I uncovered my purpose to my thoughts on being happy and whole, even when adversity strikes, you’ll get to know me and my story on a new level and in a new way. I’ll be sharing intimate thoughts with you about things I’ve grown to understand on a deeper level, like energy exchange, fear, love, and legacy. There are tools throughout the book that have helped me at my lowest point and supported me at my highest. Meditations, mantras, and affirmations have been game changers as I move through the world in ways that are intentional. We all seek wholeness in our lives and our experiences. I’ve come to realize that over time, wholeness can look and feel different, and that is okay.
Over the years, I’ve been deeply inspired by teachers like Dr. Michael Beckwith. His work and mission have shown me how to grow closer to myself mentally and spiritually. I was first introduced to Dr. Beckwith through my brother O’Ryan. After some major life changes, I started practicing yoga and learning how to control my thoughts and emotions. Dr. Beckwith welcomed me with open arms into Agape, his Spiritual Center for community building, love, and embodiment of evolving consciousness. In my experience with Dr. Beckwith and his teachings, I understand the importance of how I act and speak as it pertains to the way I respond to life and its challenges. I share this because I’ve found great peace in staying connected and committed to having ease in my life—and I find joy and purpose in sharing my life lessons and takeaways with you all. People joke about me being the Unbothered King; but all jokes aside, it’s taken me years of self-reflection and evolution to get to where I am today. No one is an overnight success. Everyone has their own unique journey and path to embark on. Transformation hasn’t been easy. Changing and growing while being in the public eye is even more challenging. However, as I look back on my life and into my future, my growth as a man has been a full-circle experience. In the pages of this book, you’ll see that through my highs and my lows. My hope is that you resonate with them and take away your own lessons and practices. The wisdom that comes with life, heartbreak, business, and change is where we learn to piece together the things in our lives that leave us feeling broken, stuck, or unsure. This book is an invitation to lean in and learn how you want to create the life you want.
Unbothered is more than a book. If you’re looking for a B2K tell-all, or to get a glimpse into the details of my romantic relationships, this isn’t for you. Unbothered is a tool for those ready to learn what it means to stand in their power through hardship and joy. It’s for those looking at what it truly means to live unbothered and unswayed by distractions. I know that life isn’t always easy or fair. It can come at us fast and, at times, will knock us on our ass. But we were built for this soul work: we’re made to change and become better. On this journey, people will let us down and try to distract us from our calling, but when we are focused on our destiny and aware of our truth, nothing can get in the way of the greatness we’re destined to achieve. No one can take away from the legacies we’re making. My hope is that this collection of lessons and takeaways will serve as a reminder that no matter what comes our way, we have the power of choice. We have the ability to rise in integrity and dignity despite the challenges or pain we face. I’ve chosen to live my life with self-understanding at the heart of everything I do. While I am not without flaws, I am committed to doing and being my best. I am focused on what matters most, and that’s staying true to my purpose and character.
The definition of full circle is a series of developments that lead back to the original source. We are the original source. There is power in that! Everything that comes our way can and will teach us something if we’re open to
—O.
Part 1
Spiritual
1
Purpose
It’s in my nature, as a man, to show up in the spaces I occupy, and in my family, as a protector—as a person who is present, intentional, and mindful of the moves I make and the words I speak. Everything has meaning and place. Everything is a pillar or a key to something. It’s essential for me to remember and acknowledge my truth as I grow and change. My purpose is ever-changing and unfolding, and a lot of people don’t talk about that. There are many layers to who we are as people, and I find that to be true about the purpose, or the many purposes, we have in life. Standing steadfast in what I am here for and what I’ve been called to do serves as the foundation of my existence. It also offers clarity when I’ve been challenged and in moments of reflection. What am I here for? is a question that I ask myself when greeted with change or a moment of choice. I’m a creator, dancer, father, protector, and so much more. Each outlet is connected to my purpose. Being multifaceted is beautiful, and I feel the most grounded in a purpose-driven life when I tap into the different parts and passions of mine. Every decision that we make in life is linked to an outcome, good or bad, supportive of our journeys or hurtful. Knowing our purpose, or having a curiosity about what it could be, allows us to be flexible and continue to be students of life. So even when we make mistakes and don’t get it right, there’s room for us to lean in, get curious, and create an inner dialogue as we consider our behavior, talents, and lives as a whole. Knowing who we are, or at least getting curious about who we can be, plays a major role in who we end up being in this life.
You’re here for a reason. Share your gifts.
Being clear about my purpose has shifted many things, like how I move through relationships, romance, fatherhood, and my career. After many years of reflection and growth, I’ve also come to realize that my purpose chose me. Long before I could imagine my calling, it was already written in the stars. It existed inside me, patiently waiting for me to take notice and say yes to it. I got signs along the way that would present themselves. A powerful lesson for me on my pathway to purpose has been understanding that at some point, to truly live fully, we have to be brave, fearless, and self-aware enough to recognize what is calling for our attention and care. We are required to take action as we explore what comes to the surface by being open to the possibility of being greater than we already are. What we answer to and how we show up in this life for those around us is directly linked to our life’s work and what we’re called to do. The work that we do for others is a direct reflection of the work we desire for ourselves. We are each other’s mirror. When I realized that my existence on earth wasn’t by accident, I could clearly see the benefit in how my actions and behavior affected those around me. My purpose has been the cornerstone to support the legacy that will remain long after I’m gone. Even in the face of adversity, conflict, or fear, being mindful about intentions, answering the calling of my heart’s work, is proof that we’ll get what we put out.
Everything will come full circle in the end. Stay patient and connected to your truth.
The art of creating is being able to accept the things that come toward you versus running away from them. Receiving what comes your way with open arms can speak to your energetic vibration. I am very in tune with energy, which means I can identify when things feel aligned and meant for me. When you are open to receiving, your vibration is high, you feel safe, you feel grounded, and you learn to pay attention to what is speaking for and through you. A high-energetic vibration makes room for tapping into the lesson and information that you need to see your higher self. I’ve chosen to pay attention to the signs presented to me. Two signs continue to come up in my life: that my music affects people—it is central to some of their important memories and it can reflect an emotion they can’t express on their own—and that my music creates a connection between myself and others: there is something spectacular about being connected to people I’ve never met through my music.
One moment stands out clearly in my mind. Many years ago, before the internet and social media, when being on the radio was everything, I was doing an interview. This girl called in, excited to talk with me, and shared a story that I’ll never forget. She told me that “Ice Box” was her and her best friend’s favorite song. That friend had passed away. She shared that they buried a picture of me with him and that those memories of the love for my music will forever be cherished, remembered, and appreciated. It was humbling to hear her recall this. It stopped me in my tracks and made me realize that music is the truest form of connection and love. From then on, I understood that I was a bridge in their experience by way of music, and many others carry similar experiences. It’s moments like that that remind me of what I was put on this earth to do. It’s moments like that one that will live in my heart forever and serve as a frequent reminder of the expansiveness of purpose and the power of music. When you recognize your purpose, you can fill your soul. A part of serving your soul is helping others. My work, this work, is purpose work. Even if I wanted to, there’d be no way to ignore the significance of showing up and taking the lead. If we allow ourselves to be open, we make space for receiving what is meant to be ours.
Energy Check: Purpose
What are you willing to struggle for?
What activity makes you forget about the world around you?
If you have a dream, could you bring it into reality?
What’s your motivation style?
What gives meaning to your life?
There were moments on this journey where I questioned if I could handle the responsibility of submitting to my purpose. Could I take it? What would I do in moments where the goodness of life seemed clouded? Could I accept it? The unknown proved to be frightening, but I wasn’t willing to ignore it and not see what was in store for me. There will be mistakes made along the way. Self-discovery requires missteps. That’s where the lessons are hidden. As humans, we fuck up. How we honor our process and right our wrongs is a part of the journey. There are so many things we don’t have control over. Fear will sometimes present itself as an obstacle, and even still, our life’s work and purpose will remain steadfast and waiting for us to move forward, scared or not. We have to overcome to grow. Doing things scared can be the fertile ground for immense growth and self-discovery. Letting fear be the ruler of our lives cannot be an option. We all know from experience that fear can and will hold us back and hostage if we let it. Being and staying committed to living an expansive life, no matter what tries to stop us, is how we build our muscles of resilience and perseverance.
From a young age, I knew what I wanted: I wanted to be an Entertainer and to creatively express myself through my art. I’ve been committed to my art since before I can remember. This commitment took me to the highest heights of the entertainment industry. But it also tested my connection to my own inner voice, because fame has a curious way of distracting you from what really matters. B2K had been together for four years, and people had known Omarion, JBoog, Raz-B, and Fizz as a unit. When B2K broke up, it may have appeared to the outside world that my purpose was in jeopardy. But instead, parting ways prepared me for a new sense of self-belief, living intentionally and being more open than ever to pave a new path for myself as a solo artist. It was a new beginning and a new chance to connect with my original purpose: being an Entertainer. The first thing I needed to do was to expand my territory and extend my reach creatively, but that meant going from performing in front of tens of thousands of people to small crowds in nightclubs and intimate settings for royal families in faraway places. It was humbling. It felt like I was tired of the performance life. It took a lot out of me physically and emotionally. I was forced out of my comfort zone—and it was through discomfort that I started looking at my destiny as a musician and performer in a new way. I am always looking for more ways to grow and become better. That’s the personality that I have. Being average isn’t an option, and neither is quitting. I was committed to trusting my process and staying true to my intentions of touching hearts and changing lives with my music and message. These small actions built on themselves, creating new ground for myself. I had to step back in order to move forward. This required a mental reset, refocusing and pivoting toward my next level.
