Gordon MacKenzie, an American Hallmark postcard illustrator, asked students whether they considered themselves artists. 98% of first-graders shouted out their names, while only 33% of third-graders raised their hands. In the sixth grade, there were as few as two artists. What happened to the little talents and creative personalities?

Each of us is a genius in our own way. Everyone is unique and unrepeatable according to environmental conditions. Walking up the educational ladder according to the scheme of their predecessors, realizing themselves in the expectations of parents, people put on a standard uniform, hiding their identity underneath. Thus, genius remains hidden. Yet, is it possible to give it fresh air for a new life? Yes, the work lies in inner reflection. Relieving the baggage of thinking, opinions, and expectations will help you feel awakened.

Howard Ikemoto's young daughter once asked him what he did for work. He explained that he teaches drawing at a college, which puzzled her. She asked, "Do they forget how to draw?" This conversation highlights that, as we grow older, we often disconnect from our inner artist and youthful sense of wonder. Reconnecting with this inner artist can help us regain our youthful enthusiasm and creativity.

There are five steps to achieve awakening. As strange as it may seem, the first one is about "death." You will learn how to get rid of what does not serve you. The rule applies here: you need to throw away the old to obtain the new. That is, "death" will open the door to your second life. The next stage of work is the search for creativity. Inner reflection will teach you how to adapt to the outside world. This process of transformation can finally awaken and release genius.