10 Things to Look for in an Enlightenment Practitioner

Whether you’re scrolling through social media, choosing elective seminars at corporate conferences, or perusing the stacks of bestsellers at the bookstore, offers of spiritual advice and guidance are everywhere. But for someone beginning a path of exploration or just opening their mind to the curiosity of new modalities, choosing a teacher or provider can be dizzying. From intuitive development instructors to empathic readers, here’s what to look for in an enlightenment practitioner:

1. They’re well-practiced in the modality you’re interested in

In the internet age of anonymity and self-invention, it’s easy for anyone to declare themselves an expert. But as long as it takes to develop one’s own practice, it can take significantly longer to learn how to become an effective teacher or purveyor of that modality to others. Ask questions about their time in practice and their own journey.    

2. You’ve seen their work

A declaration of expertise doesn’t always fulfil its promise. Check to see if the practitioner has free workshops or other offerings. Read articles they’ve written, reviews they’ve received, and what others have to say about their practice.    

3. They set clear expectations for your time with them

A good practitioner lets a client or student know upfront what to expect from a session — what they can and cannot offer. Be wary of grandiose or unrealistic promises, and reconsider a practitioner whose focus isn’t centred on empowering you to harness your own insights.    

4. They make ethical considerations a foundation for their practice 

Sharing any aspect of your journey to spiritual empowerment is intensely personal. Good practitioners recognize the responsibility that comes with sharing that sacred space.   

5. They don’t randomly solicit clients via social media 

It’s an unfortunate truth that some industries attract the disingenuous more than others. Receiving direct messages from accounts promising answers or a quick resolution of your problems in exchange for money should always be a red flag.    

6. They have an interest in supporting your path in the long term, not just when it’s making them money

Look for practitioners who are part of a community and are willing to tap into their network to support other directions of your journey.   

7. They acknowledge and honor the cultural roots of their chosen practices

Most contemporary spiritual practices are rooted in or drawn from practices that are traditional or sacred to other cultures. A good practitioner honours those origins, credits those cultures for their invaluable contributions, and acknowledges the history from which they came to us.   

8. They’re willing to admit when they don’t have all the answers 

Nobody has all the answers. A good practitioner doesn’t pretend to. If they’re attempting to help you towards an insight or answer that you’re seeking, but are unable to get you there despite their best efforts, the right practitioner will tell you this instead of embellishing or filling in the blanks.    

9. They are perpetual students as much as they are teachers

There’s an old adage that true masters are lifelong students. Talk openly with your practitioner about what they’re currently interested in, and what modalities they’re working on learning more about.    

10. They practice with a style that resonates with you

Part of connecting with ourselves deeply is listening carefully for our inner consciousness to tell us when something feels right — or doesn’t.     Joanna Heath is an accomplished writer and wellness advocate who earned her degrees as a two-time summa cum laude graduate with concentrations in politics, community engagement, and writing. After college, she worked in state government in the areas of legislative process and constituent outreach, and also as a housing policy advocate for the homeless.  When she isn't writing, Joanna takes every opportunity she can get to take road trips and travel with her husband, son, and daughter. Her favourite places in the world are Morocco, the island of St Croix, the Nevada desert, and America’s National Parks.  EvolvMe.com offers courses and services in all spiritual and enlightenment modalities from some of the most trusted practitioners in the world — and a nurturing community to support every step of your spiritual journey.