Hello Lin, I’m sorry you’ve had such an unpleasant experience.

I was first introduced to the principles in 2009 and have worked in this field ever since; for me, it is the only coaching modality to help people get to where they want to be in a sustainable way.

I understand when you mention people who only want to talk about the principles and convert others. But, in my experience, this is because people who have been impacted want to share what they’ve seen and sometimes get a little evangelical about it.

If a coach or trainer yells, I suggest they’re not walking their talk? I only know of one coach who used to yell at people and he doesn’t share this understanding anymore, mainly because he didn’t become as ‘successful’ as he hoped.

The title of my article was a little tongue-in-cheek and pointed to how people will ask anyone that embraces something new if they’ve joined a cult.

You’re absolutely right; this understanding isn’t new. Even Epictetus, the Roman slave, said that man is not disturbed by things but by his thinking about things.

I can’t comment about people who question the principles being banned from speaking at events, but I wonder why they would want to talk at a 3p event? Why would anyone want to give their opinion at an event? And I know many 3p coaches and trainers who are also yoga teachers. I loved yoga myself until I had to stop after major stomach surgery.

Remember, the three principles are just a description of how we live, they aren’t a thing. For me, not to judge my mood but to leave it alone, knowing that it will pass is huge. I used to be angry and insecure, and I can touch those feelings now, but I don’t pack a bag and stay there for a while.

I genuinely am sorry that you feel like this and I’d be happy to continue this conversation via email if you want; you can contact me at elaine@elainehilides.com.