Satya, truthfulness, is the second Yama. We can practice satya within ourselves by living our truth and with others through truthful communication. We must speak the truth while still practicing the first Yama, ahimsa, non-harming.

Truthfulness is not the same as honesty. If we are being honest, we are saying what we believe to be true and we are not knowingly trying to deceive or lie. If we are being truthful, however, we will relay only the facts. Holding ourselves to this higher standard of truthfulness helps us avoid gossiping, spreading false information, and turning arguments into personal attacks.

Here’s how I practice satya in my personal and professional life:

Practicing ahimsa while being truthful can be challenging. It is my mission to help my clients, but sometimes I have to have difficult conversations with them when things are not working out. For example, one of my clients had a pattern of cancellations, often last minute.  After sharing my concerns and reviewing my cancellation policy, the pattern continued.  I used the practical tips I learned from Crucial Conversations: start with me, as I am the only person I can control, and stick to the ultimate goal for the conversation or the relationship.  I was able to truthfully tell my client that I could no longer reserve space for her in my schedule. I was able to keep the conversation about me, while also staying true to my mission to help people by opening up that time slot for a new client.

I work on remembering to T.H.I.N.K. before I speak or type: Is what I’m about to say/text/email, True, Helpful, Inspiring, Necessary, and Kind?  I don’t respond right away to texts or emails.   After time to T.H.I.N.K., I say as little as necessary and I remember my ultimate goal, which could be nurturing a relationship or being supportive.  This strategy comes in handy with clients and with family.  If I need to vent my frustrations, I take them to my journal and I always feel better after.

I am truthful with myself about my weaknesses. In areas where I need improvement, I get help. I reached out to a writing coach when I wanted to take on blogging.  I joined a Mastermind for inspiration, accountability, and support for my business ideas. I began taking weightlifting classes from a former U.S. Olympian so I could learn the lifts from one of the best in the sport.

Personally and professionally, I live my truth every day.  My professional life is an extension of my personal values. I never sacrifice my beliefs for social convention, notoriety, or financial profit. On my website, FaceBook, and Instagram, you’ll find no 30 day programs to a better whatever body part, no diet fads, no exercise myths, no preying on insecurities, no shares of women practicing yoga in their underwear.  If a client wants to get/stay healthy, I can help.  But they have to put in the work every day for the rest of their life, just like I do.  It’s not catchy or sexy, but it’s my truth.

Up next in part three: Asteya, non-stealing.

Alicia Cross is a Certified Personal Trainer, Wellness Coach, and Yoga Instructor with more than 15 years’ experience working with clients in classes and one-on-one.  She is a yogi, meditator, vegan, and lifter of heavy things. If you’re ready to discover the strength and peace that comes from within, email Alicia@AliciaCrossTraining.com.