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    • 2 min read

Richard Joy, Founder of Awakened Man


As Founder of Awakened Man, Richard Joy's work involves helping men release their inner baggage and find their purpose. He talks to The Industry Leaders about being lost in his own life, before starting his company, and why wisdom is gained from people who can own their failures.


How did you end up sitting where you are today?

I went through a rollercoaster of being lost in life before having a spiritual awakening and finding myself. After this, I gradually moved out of the corporate world and started my own business in men's personal development.

What kind of work does your role involve?

I guide men through the 7-Step Path of Initiation: a process in which men release their inner baggage and blocks and build a vision for life rooted in something far more powerful than we can think up. We then work on carrying that out practically, emotionally, romantically and spiritually. I also sell online courses.


What gets you excited about your industry?

Seeing people 'wake up' when they were convinced there were no other options but to grind on.


What's the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Ever tried? Ever failed? No matter. Fail again. Fail better.


What, or who inspires you?

People with the bravery to be honest about their flaws, people who are willing to fail and be wrong. I've gained much more wisdom from people who own their failures and flaws, than the social media gurus who seem to never have a bad day.


How do you keep up to speed with what's happening in the industry?

YouTube, Facebook and Twitter are my primary sources for recent developments and trends. I have a presence there, so I need to be sharp. I also liaise with a mentor from time to time.


What was the most challenging project or assignment you've worked on?

At 30 years old, my life really fell apart due to excessive drinking and childhood trauma. I lost my relationship and left my job, yet faced my demons and found my soul in doing so. Since then, my life trajectory has been one of light, not darkness.



You finish work today and step outside the office to find a lottery ticket that ends up winning $10 million. What would you do?

Invest half into my business and save the other half to invest in charity causes and subsidise people who have a dream but usually can't get a leg-up.

How do you switch off after a day at work?

I like to read, play the guitar, meditate and to watch comedy.


If you had one wish for the future of your industry, what would it be?

For men to open themselves up to trying something new without defensive cynicism.

What book or podcast should everyone know about?


How should people connect with you?


My website is awakenedman.co.uk.



*Looking to level-up your leadership skills? Check out our article on the best self-help books for business leaders and entrepreneurs. Thetheindustryleaders.org participates in Amazon's Affiliate Links programme. So, if you click through the highlighted links and buy a book, we may earn Amazon commission (we hope that's a win-win!).

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