Words, Ego, Communication, and Integrity: What roles do these words play on the path to freedom and transformation?

Miles Everson • December 20, 2024

From the desk of Miles Everson:

Happy Friday, everyone!

I hope you’re all having a great day so far.

One of the reasons I personally like Fridays is because I get to talk about topics related to health, wealth, well-being, happiness, future of work, book reviews, marketing, and tips. My goal in these articles is that these will help you thrive in both your career and personal life.

For today’s  “Mindfulness by Miles,”  allow me to share with you a gist of and my thoughts about a particular book.

Keep reading below to learn about this book author’s simple yet profound framework for personal freedom and happiness.


Words, Ego, Communication, and Integrity: What roles do these words play on the path to freedom and transformation?

In a world where stress, anxiety, and self-doubt seem to dominate people’s lives, the quest for inner peace and true freedom becomes more urgent than ever.

We all seek that elusive sense of happiness and purpose, but often find ourselves tangled in a web of negative thoughts, unhealthy relationships, and limiting beliefs.

… but imagine if there was a simple yet profound approach that could cut through the noise and lead us back to our authentic selves—a way to break free from the chains of societal expectations and discover a path to personal liberation.

Would you do everything you can to achieve that state?

In the book,  “The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom,”  author Don Miguel Ruiz offers a simple yet profound roadmap to reclaiming one’s true self.

Drawing from the wisdom of the ancient Toltecs, Ruiz distills life’s complexities into four fundamental principles—“agreements”—that serve as a guide for personal transformation.

[ Toltecs: A pre-Columbian Mesoamerican culture that ruled a state centered in Tula, Hidalgo, Mexico, during the Epiclassic and the early Post-Classic period of Mesoamerican chronology, reaching prominence from 950 to 1150 CE.]

These agreements, when embraced fully, have the power to unravel the layers of conditioning that hold people back and lead them to a life of freedom, joy, and authenticity.

The Power of Words: “Be Impeccable with Your Word”

This first agreement is perhaps the most challenging yet the most transformative.

Words are powerful—they can create worlds or destroy them. Ruiz reminds that every word you speak should be an act of creation. After all, when you are impeccable with your words, you speak with integrity, avoid gossip, and resist the temptation to use language as a weapon.

This agreement teaches you to harness the power of your words to spread love, truth, and positivity.

Besides, just imagine the impact of this agreement on your life: Your relationships become more authentic, your communication becomes clearer, and your inner dialogue becomes more compassionate!

By choosing your words wisely, you begin to create a reality that reflects your highest and purest intentions.

Freedom from Ego: “Don’t Take Anything Personally”

This second agreement liberates you from the grip of your ego. Here, Ruiz explains that  nothing  others do is because of you—it’s a reflection of their own reality, own beliefs, and own struggles.

When you internalize this truth, you stop taking offense at the actions or words of others. Instead, you maintain your inner peace, understanding that everyone is navigating their own journey.

For many, this agreement is a revelation. It shifts the focus from external validation to internal strength, empowering people to live with confidence and resilience.

Besides, this second agreement is a key to unlocking emotional freedom! It allows you to respond to life’s challenges with grace and composure.

Clarity in Communication: “Don’t Make Assumptions”

The third agreement speaks to a universal human tendency—the habit of filling in the blanks with assumptions rather than seeking clarity.

Ruiz believes that assumptions breed misunderstanding, conflict, and unnecessary drama. Therefore, he encourages people to ask questions, communicate openly, and seek the truth in every situation.

Come to think of it: Adopting this agreement transforms your interactions. You move from a place of uncertainty to one of clarity, and from potential conflict to understanding.

When you get into this third agreement, your relationships deepen, and the noise of misunderstandings fades, leaving space for genuine connections.

Living with Integrity: “Always Do Your Best”

The fourth and final agreement is the foundation upon which the other three agreements rest. Here, Ruiz doesn’t suggest perfection but rather encourages you to do your best in every situation.

Sure, your best will vary depending on your circumstances—some days, your best might mean simply showing up. However, by doing our best nonetheless, you avoid self-judgment, regret, and guilt.

What else?

This agreement is a call to live with integrity and self-compassion. It teaches you that your worth is not measured by outcomes but by the effort you put forth.

In doing so, you cultivate a sense of fulfillment and peace, knowing that you have given your all.

A Ripple of Transformation

Readers of  “The Four Agreements”  often describe the experience of reading the book and applying its concepts as  life-changing. After all, the simplicity of the agreements belies their profound impact.

As individuals begin to live by these principles, they notice shifts in their mindset, behavior, and relationships. Their anxiety decreases, self-awareness increases, and life’s challenges become opportunities for growth rather than obstacles to overcome.

What’s even more fascinating?

These agreements have a ripple effect—transforming not just them but also the  world  around them!

… and as more people embrace these principles, they contribute to a collective shift toward a more compassionate, mindful, and free society.

Thank you for writing this masterpiece, Ruiz!

Clearly,  “The Four Agreements”  is more than just a book; it’s also a guide to living a life of personal freedom, authenticity, and joy.

So, break free from the limitations imposed by your own mind and the world around you! By embracing these four agreements, you embark on a journey towards true liberation, where you can live fully and authentically, free from fear, and in alignment with your highest self.

I hope you find this book interesting!

In a world often clouded by noise and distraction,  “The Four Agreements”  is a reminder that simplicity, integrity, and love are keys to a life well-lived.

I encourage you to grab a copy of this book and read it during your spare time, if you haven’t yet… and for those of you who’ve already read this book, feel free to share your thoughts by commenting or sending me a DM.

Happy Friday, everyone. Advance happy weekend!

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Miles Everson

CEO of MBO Partners and former Global Advisory and Consulting CEO at PwC, Everson has worked with many of the world's largest and most prominent organizations, specializing in executive management. He helps companies balance growth, reduce risk, maximize return, and excel in strategic business priorities.


He is a sought-after public speaker and contributor and has been a case study for success from Harvard Business School.


Everson is a Certified Public Accountant, a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants. He graduated from St. Cloud State University with a B.S. in Accounting.

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