Dr. Rupert King is an existential psychotherapist, supervisor and academic advisor. He will be joining Examined Life Friday, March 12th at noon for a session on De-Mystifying the ‘Ologies’: Insights into Ontology, Epistemology & Phenomenology. For more information, email info@examinedlife.co.uk.
What is an unbearable experience you somehow survived?
A dark night of the soul – after I had completed my psychotherapy training. Instead of being ready to practice and fulfil my dream, I descended into a deep depression and burnout. The next 6 months was when the real therapy started. What had I been doing for the previous 5 years!!!
What is a moment of pure joy for you?
A day when I have nothing to do but potter around my garden. I have created a pond garden and it is my sanctuary.
What does darkness look like for you?
The stars and moon
A forest where you become lost – very Dante
Describe a time you laughed hard.
Recently I had a skype with my mother and brother in Australia and we laughed so hard it reminded me of family gatherings from my childhood
Who inspires you?
The Austrian-British potter Lucie Rie – she came to England just before WW II having been a recognized artist is Vienna. When she arrived, she had to start all over again to re-establish herself. She created beautiful contemporary pots that went against the tradition of anglo-oriental ceramics. I admire her drive and passion for her work. Besides she always offered visitors to her studio coffee and chocolate cake – what more could you want! There is something about the consistency and creativity of throwing pots over a lifetime that I find admirable. In fact, I admire anyone who is truly passionate about what they do.
What are you most excited about?
Learning new things and helping others achieve their potential
What is something people get wrong about you?
That I can be too serious
What adjectives describe 7 year-old you?
Naïve
Where are you happiest?
Wherever and whenever I’m being creative – in my study working with a client, in the shed making ceramic sculptures or outside gardening.
What would you do if you weren’t afraid?
Play the piano
What annoys you in others?
Over controlling
What keeps you up at night?
The geese on the river Thames outside my house
What’s a lesson you keep learning?
More problems arise when you fail to say ‘No’ when you should
How do you recharge?
Reading, creativity and travel
When was the last time you did something for the first time? What was it?
Too long ago I can’t remember and at the same time yesterday – when I watched one of my academic supervisees pass his viva. First candidate I’ve worked with from beginning to end. He was so thrilled when he was awarded his doctorate.
What is something you desire you don’t currently have?
An air ticket to Japan
If you could change one thing about your childhood what would it be?
Not to take things so much to heart
What are you most proud of?
My garden
Would you like to be famous? In what way?
Absolutely not I’m an introvert
What is the best/worst advice you ever received?
‘Be your self’ – what does that mean!!! The self, for me, is in a constant state of flux and becoming. Experience your self would be a more appropriate piece of advice.
What does living an examined life mean to you?
Compassionate awareness
What’s your favourite question to ask a new acquaintance? Answer it (please!)
I have absolutely no idea – it depends on the person and the moment.
