
In a world brimming with distractions, the power of our gaze—where we focus our attention—has profound implications. This isn’t just a metaphorical idea; it’s rooted in psychology, neuroscience, and even ancient philosophy. Recent insights from a conversation between Dr. Jordan B. Peterson and Dr. Andrew Huberman reaffirmed something timeless: our aim follows our gaze.

This means that the direction of our focus determines the outcomes of our actions. When our gaze is fixed on unhealthy patterns, unresolved pain, or external chaos, our aim—the way we navigate life—suffers. But when we intentionally set our gaze on adaptive goals, meaningful pursuits, and hope-filled adventures, our aim sharpens.
To explore this concept, let’s reflect on an unlikely but powerful source of wisdom: my beloved childhood classic movie, The NeverEnding Story.
The Power of Gaze: Insights from CBT and Stoicism
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) often emphasizes the connection between thoughts, behaviors, and outcomes. The thoughts we choose to engage with (our "mental gaze") shape not only how we feel but also how we act. Similarly, Stoicism teaches us to direct our focus toward what we can control, rather than becoming ensnared by what lies beyond our influence.
In CBT, this might look like recognizing cognitive distortions—thoughts that lead us astray—and reframing them toward healthier, more accurate perspectives. For instance:
Instead of fixating on “I’ll never succeed,” shift the gaze to “What small steps can I take today to move forward?”
Instead of dwelling on “Why is this happening to me?” shift the gaze to “What can I learn from this challenge?”
Both approaches remind us that focus is a choice, and while the process of redirecting our gaze can feel difficult, it has the power to realign our aim—and ultimately, transform our lives.
Adventure as a Path Forward
The NeverEnding Story captures this beautifully. When we meet Bastian, he’s a boy seeking solace in a book, retreating from his overwhelming reality. Yet, as the story unfolds, we discover that the book is more than an escape—it’s a mirror. The journey of Atreyu, the story’s hero, becomes Bastian’s own.
Atreyu represents the part of us willing to face the unknown, endure challenges, and persist toward a meaningful goal. His quest to save Fantasia—a crumbling world consumed by “The Nothing”—mirrors the struggles we face when trauma, anxiety, or grief threaten to swallow us whole.
Falkor: The Christ-Like Guide in Our Story

One of the most beloved characters in The NeverEnding Story is Falkor the Luckdragon. Falkor’s role goes beyond being a magical creature; he is a symbol of hope, faith, and unwavering support. Falkor swoops in at Atreyu’s darkest moments, carrying him out of despair and giving him the strength to continue his quest.
In many ways, Falkor reflects the role of Jesus in our lives. Just as Falkor lifts Atreyu above the Swamp of Sadness and away from danger, Jesus carries us when we feel like we’re sinking in grief, anxiety, or pain. Falkor’s constant presence reminds Atreyu to trust the journey, just as Christ calls us to have faith, even when we can’t see the path ahead.
Falkor’s ability to soar above “The Nothing” mirrors how Christ transcends the brokenness of our world, offering us a higher perspective—a life rooted in grace, love, and purpose. He reminds us that even in the most challenging parts of our journey, we are not alone.
The Allies Along the Way
Falkor isn’t the only ally Atreyu encounters. Along his journey, he meets other characters who represent the relationships and truths that guide us:
Rock Biter: A gentle giant who offers unexpected companionship and reminds us of the importance of human connection, even in the midst of loss. Rock Biter represents the friends or family who stand by us, even when words fail.
Morla the Ancient One: A solitary and reluctant guide, Morla symbolizes the truths we may not want to face but must confront to move forward.
The Childlike Empress: A symbol of our inner wisdom, calling us to believe in our own power to create change and rebuild our world, no matter how broken it feels.
These allies, much like the people and lessons we encounter in our own lives, provide the encouragement, perspective, and wisdom we need to keep moving forward.
Lessons from the Journey: Keep Moving Forward
Atreyu’s journey wasn’t free of pain. He faced immense grief, especially in the loss of his beloved horse, Artax, in the Swamp of Sadness. This moment resonates deeply because it’s a reminder of the times in life when we feel as though we’re sinking. Yet even in the swamp, Atreyu’s gaze remained fixed on his goal.
Life’s greatest adventures often come with discomfort and uncertainty. But those very struggles build resilience and shape the story of who we become. Like Atreyu, we must learn to keep our gaze forward—through the swamps, through “The Nothing,” and through the parts of ourselves we fear facing.
Where Is Your Gaze?
Take a moment to reflect:
Are you fixating on the obstacles, replaying past hurts, or dwelling on what feels out of reach?
Or are you looking forward, even if the path is unclear, trusting that each step will bring clarity and meaning? Need help sorting this out? Try the Gaze and Aim Chceck-In, download below.
This isn’t some pat-on-the-back, bubble-gum optimism, nor is it about looking at life through rose-colored glasses. Life is distressing. It’s filled with moments that can feel unbearable. But the truth is, we have more control than we think. If we’re willing to redirect our gaze, we can uncover adventure, meaning, and allies along the way—even amidst the pain.
What would happen if you dared to believe that adventure is possible for you, even in the midst of trauma, anxiety, or grief?
The great stories we admire—whether fictional or our own—are always rooted in a quest. They’re filled with trials, setbacks, and allies who shape the journey. And at the heart of every quest is the decision to keep moving, to keep seeking, and to keep aiming, no matter how hard the road becomes.
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Would you like to explore how to set your gaze toward healing and growth? Consider reaching out. Let’s uncover the next step in your journey together.
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