LIBERATED MIND
A Guide to Black Clarity
"We've been shaped to stay small.
It's time to outgrow the container."
This Isn't Self-Help. This Is Self-Direction.
For generations, we've been taught to cope, adapt, survive. We learned to shrink in rooms that weren't built for us. To silence ourselves before speaking. To call exhaustion "strength" and suppression "discipline." We mistake the weight we carry for who we are.
But what if that weight was never ours to begin with?
Liberated Mind introduces the Bonsai Theory—Dr. Goler's framework for understanding how Black minds have been intentionally pruned, wired, and contained through centuries of systemic pressure. Like bonsai trees, we're genetically no different than full-sized trees. It's not our DNA. It's the discipline of distortion.
This book doesn't stop at diagnosis. Through the five pillars of Reconstructed Self Theory, Dr. Goler offers a roadmap from survival to strategy.
"The particular value of Dr. Goler's analysis is his identification of the source of the problem... offering clear, affirmative and specific suggestions to free the minds of the captives and re-activate their power of self-determined living."
— Dr. Na'im Akbar, from the Foreword
The Bonsai Theory
Understanding how minds have been systematically shaped, constrained, and contained—and how to break free.
The Metaphor
A bonsai tree isn't genetically different from a full-sized tree. It's been deliberately pruned, wired, and contained. The same is true for how systemic pressure has shaped Black psychological life. It's not DNA. It's the discipline of distortion.
The Reality
For generations, we've internalized limits that were never ours. We've learned to shrink, to silence, to suppress. But what we call "normal" is often just learned accommodation. This book helps you see the container—and outgrow it.
Reconstructed Self Theory
A roadmap from survival to strategy through five interconnected pillars
Pillar One
Unlearning
Identifying and releasing limiting beliefs that were never yours to begin with. Recognizing internalized distortions and beginning the process of mental liberation.
Pillar Two
Reclaiming the Mind
Restoring mental authority and clarity. Learning to trust your own understanding and reclaim the power to define your reality on your own terms.
Pillar Three
Aligning Identity
Reconstructing identity based on authentic values rather than imposed limitations. Moving from survival-based identity to intentional self-definition.
Pillar Four
Discipline and Boundaries
Establishing structures that protect your reconstructed self. Creating boundaries that honor your clarity and discipline that sustains your liberation.
Pillar Five
Activating the Reconstructed Self
Living with clarity in daily life. Bringing your reconstructed self into relationships, work, community, and collective liberation efforts.
Who This Book Is For
Therapy-Plus Seekers
Those who've done therapy but felt something was missing. Who need frameworks that address systemic pressure, not just individual symptoms.
Activists & Organizers
Those seeking frameworks that connect personal healing to collective liberation. Who understand that mental clarity is political work.
Clarity-Seekers
Anyone ready to stop performing normalcy and start living with clarity. Who refuse to mistake the weight they carry for who they are.
Get Your Copy
Available in paperback, ebook, and audiobook formats. Support independent bookstores or order directly.
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ISBN (Paperback): 979-8-9881884-0-7
ISBN (Ebook): 979-8-9881884-1-4
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For speaking engagements, bulk orders, media inquiries, or to join the Liberated Mind community.
Speaking Engagements
Available for keynotes, workshops, and organizational consultations on topics including mental liberation, reconstructed self theory, and the psychology of clarity.
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