Trance Formation: A Memoir of Trauma, Travel, and Transformation : A Spiritual Quest for Self-Discovery and Healing

by TheReal Rayster

From Corporate Burnout to Soul A Transformative Journey of Self-Discovery

Are you feeling trapped in a soul-crushing routine, yearning for a life filled with purpose and passion? Do you long for personal growth, a spiritual awakening, or a deeper connection with your inner self? Are you ready to embark on your own hero's journey?

I was too. For years, I was a successful software engineer, living a life that seemed perfect on the outside but felt empty within. The golden handcuffs of a comfortable salary couldn’t silence the whispers of my soul, urging me to break free and find my true calling. This is my true story, a Filipino memoir for those seeking genuine inspiration.

🌟 "Trance A Memoir of Trauma, Travel, and Transformation - A Spiritual Quest for Self-Discovery and Healing" 🌟

A raw, unfiltered account of my journey to reclaim a life of meaning. This story of resilience, self-discovery, and spiritual awakening is for anyone who’s ever felt lost, unfulfilled, or ready for a change. Discover how life’s greatest challenges can become profound gifts.

Inside these pages, you’ll

🧭 Raw Vulnerability and Healing
Witness my journey as I confront my deepest fears, overcome grief, and embrace the unknown, even when the world urged me to play it safe.

🌍 Thrilling Adventures Across Continents
Experience the thrill of travel as I journey through Manila’s bustling streets, Taiwan’s serene temples, and Japan’s snow-capped mountains. A journey of self-discovery across cultures, Trance Formation is one of the best memoirs of 2024.

💫 Transformation through Spiritual Awakening
Explore the power of travel, spirituality, and self-reflection as I dive into the worlds of psychedelics, ayahuasca, and intentional living. This is a practical guide to awakening and higher consciousness.

✨ Wisdom in Unexpected Encounters
Learn from chance connections and discover the hidden lessons in every interaction—moving from isolation to freedom and emotional health.

🧘 Redefining Masculinity and Inner Peace
Drawing on the work of renowned thinkers like Robert Moore and James Hollis, I challenge traditional norms of masculinity and explore a more integrated, holistic approach to self-discovery. Discover the power of healing your inner child through Vipassana, mindfulness, and modern understandings of mature masculinity.

If you’re ready to leave behind a life that doesn’t feel like your own, Trance Formation is your invitation to embark on a journey of transformation. This is more than a memoir; it’s a guide to rewriting your narrative and embracing an extraordinary life. An inspiring biography for anyone seeking real-life examples of resilience and renewal.

👉 Order your copy today and unleash your own Trance Formation!

Genres: Self Help

333 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 25, 2024

About the author

Hi there! I'm Rayster, a software engineer with a lifelong love for stories. I've always been fascinated by the power of words to transport us to new worlds, spark our imaginations, and illuminate the depths of the human experience.

For years, I dedicated my days to crafting digital solutions, maintaining codes, and navigating the fast-paced world of technology. While I found accomplishment in my work, there was a nagging feeling that something was missing.

A yearning for creative expression, a desire to explore the deeper questions of life, and a longing to share my unique perspective with the world led me to embark on a new adventure – writing.

My upcoming memoir is the culmination of that journey. It's a raw and honest account of my struggles, triumphs, and unexpected detours as I navigated the challenges of personal growth and self-discovery.

Through my story, I hope to inspire others to embrace their authenticity, question their assumptions, and pursue their passions with unwavering determination.
When I'm not writing or coding, you can find me exploring new places, playing video games, or simply enjoying a good book with a cup of tea.

I'm thrilled to share my story with you and look forward to connecting with fellow readers and writers who are also passionate about personal growth and self-expression.

Follow my journey:

YouTube: @TheRealRayster

FaceBook: @therealrayster25

Instagram: @therealrayster

X, formally Twitter: @@RaysterJ75848

Reviews

[Ricardo Medina · Rating 5 out of 5]

This isn't a fiction book filled with castles in the sky or battles with dragons. Instead, it’s an honest and heartfelt account from an author who delves into his real-life experiences and personal changes to tell his story.

You'll find a narrative of comebacks, redemption, and adventures in foreign lands. The book begins with his school years, first loves, and disappointments, then moves into his working life and the discovery of new and unfamiliar countries. I particularly enjoyed the stories about Singapore and Japan. Throughout his life’s journey, he highlights the lessons learned and the experiences gained. The most important message, in my opinion, is how the author emphasizes a "never give up" attitude despite the challenges one may face.

I read this book on my tablet using the Kindle app, and I borrowed it through my Kindle Unlimited subscription. If you have one, I recommend giving this book a try—it’s definitely worth it!

[Anthea Syrokou · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an insightful and transcending reading experience. I was drawn into the author’s world from the onset—from when he was introduced as a young and optimistic child in the Phillipines, whose kindness was seen by some as something to mock and use against him in his years at school. Of course, many of us have unfortunately witnessed or have been at the receiving end of bullying and immature behaviour in school playgrounds, and that is one of many reasons that the author’s honesty will resonate with many readers. I was equally moved and entertained by many of his school experiences, and his ability to lead with conviction when other classmates weren’t willing to rise to the occasion, namely as the assigned director and organiser of a school play. I could feel Rayster's apprehension and his satisfaction during this seemingly tall yet achievable order in his young life.

The book was also a poignant account of parts of the author’s life as he faced many hurdles and family dysfunction when addiction and illness befell his family. These hurdles could have broken him yet he chose to persevere and seek solace through online gaming communities, and although at the time it may have hindered his need for self-awareness and spiritual growth, it allowed him to live in the moment and not drown in grief and sorrow. Of course, this would prove to be a band-aid effect as more was needed—the wounds were too deep. It was the stepping stone towards healing and to realising that independence and finding communities that are like-minded can facilitate growth and allow the individual to be emancipated from false beliefs and to rather listen to their instincts and to carve a path that is congruent with their values. His choice to embark on a life of travel and self-discovery was so beautiful and inspiring to read about.

The reader is taken to slopes in Japan, to spiritual retreats, to solo adventures in Taiwan and the Phillipines. We also witness the blossoming of human connections at the most surprising places. I was also happy to relive my own recent experience in Singapore, having had lunch and drinks near the pool at the glamorous Marina Bay Sands, where the author had briefly stayed during his first travel adventure which he shared with his sister—which kindled his thirst for travel and growth.

The writing is eloquent and the author’s observant nature is evident as he articulates his feelings, experiences, and describes various locales and landscapes with beauty and finesse. I felt as though I was walking alongside him in the environments he describes and I was deeply invested in his journey, wondering where it would take him.

As a reader, I was also touched by the author’s honesty when reliving his family losses and the challenging childhood plight that he had to deal with and carry with him throughout his adult life, which led him to break free from the stuffy and confined office environment. This environment seemed to be a microcosm of the societal pressures and the wider world, where employees are taught to never complain or show discomfort—to hide behind a smile—the realisation that the version of the “ideal life” society sells to us with all its fancy wrapping and bows may not be what we truly want and may contain nothing of real value for us.

It was liberating to read about his decision to strive for meaning and a deeper purpose. It invites the reader to take stock of their own life and to gain awareness of what constitutes contentment and what ignites passion and authenticity in one's own life.

Although, the book is a memoir, it’s written in an entertaining way like a fiction novel, yet it is an account of the author’s very challenging yet impressive spiritual journey. The self-reflection and lessons learned are presented in a way that is humble and appreciative for the opportunities he had despite the trials he endured, which reflects the author’s strength, resilience, honesty, and humanity, and his ability to be kind yet assertive at the same time—to always be true to himself.

[Amanda Root · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Trance Formation: My Hero's Journey of How I Turn Life's Greatest Challenges into Life's Greatest Gifts" is a deeply inspiring and thought-provoking memoir that captures the essence of transformation and self-discovery. The author's journey from a successful career to a life filled with purpose is a testament to the power of embracing change, no matter how daunting it may seem.

The book is structured in a way that takes the reader on a compelling journey, starting with the foundational experiences that shaped the author's early life, moving through the adventures that challenged and enriched his understanding of the world, and culminating in a profound awakening to his true self. Each section is filled with honest reflections, making the narrative both relatable and engaging.

What stands out in this memoir is the author's willingness to be vulnerable and share his struggles with self-doubt, fear, and the uncertainties of life. This openness adds a layer of authenticity that makes the reader feel connected to the journey. It's not just about the places he traveled or the people he met, but about the internal transformation that took place along the way.

For anyone feeling stuck in a routine or searching for a deeper sense of purpose, this book offers a roadmap to finding meaning in life's challenges. It's a reminder that it's never too late to rewrite your story and pursue a life that truly resonates with your inner voice. A truly uplifting and motivational read, highly recommended for anyone on a path of self-discovery.

[Carmel Audsley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a series of personal stories written as a memoir by a software engineer who found his path to self-discovery. He reflects upon the people who have shaped his life journey so far. There’s the girl in high school who shared his interest in Harry Potter. Angeli had read Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, while the author had only seen the movie, so the meeting introduced him to the joys of reading. Teachers, classmates, even strangers, have taught him life lessons and about taking chances and learning to trust again. It’s full of teenage angst and insecurity, sibling rivalry and emotional turmoil. He discusses a childhood with a father suffering depression, and coping with his unexpected death, while reminiscing about the few happy times they spent together. He was forced to take on a parental role at any early age and found a release from the responsibility, and a connection with others, through online gaming – a virtual escape from a chaotic real world. He talks about manifesting dreams by visualisation and using life lessons to pick you up when you fall. There is intimacy and emotional truth and it is well-written. There is also a lot of detail about his life that would be of interest to the author’s family and friends, but not necessarily to the general reader. The point of the book seems to be that you can view life with new eyes, recognise the signposts, and be brave enough to change what is not working.

[John Buie · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Trance-Formation" is a raw, honest account of one man's escape from corporate burnout. The author's vulnerability and candid exploration of his journey make it both inspiring and relatable. A perfect blend of introspection and adventure, this book offers a deep dive into self-discovery.

[E.M. Swift-Hook · Rating 4 out of 5]

One's own life story will always hold pivotal moments. Moments where something profound that is terrible or powerful shapes us with its trauma or exalts us with its joy. Or moments that might seem quite banal or unrelated to anything else, but suddenly take on an explosion of depth and meaning. Or moments we seek out - experiences we choose to have, knowing they will impact upon us, but not really understanding beforehand how deeply or in what way. We all have our childhood tragedies and triumphs, our rites of passage growing up, our betrayals and moments of connection, and our maturing perception of the way things are.

Trance Formation is a collection of one man's pivotal moments and how they propelled him towards his own spiritual understanding and conclusions. Each chapter is a different event that he has chosen to describe as it contributed towards his personal growth. Unfortunately, this is not made very clear in the brief introduction so a reader begins to wonder what the purpose is of these autobiographical clips - especially as they often stand in isolation as a rather disconnected series of happenings. A person mentioned as being supremely significant in his life in one chapter/one event might never be mentioned again.

I was left in two minds about the book. It seemed to have a genuine naivety and innocence of a true 'coming of age' story. But it also reminded me of the self-discovery books of the New Age movement, where those of a generation raised to relative affluence in the post-war years started seeking deeper meaning and, assuming it did not exist in their own lives, began staying in Indian Ashrams, taking up yoga, living in teepees or whatever. Like most of the New Agers, Raymond (we never learn his second name) is relatively wealthy. Unlike most of us, he can afford to travel to international destinations and pay to go on spiritual retreats.

There is not much sense of continuity between the chapters and clearly a lot of living goes on off the page. That means that each chapter requires the reader to work out when and where they are - and why. A date and place stamp at the start of each chapter would have been valuable.

I felt some of the things presented as being incredibly unique and profound realisations were in reality ordinary human ones - things which happen to all of us through maturing. But sharing such is brave and it can help others to realise how normal it is to feel that way.

In the final chapter, which was by far the best and which for me really made the book, Raymond explains he is no guru. This is a bit of a relief after all the 'you are so special' messages he was told by various psychic/spiritual types. Instead, Raymond makes it clear that he sees himself as a regular guy who wants to show how just as he found his way, others can find theirs.

Trance Formation is a book meant to offer inspiration to this current younger generation and there will be some who read it for whom it does.

[Zoey Codrington · Rating 5 out of 5]

In "Trance Formation," TheReal Rayster guides readers through a labyrinth of emotional and psychological landscapes. This literary masterpiece navigates the complexities of human consciousness, plunging us into a world where reality and perception intermingle in enigmatic harmony. Every page is meticulously crafted to stimulate introspection and challenge our understanding of existence. Rayster’s narrative weaves a rich tapestry that is both hauntingly beautiful and startlingly real.

The story’s protagonists are etched in intricate detail, their inner dialogues revealing the delicate interplay between fear, hope, and the relentless pursuit of truth. The characters are not mere inhabitants of the plot—they are mirrors reflecting our deepest vulnerabilities and aspirations. Their journeys are marked by moments of intense self-discovery, each encounter unveiling layers of their personas that resonate deeply with our own life experiences.

Rayster’s writing style is immersive and evocative, painting scenes with a palette of vivid imagery and profound symbolism. The prose effortlessly transitions between the ethereal and the tangible, creating an atmosphere that is both dreamlike and palpably intense. As readers, we are drawn into a sensory voyage, every sentence coaxing us deeper into the narrative’s hypnotic embrace. It is a tale that speaks to the soul, urging us to ponder the very nature of our perceptions and the boundaries of our own realities.

The thematic depth of "Trance Formation" is unparalleled. It delves into concepts of identity, transformation, and the power of the subconscious mind, all while maintaining an air of intrigue that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. TheReal Rayster masterfully intertwines philosophy and storytelling, crafting a universal message that transcends the confines of the pages. This book is not just a read—it’s an experience that leaves a lasting imprint on the psyche.

It’s this profound impact that makes "Trance Formation" deserving of a perfect 5 out of 5 stars. Its ability to evoke such powerful introspection and emotional engagement is testament to Rayster’s extraordinary talent and vision. This work is a quintessential journey through the human condition, making it a must-read for anyone who seeks to explore the deeper facets of their own existence.

[Haus Lake · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had many thoughts and emotions while reading this book. This book is a memoir of a modern person with modern problems, such as anxiety, the search for one's life path, one's role in society, and self-acceptance. The author was born in the Philippines, and to my surprise, despite being born in Europe myself, our life journeys share many similarities. I smiled every time I came across references to Pokémon or other video games while reading. A passion for travel and self-development is something that can serve as a bridge between the author and the reader, making the book's message resonate more effectively.
I would like to praise the TheReal Rayster for the sincerity and openness that permeate his work. The light, conversational tone made it feel as though I wasn’t reading a book at all but listening to a close friend share a story straight from the depths of his heart. Honestly, I expected this book to contain some self-promotion from a person selling courses on meditation, esotericism, self-improvement, or something along those lines. I was pleasantly surprised to find that it was simply an expression of someone like the rest of us.
The book is not bad, but to be honest, I didn’t take much away from it for myself. The author’s reflections on life, while important, aren’t particularly original. His adventures in various places are vivid but don’t inspire overwhelming interest. The author chose to express himself through this book, which is his right and joy. However, I firmly believe that for engaging with the external world in the format he’ve chosen—sharing experiences with an audience—a personal blog on social media would have been a better fit.
It’s hard for me to imagine many people in today’s world buying a collection of wisdom from someone who is still largely unknown, with a cover that isn’t the most appealing design-wise, and reading it cover to cover in hopes of having a good time. Anyway I did enjoy my time with the book, which is why I recommend it.

[Nicola · Rating 4 out of 5]

An engaging and inspiring memoir.
This is a book for everyone whose inner life speaks to them above the clamour of everyday life. It is particularly for the many men who struggle to negotiate the minefield of behaviours expected of them both by their traditional communities and by the modern world.
The author tells how, from a young age, he turned to stories for inspiration, consolation and escapism from childhood trauma. The Harry Potter books and the Ramayana, Zelda, Yu-Gi-Oh! and others provided him with refuge. Later, he finds himself sustained by engagement with like-minded members of the global gaming community, a clan within which he develops powerful leadership skills and shores up a secure sense of his self.
Floundering in the ‘cubicle life’ of urban corporate world, and holding onto the conviction that there is ‘more to life than spreadsheets and lukewarm coffee,’ he seizes upon travel as a catalyst for personal growth.
The life-line of travel, and his practice of meditation, thrown into sharp relief by harrowing periods of unemployment, teach him that his way forward is ‘not about rejecting work altogether, but about redefining altogether my relationship with work.’
Nevertheless, the damage wrought by his tangled relationship with his troubled father, and by peer cruelty, has left him with a lingering sense of being unworthy and unlovable. In a quest to confront this damage, he explores Anapana meditation and the mind-altering drug Ayahuasca, eventually travelling to a 10-day retreat to experience the practice of Vipassana.
Writing with an authentic and natural voice, the author reveals the damage that can be wreaked on an individual by childhood trauma and by the persistent cruelties of life. His determination to remedy this damage – to illuminate for himself ‘the impermanence of anxiety and confusion’ – is inspiring.

[Eric Gibson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Trance Formation is a dramatically written memoir with the stated purpose of inspiring readers to take a similar leap to transform their lives, ostensibly by dropping their corporate salary and traveling the world. This is so out of touch with modern-day America that I had a little trouble with the self-help branding of the book. I have no problem with people who put in the work to get a degree and a corporate position, but today that's generously 18% of workers feeling smothered by their six-figure salary. The median household income is closer to 45k, so maybe we can all take a Trance Formative train ride to New Jersey.
The book's value comes from its raw accounts of the author's childhood experiences and the seemingly universal pain of early teen years. Rayster has some writing chops, but through the trauma, often his focus was on the event rather than the emotion of it, while the mundane sees his prose grow florid with passionate descriptions of his intense feelings. This near-constant note of wonder was a bit high for a passage about Pokemon, while his father drinking bleach is written of matter-of-factly, leaving me with a portrait of emotional repression. None of this is bad writing, and it's impossible not to connect with honest pain, but again, I found myself hung up on the mission statement. I enjoyed reading Trance Formation simply because I felt from the beginning the author means well, his attempt to put it all on the table is admirable. The placement of himself as a teacher or guru makes it feel a little—there are two dozen words I discarded as too harsh—bumptious.
Despite the need for some editing, the author's writing is worth reading, even if I think it would be vastly more compelling as a novel rather than self-improvement.

[Leo Anthony · Rating 4 out of 5]

Upon completion of this book - and it took some time to get through - I have felt a definite sense of affinity with Raymond for the road less travelled.

Like all self-actualisation books, and I have written one myself, there is inevitably some trauma in the author's life history which he or she needs to express. In an age when the publishing process has become democratised and universally accessible there has been a flood of memoirs and books on self-validation. It is not a bad thing. To the contrary, I am also glad to have had the opportunity to write about chapters of my own life. Of course the flip side of the coin is that there is literally too much to choose from for prospective readers. Where does one start?

Fortunately, Raymond's book is one of the better ventures into the realm of self-discovery and healing. His recollections of his father in particular are painfully honest. I do wonder if these sorts of books find YOU rather than vice-versa?

There were parts where I struggled a little with the pace of the narrative and an occasional tendency for repetition, but as an author of a memoir or two I quite understand. In your mind you are there again and the desire to share every detail is compelling. I do suppose that's part of the challenge in writing this genre and also why it remains somewhat niche.

But the overarching message of living in the present, forgiving oneself and those who have hurt us, is timeless. He is candid in his final analysis that self-realisation is slow and beset by distractions, challenges and occasional set backs. Keep going he says. The rewards are a sense of deeper purpose and meaning. For anyone wanting to break through the veneer of material success and recognition, this message should spur you on.

[Dee Osah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Trance Formation by TheReal Rayster is a heartfelt memoir chronicling Raymond’s journey through life’s challenges and his quest for healing, self-discovery, and meaning. With touching and evocative moments, Raymond takes readers through his traumatic childhood experiences, including the loss of his father and being misunderstood as a teen. As an adult, he finds himself trapped in the corporate grind, which sparks a profound hunger to break free, heal, and reconnect with his true self.
Raymond’s story invites readers to reflect on their own lives as he learns to believe in himself and find joy in life’s small, often-overlooked moments. His travels to places like Japan, Singapore, and Taiwan are particularly engaging, offering glimpses of personal growth and cultural exploration. The mention of his Japanese friend with a mysterious yearning for Africa left me curious and hoping for more resolution.
While the book is well-written and features beautiful descriptions, some narrative jumps lack clear transitions, making the timeline hard to follow and leaving certain events feeling disconnected. Key moments that seem pivotal are sometimes dropped without revisitation, and some characters appear abruptly, with minimal context, leaving gaps in Raymond’s story that the reader must fill in themselves.
Despite these structural issues, Trance Formation delivers an inspiring message: the importance of breaking free from cycles of pain, healing, and passing on new legacies to future generations. It’s a reflective and encouraging read, reminding us all of the power of transformation and self-belief.

[Loralee · Rating 3 out of 5]

This story delves into the real life experiences of the author, and the trials he experienced, including a close family member's abuse and suicide, other losses, including the heart rending loss of his little dog, Raychel. That was particularly sad to me, since I am such an animal lover. He found support for his difficulties with meditation, and various other supports that worked for him.
I personally would have been invested in the story more if the author had written it in the same format as a fictional story, using the same real life experiences. Often, an author can draw readers more into a piece of writing when it is written as a story instead of a memoir, especially when the author is not a well-known person.
Also, I ran into typos and other errors, and situations that were not described as well as perhaps they could have been. Particularly at the beginning, when the author says it was just after lunch and he was on a mat looking out the door. The author did not say what door. I envisioned at first, a school, since where exactly the speaker was, was not explained very well, and since a mat could have been a gym mat. While the experiences of the author and how he faced the struggles in his life were admirable, editing the story and writing it in a different way so that it is more interesting to a wider audience may make it a stronger, more engaging story to more readers. Overall, it was very inspiring, and a bit of editing could make it shine even more.

[Nathan Ellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trance Formation is an intense and candid memoir that takes readers on a deeply personal journey from the monotony of corporate life to a soul-stirring quest for meaning. The author's honesty and vulnerability shine through as he recounts his transition from a successful software engineer, bound by the golden handcuffs of a high salary, to a man determined to reclaim his life and find his true purpose.

Rayster's journey is both geographic and spiritual, spanning continents and delving into the depths of his own psyche. From the streets of Manila to the tranquil temples of Taiwan, and the majestic mountains of Japan, his story is one of courage, fear, and the transformative power of self-reflection and spirituality. Despite the author's impressive achievements, the emotions he grapples with—doubt, fear, loss—are universal. However, at times, the narrative drags, with certain passages feeling more like a therapy session than a gripping story. Additionally, while Rayster’s story is undoubtedly inspiring, the practical applicability of his journey to the average reader’s life might feel out of reach, especially given the financial security he had before embarking on his quest.

Nonetheless, the story is still an inspiring read for those feeling trapped in a life that doesn’t resonate with their soul. Rayster’s journey from corporate disillusionment to spiritual awakening offers a thought-provoking perspective on what it means to truly live.

[Sephyrra Sephyrra · Rating 5 out of 5]

This isn’t the kind of book I’d usually pick up..I’m all about romance..but Trance Formation: A Memoir from Software Engineer to Storyteller was a surprisingly enlightening read. The book feels like an honest, no-filter conversation with someone who’s gone through serious highs, lows, and all the twists that come in between. The author takes us on his journey from a typical tech job to building a life that’s way beyond the paycheck, sharing his story full of family drama, wild travels across Asia, and deep self-discovery. Being from Asia and a tech background myself, I found a lot I could relate to.

The book dives into his experiences growing up in the Philippines, handling complicated family stuff, and breaking free from a career path that just wasn’t him. With each new chapter, you get real moments and life lessons as he realizes that sometimes things not going as planned is exactly what you need. It’s a relatable read if you’ve ever felt like you’re living for everyone else’s expectations instead of your own.

If you’re into stories that mix personal growth, travel, and finding purpose, this one hits close to home. Rayster is real and open about his mistakes and the things he’s learned along the way, making this book an inspiring reminder that it’s never too late to build a life that truly matters to you.

[Christine Hees · Rating 4 out of 5]

Trance Formation is a moving and insightful memoir that takes the reader on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and personal transformation. The author shares his experiences of overcoming childhood trauma through a blend of travel, spirituality, and meaningful human connections. What makes this book special is its vignette-style storytelling, which captures the essence of each pivotal moment in the author's life. Each vignette offers a glimpse into his struggles and triumphs, revealing how he turned life's challenges into personal growth. The book is not just a reflection of his past but a testament to the power of self-acceptance and embracing one's uniqueness.

I particularly enjoyed how the author intertwines his passion for travel with his spiritual journey. The descriptions of the places he visits and the people he meets add richness to his story, making it an inspiring read for anyone on a quest for self-betterment. Trance Formation is a heartfelt book that reminds us of the beauty that can emerge from life's most challenging moments and motivates us to seek our own personal growth.

[Book Reader · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Trance Formation: My Hero's Journey of How I Turn Life's Greatest Challenges into Life's Greatest Gifts" by The Real Rayster is a memoir written by a young man.

He faces a difficult childhood at home, social troubles at school, and a hard time adjusting to the working world. After college, Rayster does some job-hopping before seizing upon travel as a way to deal with his issues. The story is at times interesting and Rayster is capable of good writing, but overally reading this is like browsing through therapy notes of a stranger working out life's problems.

Unfortunately there is very little sense of place written into the text -- the story is primarily set in the Philippines but readers don't experience much color of daily life in Iloilo or Manila. These events might as well be happening in Cleveland or New Jersey or wherever.

Kudos to Rayster for tackling this work. However, I agree with other reviewers who suggest it may have been better had he created a fictionalized version of his life, allowing him to inject more excitement, story arc and plot. His same intended messages (life tips for readers) could still have been delivered, but with even more force.

[Balroop Singh · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this memoir, Rayster shares his story of self-discovery by overcoming his insecurities and fears, undertaking adventure of solo travel and finding his purpose in life. An honest, candid and inspirational story that reveals his emotions, weaknesses and struggles which pulled him out of his past failures, igniting a desire to follow his dreams and create something of his own. Amidst his travels and adventures, he highlights that the most important lessons of life are learned through experience and never giving up hope.

Quite philosophically, Rayster was told to “be your own mentor” and the moment he started to believe in himself, a new confidence taught him to embrace his own company, to find joy in his own thoughts and experiences. However, he realizes the importance of friends and company. He takes you along to Singapore, Taiwan, Japan and many more places on a whirlwind tour of all the places he visited. Later part of the book talks about meditation classes and the narrative slows down significantly. Last two chapters are just a summary of the book and repetitive.

[François G · Rating 3 out of 5]

When I first started reading this book - which I was attracted to by the title - I was struck by the raw honesty.

The author dives straight into his feelings of being lost despite outward success. It immediately felt relatable. I've know that kind of vulnerability far too often in my life. He was a software engineer who looked like he had it all but still felt empty. It was refreshing to read someone's personal journey without too much of the usual sugar-coating.

By the end, I really appreciated the blend of adventure and self-reflection. Ray's travels to Japan and Taiwan was a plus for me and gave the story a unique atmosphere since I've always been in love with those 2 countries/cultures.

The writing style was conversational, nothing special about it. At times, it felt like he wandered a bit too far into some useless details in the narrative.

The biggest takeaway for me? I would say this book reinforces the idea that we grow the most when we're outside our comfort zone. Not pleasant, but so true.

[Joseph Minart · Rating 4 out of 5]

Trance Formation: A Memoir From Software Engineer to Storyteller: My Hero's Journey of How I Turn Life's Greatest Challenges into Life's Greatest Gifts. A Spiritual Awakening Real Life Story (Kindle Edition) by TheReal Rayster (Goodreads Author) is a profound memoir that explores the life of someone who grew up in the Philippines. Experiencing growing up without a father figure, the author sets up to find deeper meaning in the world, traveling outside his country to places like Japan and Taiwan to set out his path in life and discover a total transformation of himself. I, too, am connected to the gaming world, just like the author, especially in mentioning that I enjoy playing that card game. But I loved the metaphysical longings that one must seek out questions and be receptible of finding one's life answers, whether internally or externally, in the people surrounding him, which I really enjoyed reading about. Having been removed from the corporate world, the author sought true meaning to transform him. This is a good read for anyone who wants to read a good personal story.

[Eban · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a different type of self-help book, which documents the journey of a young man who had a troubled relationship with his father and learnt from his sister and mother to be warm, kind and gentle.

Ray felt fear during his expeditions, but it was the decision to push through those uncomfortable situations that enabled him to overcome his fear to become the person he wanted to be and have experiences that he always wanted to have, particularly in Japan.

Part of the story is how he quit his corporate job and embraced travel to live the life that he wanted to live but, more importantly, to become the person he wanted to be.

I felt that the book was written very well, and I enjoyed the language that the author used. I believe that English isn't his first language, so I applaud him for writing at such a high standard.

[Gene Kendall · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Trance Formation" by the mysterious Raymond (or "Rayster") is an occasionally touching and occasionally silly memoir that navigates the intricate maze of human experience, filtered through the young author's life story. At times it reads like typical self-help literature, but the author seems genuine in his desire to learn more about himself and offer insight that could help others. Some of his reminiscences are mundane (opening with his first day of high school), while others are deeply personal (detailing his father's battle with mental illness.) From a sociological perspective, the text's interesting as a study of coming of age during the internet era, while also providing a look at Asian culture the average American likely isn't going to be exposed to. For those looking for inspiration, the book's an encouraging piece that reminds you there's always a path towards the future.

[Ann Birdgenaw · Rating 4 out of 5]

Trance Formation is a collection of accounts of the author’s life experiences. Rayster went from Software Engineer to storyteller chronicling his journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth. Rayster shares his innermost feelings and memories from his painful childhood in the Philippines through his troubled teenaged years to a tormented, empty adulthood. Some of the heartbreaking experiences with family dysfunction, addiction and mental illness befell him. He needed and wanted more from his life. Read how he transformed his life through travel, spirituality and self-reflection and learned that each encounter and each person we meet serves a purpose and shapes who we are. Rayster encourages everyone to rewrite their own narrative if they are unhappy in their lives.

[Sal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Raymond P. Janayon, aka TheReal Rayster from the Philippines, has written an all-too familiar autobiography of his life as a high-achieving person who was centered mainly on accomplishing great things in the corporate world, only to discover that that world wasn’t what he truly desired. As Rayster emerged toward personal enlightenment, he discovered things about himself that he felt could help others, thus this book.

In the “hero’s journey” of Trance Formation, Rayster is vulnerable throughout, sharing early on a cruel prank that was played on him by a girl in school he thought really liked him. Rayster talks a lot about the good and aspects of his father and how his relationship with him affected his life right up until now.

The adventurous author takes readers on trips he has experienced to exotic locales, places he’s seen because he had the guts to leave his old world behind. Video games are also a large part of Rayster’s life, and he relates how this hobby has morphed over the years to larger life lessons and a video game blog he started.

Rayster writes about other things such as the usefulness of yoga and meditation, the sad death of his dog, and his ultimate enlightenment. His positive discoveries include the importance of reclaiming destiny, embracing vulnerability, using adventure for self-discovery, embracing both individuality and community, and trusting your own intuition.

[Obinna Onwugbene · Rating 4 out of 5]

Trance Formation is a book about one man’s journey to discover his purpose. No life is without worries. The book delves into how a determined person taking risks can change their situation.
For anyone who feels it’s too late to change course and discover happiness, there’s something to learn from this memoir.
The book motivates those who are afraid to face their fears. You can find meaning from the pages of this book on how to live a fulfilling life.
Although the writing would need some improvement, the message is clear.
I enjoyed it.

[TheReal · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Trance-Formation" chronicles my personal journey from a software engineer to a storyteller. It's a raw and vulnerable account of my struggles, triumphs, and the transformative experiences that shaped me into the person I am today.

Through its pages, I invite you to join me on a journey of self-discovery, from my childhood in the Philippines to my adventures in Japan, Taiwan, and beyond. You'll witness my battles with anxiety, my search for purpose, and the profound impact of meditation and spiritual practices on my life.

I share my experiences with honesty and vulnerability, hoping to inspire others to embrace their own journeys of transformation. "Trance-Formation" is a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of following your heart, and the unwavering belief that it's never too late to rewrite your story.

I hope my story resonates with you, reminding you that even in the face of adversity, you have the strength to create a life filled with purpose and authenticity.