What does Neo-paganism and/or Wicca offer in terms of personal development?

What does Neo-paganism and/or Wicca offer in terms of personal development?

a lot.

The fact that it's not only a religion, but a science in and of itself, allows one to expand ones own borders. Neopaganism/Wicca throws the doors open to new ways and slams them on societal censor ships of thought.

Freedom.

a great deal. you learn responsibility, ethics and spirituality, and that they aren't tied to a singular dogma or doctrine.

Once you realize that you and everything around you are sacred, you respect your life and your existence far more than when you are spoon-fed someone Else's Prue-fab conventions.

It offers support and encouragement to seek out the answers to your questions and believe as you feel is right for you. It offers the thought that there is no one single way to god or the goddess or gods or personal enlightenment. It is very open minded.

* Personal introspection
* Looking for the answers instead of having them handed to you
* Examining your actions and how they affect yourself and others
* Taking time to slow down, meditate, and just *be*
* Being in tune with the world around you - the cycle of the seasons, the lunar cycle, etc.

You learn that you are responsible for your words and actions, and that everything you do has an effect.

You learn to explore and to be curious.

You learn to be aware of the world around you, including other people.

You don't feel guilt, unless you've really hurt someone else. You can listen to what you want, read what you want, wear what you want.

You don't have unnecessary fear.

It depends on where you're coming from.

Since neither is organized (not a religion), there is no standard.
There is no set path or curriculum. No leader. No structure.
All must be created/adopted by each practicing group or individual.

Personal development agendas are also unique. No claims can be made.

Peace and freedom.

it does offer a great deal for personal development; inner strength, tolerance, responsibility, growth. It teaches you not to harm things and that you get back everything you give out.

Excerpts from the 13 principles of Wiccan belief

2. We recognize that our intelligence gives us a unique responsibility towards our environment. We seek to live in harmony with Nature, in ecological balance offering fulfillment to life and consciousness within an evolutionary concept.

9. We believe in the affirmation and fulfillment of life in a continuation of evolution and development of consciousness, that gives meaning to the Universe we know, and our personal role within it.

13. We believe that we should seek within Nature that which is contributory to our health and well-being.

We are not a dogmatic religion, so the specifics are usually left up to the individual. I will say that my husband and I have grown closer since we found Wicca. Also our rituals are used for self improvement and community activism.

You are strongly encouraged and trained to face your inner self, your Shadow self and your Higher Self, to see who you really are on the inside, and how to make yourself a better person.