I've been involved with the Wright Institute for about a year and a half and it has been an amazing experience. The specific programs that I've done in the past are the More Life Training (both as a participant and on the production team), the Year of More, and the Men's Basic Training, which are all excellent. To cut to the chase, I feel much more at peace with myself and much more optimistic about the future than I did a year and a half ago. I understand myself better and I enjoy talking to people about 10 times more than I used because I'm much less guarded and much more willing to just be guided by my curiosity about the person I'm talking to. The first thing that impressed me about the Wright Institute was the caliber of the other students that I met, and I continue to be impressed all the time. It's a very diverse group: lots of different ages, ethnic backgrounds, religions (I've known several Christians, Muslims, Jews, and agnostics among the more senior students), etc. More than that, I've met people there with a lot of different personality types, extroverts and introverts, salesmen and nurses, people who had a lot of achievements before they ever got involved with Wright and people who felt that they were struggling. The one thing that they all have in common is that they are there to improve their own lives and that tends to make them a lot of fun to be around. It's really inspiring. One of the things that I find most interesting about the Wright Institute is the way they combine different perspectives on the same issue. The background of knowledge that Bob and Judith Wright bring to the table is impressive. What really stands out to me personally is the way that they combine insights from eastern philosophy with a savvy for life in the modern business world. I'm a Buddhist myself and yet I make my living in corporate America, so a worldview that understands and incorporates both is very healthy for me. Bob and Judith Wright are amazing coaches. Based on numerous experiences talking to them myself or seeing them interact with other students, they have an amazing ability to get right at the core issues that really matter to the person they're talking to. They acknowledge the effects of our childhood experiences while consistently bringing the subject back around to personal responsibility and what choices we want to make in our lives now. I also love the way they consistently encourage people to go for a "win-win" for themselves and the world - by which I mean that I as an individual need to be satisfied and I need to thrive, but I also want to make a positive change in the world. "Self-improvement" or "personal development" are concepts that can sometimes seem self-centered or narrowly selfish, but the Wright Institute puts them in the context of maximizing our positive impact on the world. The other coaches and leaders I've met at the Institute have also impressed me with their level of insight and dedication. Actually, the other students, especially the ones that have been students for at least a year, often have impressive insights as well. I guess that shouldn't surprise me, since understanding humans, both ourselves and those around us, is a big part of what students at the Wright Institute learn. Being a student at the Wright Institute can be hard work and it can be challenging - sometimes it can even be upsetting. I've heard people say, "well, the Wright Institute isn't for everybody." I don't know why I would even have an opinion about what is or isn't good for everybody. I don't know everybody. I can say that I've known lots of people with all sorts of different personalities, backgrounds, and goals who have gotten enormous value out of Wright Institute programs - I'm one of them. read more

I am so lucky to have found Wright Living. I participate in Wright remotely from NYC. Since joining the foundation a year and a half ago, I have gone from Web developer, to Sr Developer to Manager, and I'm now Managing a team of Software Engineers at New York Times. I joined the diversity and inclusion force as well as presented and kicked off a pilot Mentorship Program to 130 participants. I see the people in my life going for more - my mom is excelling in her career more than ever, my best friend went from an unsatisfying job to one she loves and my significant other has been getting flown out for interviews about physicians making an impact in the world. I feel so cared about by this organization. I have also learned to care about myself and others more - our world can sure use more people who want more of that right now. read more

I had been on the search for personal growth for many years. I began with reading all kinds of self help books, Rolfing (intense deep pressure muscle work) in 91', tried many forms of meditation from books, took classes in Transcendental meditation, etc. They were all helpful/useful but now I think that it was all to lay the groundwork for me to be able to take in the concepts taught at Wright & take them into my life. Really great stuff. I highly recommend the new Transform Book & Training. It has helped me to commit to being different with people in a way that I am able to touch their lives & allow them to touch mine. read more

I was surprised to read the reviews of this Institute here. I don't think one of the negative reviews actually attended any training before passing judgment. The reviewers here seem like they have seen the movie "Jaws" and base all their knowledge of sharks solely on that work. I've attended training here and it is useful. Sure, I hate some of the things they do that I consider "stupid", but that doesn't keep me from getting the useful knowledge from the classes. You're not made to do anything you don't want to do. If I don't want to share, I don't share. If I don't want to participate, no one forces me. This is a service that I pay for. I decide my own level of involvement. I'm not really sure were all this "cult" stuff came from either. The organization does NOT endorse any form of religion, or treat the class as a religion. They teach you researched material and you use it in your life as you see fit. You learn things like being able to say "no" and the use of masculine and feminine power. You also go to coaching sessions where an educated employee, your "coach", helps you understand the things you learn on a more one-on-one basis. You're paying how to learn to get more out of your life and make it better. It's like investing in real estate, except your investing in bettering yourself. They don't pressure you into buying anything. They want you to sign up of course. That's how they make money, but the people that founded/run the place are so highly paid through advising high level business executives, they don't even have to do this. It's their passion. I'd advise people not to pass judgment until you have tried it. They have free weekends where you can go see what it's about, eat the free food they give you, and if you don't want to join, you walk out the door. End of story. read more

Live a happier year in 2010! I am learning to live beyond my illusions about what progress and happiness really are. I had a view of progress: Getting ahead at work, Making more money, Buying a house, etc.-while useful, actually have little to no effect on my greater happiness. We are really unconsciously conditioned to stay the way we are no matter what changes in the exterior. That is why the American Dream does not lead to happiness by itself. No matter what we accomplish on the outside, without changing on the inside, happiness stagnates. Are you with me? The data that makes the difference: Research studies show that personal development is the road to increased happiness and enjoyment of life. Edward Deci's study that shows how those who pursue the American Dream of external achievement experience little to no increase in happiness while those who focused on intrinsic goals such as personal growth, enduring relationships and helping in the community "showed substantial increases in life satisfaction, well-being and happiness. The Wright Institute is the place, where this growth and change actually happens! read more

I have been involved at Wright for about 4 years and am so thankful for what I have learned through the trainings and my coach there. What I have learned and come to realize is that the harder something is and the longer it is that I have to work at it, the greater the reward there is for me at the end of it in terms of my personal goals, relationship goals, and career goals. read more

I have been a student of the Wright Institute for over two years now studying leadership and personal growth. Throughout my time at the institute I have seen significant changes in how I relate to others, view myself and interact in my relationships. Through series of assignments with their signature Year of More program and now in a Transformations Lab I have been pushing myself to see what I am capable of doing and expanding my vision of what is possible in my life. read more

Just completed their Summer Training week in Wisconsin and it ROCKED! We learned about the neuroscience behind our behaviors, played with team building and creating new neural pathways. I have never had so much fund and worked so hard! read more

I've done a number of the trainings that Wright has to offer and my life has drastically improved in many areas. I make more money, I am healthier, I have stronger friendships, stronger romantic relationships, and I feel more myself. They've given me the tools to have the life I want and to dream the life that I never thought possible. I highly recommend doing their Foundations Training which I have participated in approximately 15 times as a student and assistant. The Foundations training is a fantastic baseline training which is fun, engaging, and thought-provoking for everyone! read more

I think they have now matured from targeting general audience to more ethnic and religious based audiences. I was pleased with the fact they came to my group as a saviour and my answer to all my groups problem. Many people who know them share the same view. read more

Fascinating classes and foundation, unlike anything I've ever seen before. Would definitely recommend checking out at least their free Foundations Weekend, or visiting the center to learn more. Would be beneficial especially if you're open minded and interested in psychology, sociology, neuroscience, emotional intelligence, awareness, etc. read more

This place has really challenged me in a positive way. My relationship with my girlfriend and family have completely shifted since I started doing work with Wright. I highly recommend taking their courses and sticking in there. Just an initial "taste" of the work is only the tip of the iceberg. I have thankfully stayed the course, moving from their year-long program to a Transformational Lab, and the returns have gotten better and even more priceless. read more

The Wright Institute offers broad, consistent, and empowering trainings and coaching to help you in any area of life you are open to review. The social and emotional training has been priceless. The more I learn about myself, the more I understand and relate with others, and the more effective I am at seeing and tackling communication barriers, and getting things done. I started with WI looking for help during a career transition, and found myself very attracted to the family program as well as their leadership training. These trainings, and all related experiences, have greatly enhanced my ability to relate authentically and effectively to others, building stronger, more effective relationships at work, and leading to a vibrant relationship with my wife. I am a much more conscious father, raising children who are aware of themselves, know what it means to communicate responsibly (and do, more often than not), and are empowered, self respecting young men. I highly recommend the Wright Institute to anyone who is curious and hungry to be more effective in creating a life of meaning, fulfillment, and impact. read more

I continue to reap the benefits of the training I'm receiving at the Wright Institute. I just completed delivery of the largest project I've sold in my job using many of the skills I've developed at the Institute. I strongly recommend the personal growth programs offered here. Lori read more

I took the " More Life" weekend training at Wright and the "Year of More" course. Some of the best things I got from the course were learning how to express myself in new ways and breaking through limiting beliefs. I was continually energized by seeing others doing the same throughout the weekend and the year. I teach classes through a hospital and clinic, and I have incorporated a lot of the accelerated learning techniques I experienced at Wright in my own classes, and I think my students learn more and I enjoy teaching more, and feel more effective. I highly recommend this course to anyone who wants to have more of themselves to bring into all the areas of their lives for more effectiveness and satisfaction, and to live each day as an adventure and a minimum of drama! read more

The Summer Leadership Intensive is a deep dive into the his and why of transformational leadership. I'm learning how to "lead from the middle" of a team to drive for results, how to pull the best from others, and how to enjoy teamwork more personally. This is the tenth year I've gone on this training, and I can honestly claim that this is the place where I've learned how to work. read more

I have done personal growth work with Judith Wright for 20 years and have been a student at the Wright Institute since it was founded. My own experience with the Institute has been excellent. I have done the majority of courses that they offer, including their leadership training programs, and I find them to be outstanding trainings. I work as a physician, and I have used what I have learned to increase my satisfaction in my relationships with my patients and staff, as well as with family and friends, and to improve my ability to get things done in the office. I used to complain a lot, now I expect to have things improve out of going to someone who can do something about it - a direct result of the coaching I've received at the Institute. I no longer feel like a victim of circumstances. I recommend the programs of the Wright Institute to anyone who wants more satisfaction, more fulfillment, and more joy in life. read more

I have been a student at the Wright Institute for over 3 years. I've stayed because it's made such a positive impact in my life. The work we do on social and emotional intelligence has helped me to better understand and use my emotions to serve me versus being ruled by them. My relationships with family, friends, co-workers have become richer and more satisfying. The Wright Institute differs from so many others in the self-help world because as a student I get multiple opportunities to experiment and try new skills in a caring environment with others who are also committed to growing and living more meaningful lives. If reading a book or going to the occasional weekend seminar was all it took to have the best life possible, that would be great but it doesn't work. This works. read more

I have done many of the programs at Wright, and have benifitted tremendously. I have learned the leadership and social-emotional skills that are required in my job as a school consultant and Director of Development. I am consistently told that I am excellent at driving to the core of whatever issues there may be, and that what I have to say supports teachers and schools to be their best. I could not have said that before doing the programs at Wright. I highly recommend them for personal growth work and leadership development. read more

The Wright Institute offers great programs and coaching to help one better understand how they think and create their lives. Their comprehensive approach combines the best of psychology, philosophy and neuroscience, offering specific ways of living more aware and consciously, achieving lasting change and creating a more satisfying life of that you choose. read more

My biggest concern with the Wright Institute is that they only have one licensed professional working for them, who also happens to be their CFO. There is often a conflict of interest because while she provides "coaching," or various forms of therapy, she also is heavily involved in selling students on other programs. This is a violation of her code of ethics as a licensed counselor. There are many instances where the Wright Institute violates many ethical boundaries, especially where the students provide free work for them. The Summer Spiritual is basically a work camp in Wisconsin where Judith wrote her dissertation. I'm sorry, I miswrote that. Where Judith's STUDENTS wrote her dissertation. Students also worked on the land improving it so this land could later be sold for a higher market value then when they bought it. Students provide free work for the trainings and are also a source of free marketing as they "encourage" (or coerce, depending on your point of view) students to talk to people in their lives and invite them to free trainings. These free trainings are really sales pitches as they alter the psychological states of the participants to make them more willing to sign up for their programs. The only good program the Institute has going for them is the Year of More. I would recommend this to anyone. Do not do any of the others, it is a waste of your time and money. The Year of More provides valuable insight and skills that will greatly increase one's potential. With their more intense programs, deep emotional issues are brought out that require greater care than what they can provide. Licensed psychologists or therapists should be on staff when serious emotional issues come up. Staff should also be trained to identify when these issues arise and how to deal with them when they happen. The Transformation Lab experience is designed to bring up these deeper issues so they can be resolved and the participant is able to move past them. The danger with this is the intensity of the experience and lack of professionals who have studied how the mind works. The combination of the two may create experiences that are psychologically damaging. There is also danger in how the groups are structured. First, the groups are oriented towards group thought. Any deviation from what is thought of as hindering to the group is discouraged. Participates are taught very early to listen to authorities and to say, "How high?" when told to jump. Even if the advice of the leaders is contrary to what the participants believe. For organizations like the military, this is essential. However, in an organization that deals with personal growth with a focus on self-actualization, group thought actually hinders this pursuit. It is not "Group"-actualization, it is "Self"-actualization. One of the main ways in which this is seen is when a member attempts to leave the group. When a participant enters lab, they are taught the basic guidelines for lab, one of which is if you decide to leave. The participant is told that if you want to leave, the group asks that you "give notice plus two," which means that you tell the group you're going to leave during one of your meetings, then you attend the next two sessions before you stop attending. These are the only instructions you have on what the process is for leaving. As you continue in lab, others may choose to leave and it is through other people's experience that you learn more about this process and what the proper way to leave is. Except you never really learn what the proper way to leave is. You learn how not to do it, because no one ever does it the proper way. Someone could have a very good reason for leaving, such as not being able to afford paying for the group, and the group mind says this reason is unacceptable and will try to convince the individual to stay. Personal growth should be just that, personal. It is not group growth. Unless that is what you want. This organization has many positive attributes to it. I have personally learned how to communicate more effectively, how to have more intimate relationships, and how to be a better leader. However, my life is also not as good in other areas, such as financially. Over the last two to three years, I have spent over $20,000 at the Wright Institute and ended up maxing out my credit card. Nowhere along the way did anyone sit down with me and go over how I was going to pay for any of the services. On one hand, it is my responsibility to monitor my finances and come up with my own plan. But for an organization that intends on improving society over the next 200 years, they better start caring more about their students. One reason is that most of their students are in debt. The Institute's situation is much like the economy. If they continue to take money from those that don't have any, and don't expect their participants to be financially stable, it will one day crumble down. read more

With the guidance I have received on this and other More Life Trainings I have done at the Wright Institute I am living an enjoyable and increasingly contented life, delivering a better quality of work to my clients with more repeat business. I get more accomplished in my spare time as well as sleep better. My friends find me more accessible and easier to talk to. read more

This is a positive, challenging, and supportive place and in general is full of the same type of people. I've done many of the weekend trainings as well as Year of More and Transformations Lab. I've probably felt the most challenged as well as proud and satisfied after some of my experiences here and I've learned a lot about myself. The one thing is that it's a different experience for each person and it's really up to each person to determine what they want out of it. It's a forum to learn and grow and push yourself as far as you want to go - some want to go for a ton, others not much. I'm more on the wanting a lot and I've changed in a lot of good ways and am much more directed than when I first came in. It's a great experience in life and self discovery but you need to have an open mind to truly see that. read more

I have learned more about myself as a result of my involvement here. It is a place where telling the truth is encouraged and knowing and expressing feelings is a good thing. The Wright Institute is not perfect, however it is a place where I have learned how to be more genuine and authentic. It is not for everyone - it is for people who are serious about wanting to go for more in their life. read more

I attended the More Life Training weekend and then decided to enroll in the Year of More program. The curriculum and assignments have helped me to be more direct in my communications with people and clearer about what I want both in my career and in my relationships. My wife and I communicate a lot better now and I'm expecting and getting more from my kids. In general, I'm becoming more aware of what I'm feeling and where I want to take my life. The curriculum on emotional intelligence in particular has taught me that being aware of what I'm feeling in my interactions with people helps me to be more focused and present. As a result, I'm more effective in my communications as a team member, instructor, husband, parent and sibling. read more

Wright is a unique organization that has opened my life to many possibilities. The training programs have given me the skills to understand myself at a deeper level and to relate to others more genuinely. The community of kind, caring people at Wright provides a marvelous network of support that facilitates my growth as an individual. read more

I have taken many courses and attended many seminars at the Wright Institute. What they do really well is incorporate the best thinking and research on any topic. For example, I have taken sales training classes there and I have found them to be light-years ahead of any other sales program I have ever attended. They have essentially distilled all the best practices of sales into a single curriculum. And I have found they are pretty much cutting edge in all of their other courses, too. They even have a More Life curriculum and it's basically all of the best practices of living a robust and rewarding life. So anyone looking to really learn and transform in any area of their life should check this place out. read more

I have participated and attended several of the programs within the Wright Institute for a couple years now, and am thrilled beyond belief with how successful their training programs are. Bob and Judith Wright, alongside the employees and dedicated volunteers seem to combine the best practices of science, psychology, philosophy, social & emotional intelligence, and just good old fashioned hard work to empower and encourage everyone around them. I am surrounded by other students who want a lot in their lives and are willing to support each other to be the best possible team members, within the institute, as well as, and more importantly, in the world around us. Through my studies and experiences with the WLI, I have made huge successful advances in my career, family & social life, and personal self promotion. I am a graduate of their main yearlong course called the Year of More - where I have learned to want, go for, and get more in my life, and have continued my growthwork studies with other programs like the Women's Essential Experience, Advantage for Sales Lab, and Transformations Lab. I am so happy to be a part of such a community of excellence and inspiration every day! I recommend any of these programs for anyone who wants to accomplish more in their lives and make a difference in their world around them! read more

I will start off by saying that I spent 2 1/2 years at The Wright Institute, which they apparently call Wright Living now. There have been several name changes of this business in the last 7 years that I know of. This facility helped me with several aspects of my personal development. I am grateful for the emotional intelligence I gained from being there. During my time there I had experienced multiple times of up selling for their programs. That in itself I am ok with but there was also an aspect of underlying shaming that went along with it when I didn't sign up for a particular program. Also during each free weekend of prospective new "playmates" as Judith Wright used to refer to people who were attending the seminar, we were instructed to key in on their vulnerability and try to recruit people. We debriefed at the end of each day discussing who we thought might be good candidates. Be forewarned that this practice was in effect for years. I don't know if this company still operates this way. I hope not because some of the things they teach are very valuable in regards to personal development. Several other reviewers have written about the same experience I had there in regards to the students recruiting people and being pressured to do so, working for the company while paying them, and belittling practices. I can also guarantee that most likely the rave reviews were written as requested by Bob and Judith Wright(seen here on yelp as Mark H.) Weird. I was ask multiple times to do so when I attended. There are several other things that I found disturbing, the use of a certain type/style of language between students perpetuated by Bob and Judith, suggestions to drop people from your life that weren't "playing along," and recording of every interaction at every event/meeting. At times I felt like a lab rat in their experiment. I hope that this company has changed a lot of these practices because it can be a very valuable experience to learn what they teach. read more

I appreciate that Wright exists here in the Chicago area as an opportunity that supports my interest in personal development and transformational leadership. Classes and weekend workshops are offered to support learning and growing in personal growth, career, couples, singles--to name a few. read more

This is a great place to learn about and improve your leadership skills. A great group of solid people who are not afraid to push me to my best. read more

I was a student here for 3 years. I know from personal experience that it starts as a grand adventure in personal growth and turns into a nightmare of exploitation and financial debt. My greatest personal growth was in leaving. I paid them to do physical labor for them and to recruit others. How crazy is that? Real con artists! Run the other way! read more

Change is painful and hard, but possible if you set your mind to it and have the right assistance. I found the clarity I needed at the Wright Institute to really look at my life and the choices I'd made with and without my awareness. I saw what I wanted and what I needed to do to realize the things I yearned for. it's not the place for the faint hearted. Come if you want results and you are willing to work for them. If that is the case this is one of the best places there is. read more

I was introduced to Dr. Bob & Judith Wright 1.5 years ago while I was living in Los Angeles. I was in LA for about 10 yrs - I was feeling stuck in my career and in my dating life. I signed up for a weekend seminar which has forever changed my life! Since then, I have become closer to my family, I am having deeper conversations and connections. I have more compassion towards myself and others. I am yearning for more connection and deeper relationships. Most recently, I just completed a week long Summer Leadership Training program in Wisconsin. This was certainly the place to stretch yourself and go for your unthinkable goals! This past week I surpassed my sales goals farther than I ever imagined. I completed more work in a shorter amount of time while staying in relationship with others. This is the playground to test your limiting beliefs and to try something new! Since beginning my work at Wright, I have married, and I recently found out that I am pregnant!! My sales numbers have doubled, and I am currently living in Chicago! I am more fulfilled and am living a life of more!!! read more

Recently I completed a Master's degree in Transformational Leadership and Coaching through Wright Graduate University. I considered several MBA programs but thought that with my technical background I would benefit more from focusing on "soft" skills than business administration. I was repeatedly amazed by the depth of content on human performance and leadership that I read and learned in the program. It was also the most applicable and satisfying education experience I have had. I would recommend it highly! read more

The Foundations Training was both inspiring and empowering. The content of the training provided me with skills to be more connected with myself and others. I learned ways to apply these skills to my leadership and relationship with my husband. I highly recommend it! read more

I did the intro weekend, More Life Training, came in with no expectations, was invited by someone who at the time was barely an acquaintance. He kept telling me this was going to be a really cool weekend, but I was thoroughly skeptical to say the least. I mean, I'd never done any experential based training, or any formal education beyond my schooling, couldn't really see why I would need to. I was already (and remain) successful, well-educated, making good money and stuff, wasn't sure why I should spend an entire weekend with strangers. But I eventually decided, what the heck, can't hurt to try it I guess. And I am *really* glad I did. Had a total blast at the weekend, and decided to sign up for the year long program, which I completed. Through the different assignments they have you work on during the weekend and the year, I discovered so many talents and skills that I have and just hadn't really worked on developing cause I hadn't needed to up to this point in my career. For example, learning how to effectively communicate what I want, how to be in rapport with my clients and colleagues, how to manage a team, learning my own projections and reactions and seeing how I transfer that on to others, and learning how to take responsibility for that. These skills have been hugely helpful accross the board, at work where I manage a complex environment of relationships and in my marriage. Having done the weekend and completed the year long program, I was surprised to read some of the negative reviews here that talk about "mind control" tactics and things like that. That was absolutely not my experience. In fact, one of the coolest parts of being in the program is being with the people who are in it. I learned just as much, if not more, from getting to know the student-leaders and the other people who were in the program than I did from the curriculum itself. Very accomplished group of successful, open-minded people who care a lot and want to make a positive difference in the world. The simplest way I can describe this program is that it teaches the skills of leadership, positive influence and personal responsibility. Hard to see how that could be anything but good. If you're interested in those things, definitely check out the intro weekend. read more

I did WEE and wow it was great to understand situations where I normally feel stuck; that I am actually am not seeing things clearly because of historical beliefs. After the weekend I have been able to move friendships and relationships forward. I also have been able to apply what I learned to my marriage. I am able to really see and appreciate my loving and committed husband and we have been experiencing so much joy and warmth together. The curriculum is rigorous, and worth every bit of hard work so I could take ownership for the suffering I was creating in my own life. read more

I have been a student for 3 years at the Wright Institute and this is not like any "school" or training/development program I have ever experienced. The Institute is a supportive, inspiring place to discover and "unlearn" the beliefs and behaviors that are not helping me to lead and really own my life. The result is that I am learning how to TRULY think and feel for myself so that I derive more from all that I do, want and am. Yes, I know this sounds kind of heady - well it's that and at the same time very practical and real because their courses combine compelling research and science and multiple ways to try out and apply what you want to learn. read more

I am graduate from Wright Leadership Year or More program and Woman's Essential Weekend training, and still doing their program for personal transformation. From my experience in the past two years with them, their touch for human potential and vulnerability, encourage one to be oneself instead of adjusted or fixed, and warm but firm community environment have been giving me foundation to face culture shock from Asia to Western, overcome unconsciousness, and more positive toward any area in life - family, work, business, friendship, and much more. And make me realize how much I could become, and how much I should pursue my dream with solid foundation with oneself. So, I highly recommend it, for anyone looking for another level of self development, and not afraid to rock the boat, and for anyone want more in their life. read more