Smoke and Mirrors

October 23rd, 2018


Smoke and Mirrors

To an observer, the amount of time we spend on preening and primping, nipping and tucking, sprucing and slicking might suggest that we are deriving benefits that is proportional to the time we invest in these activities. 

Of course, we know that this is not the case.

The last few minutes we spent typing and retyping our social media post to get it just right.

The last few hours we spent perfecting our make up, our hair, our clothes.

The last few days we spent recording and re-recording our podcast or video.

The last few months we spent formatting and re-formatting the book cover, trying fruitlessly to make the most appealing.

The last few years we spent avoiding the real issues in our lives because focusing on external things we can control felt more manageable.

We all know that our favorite books are not necessarily those with the flashiest covers.

Our favorite restaurants are not necessarily those with the fanciest decor.

Our favorite people are not necessarily those who are the most attractive.

It is easy to forget that in work and in life, form does not equate to substance.

In the words of author and entrepreneur, Seth Godin, "for surface shine, 80% might be more than enough."

So focus less on the smoke and more on the fire.

Focus less of the refection and more on the reality.

Top Speed

October 9th, 2018


Top Speed

How often do we strive and push, attempting to squeeze every last drop out of ourselves, others, or situations?

The reality is that maximizing does not yield lasting - or worthwhile - results. Optimization does.

Rather than trying to struggle,  squeeze, toil, and fight, remember that longevity is what counts. A sustained spark matters a whole lot more than a flame followed by a fizzle.

After all, races are not won based upon who achieved the top speed.

Winning At Chess - And At Life

October 2nd, 2018


Winning At Chess - And At Life

You cannot win a game of chess solely by moving forward. You often have to move backwards in order to set yourself up in a position to win.

When you feel stuck, stagnant, or otherwise lacking in inspiration, integrity, vitality, or focus, it might be a sign that you might be expending too much energy and effort trying to force a path or direction that is not the right one for you.

It might be time for you to slow down - or stop altogether - regroup, and reassess.

Making a U turn in life is OK! (And it is preferred! After all, you don't want to keep driving towards New York when you intended to get to California!).

Keep in mind that giving up is entirely different from starting over in the right direction.

The latter takes courage, bravery, resilience, hope, and stamina.

And it is also the fertile beginning of countless possibilities and opportunities that life has to offer.

PS By the same token, when it feels like you are stuck or even taking steps backwards in life, it might mean that life is actually positioning you to make a win!