Start with Small Steps

191 - Don't Join the Cynicism In this episode, we look into the pervasive issue of cynicism in our modern society, exploring its causes and impactful strategies to foster a more positive outlook. Drawing inspiration from the wise words of George Carlin, we discuss how disillusionment leads to cynicism and how we can transform this mindset to improve our overall quality of life. Understanding Cynicism: We start by defining cynicism and its roots in disappointment, highlighting the fine line between healthy skepticism and harmful cynicism. Developing Discernment: Learn about the importance of discernment in combating cynicism, enabling us to remain critical yet open-hearted and trusting. Reframing Perspectives: We discuss shifting from a passive to an active stance, focusing on problem-solving rather than problem-dwelling. Limiting Negativity: Tips on reducing exposure to negative triggers, such as distressing news and toxic social media. Cultivating Gratitude: Emphasizing the power of gratitude to shift focus from what's missing to what's present. Community Engagement: The benefits of engaging in positive social activities and volunteer work to combat feelings of isolation and negativity. Personal Accountability: A challenge to listeners to identify personal sources of cynicism and actively seek to change their perspectives. Join us as we journey away from cynicism, taking deliberate steps toward a more optimistic and fulfilling life. https://startwithsmallsteps.com/191-dont-join-the-cynicism/ Jill’s Links https://abetterlifeinsmallsteps.com https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsJill https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsAI https://www.youtube.com/@startwithstartwithsmallstepscast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps https://twitter.com/startwithsmallsteps Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

190 - Hit the Point and Sell it Welcome to today's episode where we dive into the art of brevity in communication, inspired by the book "Smart Brevity: The Power of Saying More with Less." Today, we'll explore why brevity is essential and how to achieve it effectively. Importance of Order: Start communications with the most crucial information. This ensures that even if the audience loses interest later, they've already received the key message. Bullet Points vs. Paragraphs: Learn why bullet points can be more effective than long text blocks for keeping your reader or listener engaged. Editing for Impact: We discuss strategies for eliminating unnecessary words and focusing on content that adds real value to the conversation. Powerful Language: The use of strong verbs and nouns can make your communication more impactful and easier to remember. Efficiency in Meetings: Tips on how to conduct shorter, more focused meetings that respect everyone's time and contribute to more productive team interactions. https://startwithsmallsteps.com/190-hit-the-point-and-sell-it/ Jill’s Links https://abetterlifeinsmallsteps.com https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsJill https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsAI https://www.youtube.com/@startwithstartwithsmallstepscast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps https://twitter.com/startwithsmallsteps Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

189 - Be Brief To Get Readers In our fast-paced digital age, where every second counts, mastering the art of brevity has become crucial for effective communication. The concept, brilliantly explored in the book "Smart Brevity: The Power of Saying More with Less" by Jim VandeHei, Mike Allen, and Roy Schwartz, reveals how concise communication can significantly improve how we connect with others. The essence of brevity lies in the ability to be succinct without sacrificing the depth of the message. This is not about reducing the length of communication for the sake of it, but about enhancing clarity and engagement. The book teaches readers to cut through the noise of excessive information and focus on what truly matters. This is particularly valuable in a world where individuals average just 26 seconds on a piece of content. "Smart Brevity" advocates for a structured approach to concise communication. It starts with crafting a "muscular tease" — a compelling headline that grabs attention. The lede follows, a potent sentence encapsulating the core message. Providing context is next, explaining why the message is relevant. Lastly, if the reader's interest is piqued, additional details are offered succinctly. Adopting these strategies can transform mundane emails into impactful messages, long-winded articles into engaging reads, and tedious meetings into sessions of productive exchange. It encourages communicators to respect their audience's time by offering information that is not just easy to consume but also valuable. Implementing brevity in our daily communications doesn't mean oversimplifying complex ideas. Instead, it's about being thoughtful with our word choice, ensuring every word serves a purpose. By practicing the principles of "Smart Brevity," we not only make our communication more effective but also more likely to be read, understood, and appreciated in a world overloaded with words. https://www.axioshq.com/smart-brevity https://startwithsmallsteps.com/189-be-brief-and-get-read/ Jill’s Links https://abetterlifeinsmallsteps.com https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsJill https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsAI https://www.youtube.com/@startwithstartwithsmallstepscast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps https://twitter.com/startwithsmallsteps Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

188 - Sharing Creativity with Others Welcome back to our exploration of creativity, where today we dive deep into the heart of innovation with Austin Kleon's influential work, "Steal Like an Artist." This episode unravels the fabric of creativity, guiding us through the art of borrowing ideas to forge our unique path. Join us as we dissect key insights and share personal anecdotes inspired by Kleon's philosophy. Unveiling Creativity: We kick off the episode by challenging the myth of originality. Discover how embracing influences and integrating diverse ideas can become the bedrock of creativity, offering a fresh perspective on Kleon's call to action: "Steal two or more ideas and start juxtaposing them." The Creator's Signature: Delve into the significance of personal voice. Learn why your experiences and interpretations are the threads that bind your creative works together, providing unity amidst diversity. Hobbies as Creative Catalysts: Hear about the liberating power of hobbies. We share stories on how engaging in activities just for the joy of it—be it watercolors or bird watching—can replenish our creative wells and inspire breakthroughs. Sharing is Caring: Reflecting on Kleon's advice to share generously, we discuss the transformative experience of making our work public. Whether it's hitting the publish button on a podcast or sharing a sketch online, we explore how feedback and community engagement fuel our creative journey. Conclusion: In closing, we emphasize the overarching theme of "Steal Like an Artist": Creativity is a communal table, and we're all invited to dine. It's about borrowing, reinventing, and contributing to the ongoing conversation of creation. Let's take small steps towards unveiling our creative selves, inspired by the wisdom of Austin Kleon. https://startwithsmallsteps.com/__creativity https://austinkleon.com/ https://austinkleon.com/steal/ Jill’s Links https://abetterlifeinsmallsteps.com https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsJill https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsAI https://www.youtube.com/@startwithstartwithsmallstepscast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps https://twitter.com/startwithsmallsteps Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

187 - The Art of Creative Borrowing Inspiration Welcome to today’s episode, where we dive deep into Austin Kleon’s book, “Steal Like an Artist.” This book has resonated with creators worldwide, urging us to rethink our approach to creativity and inspiration. Kleon delivers a powerful message: innovation doesn’t spring from a vacuum but from the rich tapestry of existing work.Key takeaways from today’s discussion: -Creativity is a communal activity. By acknowledging our influences, we engage in a dialogue with the past, enriching our work. -The distinction between good and bad theft: Kleon outlines that creative borrowing involves transformation, not imitation. We should aim to absorb and reinterpret, not just replicate. -Building a personal “swipe file” of inspirations and influences can be a wellspring for future projects. This collection is a testament to our eclectic tastes and a toolbox for creativity. -The concept of the creative family tree: Identifying our influences helps us understand our place in the creative ecosystem, offering both inspiration and direction. Kleon’s insights are not just philosophical musings but practical strategies for everyday creativity. Whether you’re a writer, artist, or entrepreneur, “Steal Like an Artist” offers invaluable lessons on making the most of the world’s cultural offerings to enrich your own creations. https://startwithsmallsteps.com/187-the-art-of-creative-borrowing-inspiration/ https://austinkleon.com/ https://austinkleon.com/steal/ Jill’s Links https://abetterlifeinsmallsteps.com https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsJill https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsAI https://www.youtube.com/@startwithstartwithsmallstepscast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps https://twitter.com/startwithsmallsteps Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

186 - Embrace Adventure And Live Fully In this episode, we dive into the profound lessons from Bear Grylls’ “How to Be a Scout,” exploring how the principles of wilderness survival apply to our daily lives. Grylls introduces the STOP acronym—Stop, Take a moment, Observe, Plan—as a method to tackle life’s challenges head-on without succumbing to panic.We discuss how the priorities of Protection, Rescue, Water, and Food (P-R-W-L) in survival situations can be metaphorically applied to any crisis, emphasizing the importance of assessing and addressing our fundamental needs. Grylls’ advice on dreaming big, starting small, and the crucial ‘shakeout run’ before major endeavors resonates across various aspects of life, highlighting the value of preparation and learning from minor setbacks.Stepping out of the comfort zone into the fear zone is a pivotal theme, encouraging listeners to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Grylls champions the use of positive language and being true to oneself, emphasizing the impact of positivity on personal development and the importance of a growth mindset.Join us as we unpack these life lessons, drawing inspiration from Grylls’ adventures to navigate our journeys with courage, resourcefulness, and a spirit of adventure. https://startwithsmallsteps.com/186-embrace-adventure-and-live-fully/ https://www.beargrylls.com/ Jill’s Links https://abetterlifeinsmallsteps.com https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsJill https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsAI https://www.youtube.com/@startwithstartwithsmallstepscast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps https://twitter.com/startwithsmallsteps Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

185 - Unveiling Life's Blueprint Through Scouting In the tapestry of life, few threads are woven as intricately and with as much care as the lessons learned through scouting. It's an odyssey that transcends the mere act of tying knots or pitching tents under the starlit sky. Instead, it lays down a blueprint for building character, fostering resilience, and nurturing a profound connection with the natural world. Bear Grylls, a name synonymous with adventure and survival, attributes his scouting experiences as foundational to his journey. This article explores the essence of scouting and how it shapes individuals into exemplary human beings, drawing insights from Grylls' narrative and personal anecdotes from those touched by this timeless institution. Scouting, at its core, is about preparation. "Be prepared," the scout motto, is more than a catchphrase; it's a philosophy that equips individuals with the skills to face life's unpredictabilities with confidence and grace. Grylls' adventures, both on and off the screen, echo this principle. From navigating treacherous landscapes to surviving extreme conditions, the ethos of scouting sunshine - or the ability to find light in the darkest of times - has been his guiding star. But scouting's curriculum extends beyond survival. It's a holistic education in leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving. Scouts are taught to lead by example, to set clear objectives, and to work collaboratively towards common goals. These lessons in leadership and teamwork are invaluable, translating seamlessly into personal and professional spheres. Grylls himself is a testament to this, seamlessly stepping into roles that demand these very skills, whether it's leading expeditions or guiding celebrities through wild terrains on his shows. Perhaps the most profound lesson scouting imparts is the cultivation of values. Kindness, bravery, gratitude, determination - these are not just words to a scout; they are virtues to live by. Grylls emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself and extending a hand of friendship and support to those around us. This ethos fosters a community of individuals who are not only prepared for life's adventures but are also compassionate and empathetic, making the world a better place, one act of kindness at a time. Moreover, scouting instills a deep respect for nature. The principle of leaving no trace teaches scouts to tread lightly on the earth, preserving its beauty for generations to come. This environmental stewardship, coupled with a hands-on education about the flora, fauna, and celestial bodies, nurtures a lifelong bond with the natural world. Grylls' respect and understanding of nature's laws are reflective of these early lessons, guiding his survival strategies and environmental advocacy. In conclusion, scouting is more than an extracurricular activity; it's a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Bear Grylls' narrative is a vivid illustration of how scouting's lessons in preparation, leadership, values, and environmental consciousness can sculpt individuals into well-rounded, resilient, and compassionate beings. It's a call to action for all of us to embrace these principles, to be prepared not just for the wilderness but for the unpredictable journey of life itself. Whether it's facing challenges with optimism, leading with kindness, or safeguarding our planet, the blueprint for a fulfilling life can often be found in the simple yet profound lessons of scouting. https://startwithsmallsteps.com/185-unveiling-lifes-blueprint-through-scouting/ https://www.beargrylls.com/ Jill’s Links https://abetterlifeinsmallsteps.com https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsJill https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsAI https://www.youtube.com/@startwithstartwithsmallstepscast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps https://twitter.com/startwithsmallsteps Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

184 - The Power of Curiosity and Connection In this episode, I share with you my thoughts on Brene Brown’s book “Braving the Wilderness”. I was particularly struck by the concept of ‘true belonging’, which Brown explores in her book. She argues that true belonging comes from standing in one’s truth, even when it’s uncomfortable or different from those around us. Brown also talks about ‘braving’ as an acronym, with each letter representing a different aspect of the process of learning to stand in one’s truth. I found it really helpful to break it down like that: setting boundaries, being reliable, holding myself accountable, not sharing information that isn’t mine to share (the ‘vault’), having integrity, being nonjudgmental, and being generous in my interpretations of others. But it’s not just about standing in our truth - it’s also about reaching out to others, even those we might not understand or agree with. I think it’s so important to ask questions, be curious, and truly listen to understand others, rather than simply picking a side in a conflict. It’s a crucial aspect of braving the wilderness and being able to stand in our truth. Of course, braving the wilderness isn’t always easy or comfortable. But I believe that kindness is key in all interactions. Despite the difficulties, it’s important to always bring kindness to our interactions with others. If you think of someone with whom you’re having difficulty understanding, ask them, “Tell me more.” Let’s bridge gaps and build connections! https://brenebrown.com/book/braving-the-wilderness/ https://startwithsmallsteps.com/184-the-power-of-curiosity-and-connection/ Jill’s Links https://abetterlifeinsmallsteps.com https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsJill https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsAI https://www.youtube.com/@startwithstartwithsmallstepscast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps https://twitter.com/startwithsmallsteps Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

183 - The Power of Your Authentic Self I talk about the book from Brené Brown called Braving the Wilderness about the importance of being brave and bringing everyone in, even those we disagree with. She explained that true belonging is about standing in our own opinion, presenting our authentic selves to the world, and having the courage to stand alone when necessary. She also mentioned that belonging is an innate human desire to be part of something larger than ourselves, which often leads us to try to acquire it by seeking approval and fitting in. However, true belonging can only happen when we have self-acceptance and present our authentic selves to the world. She said that true belonging is not something we can gain or someone can give us. It's something we carry in our hearts. Once we believe thoroughly in ourselves, true belonging becomes ours. She challenged us to think about a situation where we feel ourselves trying to gain admiration, appreciation, or a sense of belonging from someone else. She suggested that we can start small and show ourselves that we can stand as our true selves and be okay with it, without looking towards others for validation. In conclusion, Brene was inspiring by telling us to connect with others and to be kind. It reminded me of the importance of being authentic and standing in our own opinion, even if it means standing alone. Only when we have self-acceptance and believe in ourselves can we experience true belonging. I hope you take the challenge and think about a situation where you can be authentic and stand alone. https://brenebrown.com/book/braving-the-wilderness/ https://startwithsmallsteps.com/183-the-power-of-your-authentic-self/ Jill’s Links https://abetterlifeinsmallsteps.com https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsJill https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsAI https://www.youtube.com/@startwithstartwithsmallstepscast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps https://twitter.com/startwithsmallsteps Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

182 - Turn Your Ship Around In this podcast episode, we're delving into the world of leadership, through the experience of a commanding officer plays in shaping the culture and morale of their ship. We will review the book It's Your Ship, Management Techniques from the Best Damn Ship in the Navy by Captain D. Michael Abrashoff. We're exploring how the principle of "ownership" can transform a low-morale ship into a thriving, successful vessel. Captain Abershoff allows his crew to take ownership of their areas of responsibility, allowing them to make decisions and solve problems independently unless it would cause significant monetary loss or harm to the ship or crew. This way, the crew members feel more involved and responsible, which increases their overall morale and productivity. We're discussing how he fostered a sense of community and camaraderie among the crew is vital in improving their morale and productivity. He enabled small gestures, like improving the quality of food or organizing beach barbecues, to make a significant difference in boosting the crew members' spirits. The commanding officer also encourages personal growth among his crew by helping them improve in their areas of interest and promoting them based on their performance. But leadership also means knowing what your company, country, ship, its mission and your boss needs for you to do. You should be aware of their goals in order for the ship to fulfill those goals and to create trust between you and the leadership. Once you have built that trust, you will have more ability to make changes for your team. We're examining some of the challenges and potential pitfalls of this leadership style. While it successfully turned the ship around, it created some animosity among other ship commanders who felt threatened or uncomfortable with the unconventional approach. The commanding officer reflects that he could have been more diplomatic in dealing with his counterparts and built bridges instead of alienating them. In conclusion, a commanding officer, family leader or any leader can significantly influence their team's morale and productivity. Fostering a sense of ownership, community, personal growth, and fun can profoundly impact the team's performance. https://www.mikeabrashoff.com/ https://startwithsmallsteps.com/182-turn-your-ship-around/ Jill’s Links https://abetterlifeinsmallsteps.com https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsJill https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsAI https://www.youtube.com/@startwithstartwithsmallstepscast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps https://twitter.com/startwithsmallsteps Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com