From Chad

Zeno, the founder of Stoicism, lost everything in a shipwreck, but saw it as one of the best things that ever happened to him. The power to shape our experiences lies, and how we respond to adversity.

Michael Jordan’s motivation for joining the 1992 Olympic dream team was to observe his teammates, practice habits. He discovered many were lazy, reinforcing his belief that excellence comes from hard work and dedication, not just natural talent. This mindset, exemplified by Jourdan’s relentless practice, is key to achieving success in any endeavor.

A college professor interviewed highly productive individuals and identified 10 steps they follow to have productive days. These steps include planning work, staying committed to the plan, and pushing through negative feelings to achieve results. The key is to prioritize commitment over feelings and take action to overcome obstacles.

Amy Cuddy is a Harvard professor. At 19 she was in a car accident and suffered a TBI, shattering her identity. She tells the story of how her academic advisor helped her become more than she thought of herself. She in turn was able to help one of her students become more than she thought.

Humans possess the unique power of choice and action. Unlike other lifeforms, bound by instinct or immobility, humans can move how they choose. This power enables us to shape our lives, intentionally, breaking free from rope patterns and pursue new paths. By embracing action and taking responsibility for our choices, we can unlock our full potential and design a life of purpose and achievement.

Don’t cheat the future you. You are counting on you.

Nelson Mandela, imprisoned for 27 years for anti-apartheid activism, emerge from prison ready to lead negotiations for a democratic South Africa. His hope, fueled by his belief in the goodness of his cause and his active pursuit of agency, enabled him to endure hardship and emerge stronger. When you focus on what you can control you can too.

Bob Reich observed that companies where employees use “we” and “us” are different from those where employees use “they” and “them”. So Price, founder of Fed Mart and Price club, believed in creating “alter egos” among employees, teaching them to think and act like the owner. This mindset, emphasizing understanding the “why”behind actions, is crucial for both employees and managers.

William Rosenberg, founder of Dunkin’ Donuts, built his success by improving upon existing ideas rather than reinventing the wheel. He emphasize the importance of learning from others’ successes and failures, encouraging listeners to “takeoff where others left off”.

The brain, designed for survival, can hinder growth by suppressing potential and tricking us into believing we can’t do certain things. Michael Jordan, recognizing the mind as an athletes, worst enemy, emphasize the importance of blocking out distractions, maintaining focus, and relying on a strong work ethic to overcome mental obstacles. Ultimately, successfully controlling our mission rather than being controlled by our mind tricks.