Open Your Eyes with McKay Christensen

McKay introduces listeners to the concept of mindset this week, emphasizing its role in shaping our approach to life's challenges and success. Exploring fixed and growth mindsets, he aligns them with instructive narratives and scriptural principles to demonstrate the importance of renewing one's mind.Drawing inspiration from the renowned Warren Buffett, the remarkable Rose Blumkin, the entrepreneurial journey of Jack Taylor, Carol Dweck’s work, and lessons learned from scripture, McKay illuminates the power of mindset. He also focuses on the wisdom found in the Amish community’s response to a horrendous tragedy, underscoring their extraordinary display of forgiveness and resilience as a testament to their unwavering faith and a unique, scripture-driven mindset. Our host concludes this powerful episode by encouraging us all to embrace a growth-oriented mindset, with the understanding that faith, hard work, and the right mindset can help us overcome challenges and achieve our goals.Episode Highlights:The concept of mindset and its influence on life's challenges and successExploring fixed and growth mindsetsStories that highlight the power of mindset.The importance of staying focused amid external pressures and competitionEmbracing failure as a stepping stone to a growth mindsetCarol Dweck's pioneering work regarding mindsetQuotes:"Don't let the circumstances of today limit your mindset. Put on a new mindset that believes in your ability to learn and grow.""Failure is a teacher; it helps us do things better. Embrace failure as part of your growth journey.""Your mindset is a powerful tool that can shape your path to success. Keep your focus on your own journey and let failures be stepping stones to growth.""It is mindset, not fixed factors or even other beliefs, that help us become who we can become.""You can't have a new life with old thinking.""A mindset is a powerful way to change and grow, and most of all, live calmly with less anxiety in times in which we're failing or needing to change.""When you put on a new mindset, you can stick to your faith, your thinking, your actions, with confidence.""God says, leave behind your excuses, put on a new view, and get up and walk. There is a mindset like that that changes everything.""May God bless you in your challenges, may you feel more confident in a good outcome, and may you see things with new eyes to help you be calm and persevering in your work.”Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

The profound theme of personal breakthroughs falls under McKay’s spotlight this week as he highlights the incredible potential within every individual to overcome challenges and embrace transformation. As the episode unfolds, he explores the pivotal role of identity in shaping beliefs and actions, providing practical strategies for initiating positive changes in life.Throughout this episode, McKay shares the gripping story of Beck Weathers, a seasoned high-altitude climber who navigated life-threatening obstacles on Mount Everest. As our host notes, Beck's remarkable journey serves as a compelling testament to the possibility of achieving breakthroughs even in the most dire circumstances. Tune in now and allow McKay to guide you through such life-changing themes as the significance of these personal breakthroughs, strategies for embracing transformation, the importance of faith and determination, and the concept that, far more than mere existence, life offers opportunities for infinite growth and fulfillment.Episode Highlights:The significance of personal breakthroughs and their potential to reshape one's lifeBeck Weathers' extraordinary journey, marked by adversity and the pursuit of a breakthroughThe role of identity in shaping individuals' behaviors and choicesStrategies for embarking on a new path in life and embracing the power of transformationThe importance of faith, determination, and positive influences on the journey to breakthroughsThe idea that life offers more than mere existence—it's an opportunity for growth, expansion, and fulfillmentThe pivotal role of intentions in defining one's identity and manifesting a desired futureQuotes:"Every breakthrough requires a break with the old.""Remember, they always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself.""Your identity is the force that governs your life and regulates your results.""Are you willing to sacrifice who you are for who you could be?""No matter how difficult things may be, how broken you are, where you are today, or what anyone says, you matter."“Beck told me that God gave him a gift, an unspeakable gift, to open his eyes to what was most important, a breakthrough to a new person that he was to become.”"I traded my hands for my family and for my future. I had a breakthrough in my thinking and priorities."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

McKay welcomes everyone to join him on the podcast this week as he explores the inspiring journeys of individuals who've harnessed the incredible power of “one more". Through the stories of John Grisham, Jim Morris, Catherine Stockett, and Peter the Apostle, McKay delves deeply into the realms of personal growth and empowerment, shedding light on the profound theme of resilience and unwavering determination.As you will  hear, the stories shared in this episode serve as a beacon of hope and motivation, inspiring us all to integrate the principle of just “one more" into our daily lives, seize opportunities, and chase our dreams with unending determination. From Grisham’s tenacity in pursuing his dreams of being an author while working as a lawyer and state legislator, to Stockett’s perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity, to God’s test for Peter at the Sea of Galilee, McKay demonstrates how giving it just “one more” try can lead to immense success. Join him here today to gain a better understanding of the sheer power of resilience and discover how consistently pursuing your dreams can lead to your own personal growth and some truly extraordinary achievements.Episode Highlights:The importance of choices in daily lifeThe potential for positive change by filling one's time with uplifting contentJohn Grisham's effort and discipline in becoming renowned authorJim Morris's perseverance in achieving his dream of playing in the major leaguesPeter's willingness to cast his nets one more timeCatherine Stockett's persistence in achieving remarkable successThe concept that each new day offers "one more chance" for personal growth, change, and redemptionEmbracing the power of giving things another try and making the most of every opportunityQuotes:"The power of repeated effort, one more phone call, one more appointment, one more attempt will yield results that are unexpected.""By implementing a 'one more' mentality, individuals differentiate themselves from others who are unwilling to go the extra mile.""Dreams and stories are created and told by those who muster the courage to try just one more time.""We often find that one more makes all the difference.""One more try, one more effort, often uncovers the miracles in life and in our own development.""When you implement a one more mentality, you start to do what other people are unwilling to do.""All you need to do is to get through today. Tomorrow, you can start again and conquer your battles with a one more mentality.""One more chance is what God gives to us every day."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

McKay returns today with a powerful message revolving around the idea that the greatest accomplishment in life is not defined solely by external achievements, but by becoming a better, more compassionate person. Along the way, he explores themes of resilience, self-discovery, the power of perspective, along with the roles they play in personal improvement and development. McKay shares such inspiring stories as that of Erik Weihenmayer, a young man who faced the daunting loss of his eyesight and transformed his adversity into incredible achievements. Noting that Erik's initial anger and denial turned into determination and growth once he decided to redefine himself based on his abilities rather than his disabilities, McKay advises us all to focus on what we can do rather than dwelling on our limitations. He also introduces the concept of backward design - starting with the end goal in mind and working backward to create a roadmap for personal development. Be sure to join our host here today as he opens our eyes to the value of focusing on such virtues as faith, knowledge, patience, kindness, and charity, and encourages us all to embrace the concept that becoming, not just doing, is truly the greatest achievement in life.Episode Highlights:Erik Weihenmayer’s  journey from losing his eyesight to becoming the first blind person to summit Mount EverestThe stages of adversity, including anger, denial, and acceptance, and the power of determination and self-acceptanceThe importance of embracing challenges as opportunities for personal growth and transformationThe concept that the greatest thing one can ever do is to become a better, more compassionate personExploring backward design, centering, and the pursuit of virtuous characteristics as tools for personal developmentQuotes:"The greatest thing you will ever do is found in the person you become from your efforts in this life.""Our greatest quest in life is to become, not just to do.""Become a person of light or goodness.""We major in minor things, and that's why we fail.""Centering gives you a sense of purpose and success.""If these things be in you and abound, your life will bear fruit, or yield a comfortable place with God.""The currency of today isn't time. It's attention. We have so many distractions in our life that we've learned not to focus.""What is the greatest thing you will ever do? Build the you that you know you can become."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

This week, McKay explores the profound impact that thinking has upon our lives, offering fresh insights into the transformative power of thought and how it shapes one’s reality. Through intriguing stories and valuable lessons, he navigates the terrain of thought and its influence while introducing the art of thinking anew to unlock a more fulfilling life. Acknowledging the idea that pain is an inevitable part of life, McKay notes that suffering remains optional, and it is our thoughts that determine our reactions to events. This concept, illustrated through the life-altering experiences of Erin Stoffel and Steve Ullmer, underscores the importance of mindfulness and self-awareness in achieving personal growth and better decision-making. Our host also encourages listeners to overcome biases, think more objectively, and find optimism and positive meaning in challenging situations. Ultimately, today’s thought-provoking episode serves as a beacon of inspiration, guiding us all toward a more fulfilling and meaningful life by harnessing the power of our own thoughts.Episode Highlights:How thoughts shape our reality and perception of lifeErin Stoffel's resilience and her compassionate response to tragedySuffering being influenced by your thoughtsEmbracing curiosity to foster personal growth and expand your horizonsThe importance of mindfulness for self-acceptance and better decision-makingRecognizing biases' impact on your thinkingStrategies for objective thinkingHow optimism and positive meaning can enhance your life in challenging situationsThe ways in which compassionate thinking can influence and inspire othersQuotes:"Thought is not reality. Yet, it is through thought that our realities are created.""Anxiety is thought without control. Peace is control by choosing the right thought.""Our thoughts hold the key to shaping our reality, influencing how we perceive the world.""Erin's story reminds us that resilience isn't about avoiding pain; it's about how we respond to it with compassion and forgiveness.""The concept of the 'second arrow' is a profound reminder that our suffering often stems from our reaction to life's unavoidable pains.""Curiosity can be a powerful tool for personal growth, helping us step out of our comfort zones and expand our horizons.""Mindfulness allows us to understand and accept ourselves, leading to more informed and thoughtful decision-making.""We all have biases, but recognizing them is the first step toward thinking more objectively and making fairer judgments.""Optimism isn't just wishful thinking; it's a mindset that can help us find positive meaning even in the most challenging circumstances.""Compassionate thinking has a ripple effect, inspiring others and creating a chain of positivity that can change lives."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

Today’s episode of Open Your Eyes delves into the theme of facing life's challenges, riding the waves, and emerging stronger. McKay invites listeners to join him in exploring some truly remarkable stories in which resilience and courage are demonstrated while navigating the turbulent waters - both literal and symbolic - in our lives.Throughout the episode, McKay takes listeners on a journey through the world of giant waves, highlighting the awe-inspiring ones found in such places as Nazaré, Portugal, the fearless surfers who chase them, and the risks and rewards of conquering these colossal forces of nature. But McKay doesn't stop at the world of surfing; he goes on to draw powerful parallels between these gigantic waves and the waves of challenges we all face in life as well as the qualities that are instrumental in addressing them. Be sure to tune in to this exceptional episode for a thought-provoking exploration of the role played by resilience, faith, and the courage in facing life's challenges head-on.Episode Highlights:Confronting life's literal or symbolic waves The scale and force of massive waves, particularly those at NazaréThe dangers and risks associated with pursuing these enormous wavesThe importance of commitment and self-belief in overcoming fearHow persistence and faith can help navigate life's darkest challengesThe power of community supportCourage, resilience, and the human spirit's ability to conquer adversityQuotes:"The ride was such a breakthrough for me and a moment that will be really special and monumental in my surfing career.""Sometimes the simple answer on how to get out of a pit is to just climb out - get up and climb out.""You and I may have fallen, and we may see no way out. But there is a parallel tunnel right next to us, and God and others who are there can help us find our way up and out of the pit that we're in.""Have faith. God's path for your life, like Joseph, may be winding and not clear at times, but that path is likely designed to help you become the best you can be.""Patience is not a fatalistic resignation. It is accepting a divine rhythm to life and trying and trying again.""The joy of being in the surf far outweighs the fear of failing again."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

This week, McKay takes listeners on a journey centered around courage and faith in the face of fear. Through his examination of some truly inspiring stories, he reminds us that having faith in ourselves, our loved ones, and a higher purpose can empower us to conquer fear and accomplish the extraordinary - to ‘do it afraid’.As McKay reflects upon these journeys in which individuals confront daunting challenges that test their mettle and belief in a brighter future, it becomes evident that fear and faith cannot coexist harmoniously. However, by choosing faith and persevering through fear, individuals can unlock remarkable potential in their lives. Quoting St. Augustine, McKay notes that "Faith is to believe what you do not see; the reward of faith is to see what you have believed." Join our host here today, and learn to embrace this faith, dispel the doubt, and enjoy the reward of understanding that you can do it afraid and find your own path to success.Episode Highlights:Janine's story and how courage isn't the absence of fear but the victory over itPeter's journey on the stormy sea and the concept of moving forward despite fear and adversityMarin's family's unwavering faith on the Oregon Trail showcasing faith as a potent force to conquer fear and achieve miraclesThe idea that faith and fear cannot coexist harmoniouslyEmbracing faith in yourselves, loved ones, and a higher purposeHow having faith can empower us to dispel doubt and accomplish the extraordinaryConfronting challenges head-on, regardless of fearThe transformative potential of faithQuotes:"I still feel fear, yet I am not afraid.""Courageous people do what they believe in their hearts they should do, no matter how they feel or what kind of doubt and fearful thoughts fill their minds.""Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.""Of all the liars in the world, the worst are our own fears."“Love casts out fear, but fear casts out love. This means that when we give into our fears, we love less, we care less, we place fear at the top of our priority list.”“Have faith in your decisions. Don't let fear keep you from them, and finish what you started, and place your faith in what you love.”Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

McKay continues his “What is a Leader” series this week by delving into even more critical leadership questions and drawing further inspiration from history and notable figures. In this installment he reviews the challenges faced by leaders and teams, and explores such themes as igniting change, fostering explosive growth, bending reality, and turning the tide.Throughout this thought-provoking episode, listeners gain insights into the power of focus, the significance of nurturing capable leaders, and the remarkable impact leaders can achieve by challenging established norms. Historical anecdotes and real-world examples illustrate how such leaders as Steve Jobs and George Washington motivated their teams to accomplish extraordinary feats by reshaping accepted realities and reigniting dedication. Join McKay as he continues this enlightening journey of leadership, change, and growth, and unveils valuable insights to elevate your leadership skills.Episode Highlights:The significance of igniting change in organizationsThe normalization of deviance and its impact on team performance and leadershipThe three progressive steps to regain your team's trust and commitment as a leaderLeading during challenging timesThe power of focusing your team on the most critical activities for exponential growthThe Reality Distortion Field and its role in bending reality to achieve the seemingly impossibleLeadership lessons from history emphasizing the importance of persistence and inspirationQuotes:"To change your team's reality, you must first change what they think of themselves.""Deciding what not to do is as important as deciding what to do.""Your reality is malleable in the presence of a new view and immense persistence.""Often, leaders must ignite change, and organizations and culture are hard to change."“Your job is to constantly help the team see True North.""People don't at first follow worthy causes. They follow worthy leaders.""As leaders, we have to give people reasons to buy into us.""Add ten followers to your organization, and you have the power of ten people. Add ten leaders to your organization, and you have the power of ten leaders times all the followers and leaders they influence."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

Welcome to the first installment of McKay’s enlightening new series where he delves into the topic of leadership. Today, he begins by finding answers to a few critical questions that can help us all lead better in our own lives.In a world filled with choices and opportunities, McKay explores the qualities that go into creating a great leader and the sacrifices they must make. He draws upon such historical examples as Grover “Cleve” Harrell and Martin Luther King Jr., to illustrate the impact of leadership on organizations and society, and emphasizes the significance of aspiring leadership and servant leadership. Throughout the episode, McKay shares heartfelt stories with listeners that highlight the profound influence leaders can have on those who follow them. Filled with insights into leadership's true essence and how it extends far beyond positions and titles, today’s episode offers a valuable opportunity to open your eyes to new perspectives on this vital component in all our lives - a powerful springboard for the coming installments in this series.Episode Highlights:The definition of leadership and its critical role in organizations and lifeThe rise and fall of Yellow CorporationThe causes behind major corporate failures and the importance of effective leadershipBlockbuster’s story and how failing to adapt to change led to its demiseAspiring leadership and its transformative powerSacrifices leaders makeThe significance of servant leadershipPersonal anecdotes and historical figures who exemplify the essence of leadershipQuotes:"Leaders lead by who they are and how they live. They lead by what they leave behind for others to follow.""Leadership is found doing the heavy lifting in the valleys with only a brief moment or two on the mountain.""Servant leadership is not about the recognition. It begins and ends with a true desire to serve.""This is most true when you look at the greatest leader in our Lord.""We think sometimes that prayer or faith or our attempt to sacrifice somehow pays God back for what He's done for us. But the truth is, we will never be able to give Him even a small portion of what He has given to us.""Mothers give without ever receiving what they deserve in return.""The realization of the magnitude of my debt to my mother came to me in phases haltingly as a teenager, in great heart-wrenching waves as a student, and then later as a young parent. Even now, as a middle-aged man, it settles on me from time to time and makes me weepy."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

This week, McKay invites listeners to join him in exploring the concept of destiny, and how it is a precious gift available to each and every one of us. Seizing this opportunity here today, our learned host encourages us all to believe in our destiny as a powerful catalyst for transformation that offers a pathway to a more purpose-driven and fulfilling existence.McKay begins by delving deeply into the life of James Garfield, the 20th President of the United States, examining how destiny played a pivotal role in his remarkable story, and goes on to explore themes of resilience, self-belief, and the profound impact of embracing one's destiny. From a life-altering accident to finding purpose and success, this episode demonstrates that recognizing and embracing your destiny can rewrite the script of your life. The episode also underscores that age is no barrier to realizing your destiny, citing inspiring stories of such notable individuals as Tiger Woods, Julie Andrews, and Nelson Mandela, who discovered their destinies at various stages in life. As McKay urges, do not let your opportunity pass you by—know that your destiny is well within your reach, understand that it might just be the driving force you need to transform your life, and take steps today to make it a reality.Episode Highlights:The concept of destiny and how it shapes our livesSome examples of the role destiny has played in people’s livesThe power of believing in one's destiny and the potential for transformationDestiny unveiled in the midst of adversityThe power of words in shaping destinyAge is no barrier to destinyYour destiny awaitsQuotes:"Providence only could have saved my life,’ he wrote years later, struggling to understand all that had happened to him in the intervening years. ‘Providence, therefore, thinks I am worth saving.’""When you give yourself to that feeling, to that destiny, you will find you. It will enrich and bring more meaning into your life.""But every day, in every walk of life, ordinary people do extraordinary things. You have a destiny, and you are extraordinary.""Regardless of our poor choices or mistakes or our past, we can change and choose the path that leads to our destiny.""There are men and women who make the world better just by being the kind of people they are.""Don't say, ‘I'm too old.’ Don't say, ‘I'm too young.’ You're not too young, too old, too far behind, too late, or too early to take your steps towards your destiny.""For I know what you have done, and I have opened a door for you that no one can shut." - "Destiny can manifest in the everyday lives of ordinary people who make a positive impact through their kindness, courage, loyalty, and integrity.""In a world full of uncertainty and challenges, this episode reminds us that destiny is within reach for everyone.""Your destiny is a journey worth taking, and it begins with believing in yourself."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/