Open Your Eyes with McKay Christensen

In yet another thought-provoking installment of the Open Your Eyes podcast today, McKay examines our capacity for remembering and forgetting, highlighting the immense power of memory and its far-reaching impact on our relationships, society, and personal development. Additionally, while he notes the importance of remembering and honoring the past, he also encourages listeners to find the courage to let go at times and fully embrace the beauty of the present moment as well.Along the way, McKay sheds light on the fascinating origins of Google and the profound significance of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, as well as timeless biblical verses which remind us that no one is truly forgotten. Through a series of inspiring stories, he illuminates the strength that comes from acknowledging our history and the sacrifices of those who came before us while honoring their enduring legacies. McKay also invites us to contemplate the liberating potential of forgetting certain aspects of our past, which can allow us to find joy and embrace the positive outcomes that emerge from our mistakes and life experiences. Prepare to be both inspired and enlightened as McKay unveils the extraordinary power that lies within each and every one of us and offers us the keys to unlock the profound potential hidden within the formidable acts of remembering and forgetting.Episode Highlights:The journey of Larry Page and Sergey Brin, founders of GoogleThe Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and dedication of its sentinelsThe power of memory, remembering, and honoring those who have servedThe impact of forgettingCultivating gratitude and connectionTechnology’s role in tracking trends and language evolutionThe divine nature of remembering and God's constant careOvercoming feeling forgotten through reassurance and biblical versesRemembering sacrifices and the story of William Henry ChristmanHeroic acts from 9/11 and the importance of remembering braveryQuotes:"Here rests in honored glory an American soldier known but to God.""There is power that will come into you. There's power in your life in remembering.""Remembering is a divine character trait. I don't think God forgets.""I believe that at every hour of every day, He sees us, remembers us, and is there to help us.""In times of illness or trial, it's easy to think that one is forgotten, but nobody is truly forgotten.""You may not have an extraordinary story, but you can remember those around you and help them feel cared for and watched.""Forget what hurt you, but never forget what taught you. There is power in forgiving and forgetting.""Memories play a confusing role in life. They make us laugh when we remember the times we cried and make us cry when we remember the times we laughed.""Remember and forget a few things, and you will live a happier and more memorable life as a result."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

The profound themes of destiny, instinctual guidance, and the transformative power of gaining enlightening perspectives come under McKay’s learned scrutiny in today’s episode of the Open Your Eyes podcast. Emphasizing the significance of recognizing one's true potential and purpose, he urges listeners to be curious, to listen, to follow their instincts, and to do so with  faith, as they undertake their quest to discover and fulfill their own destinies.Through his trademark captivating stories and poignant examples, McKay paints a vivid picture of how following instincts can unlock the most productive and satisfying paths in life, while highlighting the importance of seeking diverse perspectives for personal growth and transformation. As the episode unfolds, he shares the rich symbolism of the Stone of Destiny, the enthralling story of the British monarchy, the intricate interplay between destiny and individual life paths, and the power of both instincts and faith. He also goes on to recount such inspiring stories as those of The Other Side Academy, King George, Katherine Johnson, and Oprah Winfrey. In the end, our thoughtful and thought provoking host encourages us all to seek insightful perspectives, trust our inner compass, and embark on the journey to unlock our hidden destinies.Episode Highlights:Destiny shaping the British monarchySymbolism of the Stone of DestinyGuiding instinctsStories of inspiring journeysUnlocking destinies through new perspectivesEmbracing gifts and talentsExploring destiny's transformative opportunitiesThe power of instincts and faithQuotes:"Your instincts are the treasure map of your soul's satisfaction.""Following our instincts unlocks our most productive, satisfying lives.""Destiny is not a matter of chance; it is a matter of choice.”"Your gifts are diverse and given to you for your benefit and suited to your needs.""Seek different perspectives, for it is through new insights that we gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.""Destiny is not found in the mundane routine of life; it is discovered in the pursuit of curiosity and the openness to new experiences.""Embrace your gifts and let them guide you towards your purpose, for within them lies the path to your destiny.""If you really embrace that you have a destiny and the concept that life is a treasure map and you're on the hunt for your destiny, just like a treasure hunter hunts for a treasure, you will take a gamble, listen more, and see the potential miracle in things that come your way.""The foundation stone of your destiny sits on your faith. Destiny is spelled F-A-I-T-H.""Everything wasn't known, the road wasn't perfectly clear, and at some point, they had to trust themselves and God.""Embrace the fact that you have an instinct for a reason. And that reason is that you're meant to become more like your maker and rise to fulfill the part you play in this amazing experience we call life.""Seek your purpose, embrace it, and as you do, a greater sense of self and adventure will enter your life."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

This week, McKay shines his spotlight on the theme of patience and waiting, emphasizing the profound importance of cultivating patience as a skill that can unlock the immense potential within each individual. Throughout the episode, he highlights the far-reaching positive impact that patience can have on various aspects of life, while also offering some examples that demonstrate the dire consequences of succumbing to impatience.Delving into the profound significance of patience, particularly in a world that thrives on instant gratification, our host reveals the immense power that lies within our waiting periods, and how seizing these moments can lead to extraordinary outcomes. The many hidden treasures of patience and waiting are on full display here today as McKay inspires listeners to embrace the art of waiting with open arms and discover the incredible possibilities that await.Episode Highlights:The value of recognizing one's potential and purpose, and striving for improvementThe consequences of impatience and the negative outcomes it can lead toThe many benefits of patienceThe significance of waiting in various aspects of lifeUsing waiting periods for productive actions and personal growthPractical examples of making the most of waiting timesWaiting engaged and parentingMaking waiting time valuable for growth and building strong foundationsQuotes:"In the big things and little things of life, it's what you do while you wait that matters.""Patience is strongly correlated with per capita income, meaning patient people earn more money.""Whatever the outcomes of patience, the ability to wait patiently is a skill that can benefit you and me.""There's a difference between parents who just wait and parents who wait engaged.""Those who wait upon the Lord will renew their strength. They shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint." - Isaiah 40:31"Patience isn't waiting; it's how you behave while you're waiting. Do all you can in the gaps in your day. Make your waiting the best ever.""Time is one of God's best tools to help you win in life. Lean into waiting with faith in Him, and watch as you rise to walk, run, and travel your best life.""Have patience with all things, but first of all, with yourself." - Saint Francis de SalesLinks:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

McKay is back this week for another inspiring episode as he explores the compelling theme of taking back control in our lives. Guiding the audience through the maze of personal agency, our host skillfully intertwines research and observations with some truly awe-inspiring stories to illuminate the significance of maintaining a sense of control and also provide practical strategies to regain it in the face of adversity.Along the way, McKay unveils the captivating world of aircraft carriers, painting a vivid picture of their colossal presence as symbols of control. Citing research findings as well as the incredible stories of Admiral Jim Stockdale and Viktor Frankl, he showcases the stark contrast between individuals with high and low senses of control, and encourages listeners to prioritize mental peace and embrace grace and resilience when faced with adversity. This powerful episode concludes with McKay reminding listeners of their inherent power to choose their responses and beckoning them to unlock the transformative potential of taking control in their lives.Episode Highlights:The concept of sense of control and its impact on mental healthVictor Frankl's experiences and observations on maintaining control in extreme circumstancesThe freedom to choose our responses and practical strategies for regaining controlThe significance of taking back control in our livesThe Stockdale Paradox and Admiral Jim Stockdale's resilienceReflecting on past choices and realizing the power to change future outcomesThe impact of choices on personal growth and unexpected opportunitiesUnderstanding who we are, what we want, and what truly mattersThe significance of pausing, choosing, and embracing the space between stimulus and responseFacing the brutal facts and rising to become our true selvesQuotes:"Sense of control refers to an individual's belief in their ability to influence the outcomes of events in their lives.""Between stimulus and response, man has the freedom to choose.""Step back, pause, and choose your response to regain control.""Why disturb your mental peace for something that doesn't really matter or isn't even worth the trouble?""You must never confuse faith that you will prevail in the end, which you can never afford to lose, with the discipline to confront the most brutal facts of your current reality, whatever they may be.""Every good choice we make lets us say, 'I'm going to do my best and let the rest take care of itself.' It gives us control.’""When you make up your mind, you can do remarkable things. But it is the making up of the mind that is the challenge.""You don't have to do everything, but you can do something good today. So choose that good thing and watch how you will rise to take back control and be who you know you can and should be."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

In today’s episode, McKay delves into the formidable quality of courage and its significant impact on our lives. Drawing upon the inspiring story of Helen Young Hayes as a springboard, he explores the invaluable lessons we can learn from her experiences and encourages us to tap into our own reservoirs of courage so we can begin living a life of limitless possibilities.Mckay navigates pivotal themes surrounding courage such as its origins, its transformative power in the face of adversity, and some practical ways to cultivate and strengthen our own courage. He demonstrates that, by embracing challenges, taking calculated risks, and fearlessly pursuing our dreams, we can all be empowered to unlock our full potential and lead lives filled with purpose and growth. Join McKay on this inspiring journey here today as he shares profound insights and actionable strategies that will allow you to harness the power of courage and embark on a life of extraordinary possibilities.Episode Highlights:The challenges that Helen Young Hayes has faced in her life and how she has courageously responded to themThe impact of courage on personal growth, resilience, and finding a higher purpose in lifeThe role of psychological factors and values in fostering courageUnderstanding the worst-case scenario as a tool for building couragePractical steps to cultivate courage in our livesUnderstanding the role of courage in overcoming uncertainty and taking actionChallenging negative thinking patterns and focusing on the positiveEmbracing vulnerability and acknowledging self-doubt as a path to growthCultivating courage in difficult conversations and decision-makingRecognizing the impact of courage on personal and team successOvercoming obstacles and pursuing goals through acts of courageQuotes:"Courage is the ability to act in the face of fear and especially difficulty. It is the willingness to take risks and face the work needed, even when the outcome is uncertain or potentially dangerous.""Courage is essential for growth, and few things in life that are worthwhile and remarkable happen without courage.""To muster courage is to bring together your bravery, to assess your path forward, and display that you will do what you set out to do.""Courage is not the absence of fear; it is the willingness to act despite fear.""The worst-case scenario is often not as catastrophic as we imagine, and realizing this can give us the courage to take the necessary steps forward.""By identifying our fears, we reduce their power over us.""Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak.""Courage is about facing our mistakes, priorities, or inconvenience.""Your courage can have a ripple effect on those around you."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

Welcome to another enlightening episode of Open Your Eyes this week as McKay takes us all on an inspiring exploration of the rising tide in our lives and the transformative power of faith. With vivid storytelling and profound insights, he presents examples and perspectives that empower us all to harness these rising tides in our own lives and break free from the currents that hold us back.Illustrating the unstoppable nature of tides as a metaphor for the forces that ensure our upward trajectory, McKay encourages listeners to view them as a source of inspiration and empowerment. Additionally, he emphasizes the power of love and belief in overcoming even the most daunting obstacles. Ultimately, McKay invites all listeners here today to embrace the rising tides in their own lives, find strength in faith, and navigate the currents with unwavering determination, knowing that they have the capacity to transform their journeys and reach their goals.Episode Highlights:The stories of Natalia Molchanova and Audrey MestreDylan's gripping tale of survival, swept away by powerful currents and saved by unwavering faith and loveThe significance of ocean currents and tides in shaping the underwater landscapeThe inspiring journey of Heather Brown and Tyler SmithMiraculous encounter between Heather, Tyler, and Eric Wagner in a moment of prayerFaith prevailing in adversity, providing strength through life's stormsThe impact of faith in navigating challenges, as exemplified by McKay's father and Dorothy Fletcher's experiencesQuotes:"Faith is the power to continue even when you can't see the end outcome.""There is a tide in life that can lift us despite the storms or the winds.""We glory in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation worketh patience, and patience worketh hope.""Faith is a rising tide that lifts you in life.""Don't ever doubt that things have been ordered and prepared for you.""When there's hope in the future, there is power in the present."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

Today, McKay explores the pressing issue of anxiety, employing a masterful blend of personal anecdotes, thought-provoking statistics, and the inspiring story of Emma Stone to unveil the awe-inspiring power of purpose in conquering anxiety and unearthing greatness from within.Amidst this exploration, our host uncovers a fundamental element crucial for understanding and navigating the complex emotion that is anxiety: clarity of purpose. By defining our aspirations and intentions in life, we not only gain a sense of direction but also attract the necessary resources to transform our dreams into reality. Furthermore, purpose serves as a psychological anchor, granting stability amidst the tumultuous waves of life and shielding us from the clutches of anxiety. McKay’s message today is clear: embrace your purpose, release your worries, and unlock your true potential, so you can pave your way from the chaos of great messes to the brilliance of greatness that lies within each of us.Episode Highlights:The rising crisis of anxiety among teenage girls and adultsEmma Stone's inspiring journeyThe power of purposeDefined purpose's impactTransformative effects of purpose on young peopleThe importance of purpose in organizational success, employee satisfaction, and reducing workplace anxiety.The impact of purpose on worriesStories showcasing the power of inspiration, resilience, and determinationQuotes:"You are bigger than your worries. You are bigger than the stress and anxiety that may come your way from time to time.""When you have a purpose, you can set aside your worries.""Purpose is a forward-looking directionality and intention to do something in the world.""A sense of purpose gives us psychological homeostasis, allowing us to stay stable and avoid anxiety.""If the world is having its way with you, then perhaps it's time to open your eyes and put on a new mindset.""Don't let the worries of tomorrow use up the strength of today.""The inspired path is paved with less worries.""Purpose helps you focus your energy on the good things you're doing today rather than the worries of tomorrow.""Become a model for your children and team in turning a mess into greatness."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

McKay examines the explores the opportunity to begin again in life and business. Citing a number of examples, including Coca Cola’s infamous launch of "New Coke" in the 1980s, he illustrates how failure is not the end, but rather an opportunity to learn and regroup. As McKay notes, beginning again each and every day is an essential component in life - a true gift from God, allowing us to continually wash away the past and start anew. Throughout the episode, McKay explores this idea of beginning again from various angles, and argues that failure is not something to be avoided but rather a natural and necessary part of growth. He also highlights the importance of resilience and not giving up in the face of setbacks, sharing the inspiring story of Lauren, who lost her hand in a plane propeller accident, to demonstrate how starting over can be a difficult but necessary step towards growth and finding a greater purpose. Mistakes are not failures, but rather lessons to be learned, so follow our host’s sage advice here today and begin to trust in the possibility of a new beginning so you can pursue a better version of yourself.Episode Highlights:Famous artists’ struggles with self-doubt and discouragementSuccess as a series of nonfatal mistakesPractical tips for beginning againThe role of sleep in regenerating our bodies and minds for a fresh startDefining mistakes as opportunities to learnThe story of “New Coke”The importance of resilience and not giving up in the face of setbacksQuotes:"Success is a series of nonfatal mistakes, and masterpieces are created in days of showing up discouraged.""Whoever you are, wherever you are, whatever you've been through, it's never too late to begin again.""You can't start the next chapter of your life if you keep rereading the last one.""In pursuit of your life's purpose, it's expected that you begin again over and over.""Don't worry, it's not too late. You can begin again.""Sometimes a failure is exactly what you need to confirm your direction and begin again.""There are no failures, only lessons to be learned.""As the great author said, ‘The essence of man is imperfection.’ And I would say the essence of learning and becoming who you're supposed to become is learning from and embracing imperfection.""Don't listen to the lies that tell you it's too impossible or too hard to start again. You can."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

This week, McKay brings to life the topics of leadership and influence. He begins with the story of Oscar Hammerstein, illustrating the power of genuine influence.  Real influence is gained through understanding others’ perspectives and being patient in their attempts to improve. It also grows with the proper use of inspiration, humor, and creativity in our relationships.McKay also shares principles of influence from researchers like Chaldini.  He emphasizes the importance of authenticity, empathy, and understanding. By mastering these, individuals can gain more influence with others in their lives and become more effective leaders. He argues that being an excellent listener, providing great follow-up, being helpful and service-oriented, and having knowledge about one's product also increases influence. Filled with ample leadership and influence skills himself, McKay provides practical insights and tools here today that can help us all become more effective leaders and parents.Episode Highlights:Influence as a critical trait for effective leadershipGenuine collaboration and understanding others' perspectives Inspiration, humor, and creativityGenuine empathy and understandingExcellence and knowledge about one's productSimple explanations and the contrast principleReciprocation and social influenceThe role of feedback, repetition, and consistency in establishing positive habits and beliefsQuotes:"Influence is the key talent of a true leader.""The best influencers of our day are the most genuine.""The most important thing is to be genuine, to be empathetic, to understand others' perspectives.""Excellence is attractive.""Remember, a confused mind says ‘No’, so make things as simple as possible.""When you feel in debt to a person, you're more apt to be influenced by them.""There's something about seeing others using the product... that ignites interest and curiosity and creates influence.""The pursuit of competence or improvement had a dopaminergic effect. Feedback was essential to their motivation."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

Welcome to today’s episode of the Open Your Eyes podcast where McKay shines his spotlight on navigating the peaks and valleys that we all experience. Noting that life can throw unexpected challenges our way, McKay examines how these challenges can affect our perspective and offers insight into how to navigate them with a positive outlook. By exploring the experiences of people from different walks of life, McKay provides a diverse range of perspectives on resilience, strength, and grace in the face of adversity. In addition to sharing their stories, McKay also highlights the importance of maintaining a positive outlook and finding the hidden good in difficult times. Throughout the episode, McKay emphasizes the importance of being able to learn from our experiences and use the pain and discomfort of the valleys in our lives to propel us towards growth and change. His main message here today is yet another powerful one: by embracing reality and stepping out of our comfort zone, we can prosper through both peaks and valleys and ultimately become the best versions of ourselves.Episode Highlights:Peaks and valleys in lifeStories of people who have faced challenging situationsThe importance of perspective in both peaks and valleysOvercoming challenging situationsFinding the hidden good in difficult timesThe importance of resilience and determination in overcoming adversityThe power of choice in shaping our response to difficult situationsAllowing yourself grace in navigating challenging timesLeaving a peak too soon and staying in a valley too longSteps to follow in the valleysTraps to avoidEmbracing reality, stepping out of your comfort zone, and bringing about the needed change in your lifePreparing to handle the next peaks or valleys betterQuotes:"It's natural for everyone everywhere to have peaks and valleys in work and business and life.""You can change your valley into a peak when you find and use the good that is hidden in the bad times in the valley.""Sometimes we get moved about in ways we don't want. And the outcome of these ups and downs in life always aren't easy and are disruptive.""Conversely, the view at life's peaks are just as warped. At peaks in life, we think the market will always grow, our business will always be strong and the sun will always shine.""You don't have to be perfect or have all the answers. You just have to choose to keep going.""At the peaks in our business or life, what we learn and do can keep us from the valleys in our life.""You see, if you're in a valley right now and feeling some pain, then it might be a great time to ask what you are to learn and how you can step out of your comfort zone.""A comfort zone is a beautiful place, but nothing grows there.""There is power in seeing things as they really are. It's called reality.""Whether you're at a peak or a valley in your life or business, they don't last. And what we learn in our peaks and valleys prepares us to handle the next peaks or valleys better."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/