Open Your Eyes with McKay Christensen

McKay examines the transformative power of words and how they forge our identities and destinies in today’s episode. Exploring the significance of the labels we adopt and the profound effect words have on our perception and actions, our host invites listeners to reconsider their self-perceptions and strive for excellence.Expanding on this theme, McKay shares captivating stories, such as a rancher's encounter with a federal agent, an MIT classroom experiment, and Harper Lee's inspiring journey, each underscoring the influence of language on our lives. These anecdotes, coupled with scientific research, illustrate the dramatic shifts that positive affirmations and constructive self-talk can initiate, propelling us beyond mediocrity to embrace our exceptional selves. McKay's narrative here today is a compelling reminder that the words we choose to internalize and the labels we accept can either constrain us or catalyze our growth, highlighting the essential role of humility and faith throughout.Episode Highlights:The deep impact of labels and perceived authority on our sense of self and our actionsHow the labels we adopt can shape our identity and influence our life's trajectoryThe significant role a single word plays in altering our perceptions of others and ourselvesCelebrating the power of belief and encouragement in overcoming obstacles and achieving greatnessThe transformative effect of positive affirmations and self-talk on personal developmentHow words scientifically influence our mental and physical well-beingHow humility and faith in the words we internalize can lead to meaningful changes in our livesEncouraging a reevaluation of the words we hold onto as a path toward growth and escaping mediocrityQuotes:"Words do create worlds.""Sometimes labels are nothing more than a meaningless badge in the arena of life.""One word, one label can change our perception of ourselves.""Every day and in every walk of life, ordinary people do extraordinary things.""Words are a big deal. They can bring joy, answer prayers, give belief, and change perspectives.""What you believe, the words you lay hold on, matter.""Remember the power of words to change your life, to change your mind, to give you gifts meant for you.""Mediocrity is pretty darn comfortable.""The truth is we often place labels on ourselves, such as talented or unable, unworthy, fake, selfish, ugly.""You are extraordinary. Sometimes we and you need a reminder of just how precious you are in the eyes of your Maker."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

In this latest episode of Open Your Eyes, McKay explores the theme of transcending superficial living to embrace a life of depth and purpose. Through captivating stories of individuals who ventured beyond their comfort zones, he illuminates the transformative power of living in the moment and the significant impact it can have on one's life journey.McKay recounts the compelling life of Christopher Reeve, who navigated from his aspirations in the theater to an iconic role as Superman, and later, a challenging journey following a severe accident, highlighting resilience and the essence of seizing every moment. The narrative also delves into Shonda Rhimes' Year of Yes, Christopher Columbus's daring exploration, and Louis Zamperini's survival tale during World War II. Through these stories, McKay encourages listeners to pursue a deeper, more engaged existence, emphasizing the importance of meaningful connections and the beauty of fully experiencing the present. The episode concludes with a powerful call to action for listeners to move beyond the shallows into the enriching depths of life, where true fulfillment and happiness reside.Episode Highlights:Christopher Reeve's journey from theater to Hollywood stardom, and his resilience in facing life after a paralyzing accidentShonda Rhimes' Year of Yes journey, showcasing how embracing fear can lead to unexpected growth and fulfillmentChristopher Columbus's exploration as a symbol of the courage required to explore the uncharted territories of our livesThe story of Louis Zamparini, illustrating the strength of the human spirit in the face of extreme adversity during World War IICultivating deep, meaningful relationships and being truly present in our interactionsThe transformative effect of living in the momentBreaking free from the superficiality of daily life to discover the richness of deeper, more meaningful experiencesEmbracing life's challenges with courage, thereby enriching their journey with purpose and connectionQuotes:"Either you choose to stay in the shallow end of the pool, or you go out into the ocean.""The very act of doing the thing that scared me undid the fear. It made it not scary.""A moment of pain is worth a lifetime of glory.""Most of us have two lives, the lives we live and the lives we're capable of living.""Nothing is impossible. The word itself says ‘I'm possible.’""In the shallows is not where the real you is found.""The deep ocean can be a lonely place, but remember, you can thrive in deep waters because you are extraordinary.""Every day, ordinary people do extraordinary things.""God has given you the choices before you, because if you choose well, you can make something extraordinary of your life and the lives of those around you.""We're just halfway towards who we're meant to become."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

Propelled by the truly remarkable story of Eddie Jaku - born Abraham Jakubowicz - a Holocaust survivor and self proclaimed “happiest man on Earth”, McKay provides a powerful reminder here today that we all have a valuable choice available to us in our lives. Expanding upon the invaluable lessons about resilience and the pursuit of happiness embedded in Jaku’s tale, our host urges us all to choose happiness, kindness, and gratitude to inspire positive change in both ourselves and others.Along the way, McKay delves into the complex emotions of comparison and envy, exploring how they impact our happiness and well-being. Through insightful studies and personal anecdotes, he uncovers the detrimental effects of constantly worrying about others' opinions and comparing ourselves to them. McKay also discusses the importance of giving grace and offering encouragement, highlighting how these simple acts can significantly enhance our own happiness and that of others. Make the right choice here today by tuning into this inspiring episode and discovering the significant impact that consistently choosing happiness can have upon your life and the lives of those around you.Episode Highlights:Jaku's life and the lessons it offersThe enduring power of choice and resilienceInsights on cultivating happiness and fulfillmentExploring the impact of comparison and envy on happiness and well-beingUnderstanding the power of giving grace and kindness to othersOvercoming resentment and finding contentment through gratitudeEmbracing adventure and risk for true happiness beyond routineThe significance of encouragement in fostering happiness and fulfillmentHappiness as a conscious choice, achievable through acts of kindness and gratitude.Quotes:"Happiness does not fall from the sky. It's in your hands.""The answer is not what can be done to you to make you happy, it's what can be done inside you to help you choose to be happy.""It is my personal approach that creates the climate. It is my daily mood that makes the weather.""Most people are worried about themselves and their own issues, not whether your nails are done or if you've gained weight or aren't working.""When you take envy out of your heart. It needs to be replaced with something. Otherwise the void will be filled with envy again.""It is an amazing power. It is happiness that comes into your life when you extend kindness to another person.""Happiness is a choice to do a few simple and good things. Choose happiness and watch, you'll live a different life, walk a different path.""Focus on yourself and stop worrying about others, because unless you're privy to every single part of their life, you won't know what's going on.""Resentment is a real happiness robbing feeling. And it can be crippling.""When you apologize and you choose to be kind and see things from another's view, all things become happier."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

In today’s episode of the Open Your Eyes podcast, McKay offers a number of suggestions, gleaned from both his own and others’ experiences over the years, that can help us all seize the moment and live our best life. Noting that transformative lessons can be learned from unexpected sources, our host explores how simple yet profound wisdom can guide listeners towards personal growth and fulfillment.Throughout the episode, McKay draws inspiration from the remarkable journey of Joel Osteen, highlighting the importance of authenticity and resilience in pursuing aspirations. Through Osteen's experiences, McKay underscores the significance of immediate action in seizing opportunities and fostering meaningful connections. He also reflects upon the power of responsiveness, agility, humility, and generosity in shaping both personal and professional success. Sharing real-world examples and insightful commentary, our host demonstrates how these traits can transform interactions, decisions, and overall outlook on life. As we all embark on this enlightening journey together, McKay encourages us to open our eyes to new possibilities and embrace humility and generosity along the path toward becoming that person whose character may very well end up influencing others.Episode Highlights:Joel Osteen's journey and how it underscores the significance of authenticity in leadership and self-developmentImmediate action as a catalyst for productivity and effective decision-makingPrioritizing meaningful connections to foster stronger relationships and collaborative opportunitiesThe resilience and belief in oneself required to overcoming self-doubt, as exemplified in Osteen's journeyHow adversity offers opportunities for growth and discovering one's purpose in lifeHow transformative wisdom shapes perspectives and guides personal growth and developmentEmbracing change and learning from experiences as proactive steps towards growth How embracing responsiveness and humility foster agility, empathy, and collective successQuotes:"Don't use your energy to worry. Use your energy to believe.""You need to associate with people who inspire you, people that challenge you to rise higher, people that make you better.""You will never change what you tolerate.""Words do create worlds.""Just because we're in a stressful situation doesn't mean that we have to get stressed out.""The life in front of you is far more important than the life behind you.""When you're dealing with people, this habit of acting immediately says that you're important to me.""You know, being responsive is a powerful thing in person and in this digital age in which we live.""Change freezes their action and they spend more mental energy talking about and worrying about the change than moving forward.""Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it's thinking of yourself less.""The law of prosperity is generosity. If you want more, give more."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

Highlighting the fact that our reality is a reflection of our strongest beliefs, Mckay explores the concept of our "belief window" and its profound influence on our lives here today. Throughout the episode, our host demonstrates that we all have such a belief window through which we shape, color, and filter what we experience each day, and prompts us all to consider how our beliefs can mold our actions and decisions.McKay begins by illustrating the limitations of narrow perspectives with the Japanese proverb, "a frog in a well cannot conceive of the ocean," and shares a lesson from Dr. Stephen Covey on the power of imagination to effect change. He then delves into the inspiring story of Coach Dabo Swinney, highlighting how belief in oneself can overcome adversity and lead to remarkable success. McKay also goes on to emphasize the importance of questioning and challenging our beliefs, offering practical strategies to replace limiting beliefs with empowering ones. As you will hear today, through cultivating a positive self-talk mindset and embracing the journey of transformation, we can all harness the power of our beliefs to shape a more fulfilling and successful life.Episode Highlights:How imagination can reshape our reality and drive meaningful change in our livesInspiring stories of resilience and determination, illustrating how belief in oneself can overcome even the greatest challengesThe importance of questioning our beliefs and challenging the narratives that hold us backThe profound influence of self-talk on our beliefs and behaviorsThe science behind habit formation and how to leverage the power of repetition to instill new beliefs and behaviorsThe importance of self-compassion in challenging our beliefs and fostering personal growthEmbarking on a journey of self-discovery and transformation as we navigate the complexities of our belief windowQuotes:"You have a gift, a God-given gift, that no other living thing has: the ability to imagine, to see yourself in a situation other than the one that you're in.""Your reality is a reflection of your strongest belief. Belief is a powerful tool, and it drives our life more than we realize.""You are not defined by where you've been, only by where you're going.""Focus on what you love about the other person... Be a light and not a judge.""There's a space between the trigger and response in which I can choose to act differently.""Your beliefs can change, and that will enable you to change. It's time to replace your beliefs on your belief window and begin to live the life that you can live.""As we challenge our beliefs, we begin to see how we can change, how to be proactive rather than passively following whatever wrongs life has placed on our belief window."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

Emphasizing the importance of communication and engagement, today’s episode finds McKay exploring fresh perspectives on the power of really connecting with others. Throughout the episode, he navigates through the nuances of genuine communication, inviting listeners to embrace authenticity and meaningful interactions.McKay draws parallels between the remarkable abilities of animals and the unique strengths of humans, emphasizing the significance of effective communication in both survival and social interactions. Through his trademark anecdotes and insights, McKay underscores the importance of authenticity and confidence in fostering genuine connections, encouraging listeners to embrace their true selves and prioritize meaningful conversations. By recognizing the impact of anxiety on social interactions and the relationship between self-esteem and relationships, McKay empowers listeners to cultivate self-awareness and practice active listening, ultimately paving the way for deeper, more fulfilling connections in all aspects of life.Episode Highlights:Exploring animal abilities and human strengthsEmphasizing confidence and self-acceptanceAnxiety's impact on social interactionsExamining self-esteem's role in relationshipsCommunication anecdotes and insightsEncouraging authenticity in conversationsEmbracing your authentic selfQuotes:"Like a warthog's tusks, this is our gift.""Your voice has been given to you for a reason, to help you navigate and improve your life.""When we talk to someone, we connect, and connection is our gift.""People with high self-esteem perform better in school and at work.""Just be the best version of yourself.""Authenticity is about stripping away the layers of pretense.""When you talk to people, even if it is uncomfortable... if you are sincere, they won't take offense.""Choose to have a conversation with people rather than talking to people.""Authenticity will win every time." "Put your very best confidence, authenticity, and awareness to work and watch... you will create friends, connections, and bring great blessings to your life as a result."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

Diving into gripping tales of resilience, from scams to comical mishaps, this week’s episode highlights the power of belief to navigate adversity. Noting that it serves as a guiding force through life's challenges, McKay demonstrates how belief empowers individuals to rise above obstacles and find hope in the face of uncertainty.Delving deeper into the episode's themes, our host explores the manner in which belief shapes responses to challenges. From the harrowing experiences of scam victims like Christy Browne to the comedic missteps of athletes like Mark Sanchez, belief emerges as a foundational element in resilience. Through anecdotes and reflections, McKay emphasizes the importance of maintaining belief in times of crisis and shares strategies for cultivating resilience and optimism. Overall, he reminded us that belief is not just a concept but a transformative force that sustains and empowers us to overcome life's trials.Episode Highlights:Riveting accounts of scam victims which expose tactics exploiting fear and urgencyResilience and humor in athletes facing unexpected challengesBelief's power in overcoming obstacles and fostering self-discovery.Insights into psychological mechanisms behind scamsStrategies for strengthening belief through daily reaffirmation of personal valuesHumor's role in mitigating fear and fostering optimism amidst adversityDrawing inspiration from individuals persisting in their goals despite setbacks, fueled by unwavering beliefThe transformative role belief plays in navigating life's trials and finding hope in uncertaintyQuotes:"When we're stressed, we often set aside our thinking and act in ways that we might not act if we had a few minutes to think through our actions.""Belief is the ultimate veil of our spirits, shaping who we are and how we respond to life's challenges.""Instead of her fall being the story that is told, it's her recovery, her belief in herself, that overshadows any misfortune that came her way.""Keep your belief. God will see you through. Keep your belief. There's more for you waiting. There's peace and joy and triumph waiting.""Fear makes the crazy kick in, and we've all experienced that kind of crazy from time to time.""When you lighten up, it's like opening your eyes to a new view of life. You smile. You feel better. You don't obsess, waffle, catastrophize.""Life is a joy. Life is funny. Life has so many beautiful things waiting for us. But instead of focusing on them, we let our fears and worries consume our view.""Under every mistake or misfortune lies the belief we hold of ourselves."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

This week, McKay delves into the profound theme of openness - essentially, the power of being open and how you can live an open life. Throughout the episode, he delves into the intricate facets of openness - unraveling its significance in personal and professional growth - and explores the transformative power of embracing openness as a catalyst for growth and self-discovery.Listeners are treated to a compelling narrative interwoven with valuable insights and practical wisdom, as our host shares details of Jackie Pflug's harrowing experience aboard EgyptAir Flight 648 which highlights the resilience and courage fostered by an open mindset. McKay also notes the common barriers to openness, offers practical strategies for navigating skepticism and fear, and draws parallels from biblical teachings and literary classics which unveil timeless wisdom on the power of openness in shaping personal and collective destinies. Join McKay here today and begin to embrace your own journey of openness, unlocking the door to a life filled with possibility and purpose.Episode Highlights:Jackie Pflug's experience on EgyptAir flight 648 showcasing resilience and courage nurtured by opennessThe  transformative impact of openness in adversityCuriosity, empathy, humility, and compassion as drivers of self-discovery and growthPractical strategies to tackle skepticism and fear hindering opennessEncouraging listeners to reassess views, embracing authenticity and opennessThe power of openness in shaping personal and collective destinies - from biblical teachings to classics Embracing the openness journeyQuotes:"Nobody can hurt me. The hijackers can do whatever they want to my body, but I'm going to be safe. If I live, I'll be okay. If I die, I'll be okay.""When you are an open cup in life, you choose more and you choose better.""Being open minded does not imply that one is indecisive, wishy-washy, or incapable of thinking for oneself.""The margin between a good life and a great life for you and me is very thin. It's only a few key actions and a way of seeing the world away from a great life.""God wants to enter your life, and good things are waiting for you... But you have to open the door.""As a result of…learning to be open, the blinders over my eyes were being lifted, revealing a world more beautiful than I imagined.""When we're open, we take in new ideas, we get inspired, we see other people. They influence us. Our life becomes richer.""One of those key actions is to be open. And with that, we'll see that power and peace can enter your work, your thinking, and your life."“When we empty our vessel of bad habits, new habits enter. When we empty our vessel of pride or focus on ourselves or our stubbornness, we can fill our vessel with good things that God has in store for us.”"Let's open ourselves to let those good things and God into our life."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

Welcome to the latest episode of Open Your Eyes where, today, McKay delves into the theme of seizing opportunities, highlighting how individuals navigate life's challenges and capitalize on unexpected chances for growth and success. Through his trademark inspiring stories and insightful reflections, McKay explores the transformative power of recognizing and embracing your opportunities.Throughout the episode, McKay shares poignant narratives of resilience and determination, illustrating this theme. From overcoming homelessness and adversity during the Great Depression to demonstrating resilience in the face of hardship, each story demonstrates the transformative impact of taking advantage of opportunities as they arise. McKay also explores lessons from renowned figures like Gregg Popovich and Will Hardy, showcasing how relentless dedication and seizing every chance can lead to extraordinary success. Through his own daughter’s triumph as a dancer and choreographer, McKay underscores the importance of resilience, determination, and seizing opportunities as challenges present themselves. Ultimately, these stories serve as powerful reminders of the potential for growth and success when individuals embrace and capitalize on the opportunities that come their way.Episode Highlights:The transformative power of seizing opportunitiesResilience in the face of adversity and creating opportunities for yourselfThe snowball effect of seizing opportunitiesThe importance of persistence and resilience in overcoming setbacks and obstacles on the path to successThe role of mentors and support networks in helping individuals recognize and seize opportunitiesPractical strategies for creating and seizing opportunities in various aspects of life, from education to entrepreneurshipInspirational quotes and anecdotes illustrating themes of overcoming adversity, seizing opportunities, and achieving success against all oddsEncouragement for listeners are inspired to look for opportunities in their own lives and take bold action to pursue their goals and aspirations, regardless of circumstancesQuotes:"You might have to look in unexpected places and think in new and creative ways.""Success is the product of opportunity.""Finding the opportunity is a matter of believing that it's there... If opportunity doesn't knock, build a door.""Opportunity-creating is contagious to your family and your team. They will follow your example.""Every day, in every walk of life, ordinary people do extraordinary things.""Opportunities in life are what you make of them.""There is opportunity in your life, in your setbacks and your failures.""Almost every failed opportunity leads to the next right opportunity along the way.""Failure helps you get clear... Use these failures to get more and more clear about what you're looking for."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

The theme of the unexpected provides the focus for today’s episode as McKay explores its profound impact on our lives. Gripping stories such as airline emergencies and life-altering accidents combine with scripture to provide a backdrop for discussing how each of us can confront, adapt to, and even thrive amid unexpected changes.Throughout this enlightening conversation, McKay delves into the unpredictable nature of life, emphasizing the importance of acceptance, preparation, and faith when dealing with these unexpected twists. The podcast also touches on the concept of emotional detachment and its role in objective decision-making when faced with challenging situations. Drawing inspiration from scripture, our host highlights the power of faith and perseverance as sources of strength when we find ourselves face to face with unanticipated situations. Join McKay on this illuminating journey through the unexpected, and discover how to transform life's surprises into opportunities for growth and transformation. Episode Highlights:Embracing the unpredictableThe power of acceptanceMaintaining positivity and faithFlexibility mattersEmbracing small changesEmotional detachmentPatience and perseveranceDrawing strength from faithQuotes:"Life is dynamic, not static, and unexpected things happen to all of us.""The only way through it is through it.""Don't doubt that you may have been brought to the place that you are just for a time as this.""You cannot deal with the unexpected effectively as long as you're subject to it. You must be object to it.""When you know there's a power that can aid you and see you through, it allows you to persevere despite what may seem like overwhelming odds.""In the midst of the unexpected, we have more going for us than we usually think.""Life is no straight and easy corridor, but a maze of passages through which we must seek our way.""The unexpected is given to us to help us learn and bring us closer to who we're meant to be.""For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.""You are always responsible for writing the rest of your story."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/