In the most recent session of the mastermind group I run, I challenged members to think differently about their businesses and how they can make 2025 their best year yet. All of us have been affected by the downturn in the economy and some are also feeling the effects of AI and disruptive trends to our business operations. By learning to think differently, I wanted each of us to identify new possibilities for growth and then get focused on bringing those ideas to life.
Read MoreA success-driven mindset is more than just a positive attitude—it’s a way of thinking that empowers you to overcome challenges, set ambitious goals, and take actionable steps toward achieving them. Without this mindset, many people find themselves stuck, lacking the confidence and perseverance to reach their full potential. They may shy away from challenges, give up when faced with setbacks, or remain stagnant due to fear of failure. These patterns can lead to frustration, diminished self-esteem, and a cycle of unrealized goals.
Read MoreIn a world that celebrates success stories and final achievements, it's easy to overlook the crucial journey that led to those victories. But here's a fundamental truth: every winner was once a beginner. At some point, they were standing at the starting line, unsure of their abilities, perhaps even struggling with self-doubt. The difference between those who succeed and those who don't is not raw talent but a belief in growth and the perseverance to develop their skills over time.
Read MoreAs we pursue of our aspirations, whether personal or professional, setting goals is often the first step towards progress. However, while outcome goals define the destination, it's the process goals that pave the way towards achievement. Process goals focus on the journey, the steps, and the habits necessary to reach our desired outcomes. Yet, setting and achieving these goals isn't solely about creating a to-do list; it's about cultivating the right mindset to navigate challenges, setbacks, and successes along the way.
Read More‘Cognitive dissonance’ is a term coined by psychologist Leon Festinger back in 1957 in his book A Theory of Cognitive Dissonance. It refers to the discomfort that a person feels when there is misalignment between their behavior and their values or beliefs. It can also occur when a person holds two contradictory beliefs at the same time. In contrast, cognitive consonance exists when ideas logically flow from one another and are consistent.
For example, a person who considers himself orderly and cleans up after himself even when it’s not easy or convenient is in consonance with his beliefs. But if the same person leaves things around, his behavior is in dissonance with his self-identity.
Read MoreIt’s that time of year again.
When we look at ourselves in the mirror and start berating ourselves.
“Why can’t you ever keep a resolution even for a single week?”
If you’re one of those, the good news - if you can call it that - is that you’re not alone.
How long do most people’s New Year's resolutions last?
Read MoreA lot of the stress we experience is generated by the fear of the unknown. What I often do to control my own stress levels is I ask myself, "what's the worst that could happen?"
That's the cliff. ⛰️ I then start walking myself back from the cliff and reframing things.
Read MoreSaturday night, I took the 'long' route home from post-Sabbath services
It's about 2 minutes longer than if I had used the shortcut
But because of heavy rain that fell just minutes before, the shortcut was muddy and treacherous
So, I decided to take the 'long" way home to save myself the possibility of slipping and soiling myself, which would have made the 'short' way 'long' (I hope you're following me on this)
Which, come to think of it, I've been doing for most of my life
Recently, a dental crown came loose.
It filled a gap from a tooth that I lost years ago due to neglect.
Root canal and all.
Back in the day, I would brush less frequently, drink soda, and view dental visits as things to avoid.
The result was that I lost a couple of teeth and had some others that needed much help to save.
Since then, my personal dental care has improved significantly.
And, thank God, I haven't even had a cavity in quite some time.
So, when it became clear that I needed to replace the crown (and went through the process of fitting for a new one,) it brought me back to that time when it seemed like I was in for a rude awakening every time I visited the dentist.
