October 2024

A Quote to Think About:

“In my whole life I’ve never been good at something I wasn’t very interested in. It just doesn’t work. There’s no substitute for strong interest.” -Charlie Munger

Yes, sometimes we have to do things that don’t interest us, but we should all try to do less of that. I feel all of us would be happier if we learned to say NO and put our efforts towards causes, tasks, people, and topics that interest us. This goes along with the Rule for Life above. How many times have you said yes to something you really didn’t have interest in and later complained? The number of times I have said this has dropped dramatically since deciding that no is an appropriate answer at times when I have very little interest in what is being proposed.

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Book Recommendation:

In A Million Miles in a Thousand Years, Donald Miller explores what it means to live a meaningful life. When filmmakers approach him to adapt his memoir into a movie, Miller begins examining his own life as if it were a story. This unique experience prompts him to consider how everyday choices can shape a more purposeful narrative.

Miller learns that living a fulfilling life involves intentional actions, embracing challenges, and finding meaning even in struggle. He realizes that, just like in a compelling film, real life is more rewarding when people pursue goals and face obstacles with purpose. The book combines humor and profound insights, showing readers how to “edit” their lives, making each choice contribute to a story worth telling. Ultimately, Miller encourages readers to craft a life filled with purpose, reminding them that they are both the authors and main characters in their own stories.

You can purchase A Million Miles in a Thousand Years, here.

This was a very enlightening book and really kind of a gut punch as well. It made me sad and, in the end, happy. Sad because I thought of the first 15 years of business and how I completely let my business run my life. How my health wasn’t the best. The times I missed with family and friends which were chances to write a better story. The relationships I let end with high school college friends because of my focus on business.

In the end, the simple message here is all of us can write better stories and I began that process 5 years ago and still do so to this day. My story got better as I started to write, listen to podcasts, workout, read more, and take vacations.

My most recent upgrade was the purchase of a cold plunge. Most mornings I jump into 50-degree water for 4 minutes and my day is destined to be better. There are many health benefits as noted here by the MAYO clinic. For me, I love the energy and mental clarity it provides. Some of my team members know when I have done it or not so that’s saying something. Next new story line: It’s time to jump out of a plane!

My challenge to you: Don’t let your story be narrated by others. Become the author of your own story.

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A Quick Thought:

I frequently read Sahil Bloom’s Newsletter, Curiosity Chronicle and a section from his essay, Your Entire Life Will Change the Moment You…, hit home.

Rule for Life: Don’t Complain About Anything

“If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.” – Maya Angelou

If it’s within your control, go do something about it. If it’s not, complaining is just a waste of energy!

Happy Halloween!