I’ve both read and listened to some incredible stuff during the month of February. Stuff that is impacting my life daily. Which is the entire point of learning. It has to impact your day to day. If it doesn’t you’re wasting your time. Sadly, a number of the things we spend our time on are complete wastes of time. This must not be so. We must learn to “live without wasted time,” as an old French political slogan says. What follows are four resources that not only won’t waste your time, but will add immense value to your life.
I do this the last week of each month. It’s my way of peeling back the layers and sharing the things that have the greatest impact on me each month. I hope these resources are helpful and brighten your day. If you enjoy it, pass it along to family, friends and the occasional stranger.
The Obstacle Is The Way by Ryan Holiday
Things happen. Deals fall through, feelings get hurt, and loss abounds. Life throws tough things at you. Things that aren't fun, or pleasant. What do you do with these things come? Ignore the problem? Complain and do nothing? In this book, Ryan points to another path. A path where you see each and every obstacle standing in your way as an opportunity. An opportunity to move forward, to practice virtue, and become our best self. To see these things not just as something to be overcome, but as a necessary part of the process. Part of becoming who you need to be to ultimately triumph in the end.
Mindset by Carol Dweck
Ben Bergeron references this book on his podcast often. I picked it up this past month, and found a gem of a book. It helped me see new things about the way I think, and most importantly how to change my poor thinking. I learned that I have operated with a fixed mindset most of my life. I believed certain traits, or abilities were fixed and could not be changed. Over the past year my mindset has been shifting towards what Carol calls a growth mindset, or one where potential really is limitless. You can learn anything, if you're willing to stick to it and work at it long enough.
How Champions Think by Bob Rotella
The successful fascinate us. We marvel at all they do. As if we are incapable of doing likewise. In this book, Bob Rotella opens the door for you to see that remarkable people do remarkable things because they think in remarkable ways. Most importantly, he shows that it is a learned skill. A skill you can develop with effort and practice.
Embracing Vulnerability, Chasing Excellence Podcast
This episode was perfectly timed. My wife and I lead a group of newly married couples at our church. It's a group dedicated to helping these couples start marriage on the right foot. Part of that journey entails living life in community with other believers. That means, among many things, being fully known. No holding back. No hiding. But sharing your authentic self. This episode of Ben's podcast tackles the same concept, in a slightly different context, but offers an immensely helpful and encouraging perspective.