Resources
for Speaking & Media
To request a preview copy of the book for media or review purposes, please visit our Contact page.
Live Intentionally, Read the Blog
The changing seasons are nature’s way of harmonizing with the universe. When we disrupt that by intentionally avoiding seasons, we don’t embrace; such as summer in Florida and winter in Michigan, we inadvertently disrupt the harmony of aging. Instead of appreciating the changing seasons of life, we cling desperately to a past we can never regain. Perhaps nature is inspiring us to embrace the flow and majesty of each season of life.
We’re all unique and the legacy we’re creating will look different for each of us. The key is don’t put it off. Don’t wait until some future date or destination. Let’s focus on today’s part of the journey (with all of its possibilities and discoveries) while holding steady to the course set by our Legacy Map for tomorrow.
Every fall, I begin planning next year’s calendar by building in my Rejuvenation Days. I start by blocking off the entire months of February and August. Next, I block off time around July 4th, Christmas, and New Year’s. I finish with my annual father-son ski trip. That’s roughly 3 months of rejuvenation time scheduled — before I begin scheduling client sessions, education, and other events.
Our minds have two powerful ways of remembering — one is through storytelling and the other is through pictures. That’s why creating both a visual and a written version of our future is motivating and catalytic. I encourage you to use both to create your own unique vision board.
“The whole idea is to become, both to ourselves and to others, a person who is worthy of trust.”
To do that, you must go beyond merely identifying an idealized virtue like trust as a way to enhance your personal and business life. You must take repeated action. Disciplined daily habits will move you closer to your goal of greater self-trust — the foundation for building trust in any relationship, family, or organization.
This is your season to set goals and add value. And the season never ends. Be a lifelong goal setter (like me). The relationships that matter most to us are best served when we continue to set goals throughout our entire life.
“If you do not have a trust-based emotional relationship, you do not have product differentiation … and the customer will constantly shop around for the lowest price and least amount of friction. I’m willing to bet that your best customers are the ones you have the most solid relationship with. When you have a rapport founded on mutual trust, it feels like you’re on the same team.”
Times were tough; the stock market had plunged. Retail was dead. The auto companies were in turmoil. Mike understood that if United Way of Southeastern Michigan was going to survive and thrive in the midst of economic downturn, he would have to be a catalyst for change — both for the organization and for the region.
Would you be comfortable walking through the Atlanta airport with your Purpose emblazoned across a tee shirt?
Granted, some travelers might avoid you, but I guarantee that some would approach you. They’d ask what your shirt means and where you got it. This latter group would be drawn to your Purpose because it resonates with them!
I choose to look at both the mountains and the valleys of life as victories: The high points as victories to savor and enjoy, the low points as victories to study and learn from. There’s usually a deeper meaning and lesson buried just beneath the initial frustration and disappointment.