Current Situation: 12JAN21
I thought I'd share a little about my current situation: what I am reading, working on and just thoughts of life in general. I am trying to stay focused and in a positive frame of mind given all that is going on in the world. It is a challenging time but one thing that keeps me focused is to realize that I can only control what I can control, and that I can contribute best in the world by being the best version of myself, and by adding value to the world through my actions. I keep tabs on what is going on but I don't let it consume me.
What I’m reading- I just finished the "12 Week Year" by Brian Moran for the 3rd Time. This is a tactical guide on how to crush your goals. This is the book of the month in the mastermind group I lead called "The Forge" and we are using this book in addition to a few tools to plan and execute on our goals. One of the fundamental principles of the group that I teach is to have vision and clarity, and get super focused on the tactics needed to achieve your goals. It is amazing how much focus you can gain with clarity, a plan, and clear focus. Combine that with accountability and you can make rapid progress.
What I love about this book is that it provides you with tips and tactics that you can easily implement to gain traction on your goals. This is the time of year where people have identified New Year's Resolutions, however, the problem with most people is that after a month, they fizzle out. If you need help with this, let me know.
What I’m reading next- Next in my book cue is the "Automatic Millionaire" by David Bach. He is a best selling author on the topic of money and personal finance. I recently listened to him speak in a mastermind group that I am in, and his methods of managing money really intrigued me. He has a couple other notable books: "Start Late, Finish Rich" and "The Latte Factor" that are best sellers.
TV I’m watching — I just finished watching season 4 of "The Crown." I am kind of a nerd for historical shows and "costume dramas" and I appreciate how they portray significant historical events from the perspective of the monarchy. Growing up, I had always heard about the Queen and the monarchy but didn't quite understand the importance of the monarchy until I worked with a Major from the British Royal Army who explained to me their significance. I highly recommend.
Quote I’m pondering — "If we did the things we are capable of doing, we would literally astound ourselves." -Thomas Edison.
What I have learned from personal growth and development is that the difference between people who make $100,000 vs $1,000,000 per year isn't that much. They aren't 10x better. They are just focused and consistent in their daily habits and routines. They are disciplined about cutting out distraction and consistent about saying "No" to things that pull them into obligation. We all have 24 hours in a day. How we choose to use them makes all the difference.
Health and Fitness Project- 75 Hard Phase 3. I am just over the halfway point and feeling great. I am on a running program and using a mix of beachbody programs and yoga for strength and mobility. The daily conversation and random act of kindness required in Phase 3 have pushed me outside of my comfort zone a bit. I have done these before, but being more deliberate and intentional on a daily basis has just been a good exercise for me. The other day I was at Best Buy and the store didn't open for another 10 minutes. Instead of going back to my truck, I decided to pick up the trash in front of the building. I wouldn't have done it otherwise, and it felt really good to make a small difference in the world.
The group is absolutely crushing it as well. It is always great to take on meaningful pursuit with others who inspire and help hold you accountable. It is truly awesome.
What i'm working on- I am working on launching the "Do Hard Things" podcast. This is something I have been excited about for quite some time and decided this year that I would commit to it and make it happen. I didn't know all the ins and outs of making it happen so I reached out to my friend Chad Robson at Level Up Recording who specializes in podcasts. We submitted the first episode on iTunes and it will be live soon. I will keep you posted.
Win of the week- I was selected for promotion to Major in the U.S. Army. This is a huge milestone and achievement for me as I reflect on my career in the work that it has taken to get here. It is bittersweet as I prepare my retirement packet after 25 years of service. I could not have achieved this milestone without all the great leaders, NCO's, and Soldiers that helped shape who I am today.
What projects are you working on? Do you have any good books or t.v. recommendations? What is your big win of the week? I hope this message finds you well. In the meantime...
Do Hard Things,
Jay
