Self-awareness leads to self-confidence — This past Saturday I did something out of the ordinary for me. It was spurred by something I’ve learned about myself: I’ve got some work to do when it comes to developing a growth mindset. Namely, I have a habit of shying away from competition when I don’t look good. …

What type of life is possible if you identify and approach your root fear(s)? — About 7 years ago, I was biking home from work while it was raining. I took a right turn on a section of road with a white-striped crosswalk — what I just learned is called a zebra crossing. …

It’s a Powerful Way to Create a Body of Work — In January, I committed to a weekly newsletter. It’s now September. My typical routine is to start noodling on an idea on Monday, sit down at my computer on Tuesday morning to get a first draft done, and then use Wednesday or Thursday to fine-tune the newsletter before I hit…

Tips on coaching and leading through the Change Curve — I’ve been thinking a lot about change lately. Yesterday, I facilitated a session for an organization that is going through a massive strategy change. Over two years ago, the world changed. As a result, the business had to change. This change has affected a lot of people. It’s a process…

If you set your mind to it, you have the ability to learn anything — Yesterday, Julie asked me: “What’s something you’re really proud of?” Without hesitation: “Learning how to solve the Rubik’s Cube.” I learned how to solve it while I was in graduate school. Perhaps it was a form of procrastination. I remember a graduate school colleague coming up to my desk one…

Five tiny little actions done on repeat for years — A number of years ago, I came across a swimming video breaking down the breaststroke pullout. I’ve always loved the details of swimming, and this drill series gave me details to obsess over. To this day, every time I do a breaststroke pullout in swim practice or in a swim…

Research help needed! — I’ve recently been immersed in learning more about mindsets. In particular, I’m working to firm up my understanding of a fixed mindset and a growth mindset. And, I’m stuck. So, I need your help. According to Carol Dweck, a Stanford University psychologist, our mindset is a powerful tool to success…

You Talk About Start. Club! — I recently started a club. I called it Start. Club. It was inspired by Jon Acuff’s book, Start. One line from his book really fired me up: “Regretting that you didn’t start earlier is a great distraction from moving on your dream today, and the reality is that today is…

What rule are you applying to your goal? — My Olympic coach told me after a particularly challenging workout where I could not hit my splits before going to the Rio Olympics that it was okay. It’s the rule of thirds. What’s the rule of thirds? When you’re chasing a dream — or doing anything hard — you’re meant…