Waking Giants New Zealand

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Embrace The Fear Of … – Waking Giants

Posted on by wakinggiants23

The Lone Leader Weekly

26th April 2023

Don’t Be Afraid To Start Over.

What you have now may not be all it’s cracked up to be.

#1. Start As A Sceptic.

But use your awareness to admit when you are wrong.

#2. There Is Only Now.

Your past haunts you, and your future taunts you; what other choice do you have but to be in this moment?

#3. Stop Hoarding Your Past Wins.

Create space to take on the new, the weird and the unknown and watch your energy soar.

So much of what we do is designed to manage our fears and protect our current status. But what if you threw it all away and started over?

FYI – Please don’t make any rash decisions based on my ramblings, but do ask the question of, what if?

I have been embracing the new in abundance recently with moving house. It’s simple stuff, walking the dogs a lot, riding and running to explore the local area, new shops, new faces, new surroundings. Including still not being able to find things in the kitchen!

But with all that change comes baggage, memories, habits, thoughts. Ironic that it came up this week as our third value as a business is ‘ditch the baggage’, and if I am honest, I am doing a shitty job of living it in some areas at the moment.

You see when you make significant changes in one area of your life, you shine a light on others, and thats not all that much fun.

Last week I was doing my usual navel gazing about the business on the back of a win with a new program being launched for business owners.

Having been selected from 65 applicants to be in the final 7 that would deliver in the program I allowed myself a little pat on the back.

Not because of the ‘win’, not because I applied (I usually don’t even bother), but because of the content of the application.

As I was writing it I realised that I was truly the right person for the job.

My intent around the experiences I searched for and gained brought me to the moment that I was able to operate in a completely new space.

And thats when the friction started to rub. As I bobbed back home on the ferry (thats another new thing, public transport), I realised that there was some baggage, things that no longer served me, especially in the business.

I can’t tell you how many times in the past 12 years people have told me how much they love the name Waking Giants, and I tend to agree. But to look inwards as we all know is the hardest thing to do.

Thinking on the day I happened to look at my website; it was a pastiche of my past, my present but nothing of the future.

While only a website it is a window to the world in why I do what I do. And it’s been doing a shit job. When I look at it, there is so much more to tell, but so few words required.

I realised it was a relic of a past business and way of thinking and being that was no longer true. While I am hugely grateful for it and everything it has brought me. It’s time to move on.

My usual practice would be convince myself of all the good stuff and copy it into a new design. Not this time.

I busted out the whiteboard and wrote down what I wanted, who I wanted to serve and how. All things that I am 100% clear on.

Then I realised that I need to start building a window to the world that aligned, that felt authentic, clear and allowed me to grow my opportunities to do what I love.

Liberating, no shit. I realised that this was an anchor to 12 years of baggage that no longer served me productively.

By going through the process of starting over, both in our personal lives and the business, you have to make tough decisions.

Ditch the baggage; relationships, thoughts, habits, ego… anything that no longer serves you.

What it does is free up precious time to move into new spaces, new thoughts, an abundance of creativity and opportunity.

But, we must be open to the universe presenting you the opportunity to move forward.

This week when life it getting full, busy, overwhelming or straight up fucked, grab a pen and pad and ask, what is serving me and what is holding me back.

Do more of one, and none of the other. Then you are ditching the baggage.

Until next week (When the new website will be live). Embrace the fear of the blank page.

G.

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Understanding and Overcoming Burnout: Strategies for Success

Posted on by wakinggiants23

In today’s fast-paced world, burnout has become an increasingly common problem.

It’s a state of physical and emotional health and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress, often resulting from work-related or personal issues.

Burnout can significantly impact an individual’s productivity, mental and physical health, and overall well-being. To help you tackle this issue, we’ve compiled information on what burnout is, how to identify it, and strategies for preventing and overcoming it.

What is Burnout?

Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged exposure to stressful situations, often characterized by a feeling of detachment or cynicism towards work or personal life. It occurs when the individual feels overwhelmed and dissatisfied, leading to a lack of motivation, energy, and productivity.

Burnout syndrome is a common phenomenon today, where people are constantly under pressure to perform and meet deadlines. It can affect anyone, regardless of their profession or background. Various factors, including work-related stress, personal issues, and a lack of support or recognition, can cause burnout.

Definition and Symptoms

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines burnout as a syndrome caused by chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. Burnout symptoms include exhaustion or depletion, negative thoughts about work or personal life, loss of interest or motivation, and reduced performance and productivity.

Burnout is often accompanied by physical symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension, and gastrointestinal problems. It can also lead to emotional symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, and depression. If left unaddressed, burnout can have serious consequences for the emotional health of the individual and their organization.

Causes of Burnout

As mentioned earlier, burnout can be caused by various factors. Prolonged stress is one of the most common causes of burnout. When an individual is exposed to chronic stress for an extended period, their body’s stress response system becomes overactive, leading to physical and emotional exhaustion.

Unrealistic workloads, a lack of support or recognition, poor communication and relationships, and personal issues such as financial strain or health problems can also contribute to burnout. In some cases, burnout may be caused by a combination of very little or no control of these factors.

The Impact of Burnout on Mental and Physical Health

Burnout affects not only the individual’s work performance but also their sleep habits and overall health and well-being. It can lead to a range of mental and physical health problems, including anxiety, depression, insomnia, and even cardiovascular disease.

Studies have shown that job burnout can also hurt an individual’s personal and social life. It can lead to a lack of interest in hobbies and activities and strained relationships with family and friends.

It is important to address burnout as soon as possible to prevent it from becoming a chronic condition. Seeking support from a mental health professional, making lifestyle changes, taking regular breaks and practising stress-management techniques can all effectively manage burnout and promote overall well-being.

Identifying Burnout in Yourself and Others

Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress and overwork. It can affect anyone, regardless of their profession or age. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of burnout is the first step towards preventing or overcoming it. Here are some warning signs and red flags to look out for:

Warning Signs and Red Flags

  • Constant fatigue and exhaustion: Feeling tired always, even after a good night’s sleep, can be a sign of burnout.
  • Loss of motivation and interest in work or personal activities: When you start to lose interest in things that used to bring you joy, it may be a sign of burnout.
  • Difficulty concentrating and making decisions: Burnout can affect your ability to focus and make decisions, making it harder to perform well at work or in other areas of your life.
  • Irritability, cynicism, and negative thoughts: Burnout can cause you to feel irritable and negative, even towards things or people you used to enjoy.
  • Increased absenteeism or tardiness: Burnout can lead to increased absences from work or tardiness, as you may struggle to find the energy and motivation to get out of bed and go to work.
  • Physical symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension, and stomach problems: Burnout can cause physical symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension, and stomach problems due to the prolonged stress on your body.

Assessing Your Work-Life Balance

One way to prevent burnout is to assess your work-life balance. This means evaluating how much time and energy you devote to work versus other activities such as leisure, family, and friends. Identifying areas where you can make changes and finding ways to manage stress can improve your overall well-being and prevent burnout from occurring.

For example, you might consider setting aside time each day for self-care activities such as exercise, meditation, or reading. You could also try to establish boundaries between work and personal time, such as not checking your work email after a certain time in the evening or on weekends.

It’s important to remember that taking time for yourself is not selfish but a necessary part of a balanced diet, maintaining your well-being and preventing burnout.

Recognizing Burnout in Colleagues and Friends

If you notice these symptoms in a colleague, friend, or family member, it’s crucial to reach out and offer support. Burnout often goes unnoticed or unaddressed, and having someone to talk to and seek guidance from can significantly help prevent it from worsening.

You might start by asking how they’re doing and if they feel overwhelmed if there’s anything you can do to help. You could also suggest that they take a break or seek professional help if necessary. It’s important to approach the situation with empathy and understanding; too many responsibilities, such as burnout, can be a challenging and isolating experience.

In summary, recognizing the signs of your stress and burnout and taking steps to prevent and address it is essential for maintaining your well-being and productivity. By assessing your work-life balance, establishing boundaries, and seeking support from others, you can overcome burnout and thrive in all areas of your life.

Strategies for Preventing Burnout

Preventing burnout is essential for maintaining a healthy work and personal life balance. Burnout can lead to physical and mental health, emotional exhaustion, decreased job satisfaction, and reduced productivity. Here are some strategies you can use to prevent burnout:

Setting Boundaries and Prioritizing Self-Care

Setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care is essential to prevent burnout. This means allocating time for activities that make you happy and relaxed, such as hobbies, exercise, or spending time with family and friends. It also means saying no to work or personal commitments that may cause you to burn out through undue stress or workload.

Self-care is not selfish; it is necessary to maintain your mental and physical health. Taking care of yourself can help you feel more energized, focused, and productive. It can also help you manage stress and prevent burnout.

Time Management and Organization Techniques

Effective time management and organization techniques can help prevent burnout. Prioritizing tasks, setting realistic deadlines, and breaking work into smaller, manageable tasks can help with burnout research, reduce stress and improve productivity.

Time management and organization techniques can also help you maintain a healthy work-life balance. By managing your time effectively, you can ensure that you have time for work, self-care, and other important activities in your home life.

Building a Support Network

Having a strong support network, such as colleagues, friends, or family members, can help prevent burnout. Talking to someone about your concerns and problems can provide valuable insights and advice and help alleviate stress and anxiety.

Building a support network can also help you feel more connected and less isolated. It and supportive relationships can give you a sense of belonging and purpose and help you feel more motivated and engaged at work and in your personal life.

Preventing burnout requires effort and commitment, but it is essential for maintaining a healthy and fulfilling life. By setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, using healthy sleep habits, using effective time management and organization techniques, and building a strong support network, you can prevent burnout and thrive both at work and in your personal life.

Techniques for Overcoming Burnout

If you’re already experiencing burnout, don’t fret! Burnout is a common experience that affects many people at some point in their lives. Recognizing the signs of burnout and taking steps to overcome it is important. Here are some techniques and strategies you can use to overcome burnout:

Seeking Professional Help

If you’re experiencing severe burnout symptoms, seeking professional help from a mental health expert can be beneficial. They can provide counselling and guidance to help you work through your feelings of burnout and find ways to cope with stress. A mental health expert can also help you develop a self-care plan that includes techniques to manage stress and prevent burnout in the future.

Mindfulness and Stress Reduction Practices

Mindfulness and stress reduction practices like meditation or yoga can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being. These practices promote relaxation, improve mood and sleep, and encourage a positive outlook. Mindfulness involves focusing on the present moment and being aware of your thoughts and feelings without judgment. This can help you develop greater self-awareness and reduce stress and anxiety.

Yoga is a physical practice that combines movement, breath, and mindfulness. It can help reduce stress and tension in the body, improve flexibility and strength, and promote relaxation and well-being. Practising yoga regularly can help you develop a greater sense of self-awareness and mindfulness, which can help you manage stress and prevent burnout.

Reevaluating Goals and Expectations

Reevaluating your goals, everyday tasks, and expectations can help you gain a clearer understanding of your priorities and help you avoid overcommitting yourself. This means setting realistic goals and expectations for yourself, both at work and in your personal life. It also means learning to prioritize and delegate tasks to others.

When reevaluating your job expectations, goals and expectations, it’s important to consider your values and what’s most important to you. This can help you develop a clearer sense of purpose and direction, which can help you stay motivated and avoid burnout.

In addition to setting realistic goals and expectations, it’s important to take breaks and make time for self-care. This can include activities such as exercise, spending time with loved ones, or engaging in hobbies and interests.

Remember, burnout is a common experience that affects many people at some point in their lives. Recognizing the signs of burnout and taking steps to overcome it is important. By seeking professional help, practising mindfulness and stress reduction techniques, and reevaluating your goals and expectations, you can manage stress and prevent or experience burnout, all while building resilience for the future.

Conclusion

Burnout is a prevalent problem that can significantly affect an individual’s professional and personal life. Understanding the symptoms and causes of burnout, as well as strategies for preventing and overcoming it, is crucial for maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

By prioritizing self-care, building a support network, and seeking professional help if needed, you can overcome burnout and achieve success in both your professional and personal life.

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Half Of The Art Of Living Is Resilience – Waking Giants

Posted on by wakinggiants23

The Lone Leader Weekly

15th Feb 2023

Quiet Courage Is All Around You

Getting on. Not complaining. Without an audience.

#1. Expertise x Honesty.

Your growth will come from deeply informed and brutal facts in a world of gloss and no substance. This is the seed of resilience and the path to success.

#2. Give Up On Guilt, Not Yourself.

We use guilt as a weapon against ourselves. Not enough time, not enough attention, not enough, not enough. To give up on guilt, you must first understand what is most important to you and do it.

#3. Face Reality. No Matter The Pain.

When we are backed into a corner we have two choices; we crumble and fall or we make a plan and start swinging. You may still lose, but you won’t regret trying.

It is not lost on me that life is hard, damn hard. But we assume that most have it under control. It’s a myth.

Life by its very definition is a process of birth, growth and death. In amongst it we have a rich desire to do whatever we can to self destruct.

The fragility of life is not lost on me as I write this. On my 43rd birthday I find myself grateful, yes, but also surrounded by deep pain. Living in Auckland we are in the eye of the storm, quite literally but also metaphorically.

Our ability to sustain prolonged periods of suffering seem not to have been tested as much as they have recently. Or is it the context that is more important and that we so easily forget.

At 43 I have seen war, but not on my doorstep. In my life I have seen global financial collapse, a global pandemic, but have kept my life, I have witnessed cancer in its worst form, but have survived it myself.

But there was never a reason to quit.

I fear however the reasons are getting easier, to give up, to throw in the towel, or worse, never start.

In the past three days I have see what resilience looks like, stared it in the eye and understood what courage looks like and I am inspired.

From my running partner completing his first 100km race, to a mate on the verge of losing his home due to recent weather events, at no point did I see defeat in their eyes.

These are special people, my people, inspirational people that don’t do life by halves. The get on, they get defeated, they get up and then they get on again.

They are people of action, courageous people that make me want to be better, to try a little harder, to make a difference, because they are testing the theory, that life is indeed hard, but it is with context we must learn these lessons.

Our lives are a deeply personal journey, where your difficult may be easy to me and vice versa. We do not have to travel to gather water each day to survive, yet we complain that we have to wait for our $5 coffee, children are used as slave labour but we complain when the new iPhone sells out.

Whether we have empathy for those that suffer beyond our view or not we live in a world that increasingly trades on our inability to cope.

The cotton wool is becoming so abundant that sharp edge traders are going out of business.

To be resilient is to embrace failure, over and over and over. To deal with what is in front of you in that moment with courage, and practicality, but above all with vulnerability.

When you allow yourself to be open to the cruelties of life, you also create a space for the deeply special and overwhelming opportunity for success.

When we accept this is not happening to US and that we are not all that special, we allow our humility to drive our actions.

It could be worse. It’s not that bad. I’ll find a solution.

All speak to the acceptance of our insignificance and our ability to stay in the moment a little too long.

Your life, and that of your loved ones is the only value that endures, until it doesn’t.

So take that time you have, take the hit, but stay focused on the path forward.

Surround yourself with courageous people that know shit is gonna come, but they accept that is life and that there will be a way forward, even if it’s not what you originally expected.

I feel honoured to be surrounded by people who have such courage, focus and passion for life, it not only makes them stronger, but it makes me stronger knowing it is all but a moment in time and that this, too shall pass.

When you are a lone leader you are already exposed to the courage you need to progress, but you need that little voice that tells you are weak, or that you can’t do this, to shut the fuck up and watch.

Watch how you overcome, how you defy the odds, no matter how small. How you brush yourself off and say no, today is not the day I quit.

Today is how I learn. And learn I will.

Until next time, courage.

G.

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21 Ideas for Starting a Side Hustle – Waking Giants

Posted on by wakinggiants23

In the current environment, relying on a single source of income can be challenging to sustain a living.

Between ever-increasing bills and the rising cost of living, many people are turning to side hustles to supplement their income.

Whether you’re a student looking to earn some extra cash or a seasoned professional trying to make the most of your skills, there are numerous side hustle opportunities. In this article, we will explore the 21 best side hustles you can find today.

Introduction to side hustles

A side hustle is typically a part-time job or gig that you do outside your regular work hours. It’s something you’re passionate about, and it helps you earn money or learn a new skill.

The best part about side hustles is that they don’t require a lot of investment upfront other than your time and energy. You can start small and grow your side hustle over time.

In this article, we’ve compiled a list of side hustles you can do online, locally, or in a creative field.

What is a side hustle?

A serious side hustle idea is a way to earn additional income outside your traditional 9-5 job. It’s an opportunity to pursue your interests, develop new skills, and earn extra cash.

You can think of a side hustle as a flexible job that allows you to work when and where you want, giving you more control over your schedule and income.

Side hustles can range from small projects, such as freelance writing or pet-sitting, to more complex ones, such as starting an online business.

Why consider a side hustle?

A side hustle income can offer many benefits, including financial security, career development, and personal growth. By having an additional source of income, you can pay off debt faster, save for a big purchase, or build up your emergency fund.

A side hustle also provides an opportunity to test new skills and interests, which may help you in your career or lead to new business opportunities. Additionally, a side hustle can improve your work-life balance since you can set your schedule and work from home.

Types of side hustles

There are many different types of side hustles that you can pursue, depending on your interests and skills. One popular option is to offer freelance services, such as writing, editing, or graphic design.

You can find clients through online platforms such as Upwork or Fiverr, or by networking with people in your industry.

Another option is to start an online business, such as an e-commerce store or a blog. This can be a great way to turn your passion into a profitable venture.

If you prefer to work locally, there are plenty of options. You can offer services such as dog walking, house-sitting, or lawn care. You can also teach classes or workshops in your area of expertise, such as cooking or yoga.

These side hustles allow you to connect with your community and make a difference in people’s lives.

Finally, if you’re interested in the creative arts, many side hustles allow you to express your creativity and make money simultaneously.

You can sell your artwork or crafts online or offer your services as a photographer or videographer. You can also teach classes or workshops in your area of expertise, such as painting or music.

Tips for starting a side hustle

If you’re interested in starting a side hustle, there are a few things to remember. First, make sure that you’re passionate about the work you’re doing. This will help you stay motivated and committed, even when things get tough.

Second, be prepared to put in the time and effort required to make your side hustle successful. This may mean working long hours or sacrificing some of your free time, but it will ultimately be worth it.

Third, be patient and persistent. Building a successful side hustle takes time and effort, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t see immediate results. Keep working hard and stay focused on your goals, and you’ll eventually see the fruits of your labour.

Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice from others who have started successful side hustles. Networking and learning from others can be valuable in growing your business.

Overall, a side hustle can be a great way to earn extra income, develop new skills, and pursue your passions.

Whether you’re looking to start a small project or build a full-time business, there are plenty of opportunities. With hard work and dedication, you can turn your side hustle idea into a successful and fulfilling venture.

Online side hustles

The rise of the Internet has opened up new opportunities for side hustles that can be done online. Here are five online side hustles that you can start right away:

Get paid to test apps and websites

Nothing slows down a company more than a website filled with errors. So developers invite testing teams to go in to test links and test each button to ensure everything works before they go live.

Websites like UserTesting, Userlytics, UserCrowd and Enroll offer dozens of web- and app-testing opportunities. Various competitive gigs offer up to $100, based on an hour-long test.

Freelance writing

If you’re a skilled writer, you can earn money by writing for blogs, magazines, or websites. Many companies and individuals need content written for their websites, social media accounts, or email newsletters. Freelance writing is a great way to express your creativity and share your knowledge with others.

You can choose to specialize in a particular niche, such as travel, health, or technology, and build a portfolio of work that showcases your expertise. There are numerous websites where you can find freelance writing gigs, such as Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr. You can also contact businesses directly and offer your services as a freelance writer.

Graphic Design

If you have an eye for design, you can earn money online by creating logos, graphics, and other visual content for businesses or individuals. Graphic design is a highly sought-after skill in today’s digital age, as businesses need visually appealing content to attract and engage their target audience.

You can find design work on freelance platforms (such as 99designs or Designhill) or start your own design business and find clients through social media or online advertising. As a graphic designer, you can work on various projects, from branding and marketing materials to website design and layout.

Deliver food

Food deliveries have also become more popular compared to food delivery apps than grocery deliveries. Food delivery is a simple side hustle that can be launched with plenty of apps, including UberEat / DoorDash – Grubhub & Postmates / Skip The Dish / MenuLog and Menu Log (USA).

Social media management

As social media platforms continue to grow, different businesses and individuals need help managing their presence online. Social media management involves creating and scheduling content, managing interactions with followers, and analyzing social media metrics to improve engagement and reach.

If you’re social media savvy, you can turn your skills into a profitable side hustle. You can find social media management opportunities on freelance websites or by working with local business owners. Social media management is a great way to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and strategies in the digital marketing world.

Virtual Assistant

Virtual assistants are personal assistants providing online services that can help people to arrange appointments, email customer service, travel reservations data entry, and other tasks. This side hustle offers great opportunities for making money at home with minimal time commitment.

Costs and platforms: Your laptop and the Internet are your only costs. Virtual assistants such as TaskRabbit and ChatterBosses help you market services and handle gigs or payments. You can also control the bookings with SquarePay, the payment gateway.

Online tutoring

If you have a special skill, such as knowledge of a particular subject or foreign language, you can make money by tutoring others online. Online tutoring is a flexible and convenient way to share your knowledge and help others achieve their goals.

You can create a profile on tutoring websites like Tutor.com or find students by promoting your services on social media or other online platforms. As an online tutor, you have the opportunity to work with students from all over the world and make a positive impact on their lives.

Affiliate marketing

Affiliate marketing is a way to earn passive income by promoting someone else’s product or service. You receive a commission for every sale you generate through your unique affiliate link. Affiliate marketing is a popular side hustle because it requires minimal effort and can generate a steady income stream.

You can promote affiliate products through your website, blog, or social media accounts. Popular affiliate networks include Amazon Associates, Clickbank, and ShareASale.

As an affiliate marketer, you can promote products and services that align with your interests and values.

Creative side hustles

If you have a passion for the arts, there are numerous side hustles that you can do in the creative field. Not only can these side hustles be a great way to supplement your income, but they can also provide you with a creative outlet that you may not be able to find in your day job. Here are five creative side hustles to explore:

Selling handmade products

If you have a knack for creating unique and beautiful items, you can sell them online through platforms like Etsy or Amazon Handmade. You can make anything from handmade jewellery to knitted scarves or custom clothing.

Many people have turned their passion for crafting into a full-time business by selling their handmade products online. Not only is it a great way to make money, but it can also be a rewarding experience to see people enjoying and appreciating your creations.

Photography and Videography

If you love taking pictures or making videos, you can monetize your passion by selling your work online. You can create a portfolio on websites like Shutterstock or Getty Images and earn money every time your photo gets downloaded.

Alternatively, you can work with local businesses to create promotional videos or take product photos for their websites. There are also opportunities to work as a freelance photographer or videographer for events like weddings or corporate gatherings.

Custom clothing and accessories

If you’re skilled with a sewing machine or enjoy creating unique pieces, you can create your fashion line and sell it online. You can create custom clothing, hats, or accessories and market your products on platforms like Etsy or Shopify. With the rise of sustainable fashion, there is a growing demand for handmade and eco-friendly clothing.

By creating your fashion line, you can make more money and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Art commissions

If you’re an artist, you can take on custom art commissions for clients. These could be anything from murals, portraits, or illustrations for books or magazines. You can find clients by promoting your services on social media, creating a portfolio website, or attending local events and art fairs. Art commissions can be a great way to challenge yourself creatively and create something unique and meaningful for your clients.

Blogging or podcasting

If you love to write or have a message to share with the world, you can start your blog or podcast. You can create a blog or podcast about anything that interests you, from cooking to life coaching, and attract an audience.

Once you have a following, you can make money through advertising, affiliate marketing, or sponsorships. Blogging or podcasting can also be a great way to connect with like-minded individuals and build a community around your passions.

Overall, there are countless creative side hustles that you can explore. Whether you’re interested in crafting, photography, fashion, art, or writing, there is a side hustle for you. By pursuing your passions and turning them into a side hustle, you can not only make extra money but also find fulfilment and joy in your work.

Service-based side hustles

If you’re a people person, there are numerous side hustles that you can do that involve helping others. Here are five service-based side hustles that you can explore:

Rent Out Storage Space

Neighbor is a peer-to-peer website called AirBnB for storage. This allows a lot of storage to be rented from cars to overstocked stocks. You can convert any garage to an attractive side job with an income of several hundred per month. Turo offers a wide range of vehicles, ranging from classics to exotics.

Pet sitting or dog walking

If you love animals, you can earn money by providing pet-sitting or dog-walking services. You can promote your services through social media or word of mouth or find clients through websites like Rover or Care.com.

Home cleaning services

Many people are willing to pay for help cleaning their homes. You can offer your services by advertising through social media or creating a profile on websites like TaskRabbit or Thumbtack.

Personal training or coaching

If you’re passionate about fitness or health, you can monetize your expertise by offering personal training or coaching services.

You can find clients by promoting your services through social media or partnering with local gyms or fitness centres.

Event planning

If you enjoy planning and organizing events, you can start your own event-planning business. You can create a portfolio showcasing your past events and promote your services through social media or local advertising.

Consulting or coaching

If you have experience in a particular field, such as marketing or finance, you can start your own consulting or coaching business, offering your services to clients. You can find clients through social media, advertising, or by attending networking events.

Local side hustles

Local side hustles involve working with people in your community on-demand services and providing services in high demand. Here are five local side hustles that you can explore:

Renting out property or space

If you have a spare room, garage, or parking space, you can earn money by renting it out to others. You can find renters through platforms like Airbnb or Craigslist.

Flipping items for profit

Flipping items involves buying items at a discount and reselling them at a higher price. You can find items to flip at garage sales, thrift stores, or online marketplaces like eBay or Facebook Marketplace.

Participating in market research

Many companies pay people to participate in market research studies. These studies can involve answering surveys, participating in focus groups, taking online surveys or trying out new products. You can find market research opportunities through websites like Respondent or UserTesting.

Offering handyman services

If you’re handy with tools, you can offer your services to people in your community who need help with home repairs or projects. You can advertise your services through social media or by creating a profile on websites like Angie’s List or HomeAdvisor.

Teaching a skill or class

If you have a particular skill or talent, such as playing an instrument or teaching a language, you can make good money just by offering your services as an instructor. You can find students by advertising through social media or by creating a profile on websites like Skillshare.

Tips for success in your side hustle

Starting a side hustle can be challenging, but it can also be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. Here are some tips to help you succeed in your side hustle:

Balancing your side hustle with your main job

It’s important to balance your start a side hustle and your main job. Set realistic expectations for yourself and ensure you don’t compromise your performance at work or your health and well-being.

Networking and marketing your side hustle

To grow your side hustle, you’ll need to network and promote your services to potential clients. Use social media, networking events, or advertising to reach potential customers and build your brand.

Managing your time and resources effectively

Make sure you’re using your time and resources effectively. Prioritize tasks based on their importance and urgency, and find ways to automate or outsource less important tasks.

Setting realistic goals and expectations

Don’t set unrealistic goals for your side hustle. Make sure your goals are achievable and don’t expect overnight success. Be patient, persistent, and willing to learn from mistakes.

Continuously learning and improving your skills

Stay up to date with the latest trends and learn new skills to help you grow your business. Attend workshops, listen to podcasts, and read books about your industry to broaden your knowledge.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for extra income or want to pursue your passion, numerous side hustle opportunities exist.

From online gigs to local services, the possibilities are endless. Starting a side hustle may not be easy, but with the right mindset, skills, and hard work, you can turn your side hustle ideas into a thriving business.

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Monsters In The Grass – Waking Giants

Posted on by wakinggiants23

The Lone Leader Weekly

3rd May 2023

We Need To Talk About The Unspeakable

All of the answers live in the unsaid being said.

#1. Put Yourself In The Way Of Luck.

Luck requires your commitment to disrupt business as usual.

#2. Acceptance Over Answers.

Don’t look for answers where there are none.

#3. You Have Value.

You might be in the wrong place. So move.

Beware the monsters lurk. Ready to pounce at a moment’s notice when you least expect them, ill-prepared and no energy to fight.

You would have gathered by now that The Lone Leader is in all of us, and that’s where I find my inspiration each week to bring you these insights and articles. But the past five days have been some of the lowest in years.

Last Thursday, I cried myself to sleep while comforted by my wife. That day I learned about the death of a colleague of five years and a friend of ten.

He was my last employee, a casualty of a change in my life and a need to deepen my journey to find what makes me me and how I serve. Do I regret that decision? No.

He died in tragic circumstances, the details of which I won’t share, but a life was wasted and a family left in despair. So many questions, so few answers.

I have had to deal with a lot of death in my life, the loss of my Mum in my late 20s and my first daughter, Isabelle, 11 years ago being the toughest. That pain is indescribable, as many would know. But this death, this was different. It was confusing, heartbreaking, and even wasteful.

What it did do was create questions that were almost impossible to answer; my head hurt, in fact, from the overworking of the cogs to try and make sense of what happened. Playing old interactions over and over, was there something more I could have done? Did I give everything in those moments? Did I leave any stone unturned?

Could I have made a difference? No. A simple two-letter conclusion that I accept without a doubt.

It showed me a weakness in my character that I often feel the need to take on people’s pain, to live it too deeply, to suffer for them. A trait I believe came from my dear Mum.

To sacrifice oneself so that other person doesn’t have to suffer.

When you spend up to 50 hours a week with someone for years, you realise that you are indeed embedded in their life, but at the same time, you feel like you know nothing.

A sad realisation that we barely know ourselves, let alone those around us.

Our overly complex lives leave us wanting, confused and searching for meaning. But we sometimes come up short.

The complexity distracts us from the important things, love, purpose and service to others.

We spend so much time treading water, but we don’t know why, and that’s when the monsters come.

Without prejudice or delay.

They enter our minds and refuse to leave.

This is when the simplicity of love and meaning should prevail, but often, it’s not the case.

As Lone Leaders, we often leave the door ajar for these monsters to creep inside. That’s when we are at our most vulnerable.

Work hard, build your business, and find success, but please, not at any cost.

You are valued, you are loved, you are wanted.

Until next time. Live.

G.

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14 Examples of Powerful Mission Statements – Waking Giants

Posted on by wakinggiants23

A company’s mission statement is a powerful tool that can guide the world to realize the direction and purpose of the organization to enrich people’s lives.

It is a statement of what the company stands for and hopes to achieve.

A well-crafted company mission and statement can communicate to stakeholders the company’s values and goals, inspire and motivate employees, and help guide decision-making.

This article will explore 14 examples of powerful company missions and statements from companies that have become industry leaders.

Understanding Mission Statements

Before we dive into the examples, let’s first take a closer look at what a mission statement is and its purpose.

A mission statement is not just a statement that outlines a company’s purpose and values. It is a powerful tool that can help guide, inspire, and motivate an organization. A well-crafted mission statement can make all the difference in a company’s future success.

The Purpose of a Mission Statement

A mission statement serves several purposes:

  • Guiding Your Organization’s Direction: A mission statement can help steer the company in the right direction by providing a clear sense of purpose and direction. It enables the organization to stay focused on its goals and values.
  • Communicating Your Purpose to Stakeholders: A mission statement can communicate the company’s values and purpose to investors, customers, and employees. It helps to create a sense of trust and loyalty among stakeholders.
  • Inspiring and Motivating Employees: A well-crafted mission statement can inspire and motivate employees to work towards achieving the company’s goals and values. It helps to create a sense of belonging and ownership among employees.

Key Components of an Effective Mission Statement

So, what makes an effective mission statement? Here are some key components:

  • Concision: A mission statement should be brief and to the point, communicating the company’s purpose in just a few sentences. It should be easy to remember and repeat.
  • Clarity: A mission statement should be clear and easy to understand, avoiding jargon or industry-specific language. It should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or expertise.
  • Relevance: A mission statement should reflect the company’s overarching goals and values. It should reflect the company’s unique identity and purpose.
  • Inspiring: A mission statement should inspire and motivate employees and stakeholders, communicating the company’s purpose and vision. It should be aspirational and ambitious while still being realistic and achievable.

A mission statement is a powerful tool that can help guide, inspire, and motivate an organization. By crafting a compelling mission and good vision statement together, a company can create a sense of purpose, vision statements and direction that can lead to long-term success.

14 Inspiring Mission and Vision Statements Explained

Communicating Your Purpose to Stakeholders

A well-crafted mission statement can communicate the company’s values and purpose to investors, customers, and employees. It can help build trust and loyalty among stakeholders, as they understand what the company stands for and hopes to achieve.

Using mission and vision statements clearly articulating the company’s purpose and values, a mission and vision statement can help establish a strong brand identity and differentiate the organization from its competitors. It can also help attract like-minded customers and investors who share the company’s values and vision.

Inspiring and Motivating Employees

A strong mission statement can inspire and motivate employees, communicating the company’s purpose and vision. It can help employees feel connected to the company’s values and goals and encourage them to work towards achieving them.

A mission statement can help foster a positive and productive work environment by providing a sense of meaning and direction. It can also help attract and retain top talent passionate about the company’s vision, mission and values.

By crafting a company strategy and a well-crafted mission statement, organizations can create economic opportunity, establish a strong brand identity, differentiate themselves from their competitors, and build a loyal customer and employee base.

Examples of Powerful Mission Statements

Now that we understand the importance of a strong mission statement let’s explore 14 examples from companies that, with vision statements, have become industry leaders.

Example 1: Google

Google’s mission statement is “to organize the world’s information and make it universally accessible and useful.” This statement is concise, clear, and relevant to Google’s overarching goals and core values. It inspires and motivates employees to work towards making the world’s information more accessible to everyone.

Google’s mission statement is particularly relevant in today’s age of information overload. With so much online information, it can be difficult to find what we’re looking for. Google’s mission statement highlights its commitment to organizing information and making it accessible to everyone, regardless of background or location.

Example 2: Tesla

Tesla’s mission statement is “to accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable energy.” This mission statement focuses on and is concise, relevant, and inspiring. It communicates Tesla the compelling car company’s sense of purpose, mission and vision statements and motivates employees to work towards creating a sustainable future.

Tesla’s mission statement is significant in today’s world, where climate change is a pressing issue. By accelerating the world’s transition to sustainable energy through electric vehicles, Tesla is helping to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and combat climate change. This mission statement also reflects Tesla’s commitment to innovation and pushing boundaries in the automotive industry.

Example 3: Amazon

Amazon’s mission statement is “to be Earth’s most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online.” This statement is concise and clear and communicates Amazon’s dedication to customer service. It inspires and motivates employees to prioritize customer service delivery and satisfaction.

Amazon’s mission statement is particularly relevant in today’s world of e-commerce, where customers have a wide range of options when it comes to shopping online.

By prioritizing outstanding customer service first, Amazon can differentiate itself from its competitors and build customer loyalty. This mission statement also reflects Amazon’s commitment to innovation and constantly improving the customer experience.

Example 4: Microsoft

Microsoft’s mission statement is “to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more.” This mission statement defines what is concise and relevant and communicates Microsoft’s dedication to empowering individuals and organizations. It inspires and motivates employees to work towards achieving more.

Microsoft’s mission statement is particularly important in today’s world of technology, where access to information and resources can make a significant difference in people’s lives. By empowering individuals and organizations, Microsoft is helping to bridge the digital divide and create opportunities for people around the world.

This mission statement also reflects Microsoft’s commitment to innovation and using technology to create positive change.

Example 5: Starbucks

Starbucks’ mission statement is “to inspire and nurture the human spirit – one person, one cup, and one neighbourhood at a time.” This statement is concise and inspiring and communicates Starbucks’ commitment to the human spirit, community and connection. It motivates employees to create meaningful relationships with customers.

Starbucks’ mission statement is particularly relevant today when people are often disconnected and isolated. By creating a sense of community and connection, Starbucks can differentiate itself from other coffee shops and build customer loyalty. This mission statement also reflects Starbucks’ commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing of its coffee beans.

Example 6: Patagonia

Patagonia’s mission statement is “to build the best product, cause no unnecessary harm, and use business to inspire and implement solutions to the environmental crisis.” This company’s vision statement is concise and relevant and communicates Patagonia’s focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility. It inspires and motivates employees to work towards creating a better future for the planet.

Patagonia’s mission statement is particularly important in today’s world, where climate change and environmental degradation are major issues. By focusing on sustainability and ecological responsibility, Patagonia can differentiate itself from other outdoor apparel companies and build customer loyalty. This mission statement also reflects Patagonia’s commitment to using business as a force for good.

Example 7: Nike

Nike’s mission statement is “to bring inspiration and innovation to everyday life for every athlete in the world.” This statement is concise and inspiring and communicates Nike’s dedication to empowering athletes. It motivates employees to create innovative products that inspire people to push their limits and achieve their goals.

Nike’s mission statement is particularly relevant today, where people are increasingly focused on health and wellness to better everyday life. By empowering athletes and creating innovative products, Nike can differentiate itself from other athletic apparel companies and build customer loyalty.

This mission statement also reflects Nike’s commitment to more innovation for every athlete and pushing boundaries in the athletic industry.

Example 8: Coca-Cola

Coca-Cola’s mission statement is “to refresh the world in mind, body, and spirit.” This company spirit statement is concise and inspiring and communicates Coca-Cola’s commitment to creating products that bring joy and refreshment to people’s lives. It motivates employees to prioritize the customer experience.

Coca-Cola’s mission statement is particularly relevant today when people are often stressed and overworked. By creating products that bring joy and refreshment into everyday life, Coca-Cola can differentiate itself from other beverage companies and build customer loyalty. This mission statement also reflects Coca-Cola’s commitment to innovation and constantly improving the customer experience.

Example 9: Airbnb

Airbnb’s mission statement is “to create a world where anyone can belong anywhere.” This vision the mission statement describes is concise and relevant and communicates Airbnb’s dedication to creating a sense of belonging and connection for travellers. It inspires and motivates employees to build a community of hospitality and inclusivity.

Airbnb’s mission statement is particularly important in today’s world, where people are increasingly interested in authentic travel experiences. By creating a sense of belonging and connection, Airbnb can differentiate itself from traditional hotels and build customer loyalty. This mission statement also reflects Airbnb’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Example 10: American Red Cross

The American Red Cross’s mission statement is “to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors.” This statement is concise and relevant and communicates the American Red Cross’s commitment to humanitarian causes. It inspires and motivates volunteers and donors to help support those in need.

The American Red Cross’s mission and vision statement is particularly important in today’s world, where natural disasters and other emergencies are becoming increasingly frequent.

By mobilizing volunteers and donors, the American Red Cross can provide critical support to those in need. This mission and vision statement also reflect the American Red Cross’s commitment to compassion and helping others in times of crisis.

Example 11: Warby Parker

Warby Parker’s mission statement is “To offer designer eyewear at a revolutionary price while leading the way for socially conscious businesses.” This statement reflects the company’s commitment to affordability and social responsibility and inspires customers to support businesses that prioritize making a positive impact.

Example 12: The Nature Conservancy

The Nature Conservancy’s mission statement is “To conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends.” This statement reflects the organization’s commitment to protecting the natural world and promoting biodiversity and highlights the importance of environmental conservation in creating a sustainable future.

Example 13: TED

TED’s mission statement is “To spread ideas.” This simple statement reflects TED’s core purpose: to share important and innovative ideas with the world. It inspires speakers and audience members to engage in meaningful discussions and pursue personal growth.

Example 14: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital’s mission statement is “Finding cures. Saving children.” This powerful statement succinctly communicates St. Jude’s commitment to advancing medical research and saving the lives of children suffering from life-threatening illnesses.

Conclusion

These 14 mission statement examples demonstrate the power of a well-crafted mission statement. Each mission statement example is concise, relevant, and inspiring, communicating the company’s purpose and values.

A strong mission statement can help guide the company’s direction, communicate its purpose to stakeholders, and inspire and motivate employees to work towards achieving its goals.

When crafting your mission statement, remember to keep it concise, clear, relevant, and inspiring to your target audience.

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The Goal Is Irrelevant – Waking Giants

Posted on by wakinggiants23

The Lone Leader Weekly

22nd Feb 2023

Know What You Want

Or someone else will decide for you.

#1. Edit Your Tribe.

If weak, uninspiring people surround you; you need to take action. We only grow when we are surrounded by challenge, support and aspiration. Don’t fail by osmosis.

#2. Don’t Play The 90/10 Rule.

What is the 90/10 rule, you ask? It’s the method we all use to spend 90% of our energy worrying about something that can be solved with 10% of our energy.

#3. Our Imperfection Is Our Strength.

When we are self-aware enough to understand we are NOT perfect, we allow ourselves to ask what can we do to grow, improve and be 1% better each day.

When it comes to setting goals for yourself or your business, it might be time for a change in thinking.

Tony Robbins famously said that ‘it’s not the goal that’s important but the person you become in trying to attain that goal that’s important’. And as I get older, I’m inclined to agree.

When we are younger and clueless, we think we are bulletproof, that whatever we can put our mind to, we can achieve; while I don’t disagree entirely, I think we can be more thoughtful about how we look at creating and achieving goals.

If you look at any goal, there is a high risk of failure. From your starting point to the goal achieved, there is this chasm of impending failure, so why do we put all of our energy into the goal itself?

A simple example is the process of running a marathon. You can spend months training, putting in the km and on race day, you have a bad stomach or slip and get injured. Is that failure?

Oh, of course not; they are things that may sit outside your control but have a significant effect on your perception of having achieved the goal.

What makes the goal successful is the detail, the journey you go on to arrive at race day prepared.

The daily runs to get your body fit, rest days to allow your body to recover, using the right fuel during runs and for recovery, good sleep to let your body heal, and having great training partners for when your motivation is dwindling. These are all actions that both get you ready for race day but equally become a self-fulfilling prophecy in you becoming a healthy, less stressed person.

My take on it is that even if the race day goes wrong, you have achieved the goal of being a more disciplined, healthy and less stressed person. Plus, for many, this can create a lifetime change in the way you see life, your ability to take on challenges and the obvious health benefits.

No clearer proof of this is my training buddy. Four years ago, he joined his wife on an easy 5km run while on holiday in Melbourne; it didn’t go well. He had to walk home.

Last weekend I was support crew for his first 102km Ultramarathon which took him 17 hours.

I’ve been part of that whole journey, and the race was only a small part of the transformation. We would spend hours on the trails in Winter, fighting mud and rain to get strong. He reduced his drinking to next to nothing, started working with a training plan, got injured, got fed up, got frustrated and everything in between.

But now he has run five Ultramarathons, regularly runs 70-100km per week, and dropped huge amounts of weight; his long-term groin injury from playing rugby has gone, and running has become his ultimate weapon in managing his mental health.

So you see, the journey has been the most important thing for him, culminating in achieving an extraordinary goal that many can only dream of.

But what is most important is that he did it for him. The goal was his own, not competing with others but only with himself (And me on occasion. Currently, he is kicking my ass! I am now the student…)

To me, we have to change our approach to the way we look at goals, we must have them to keep us moving forward, but there need to be some different rules put in place:

1. The goal must be for us. Chasing other people’s goals is an instant failure.

2. We must understand that our journey will be full of disappointments and failures, but as long as you keep learning and trying, you will get there.

3. You eat an elephant. One mouthful at a time. Get comfortable with 1% gains. That’s the only guaranteed method of success.

4. Document your journey; by writing, journaling, and using tools like Strava (Running community) and join a community of people on that journey too.

5. Accept it will be hard. Goals that don’t challenge you don’t change you.

6. Get an accountability partner and share your challenges and your wins; they want you to succeed; you don’t have to go it alone.

7. Accept that in the end, the goal 90% achieved is more valuable than a goal never started.

I am certainly not advocating for a mindset of participation; competition and winning are an important part of life, but not at all costs.

Use your goals to become the best version of yourself and that right there is that mindset that can enable you to achieve anything you put your mind to.

Until next time, take on that challenge and become the person you know you can be.

G.

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Keep Your Promises – Waking Giants

Posted on by wakinggiants23

The Lone Leader Weekly

17th May 2023

Stop Taking Score Play The Game.

When you spend all your time taking score against strangers, you never realise how far you’ve come.

#1. Old Thinking Creates New Problems.

But new problems create the opportunity for new thinking.

#2. Life Is Layers Of Paint. 

Each one tells a story, but only some colours stay relevant.

#3. You Are Not Alone.

You need to whisper a little louder.

Why do we keep our promises to others but not to ourselves?

The one thing I know to be true when it comes to being a lone leader is that we always break promises to ourselves.

Modern leadership demands that we are servant leaders, putting our team’s needs before our own. While I agree with the reason, it does mean that we often lose sight of our needs.

The emotional support, security, stability and free cookies on a Friday are all well and good, but not while you lay awake at night resenting the investment.

Because we have all been there.

The promises that we break the most:

  1. Time to rest
  2. Time with family
  3. Time on our hobbies
  4. Time working on the business, not in it
  5. Time sleeping
  6. Time laughing
  7. Time having fun
  8. Time to celebrate your success.

This is what my business demands, you might say. True. Right now. But you can change.

The magic ingredient? Capacity.

Freeing up time to do the things that you compromise daily.

It’s not getting up at 4 am because some guru tells you to.

It’s not hiring more staff, so you suddenly become an entrepreneur rather than a business owner.

It’s you deciding what you want your business to do for you.

How it serves your needs and goals.

How does your team collaborate with you to realise your vision for a better world, industry or product?

I say fuck convention, the industry standard or the way it has always been done. 

I say to you, design the life you want and get your business working for you.

Am I preaching theory over reality? No.

Since I designed to get my business working for me, these are the things that give me the capacity:

  1. Walking the dogs when I get up, around 7 am, while listening to podcasts. (Often taking notes)
  2. Have the goal of being available for to the world at 10 am, which often means I can get a lot done upfront
  3. If I’m not feeling it, I change my schedule and work different hours later in the day
  4. Take me out for coffee on my own to take a break
  5. Call friends to check in, talk business, talk shit
  6. Take my wife out for coffee to check in most weeks
  7. Train at lunchtime when the weather is good.

All of which recharge me and give me the capacity to deliver on my business goals.

I work fewer hours but end each day more fulfilled because I am not chasing my to-do list.

I wish this were a foolproof method; it’s not. I have been playing with these ideas for the past seven months, and it takes time to break the habit of always being in your business.

But I know that if you don’t decide what you want for your life, life will decide for you.

You don’t have to give up on your goals.

You don’t have to give up on the scale.

You don’t have to give up on financial freedom.

But you do need to start making promises to yourself and keeping them.

One small promise at a time.

Until next week, be selfish; no one else will for you.

G.

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The Lone Leader Blogs – Waking Giants

Posted on by wakinggiants23

Leadership and strategy simplified. The tools that you never knew you needed as a Lone Leader.

The Story We Tell Ourselves – Waking Giants

Posted on by wakinggiants23

The Lone Leader Weekly

22nd Mar 2023

You Are The Center Of Your Universe

If You Get It Wrong. You Have No One To Blame.

#1. Don’t Be A Character. Be An Author.

If you want to live your own life, you must make that mental shift to be an outlier. Prepared to stand alone, a tribe of one.

#2. Learn To Live With The Bruises.

But move forward despite them.

#3. We Can Be Our Own Therapist.

When we look into ourselves, we find ourselves, and it might not be pretty. That is where the answers lie.

Each day we write another chapter whether we believe it or not.

As Lone Leaders and humans in general, we are extremely good at creating stories that define us.

Whether it’s about our identity, sense of success or our place in the world, most of what we tell ourselves is simply not true.

Only this morning, I sat with a friend that shared a very confronting situation of spousal abuse; as you can imagine, I won’t get into that here, but I found it shocking, and it got me thinking.

How does one exist in a relationship that causes harm and takes away your dignity and strength, both mentally and physically?

From what I have been told in many of these situations, negative storytelling is a weapon for control. You are a character in a story that another person is writing, and the story doesn’t have a happy ending.

They are told that they are this, that and the other; they are consumed, but whatever loyalty drives them towards this person and not away.

More stories; he loves me really, it’s my fault, it will get better.

Filling in the data gaps that anyone outside the relationship would be able to see as a clear criterion to end the relationship and get away.

To write a new story, where you are the author.

While I appreciate this is an extreme example, and I share my thoughts with limited knowledge and utmost respect, it perfectly illustrates the power of storytelling and its effect on our lives.

When it comes to Lone Leaders, we use stories every day to get us through, both good and bad. The real insight is in the ability to observe the story, understand the plot, the characters and ultimately, how you want it to end.

In the simplest example, we may share with our partner when we get home that ‘today was shit’, when the reality is that a moment or decision was shit, that we have escalated and applied that story to everything else.

‘Why does this always happen to me?’ – Is a good one. I don’t need to explain it, but you can see how easily a story can define your view of the world and how you move through it.

Here are a few others that we have all probably experienced:

Why are they so successful, and I am not? – You have no idea of their full story, just the cover.

I’m not a leader as I am not good with people – Leadership is a learned skill; you can learn too.

The market is slowing, so I can’t grow – Adapt and overcome, go back to basics and identify where your value lies.

I’m not ready yet; it’s not perfect – You’ll never be ready, so start.

People just don’t get it; they are all wrong; I’ll show them – Maybe you are explaining it poorly; it’s not them, it’s you!

We cannot hide from the fact that we use stories all day, every day. But what we can do is use three simple steps to improve how we deal with them:

1. Observe (self-awareness). Ask why the story exists and what is fuelling it. Most won’t do this as they are afraid of the answer; they choose to suffer instead.

2. Learn (mindset). Once you know why, you start to understand. Avoid making yourself a victim. Take the information as the blueprint for change.

3. Act. (movement). The worst thing you can do is have all that data and do nothing. By taking action, you create progress, and the cycle starts again.

Observe. Learn. Act – over and over and over.

When we look into ourselves, we find ourselves, and it might not be pretty.

That’s where change lives. Not in the superficial comparison to our Facebook friends or TMZ celebrity articles.

Now all you have to do is decide if you are a fiction or non-fiction author.
Until next time. Observe. Learn. Act.

G.

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