A NEW MINDSET

We certainly seem to be living in interesting times.  On the one hand, technology breakthroughs are mesmerizing.  On the other hand, people are struggling. 

With or without employment disruption, the typical working person on planet Earth will need a new mindset.  Fixing the job issues and cost of living issues will be long term struggles.  Short term we will adapt as we always do.  That begins with crafting the right mindset and then engaging smart behaviors.

I share this objectively.  I’m not being negative at all – just honest.  I have experienced a great deal of difficult change myself, both personal and professional.  Time to scramble on multiple fronts. 

So, let’s think about possible elements of a mindset that is functional in challenging times:

Gratitude is the foundation. Life is not fair.  You cope with and move past this fact by remembering to actively engage gratitude.  It is truly an essential daily habit. Perspective is everything.  Count every last blessing.

Growth is possible. Be curious. From using AI to fixing things at home to focusing on your health, you are human and capable of learning many new things.  You’ve done tough things before – remember them.  Then realize you can do it again.

Humility helps. I can honestly say the single greatest thing I learned after ten years of college is how little I know.  Start with humility and seek to understand and you will accelerate your growth.  Part of humility is asking for help when needed.  So, reach out! 

Hard work matters.  One thing is for sure – success makes us soft.  At least that was true for me, but I’m changing that.  It’s time to remember what it’s truly like to hustle.  Success is very possible, but rarely easy.

This general mentality supports a few adaptive behaviors, including:

Keeping material consumption in check. “Things” are great – and overrated.  You were conned into believing that the items you possess define you.  The real goals are positive relationships and experiences.

Simplifying and downsizing. From housing to your personal vehicle, you have options.  Respect to everyone facing challenges in these areas.  However, if you’re able, get smarter.  Did I mention I’m trading in for a hybrid? 

Collaborating to win.  Some might take on a roommate.  Others will barter with goods or with skills.  This was once the norm.  It’s simply more possible to get by (and with less waste) when we build community and collaborate. 

Using what is free.  From solar to water capture to gardening, I think you’re about to see a surge in self-sufficiency in many households and communities.  Please let me remind you that libraries are awesome.  If you are feeling challenged in any area of life, you might be surprised the free resources your community offers so get online and make a few calls.

Challenging times happen.  We can adapt.  It starts with the right mindset and smart choices.  I’ll see you at the library.  I might be bragging about the gas mileage I’m now getting.    

WHAT’S UP WITH DR. D?

I need new walking attire before my farmer’s tan becomes a problem.  I have a new sun hat – not attractive at all but keeps the sun off my neck and a lot of my face.  To be continued… 

I’m writing course two of eight for my friends at Starweaver.  We just wrapped one focused on motivation, and for the next few weeks I’ll be diving into everyone’s favorite topic:  meetings!  Five other courses not related to this project are in post being edited. I’ll let you know where they land.

For you old heads out there, there is a new docuseries on Netflix called Hulk Hogan: Real American.  It’s a great ode to the icon and a fairly unflinching take on his well-known mistakes as well.  For people of a certain age, it brings back a lot of good memories.  

I need a vacation.  Maybe after I wrap the next course, I’ll take a week off and do a road trip to see a few old friends.  When’s the last time you took a road trip?  Best part – Rachel goes with me. 

Cooking is still a fun and oddly therapeutic activity for me.  Last night it was breakfast tacos with eggs, black beans, sauteed onions, and a little jack cheese on low carb tortillas with avocado.  I seasoned the concoction with a little salt and pepper, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and a dash of liquid smoke.  Can’t wait for leftovers. 

Until next time – go learn something, maybe help someone, or at least do something interesting. 

Courses:  https://www.linkedin.com/learning/instructors/todd-dewett

Books:  https://tinyurl.com/yvwuvmaw

Speaking live:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8uM79vw_Teo

Book me:  https://www.drdewett.com