TEDONA #119
A truly strong person does not need the approval of others any more than a lion needs the approval of sheep...
Quotes
“When no risk is taken, there is no freedom.” —Alan Watts.
“If you don’t take risks and force yourself into uncomfortable situations, you end up being 50 years old with the emotional maturity of a 15-year-old” — Dan Koe.
“Hanging around people who’ve mastered their finances is a life hack. Just watch what they do and take inspiration from it.” -Tim Denning.
“A truly strong person does not need the approval of others any more than a lion needs the approval of sheep” — Vernon Howard.
“Your personal boundaries protect the inner core of your identity and your right to choices.” — Gerard Manley Hopkins.
Always remember that the opinions of a few do not define our worth or the validity of our pursuits. —Teronie J. Donaldson (Yep, that’s me, cool, right?)
Notes/ Observations
Decisions move our lives forward. They create alternate realities. The trouble is most of us are making decisions with no risks, or worse, decisions not worth making in the first place.
Articles
Keep Writing Even if You Feel Like No One Will Read Your Work.
The Art of Storytelling: Elevating the Mundane into Extraordinary Tales.
Watched
Book of the Week
Option B: Facing Adversity, Building Resilience, and Finding Joy by Sheryl Sandberg and Adam Grant.
I read this book because I wanted a better understanding of how to talk with others who have had a significant loss.
One of my best friends recently died, and his wife is now a widow. I wanted to know the best way to communicate with her without asking the same "How are you doing?" and "Keep your head up" platitudes and wanted to find a way I could share some insights to help her move forward in this challenging time. And I found this book extremely helpful.
"Option B" is a powerful book co-authored by Sheryl Sandberg and Adam Grant that explores the theme of resilience in the face of adversity.
Sandberg, the COO of Facebook, and Grant, an organizational psychologist, draw from personal experiences, psychological research, and real-life stories to offer valuable insights and practical strategies for navigating life's challenges.
The book begins with Sandberg's journey through the sudden loss of her husband, which led her to confront the concept of "Option A" (the life she had envisioned) and embrace "Option B" (the life she was now facing). This pivotal moment sets the stage for exploring how individuals can develop resilience, adapt to setbacks, and find strength amid arduous circumstances.
One of the key messages is that resilience is a skill that can be learned and cultivated. The authors share stories of individuals who have overcome adversity by building resilience, often through seeking support, practicing self-compassion, and reframing their mindset. The book emphasizes the importance of social connections and community for healing and growth.
"Option B" introduces the concept of post-traumatic growth, showing how individuals can find meaning and positive transformation in the aftermath of trauma. The authors also highlight the therapeutic power of helping others, illustrating how acts of kindness and support can contribute to the well-being of those in need and the well-being of the giver.
Throughout the book, poignant quotes and real-life examples from various individuals, including survivors of accidents and losses, underscore the authors' message that resilience is a universal human quality. I shared a lot of the book's stories with my friend's wife before I bought her a physical copy to have for herself.
By sharing personal stories, practical strategies, and psychological insights, "Option B" is an inspiring guide for anyone seeking to navigate life's challenges with grace, courage, and resilience.
Strategy
Law of Entropy
The idea of entropy reminds us that personal growth and self-development require continuous effort and intentionality. Without actively improving ourselves, we may naturally drift toward stagnation or disorder.
You can prevent Entropy with your growth by reading books, having conversations, listening, learning, applying, training, teaching, getting, coaching, and mentoring. Anything that will stimulate new ideas and thoughts with your own.
Question
Is a limiting mindset holding you back? How can you use a flush of new ideas to beat back your perceived limitations?