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Welcome to The Brighter Side of Everything.
This newsletter serves a simple purpose → To help you build optimism, resilience and a solution-focused perspective.
Each week, I’ll share actionable insights that not only brighten your day but position you to be a leader within your own life and seize life’s opportunities.
Read time: 12-15 minutes.
Bright Side in Brief
What’s covered this week?
Beyond the Final Siren - Some endings are just new beginnings.
Bright Reads - Quick links to fun or insightful articles.
Brené Brown - The courage to be vulnerable.
Worth a Follow - Robert Irwin.
A Bright Idea to Consider - Maya Angelou.
A Previous Post - The opportunity cost of not doing things.
Positively Hilarious - Smile like you mean it.
Daily Gratitude Journal - Transform your daily routine through reflection.
Hello, Brighter Side readers! ☀️
I want to kick off this week with a big, THANK YOU.
Thanks to you, our gratitude journals have raised a $113 donation to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
It's a great start, and I'm optimistic (of course 😁) about the impact we can make in 2025 as this community grows.
These contributions will help bring hope and joy to kids facing tough times, it's incredible to think how such small actions can make such a big difference.
While we’re in the spirit of gratitude and reflection, I was recently inspired by an event that took me back to my teenage years.
An email landed in my inbox, inviting me to the 30-year premiership reunion of the local football team I played for in Australia.
The message triggered a wave of nostalgia, prompting me to reflect on how those formative years shaped who I am today.
When we're younger, we often commit to paths that feel right at the time.
As we grow, we discover a world brimming with experiences that exist beyond our initial point of view.
This realisation unveils the beauty of pivoting.
The art of finding new opportunities and exploring uncharted directions.
It's a reminder that every exit is also an entry to someplace new, creating new and exciting chapters in our lives.
See you on the Brighter Side,
Chris
P.S. Please feel free to send me feedback on how I can improve. I respond to every email.
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Explore more of our work here, and feel free to reach out if you’d like to discuss how we can help bring your vision to life.
Beyond the Final Siren
Some endings are just new beginnings
Yes, my son looks exactly like me 😆
It’s funny how a simple invitation can send you wandering down memory lane.
A few weeks back, I received an invite to the 30-year reunion of the 1995 premiership football team.
Thirty years!
It feels like a lifetime ago, yet the memories of that time are as vivid as if they happened yesterday.
Will I go?
Maybe.
Given I live 15,000 kms away from the destination, it's a significant journey to consider.
The invite, though, got me thinking about how impactful that period was in shaping who I am today.
Growing up in Australia, my life revolved around two things: music and sports.
I was always active, always moving.
I loved the thrill of competition, the joy of connecting with teammates and the mental chess match of the strategy behind each game.
Cricket in the summer, footy in the winter – that was the backbone of my teenage years.
Throw athletics, indoor cricket, and, strangely enough, baseball (a story for another day) into the mix and most evenings and weekends were filled with a whirlwind of activity.
Every chance I had, I’d grab a ball and head outside.
But I‘m being honest, footy was my passion.
Aussie Rules consumed me.
I lived it, breathed it and dreamt it.
If I wasn’t playing, I was training and if I wasn’t training, I probably still had a Sherrin in my hand.
In Victoria, Australia, footy is like the air you breathe – it's everywhere.
Of course, you have your professional team (I've been a die-hard West Coast Eagles fan since they joined the league), but it’s the local Saturday games that ignite the community and remain firmly entrenched in my memory bank.
Those local games?
They were magic.
There’s something exhilarating about the sound of car horns cutting through the crisp air and the collective roar of the crowd when you slot one through the big sticks.
It's like nothing else matters in that moment.
The best part?
The community always showed up, come hell or high water.
You see, despite what people think about Australia being all sunshine and beaches, winters in Victoria get cold.
Bone-chilling, teeth-chattering cold.
But that never deterred anyone.
We'd be there, rain, hail, or shine.
In fact, I have fond memories of wet nights at training ending in a messy game of slip and slide through the mud.
Along with Mum’s face as I arrived home covered in mud 😉
The best way to combat the cold?
A bag of steamed dim sims.
Nothing beats those little pockets of goodness, soaked in soy sauce on a cold day.
Well, maybe a classic Aussie meat pie … but it’s a tight race.
Lessons Learned
I vividly recall playing U16s, like it was yesterday.
We weren't the flashiest team, but we had plenty of heart.
Our sense of unity was palpable, and our determination to succeed was unwavering.
The times when we did manage to pull off a victory, the elation was unreal.
It was during these years that I developed my skills through endless practice before, during and after school.
This is when I learned to play, and also when I learned to lead.
Taking each new skill (both physical and mental) and practicing until it felt like second nature.
Looking back, I now realise these experiences were teaching me more than just the skills of a sport.
They were teaching me life lessons, that I didn't appreciate at the time.
Writing this, I'm reminded that they have shaped me in ways I'm still discovering today.
Here are a few of the lessons that have stuck with me:
Discipline and Commitment: Showing up every day, even when it's tough. This discipline translates into other areas of life, helping you stay consistent with goals even when motivation wavers.
Teamwork and Cooperation: You can't and won’t win alone; everyone plays a role. A teamwork mindset can transform your personal and professional relationships.
Leadership Skills: Stepping up when needed and supporting others. Captaining teams taught the value of empowering others, which is invaluable in both personal and professional life.
Time Management: Balancing practice, school and life. Mastering time balance allows for prioritising effectively and ensures time for what truly matters.
Resilience and Perseverance: Bouncing back from losses and setbacks. This resilience has been a lifesaver in dealing with life's unexpected challenges, and helping to stay focused on the bigger picture.
Goal-Setting and Achievement: Working towards something bigger than yourself. Setting goals teaches us to dream big and work towards making those dreams a reality, a mindset that also carries over into other areas of life.
Handling Success and Failure: Learning to stay humble and focused. This lesson has helped to navigate successes AND failures with grace, keeping your feet on the ground and your eyes on the horizon.
Fitness and Health Awareness: Taking care of your mind and body. Staying active and prioritising your health is essential, it directly impacts energy and our ability to tackle challenges.
Stress Management: Learning ways to cope with pressure. Learning to manage stress in sports has provided tools to handle life's pressures more effectively, helping stay calm under fire.
From Dreams to Reality
So … the dedication paid off.
During the next off season, I was recruited by two of the local men’s teams.
It was an easy decision, given the team I supported was one of them.
After committing, I realised I needed to be fitter (and smarter) if I wanted to make the cut.
With this on my mind, I trained hard.
I had even created my personal mantra to keep myself focused and motivated.
"Be a great teammate, outwork everyone, outshine yesterday.”
Be a Great Teammate:
Celebrate the success of others as if it’s your own. Supporting and lifting others is crucial for success in any team environment.
Outwork Everyone:
I knew I could run, so I doubled down on this strength. This grows your confidence and encourages you to push beyond your limits.
Outshine Your Yesterday:
This one has stayed with me through to today. It motivates you to keep moving forward, continuously improve and strive for better performance each day.
And you know what?
It happened.
When the first game of the season arrived, there I was, a skinny 16-year-old in the starting lineup.
They even paid me a little cash for each game, which blew my mind at the time.
Playing the game I loved and getting paid for it?
It felt like a dream.
I loved roaming the wing, testing the engine of my opponent while wearing number 7 in the green and gold.
Warriors Football Club wasn't just a team, it was a legacy.
Established in the late 1800s, yes 1800s, – it has carried over a century of passion, heartbreak, victories and stories.
Each season adding another layer of history and being part of that felt like an honour.
As the season progressed, we went from being written off as a middle-of-the-road team to competing with the best.
The Day the Lights Went Out
That season, one game remains etched in my memory.
It was one I will never forget, well … at least up to a certain point.
We were hosting the strongest team in the league on our home ground, a massive test for us.
The sun was shining despite the cooler weather and the crowd had packed in.
The air was buzzing with anticipation for what promised to be a fiery contest.
And the game?
It didn’t disappoint.
I started well, getting my hands on the ball plenty of times, making key plays, driving us forward.
Then, in a split second, everything changed.
I was sprinting towards a loose ball, bent down to pick it up, fumbled slightly and whack.
I was blindsided by a brutal hip-and-shoulder.
Lights out.
Concussion.
I came to, groggy and confused.
Turns out, I’d been knocked out cold, lying motionless on the field awaiting an ambulance.
I spent the night in the hospital being monitored, grateful for the support of my close friends and family.
For the first time, I felt humbled – even ashamed – that I couldn't finish the game with my teammates.
Lying there, talking to my mum, a realisation came sweeping over me.
It’s just a game.
As much as I loved it, it was just a game.
A game I loved with all my heart but still … just a game.
Concussions were not as widely understood back then and I became frustrated that I couldn’t fully articulate what I was experiencing.
It was a strange, somewhat unsettling feeling.
Over the next couple of weeks, I worked my way back to the field, testing myself in the reserve team before getting the all-clear to return.
When I laced up the boots for the seniors again, I felt ready.
And what followed?
Well, we went on an absolute streak.
Fighting hard as a team in every contest, securing victories along the way, we won our way through to the grand final.
Who would we face?
None other than the very team that put me in hospital.
This time though, there was no stopping us.
Grand final day was electric – everything you dream about as a player.
The crowd had packed in and you could feel the energy buzzing through everyone there.
We dominated.
And won.
Premiers 1995 (but … looks like 1965)
Celebrating on that field as the siren blared was pure bliss.
An indescribable feeling of joy and accomplishment that still gives me chills when I think about it.
Lifting the premiership cup, I reflected on all the challenges that preceded that moment.
Every grueling practice, every setback, and every ounce of effort had led us here.
And it wasn't just us.
Our reserves won their premiership too, along with several of the netball teams.
Warriors dominated that year.
Celebrations went on for days (as they should), and as a teenager, there's no better feeling than earning your seat at the table.
Let’s just say I never made it to school on Monday 😜
But we weren't done yet.
Riding high on our success, we came back hungry for more the following year.
And wouldn't you know it?
We did it again, claiming back-to-back premierships.
It was another sweet victory, though this one also came with a souvenir – a second minor concussion for good measure.
Those two seasons are etched into my memory forever.
Not just because of what we achieved on the field.
Also because of what they taught me about resilience, teamwork and savouring every moment.
Especially when you're doing something you love with people that matter to you.
They transformed my perspective on how others can shape the course of my life.
Whether it was family, friends, teammates, coaches - I realised none of it was possible as an individual.
You’re only ever as strong as the network that surrounds you.
And this network was damn strong.
"Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships."
Beyond the Game: Taking A New Direction
After graduating high school in 1996, I moved 2 hours east to attend university in Melbourne.
Surprising even myself, I decided to take a year off from football to concentrate on my studies.
The following year, I joined a local club with a couple of friends.
I played two seasons, starting in reserves before finding my way back to the wing in the first team.
The first season saw me regain my skills and lift my game.
It was fun, but the passion just didn't ignite within me like before.
Maybe it was the concussion, maybe it was growing up.
Something had shifted.
And given what she had witnessed, my Mum never stopped worrying.
She felt every bump as she watched from the sideline and, little did I know, another bump was coming.
It was during a pre-season game the following year, that things went sideways.
I was chasing down our coach (yeah, you read that right), and in a moment of overzealousness, I reached out to tackle him.
He dodged, my arm twisted, and pop.
Dislocated shoulder.
The pain was intense.
I knew immediately that something was seriously wrong.
After weeks of physio and rehab, I was cleared to return to the field.
Playing with the reserve team that day was a blast.
For the first time, I had the opportunity to play in a REAL game with my best friend.
I'll never forget running down the wing, taking a bounce, taking a second and then delivering a beautiful pass right on his chest.
The only problem?
It bounced back off his chest, spilling to the ground.
We still laugh about that moment.
If only he'd held onto it, turned, and slotted a goal.
We'd have been toasting to that moment for the rest of our lives.
But alas, he can't catch ... lol.
The following week, I was back in the senior team, excited to once again make an impact.
During the very first quarter, I launched myself toward a pack of players and an opposition player did the same from the opposite side, slamming into my shoulder.
Instantly dislocating it again.
And wouldn't you know it, mum was right there watching.
I knew at that exact moment, my footy days were over.
And … I was devastated.
It took me some time to get my head straight.
But within a matter of weeks, I began to feel more like myself again.
The fog that had clouded my thoughts started to lift and I could see a path forward.
While I'd never have admitted it at the time, this was the best thing that EVER happened to me.
Instead of continuing to wallow, I chose to seize an opportunity that had been brewing inside me.
A three-month backpacking trip around the world with a couple of mates.
Why not?
That trip changed everything.
It opened my eyes to a world beyond my small patch of ground.
A world of opportunity, filled with different cultures, incredible landscapes and best of all - amazing people.
I caught the travel bug quickly and hard.
Not only did I travel, but I discovered my next passion – the next thing that made me feel alive in the same way footy did in my teens.
That three-month trip blossomed into several years of exploration, which eventually evolved into a fulfilling career in the travel industry.
A career I loved.
Taking me to over 75 countries, introducing me to my wonderful wife, connecting me with incredible people worldwide and allowing me to grow as a leader.
But most importantly, this journey led us to our home in Canada.
With our one-year 'snowboarding trip' in 2007, turning into 17 years of building a life we love, with two kids we utterly adore.
The Unexpected Gift of Change
So why am I sharing this somewhat self-absorbed tale of self-discovery?
Because the lesson I learned following my shoulder injuries applies to countless scenarios we face throughout life after losing something.
Every exit is an entry to someplace new.
When we find ourselves at a crossroads, it can be daunting to leave behind the familiar and step into the unknown.
However, embracing change and viewing each ending as a new beginning leads to unexpected opportunities.
By letting go of what no longer serves us, we open ourselves to new experiences and possibilities that we might never have imagined.
If I hadn’t left footy behind? If I hadn’t dislocated my shoulder?
I wouldn’t have traveled the world at that age.
I wouldn’t have built a career in the travel industry.
I wouldn’t have met my wife.
I wouldn’t have my family.
The list can go on but the above facts alone have turned what felt like regret at the time, into nothing more than fond memories.
Sometimes, what seems like a setback is setting us up for something greater.
Life has a funny way of working itself out.
If you’re willing to embrace uncertainty and move forward with an open mind, that is.
And you know what?
Maybe I will go to that reunion after all.
"You can't start the next chapter of your life if you keep re-reading the last one."
Bright Reads
Interesting insights to ignite your inner optimist.
How are clouds’ shapes made?
The ozone hole is healing, thanks to global reduction of CFCs.
Can Faith Kipyegon break the four minute mile? Scientists say yes.
The sound of clapping, explained by physics.
1st photo of Earth from space, 78 years ago.
Brené Brown
The Courage to Be Vulnerable
This week, we're exploring the remarkable world of Brené Brown.
A woman who's revolutionising how we think about vulnerability, courage and human connection.
If you‘ve yet to hear of Brené, you're in for a treat.
Brené Brown isn't your typical academic.
With her Texan charm and no-nonsense approach, she's taken the often complex world of social work research and turned it into a global conversation about what it means to live wholeheartedly.
Her journey from a research professor at the University of Houston to a worldwide phenomenon is nothing short of remarkable.
"Vulnerability is not winning or losing; it’s having the courage to show up and be seen when we have no control over the outcome. Vulnerability is not weakness; it’s our greatest measure of courage."
The Heart of Brené's Work
What sets Brené apart is her ability to make complex emotional concepts accessible and actionable.
She's not just talking about vulnerability and shame, she's showing us how to embrace these feelings and live a more fulfilling life.
Her TED talk (see below) on the power of vulnerability has racked up over 60 million views, proving that her message resonates with people from all walks of life.
But Brené's impact goes far beyond viral videos.
She's authored six #1 New York Times bestsellers, hosts two award-winning podcasts, and has become a go-to expert for organisations looking to develop braver leaders and more courageous cultures.
In 2024, she took on the role of executive director at The Center for Daring Leadership at BetterUp, further expanding her influence in the business world.
Practical Lessons from Brené Brown
So, what can we learn from Brené Brown?
Here are some practical tips to incorporate her teachings into our daily lives:
Embrace Vulnerability:
Instead of seeing vulnerability as weakness, recognise it as the birthplace of innovation, creativity and connection. Next time you're hesitant to share an idea or feeling, take a deep breath and go for it.
Practice Shame Resilience:
When you feel shame creeping in, reach out to someone you trust. Sharing your feelings can help dissipate shame and build stronger connections.
Develop Self-Compassion:
Treat yourself with the same kindness you'd offer a great friend. When you make a mistake, acknowledge it without harsh self-judgment.
Set Boundaries:
Remember, saying "no" to what doesn't serve you allows you to say "yes" to what matters most. Start small by setting one new boundary this week.
Lead with Empathy:
Whether you're a parent, friend or leader, practice active listening and try to understand other perspectives without judgment.
Embrace Imperfection:
Let go of the need to be perfect. Instead, focus on progress and learning from your experiences. Progress over perfection.
Live Wholeheartedly:
Engage in life fully, even when it feels scary. Take risks, show up authentically, and allow yourself to be seen.
Promoting Courage and Connection
Brené's work reminds us that true courage isn't about being fearless.
It's about feeling fear and choosing to act anyway.
Her message of embracing our authentic selves, flaws and all, is a powerful antidote to the perfectionism and disconnection that plague our world.
Brené's shows us that by embracing our vulnerabilities and living with courage, we create deeper connections, more fulfilling work and a life lived fully.
So, my friends, I challenge you to take a page from Brené's book this week.
Dare to be vulnerable, embrace your imperfections and see how it transforms your relationships and your life.
After all, as Brené would say, "You are imperfect, you are wired for struggle, but you are worthy of love and belonging."
Now get out there and live with purpose.
"Integrity is choosing courage over comfort; choosing what is right over what is fun, fast, or easy; and choosing to practice our values rather than simply professing them."
Worth a Follow
Robert Irwin
Image sourced from Sealegacy.com
If you enjoyed last week's feature on Steve Irwin, you're in for a treat this week as we turn the spotlight to his son, Robert.
At just 21 years old, Robert is already making waves in the world of conservation, photography and television, carrying on his father's legacy with passion and dedication.
Why He’s Worth a Follow
Conservation Champion
Robert isn't just talking the talk, he's walking the walk when it comes to wildlife conservation.
Working at Australia Zoo, he's actively involved in conserving ecosystems, rescuing and rehabilitating animals, and educating the public about environmental stewardship.
He and his family manage about 500,000 acres of conservation land in Australia, providing refuges for countless native flora and fauna.
"My dad always said, ‘People want to save what they love.’ That connection happens through tourism. People visit a place, learn why its wildlife needs protection and leave with a deeper understanding."
Award-Winning Photographer
Robert's talent behind a camera is impressive.
He recently won the People's Choice Award in the prestigious Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition with a powerful drone image of a bushfire in Northern Australia.
His photography skills aren't just for show.
He uses them to raise awareness about wildlife conservation and has even raised tens of thousands of dollars for conservation efforts by auctioning his work.
Engaging Television Personality
Following in his father's footsteps, Robert has become a charismatic presence on television.
He co-hosts "I'm a Celebrity ... Get Me Out of Here!" and has made multiple appearances on "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon," where he charms audiences while introducing them to various wildlife.
His ability to educate and entertain simultaneously is a gift that keeps his father's spirit alive.
Global Ambassador
Robert's influence extends beyond Australia.
He was recently named one of the first two Earthshot Prize Global Ambassadors, a role that allows him to advocate for environmental causes on a global stage.
He's even met with world leaders like King Charles III to discuss habitat protection.
My Takeaway
Robert Irwin is more than just Steve Irwin's son, he's a force for good in his own right.
His combination of hands-on conservation work, stunning photography and engaging media presence makes him a unique and inspiring figure in the fight to protect our planet's biodiversity.
Whether you're interested in wildlife, photography or just want to see a young person making a real difference in the world, Robert Irwin is definitely worth a follow.
I guarantee you'll learn something new, see some incredible wildlife and maybe even be inspired to do your part for conservation.
After all, as Robert and his family continue to show us, every little bit helps when it comes to protecting our amazing planet.
"There will never be anyone like my dad so when people say I am like him it’s the greatest compliment."
Got a recommendation?
Please share; I'm always keen for great suggestions.
A Bright Idea to Consider
Maya Angelou
"When you know better, do better."
The Lesson
Maya Angelou’s words are like a gentle nudge to our conscience, reminding us that growth is a continuous journey.
When we learn something new or gain a deeper understanding, it’s not just about accumulating knowledge.
It’s about using that insight to improve ourselves AND the world around us.
Let’s break it down:
Embracing Growth: The first step is to recognise that we can always learn more. It’s okay to say, "I didn’t know that before, but now I do."
Taking Action: Knowing better isn’t enough, doing better is where the real magic happens. It’s about applying what you’ve learned to make positive changes.
Self Accountability: This mindset encourages us to be accountable for our actions. When we know better, we have a responsibility to act better.
Empathy and Understanding: We become more empathetic and understanding as we learn more about others and their experiences. This helps to build stronger, more meaningful relationships.
Continuous Improvement: It’s a cycle of learning and growing. Each time we know better, we have the opportunity to do better, and that process never ends.
My Takeaway
Maya Angelou’s wisdom reminds us that our growth is a lifelong journey.
By embracing the idea that we can always improve, we open ourselves up to new experiences and opportunities for positive change.
Those who commit to learning and acting with kindness at every step are more likely to build positive relationships, create supportive environments and inspire others to do the same.
"When you know better, do better" isn’t just a quote.
It’s a mantra for living a life of purpose and integrity.
"The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be."
A previous post …
The opportunity cost of not doing new things far outweighs the risk and fear you need to face to do so.
— Chris | The Brighter Side of Everything (@thebsofe)
11:10 AM • Mar 19, 2024
Positively Hilarious
A quick laugh as we part ways this week.
Daily Gratitude Journal
Transform your daily routine with my specially crafted gratitude journal. Start (or end) each day with a moment of reflection and positivity.
Thank you to all who have purchased a copy so far, I am truly grateful and for every journal sold, I will donate $1 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
This means that as you develop daily gratitude, you're also helping grant wishes to children facing critical illnesses.
It's a powerful cycle of hope and optimism.
🌟 What's Inside:
Thoughtful prompts to inspire daily gratitude.
Space for personal reflections and affirmations.
Beautifully designed pages to make each entry a delightful experience.
Ready to embrace the power of gratitude?
Click here to order a copy now!
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