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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?
From Frozen to Fulfilled - Awakening from procrastination.
Bright Reads - Quick links to fun or insightful articles.
Harry Houdini - The master of magic.
Now Spinning - Masana Temples by Kikagaku Moyo.
A Bright Idea to Consider - Wisdom in perspective - unknown.
A Previous Post - Stop Overthinking, Start Doing.
Positively Hilarious - Smile like you mean it.
Daily Gratitude Journal - Transform your daily routine through reflection.
Hello, Brighter Side readers! ☀️
Thank you all for being part of this community, I’m grateful for each of you and thrilled to see so many new faces.
Ever felt lazy when you know you aren’t?
Or maybe thought someone else was, without really understanding what's going on beneath the surface?
It's so easy to misjudge ourselves or others when we don't see the full picture.
This week, we're diving into the difference between laziness and procrastination, and more importantly, why it matters.
Before we dig in, I want to revisit why I write these newsletters.
I'm not here to offer definitive answers but to share real-life experiences and observations that have helped me along the way.
I've absorbed many lessons throughout my journey and am excited to pass those insights on to you in the hope that they might resonate.
It’s not about taking what I’ve learned and implementing it in the same way, it’s about uncovering what might work best for you.
For me, life is a shared experience, and if I can contribute to someone's success, that's what it's all about.
So, read on and let's explore this important topic together.
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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From Frozen to Fulfilled
Awakening from procrastination
I just sat there.
Staring out the window, feeling completely stuck.
I knew I had a ton of work to do, but my body just wouldn't budge.
It felt weird, very weird.
I've always been someone who thrived on challenges, but at that specific time, even the smallest task felt like I was climbing Mount Everest.
It was as if my mind and body were in a state of paralysis totally disconnected from the part of myself that used to thrive.
Interestingly though, this feeling felt eerily familiar.
That's when I knew.
Something was off.
It wasn't about being lazy or unmotivated, it was about confronting internal barriers that had formed over time.
I knew it was time to look inward and confront the fears and doubts that were holding me back.
This realisation itself is a powerful catalyst for change.
By simply acknowledging their existence, you’re one step closer to dismantling them and moving forward.
Experience is an incredible teacher.
If we listen to our bodies and make adjustments when needed, that is.
This moment triggered memories of a previous occurrence, where on paper I seemed fine - but deep down, I was miserable.
Back then, it took me longer to realise and take action, but the benefits started flowing immediately once I did.
Reflecting on my life, it became clear that any moments of procrastination often stemmed from feeling disconnected from what I was doing.
It only occurred when I lacked a sense of real purpose.
Pursuing goals that didn't align with my values would result in a constant sense of dissatisfaction and restlessness.
It was as if I was burning energy on a path that wasn't mine and each step forward felt heavier than the last.
I now take action swiftly and confidently.
More importantly, when I do veer off course (and we all do), my heightened awareness allows me to take action and realign.
I’d been so focused on achieving success and meeting expectations that I forgot what actually brought me joy.
Ever felt like a fish out of water, even when everyone around you thinks you're succeeding?
Sound familiar?
This process reminds me of the domino effect.
You know, when you line up a row of dominoes and each one will knock down the next, creating a chain reaction that's hard to stop.
But what if you could intervene before the entire row falls?
What if, by recognising familiar signs, you could remove the next domino and change course?
This ability to pause and reassess is incredibly powerful.
It allows you to realign when needed and avoid the inevitable path of destruction that comes from pushing yourself too far and ignoring the signals.
It's a lesson I've learned the hard way, but also one that has made a recognisable difference in my journey towards a more authentic and satisfying life.
Debunking the Myth of Laziness
Devon Price, a social psychologist, confidently challenges the notion of laziness in his book "Laziness Does Not Exist."
He suggests that when people appear lazy, it's usually because they're facing barriers that aren't immediately visible.
This perspective encourages us to look beyond the surface and understand the context of someone else’s behaviour.
For instance, a student who consistently misses deadlines is likely not lazy.
They might be dealing with anxiety, executive functioning challenges, or other personal issues that impact their productivity.
This isn't about finding fault, it's about understanding the 'why'.
When you understand the why, you can address the underlying issues more effectively and provide the appropriate support.
This approach creates a more empathetic and supportive environment which encourages open communication and will ultimately lead to better outcomes for everyone involved.
"I have spent my days stringing and unstringing my instrument, while the song I came to sing remains unsung."
A Functioning Problem, Not a Character Flaw
Procrastination is a common phenomenon that affects people from all walks of life.
It's often seen as a moral failing or a sign of laziness, but psychological research paints a different picture.
It’s more likely to occur when a task is meaningful and the individual cares deeply about doing it well.
This can lead to fear of failure or confusion about where to start, rather than a lack of motivation.
This, too, speaks to the theme of purpose.
We procrastinate on what matters because it matters.
So when it does occur, it's essential to identify the underlying barrier.
These can range from anxiety and fear of failure to challenges with executive function, where individuals struggle to break down tasks into manageable steps.
Recognising these barriers is the first step towards overcoming them.
In my case, I realised my barriers were rooted in fear and self-doubt.
I was afraid of not meeting expectations and was overwhelmed by the pressure to perform.
This fear often manifested as me just sitting there - frozen, indecisive and frustrated.
However, once I acknowledged these fears, I began to break down tasks into smaller steps and focus on making progress rather than chasing perfection.
It’s amazing how simple it is to free your mind when you are 100% honest with yourself.
Just as I’ve had to re-evaluate my career to find fulfilment, in that moment, I had to re-evaluate my approach to certain tasks.
So, how can you achieve a similar result?
Practical Tips to Overcome Procrastination
Break Down Large Tasks:
Divide challenging tasks into smaller, manageable steps. This helps to reduce any overwhelm and makes it easier to simply get started. Think of it like planning a trip – you wouldn't just show up at the airport without a ticket or itinerary, well not often anyway 😜
Set Realistic Goals and Deadlines:
Lay out clear goals with deadlines for each step of your task. This provides a sense of direction and helps to maintain momentum. Be kind to yourself, progress over perfection.
Use Organisational Systems:
Use simple tools like to-do lists, calendars, or apps to track progress and stay organised. But most importantly: find what works best for you - digital or old-school pen and paper.
Create a Supportive Environment:
Ensure your workspace is conducive to productivity. Remove distractions and consider working in a quiet, comfortable space. By remove distractions, I mean REMOVE distractions.
Seek Support:
One of the best things about humanity is that life is a shared experience and we can talk to each other about it. Join a group or find a work buddy to help with external motivation and accountability. Sharing your goals with others creates accountability.
Practice Self-Compassion:
Be kind to yourself when you struggle. Acknowledge that procrastination isn’t a personal failure but a common challenge that many people face. This isn't a sprint, it's a marathon. Be gentle.
Address Underlying Issues:
If you discover that anxiety or fear of failure is holding you back, consider sourcing help from a mental health professional. Sometimes, we all need help untangling the knots.
Celebrate Small Wins:
Celebrate every small achievement along the way. This helps build motivation and reinforces positive behaviours. Treat yourself, you deserve it.
Looking Inward: The Key to Unlocking Your Potential
When dealing with procrastination, it's crucial to look inward and understand your barriers.
Just as I had to ask myself tough questions about my career, you need to ask yourself tough questions about what's holding you back.
Otherwise, the patterns will continue and the dominoes will continue to fall.
Ask yourself:
What am I afraid of? Is it fear of failure or success? Or something else?
What do I need to start? Do I need more information or support?
How can I make this task more enjoyable? I often find that making a task more fun will boost my motivation.
By exploring these questions and implementing the strategies outlined above, you can begin to overcome procrastination and achieve your goals without labelling yourself as "lazy.”
"Procrastination taught me how to do 30 minutes of work in 8 hours and 8 hours of work in 30 minutes."
Living on Your Terms
In my quest to overcome procrastination, I discovered it was about more than just increasing productivity.
It was about uncovering purpose and finding joy in my work.
This realisation led me to shift from a successful career to a path that truly resonated with my current life stage.
Now, I've regained that sense of purpose that had been absent for a while.
I've come to realise that life is too short to spend on pursuits that don't bring joy.
Remember those tasks I didn’t enjoy?
They became a symbol of a life out of alignment.
By acknowledging the barriers and making conscious changes, I was able to align my actions with my values and aspirations.
Now, procrastination is no longer a sign of laziness for me.
It's a clear indication that something requires a re-evaluation.
When we adopt a more curious and empathetic approach to our own behaviour, we expose the underlying reasons for procrastination and can then develop effective solutions.
Remember, recognising and addressing these barriers is the crucial first step.
This whole journey has reinforced the importance of embracing change and being open to new experiences.
Whether it's shifting roles or pursuing new passions, change can be both daunting and liberating.
It's crucial to listen to our intuition and honour our feelings because ignoring them will lead to regret and stagnation.
I’m sure you’ve all heard the definition of insanity?
Doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result.
Now, here’s my challenge you.
Take a moment to reflect.
What's one small step you can take today to address a barrier that's holding you back from living a more purposeful life?
The answer might surprise you.
"While we are postponing, life speeds by."
Wanna dig into this further?
Check out this insightful video that reinforces the message above:
Bright Reads
Interesting insights to ignite your inner optimist.
Predicting the future: Key predictions made in 2009.
Richard Wilkinson’s Star Wars Bugs.
What makes a memory real?
We finally know whether people see colours differently.
Spring bird migration to fill skies with 500 million birds.
Harry Houdini
The Master of Magic
Harry Houdini - born March 24, 1874.
This week, we're diving into the extraordinary life of Harry Houdini.
The man who turned escapes into an art form and left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.
Born Ehrich Weisz in 1874, Houdini's journey from humble beginnings to international stardom is nothing short of magical.
Imagine being locked in a milk can filled with water or dangling upside down in a straitjacket from a skyscraper.
For Houdini, these death-defying stunts were just another day at the office.
But his legacy goes far beyond his ability to wriggle out of impossible situations.
Overcoming Adversity
Houdini's rise to fame is a nod to the power of perseverance and showmanship.
Despite growing up in poverty as the son of Hungarian immigrants, he remained determined to succeed.
He started performing magic tricks at a young age and worked tirelessly to improve his skills, showcasing an optimistic belief that he could rise above his circumstances.
This early determination set the stage for his later success.
As his career took off, Houdini wasn't content with just performing standard magic tricks.
He was all about turning challenges into opportunities.
He would often invite the police department to restrain him, transforming potentially risky situations into publicity goldmines.
Talk about thinking outside the box … or inside the straitjacket.
Houdini's most famous escapes captivated audiences worldwide.
In 1912, he performed the Chinese Water Torture Cell escape, where he was suspended upside-down in a locked glass cabinet filled with water.
This death-defying act became one of his trademark performances.
Another spectacular feat was his Milk Can Escape in 1908, where he would be handcuffed and sealed inside an oversized milk can filled with water, escaping in under three minutes.
These stunts weren't just about entertainment, they were a reflection of that periods fascination with pushing human limits.
In an era of rapid industrialisation and scientific progress, Houdini embodied the spirit of overcoming seemingly impossible odds.
"My chief task has been to conquer fear. The public sees only the thrill of the accomplished trick; they have no conception of the tortuous preliminary self-training that was necessary to conquer fear."
The Serious Side of Houdini
Houdini's dedication to his craft was unparalleled.
He spent countless hours honing his skills, practising elaborate escapes and perfecting each illusion.
The guy was the definition of "practice makes perfect."
And let's be real - who among us couldn't benefit from a little more dedication to our passions?
But Houdini wasn't all smoke and mirrors.
He had a serious side too.
As president of the Society of American Magicians, he was committed to upholding professional standards and exposing fraud.
He even wrote books like "Miracle Mongers and Their Methods" and "A Magician Among the Spirits" to debunk spiritualists and mediums who preyed on grieving families.
Surprisingly, Houdini was all about keeping it real in a world full of illusions.
What's truly inspiring is how he worked tirelessly to create a unified national network of magicians.
He travelled extensively, giving speeches and hosting banquets at his own expense, outlining an optimistic vision for the magic community.
His dedication to bringing people together is something we can all learn from.
Lessons from Houdini
Now, you might be thinking, "That's all well and good, but what can I learn from a guy who lived a century ago?"
Houdini's life was loaded with practical lessons:
Embrace your uniqueness: Houdini turned his escape artistry into a brand. What's your special talent? Don't be afraid to showcase it!
Practice relentlessly: Houdini's success came from relentless dedication. Whatever your passion may be, those who put in the hours to master it will reap the rewards.
Think outside the box: Or in Houdini's case, think about how to get out of the box. Creativity and problem-solving were his superpowers. How can you approach your own challenges from a fresh perspective?
Build your network: Houdini worked hard to unite magicians across the country because he understood the power of community. Who are your people? How can you bring them together?
Stand up for what you believe in: Houdini wasn't afraid to call out frauds and fight for integrity in his profession. What causes are you passionate about? How can you champion them?
Houdini's Lasting Impact
Harry Houdini's impact on popular culture can't be overstated.
He starred in films, became the first person to fly a plane in Australia in 1910 (because why not?) and even has a lasting influence on modern magic today.
His life coincided with significant social and technological changes, like urbanisation and the rise of mass media.
He managed to skillfully leverage these changes to build his fame.
Newspapers chronicled his stunts.
Early cinema captured his daring feats.
And radio amplified his voice as both an entertainer and sceptic of fraudulent spiritualists.
But perhaps the most relatable aspect of Houdini's story is his human side.
Despite his larger-than-life persona, he was a devoted son who once bought a beautiful dress, said to have been made for Queen Victoria, just so he could present it to his mother at a family gathering.
He called it "the happiest day" of his life.
A reminder that even legends are driven by the love of their families.
Houdini’s life wasn’t without challenges.
He encountered personal challenges, such as relationships beyond his marriage, yet these intricacies only seemed to enhance his relatability as an individual, as he took ownership of both his successes and vulnerabilities.
Leaving a Lasting Legacy
As we wrap up our journey through Houdini’s life, l encourage you to take a moment to appreciate the magic in your own life.
Houdini’s legacy goes beyond breathtaking escapes.
He showed us the power of perseverance, innovation and showmanship.
His life teaches us that with enough creativity, determination and even a little sleight of hand, we can escape anything life throws our way.
His story reminds us to question what seems impossible, push our boundaries and never stop learning or adapting.
We can often feel constrained by rules or expectations, but Houdini’s spirit encourages us to break free.
To find our unique talents and use them in ways that amaze and inspire others.
So next time you're faced with an impossible situation?
Channel your inner Harry Houdini: take a deep breath … focus … then find your way out.
Who knows?
By embracing daring innovation like him—you might discover your own brand of magic along the way.
And that would no doubt earn applause from The Great Houdini himself!
"What the eyes see and the ears hear, the mind believes."
If you have 15 minutes, this video outlines the power of his impact:
Now Spinning
Masana Temples
by Kikagaku Moyo
If you're anything like me, you love those serendipitous moments when you stumble upon something truly special.
That's exactly what happened to me a few weeks back at a record store in Toronto.
With some time to kill before meeting a friend, I found myself flipping through vinyl when a stunning album cover caught my eye: Masana Temples by Kikagaku Moyo.
On a whim, I gave it a quick listen, and let me tell you, it was love at first note 🎶
Why is Masana Temples is Worth a Listen?
A Unique Band with a Definite End
Kikagaku Moyo (which translates to "geometric patterns") is a Japanese rock band that's truly one-of-a-kind.
What makes them even more intriguing is their unique approach to their career.
Unlike most bands that keep churning out albums indefinitely, Kikagaku Moyo decided to bow out at their peak, releasing only a handful of albums before calling it quits.
It's this intentional, almost curated approach to their discography that makes each of their albums feel like a precious gem.
Sonic Soundscapes
Masana Temples, their fourth studio album, is a perfect example of why this band is so special.
From the moment you drop the needle, you're transported into a world of swirling, hypnotic soundscapes.
It's not just music; it's an experience.
The album seamlessly blends elements of traditional Japanese music, krautrock and 70s psychedelia into something wholly unique and captivating.
Pack Your Bags
What I love most about Masana Temples is how it takes you on a journey.
The album's shifting sonic panorama reflects the band's experiences of travelling through life together, from months spent on tour to recording in Lisbon with jazz musician Bruno Pernadas.
Tracks like "Dripping Sun" start with a funky bassline before exploding into a kaleidoscopic guitar freak-out.
Then you have songs like "Gatherings," likely my favourite track, a sprawling seven-minute cosmic odyssey that feels like you’re floating through space.
Challenging Psychedelia
With Masana Temples, Kikagaku Moyo set out to challenge their own concepts of what psychedelic music could be.
They sought out Pernadas not only out of admiration for his music but also as an intentional move to work with a producer from a wildly different background.
The result is an album that retains elements of both their attentive folk and wild-eyed rocking sides, but with sharper and more defined edges.
My Takeaway
What sets Kikagaku Moyo apart is their ability to create music that's both accessible and deeply experimental.
They don't just write songs; they craft sonic landscapes that invite you to get lost in them.
Masana Temples feels like the culmination of everything they were working towards, earning an impressive 8/10 rating from Clunk Magazine.
It's bittersweet knowing that we won't get any new music from Kikagaku Moyo, but in a way, that makes their existing albums even more precious.
And while my suggestion this week is this album in particular, I can safely recommend each of their 5 LPs becuase they’rre sensational - I’ve even since bought their 3rd release “House in the Tall grass” as well.
They've left us with a perfect, concise body of work that rewards repeated listens and continues to reveal new layers with each spin.
If you're looking to expand your musical horizons and embark on a musical journey unlike any other, I can't recommend Masana Temples enough.
Put it on, turn up the volume and let Kikagaku Moyo take you for a ride.
When music is this good, it is such a gift - I have a feeling you'll feel the same way I do.
"Masana Temples is, a thing of beauty from the stunning artwork to the music itself, starting with the appropriately named 'Entrance'... I am convinced that this is Kikagaku Moyo’s best work to date… and that is set against an extremely high starting point."
Got a recommendation?
Please share; I'm always keen for great suggestions.
A Bright Idea to Consider
Unknown
"A fact is information minus emotion.
An opinion is information plus experience.
Ignorance is an opinion lacking information.
And stupidity is an opinion that ignores fact."
The Lesson
This quote might come from an unknown source, but it hits you like a bolt of clarity.
It breaks down how we process and interpret information into four short, punchy sentences that offer a ton of practical insights.
This isn't just a set of definitions – it's a lesson in critical thinking.
The Layers of Truth: Breaking It Down
Facts: Information Minus Emotion
Facts are the foundation of understanding - they’re objective and uncoloured by feelings or biases. But here’s the thing, facts alone don’t inspire action or connection. They’re essential but they need context to become meaningful.Opinions: Information Plus Experience
Opinions add a layer of personal perspective to facts. They’re shaped by our experiences, values and insights. This is where things get interesting. Discussions with diverse viewpoints enhance the depth and quality of conversations if they’re grounded in truth and shared respectfully.Ignorance: Opinions Without Information
Ignorance happens when opinions are formed without any factual basis. It’s like building a house on sand - unstable and likely to crumble under scrutiny. This reminds us of the importance of staying curious and informed before forming conclusions.Stupidity: Opinions That Ignore Facts
Stupidity takes it one step further. It’s willfully ignoring the truth in favour of sticking to a flawed perspective. This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of clinging to misinformation or refusing to adapt when presented with evidence.
How to Apply This Wisdom
Stay Curious: Before forming an opinion, ask yourself: “Do I have enough information to back this up?” Seek out reliable sources and stay open to learning.
Check Your Biases: Are your emotions clouding your judgment? It’s natural to feel strongly about certain topics, but grounding your perspective in facts ensures your opinions hold weight.
Engage Thoughtfully: When discussing differing opinions, focus on understanding the other person’s experiences rather than dismissing them outright. Conversations rooted in mutual respect lead to growth.
Challenge Ignorance (Kindly): If you encounter opinions lacking information, approach them with empathy rather than hostility. Share facts and encourage curiosity instead of creating conflict.
Be Willing to Adapt: If new information challenges your beliefs, embrace it as an opportunity to grow rather than digging your heels in.
My Takeaway
Not all opinions are created equal - and that’s okay.
The key is learning how to discern between fact-based perspectives and those rooted in ignorance or willful denial of truth.
By doing so, we not only sharpen our own thinking but also contribute to more meaningful conversations and decisions.
The world is overflowing with opinions.
Let’s aim to be thoughtful contributors rather than noisy participants.
Ground your views in facts, stay open to learning and remember - true wisdom comes from knowing when to listen, when to speak and when to change your mind.
"A lie can travel half way around the world while the truth is putting on its shoes."
A previous post …
🚨 Stop Overthinking, Start Doing 🚀
We've all been there.
Stuck in endless loops of analysis, weighing every option and second-guessing ourselves.
But overthinking isn’t progress - it’s a trap.
Here’s how to break free and take action👇
🧵...
— Chris | The Brighter Side of Everything (@thebsofe)
1:34 PM • Mar 19, 2025
Positively Hilarious
A quick laugh as we part ways this week.
Daily Gratitude Journal
🚨Update 🚨
In 2024, we sold 113 daily gratitude journals!
As a result, we're donating $113 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Thank you for your support.
I’m so grateful for every journal sold and will continue to donate $1 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Transform your daily routine with my specially crafted gratitude journal.
Start (or end) each day with a moment of reflection and positivity.
As you develop daily your 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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