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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: 10-12 minutes.
Bright Side in Brief
What’s covered this week?
Keep Moving Forward - Embracing your past without living there.
Bright Reads - Quick links to fun or insightful articles.
Inspiring Generations - The story of Captain Tom Moore.
Bookmarks - ‘How Minds Change’ by David McRaney.
A Bright Idea to Consider - Wayne Dyer.
Positively Hilarious - Smile like you mean it.
Daily Gratitude Journal - Transform your daily routine through reflection.
Mobile App - Access content easily and receive notifications for each send.
Hi Everyone,
I’m so glad you’re here - thank you for being part of this community.
Lately, I’ve been thinking about a mantra that has guided me through many of my challenges: keep moving forward.
No matter what life throws our way, there is always a path ahead and it’s crucial to focus on progress rather than linger in the past.
As a proud Australian who now calls Canada home, I often think about the national coat of arms, which features both the kangaroo and the emu.
These remarkable animals were chosen because neither can take a backward step; they can only move forward.
The Australian Coat of Arms
This symbolism resonates deeply with me and reflects our shared commitment to progress both as individuals and as a nation.
In this week’s newsletter, I explore how to embrace our past without letting it define us.
It’s perfectly okay to acknowledge where we’ve been, but we must also keep our eyes on the horizon and seek new opportunities.
So let’s celebrate our journey while committing to keep moving ourselves forward.
Because our past doesn’t need us, but our future certainly does.
See you on the Brighter Side,
Chris
P.S. Send me feedback on how I can improve. I respond to every email.
Keep Moving Forward
Embracing Your Past Without Living There
Let’s dive into something that hits home for many of us: finding that sweet spot between appreciating our past and making sure it doesn’t hold us back.
It’s okay to love and cherish the experiences that have shaped us, but we shouldn’t let our minds linger there for too long.
Instead, we need to keep pushing forward.
Why? Read on.
The Beauty of Reflection
First off, let’s take a moment to appreciate our past.
Every moment we’ve lived - both the highs and the lows - plays a role in shaping who we are today.
Those cherished memories can warm our hearts, remind us of love, laughter and the valuable lessons learned along the way.
When you look back at yourself from 5, 10, or even 20 years ago, you should see significant growth.
If you don't feel a bit of discomfort or even cringe slightly at your past self, it might be a sign that you haven't grown as much as you could have.
This discomfort is actually a positive thing.
It's evidence of your personal development and how far you've come.
Maya Angelou once said:
“I can’t change my past, but I can change my future.”
This simple statement sums it up.
We can honour our past without letting it dictate our present or future.
Reflecting on our experiences can be a powerful tool for growth.
It helps us understand our values, recognise patterns in our behaviour and figure out what we truly want in life.
But here’s the catch: there’s a fine line between reflection and rumination.
Reflecting allows us to learn from what we've been through, but ruminating?
That can trap us in a cycle of regret or nostalgia that stifles our growth.
The Dangers of Living in the Past
So why is it crucial not to get stuck in the past?
Here's a fundamental truth: You can't always control what happens in life.
But you do have significant influence over how you respond to events and circumstances.
Everything in our life can be categorized into things that you can:
▪️ Control
▪️ Influence
▪️ Accept
There are things you can control, focus there.
There are some you can influence, pick your battles.
There are some you simply have to accept, save your energy.
For starters, when we fixate on what has already happened - whether it's a missed opportunity or a painful breakup - we risk missing out on the opportunities unfolding right in front of us.
Dr. John Demartini outlines this perfectly:
"If you are not present in your life, you are missing it."
Living in the past can lead to a bunch of negative emotions: regret, sadness and even anxiety about what could have been.
This emotional baggage weighs us down and makes it harder to embrace new experiences.
It's like trying to run a race while carrying a heavy backpack filled with rocks - exhausting and downright counterproductive.
By understanding what you can and cannot control, you create a powerful framework for moving forward and staying present.
The key is to direct your energy toward the things you can control or influence while learning to gracefully accept those circumstances beyond your immediate control.
This approach not only reduces stress but also empowers you to seize new opportunities for growth and happiness, allowing you to navigate your life with confidence and clarity.
Creating New Memories
One of the best ways to move on from painful memories is to create new ones.
When we actively engage in new experiences - whether it’s trying out a new hobby, travelling somewhere different, or simply spending time with loved ones - we fill our lives with fresh moments that overshadow the old ones.
Creating new memories not only helps shift our focus away from past pain but also adds fresh joy and excitement to our lives.
It’s about opening ourselves up to possibilities and allowing ourselves to experience happiness again.
So as you dive into creating new memories, remember that every positive experience adds another piece to your life’s puzzle.
The Power of Mindfulness
Another effective way to keep ourselves moving forward is through mindfulness.
Mindfulness encourages us to stay present and fully engage with everything that is happening right now, rather than getting lost in thoughts about the past or worrying about the future.
By practising mindfulness, we train our minds to observe thoughts about the past without getting caught up in them.
This doesn’t mean we ignore our history; instead, we acknowledge it while choosing to focus on the here and now.
By being mindful, we open ourselves up to new possibilities and experiences that may be closed off or overlooked when we don’t.
“The present moment is filled with joy and happiness. If you are attentive, you will see it.”
Embracing Change and Overcoming Uncertainty
Now let’s talk about change for a moment.
Many people fear change, but I believe it isn’t change itself that many are afraid of; it’s uncertainty.
The unknown can be daunting - it makes us feel vulnerable and out of control.
But here’s the thing: uncertainty is part of life.
Instead of letting it paralyse you, try embracing it as an opportunity to learn, grow, and discover new possibilities.
Let me share a bit about my own journey.
After dedicating over two decades to my corporate career, I found myself at a crossroads.
I loved my work and had poured everything into it - but I started realising something important was shifting within me.
I wanted more than just success at work; I wanted more time - the ability to prioritise what truly matters during my kid’s formative years.
So, I made a big change.
I walked away from my corporate career and decided to prioritise my time wealth.
It wasn’t an easy decision.
And there has been plenty of uncertainty along the way - but let me tell you: it’s been worth every second.
By focusing on what I can control - like setting goals for my family life and pursuing my passions - I’ve found clarity amidst the chaos.
Here’s an important point to remember: embracing uncertainty is like training a muscle.
The more you back yourself in challenging or new situations, the stronger your confidence becomes over time.
Each experience is like another rep at the gym; with each one, you build your ability to adjust your sails and navigate whatever comes your way.
If you don’t embrace these experiences, you risk finding yourself stuck where you are - or worse yet, trapped in the past.
To overcome uncertainty, start by focusing on what you can control.
Set small goals for yourself that allow you to take actionable steps forward.
This gives you a sense of direction amidst the chaos.
Also, be kind to yourself; remember that it's okay not to have all the answers right now.
Practical Steps for Moving Forward
Now that we've explored these ideas together, let's talk about how you can put this into practice in your own life:
Reflect Regularly: Set aside time each day, week or month to reflect on your experiences. What have you learned? What do you want to carry forward? Journaling is an excellent way to capture these reflections (see further below for access to our Daily Gratitude Journal).
Set Small Goals: Identify one area of your life where you want to make a change - whether it's personal growth, relationships, or your career - and set achievable goals related to that specific area.
Create New Experiences: Make an effort to try something new each month - this could be as simple as exploring a new hobby or visiting a place you've never been before.
Stay Present & Mindful: Build mindfulness exercises into your routine - this could be through meditation, deep breathing exercises, or simply taking moments throughout your day to pause and appreciate your surroundings.
Embrace Uncertainty: When faced with uncertainty about the future, remind yourself that it's okay not to have all the answers right now. Focus on what you can control and take small steps forward.
Build Your Support System: Surround yourself with people who uplift you during uncertain times - friends or family who encourage your growth can make all the difference.
Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge your achievements along the way - no matter how small they may seem. Celebrating your progress will help reinforce the positive changes in your life.
Finding Balance
In conclusion, it’s essential to find balance when it comes to your past.
Appreciate it for what it has taught you but don’t let it define you or hold you back from living fully in the present and pursuing your future dreams.
Every moment is an opportunity for discovery and to experience something new.
As you move through life, keep this mantra in mind: “I honour my past but choose to live in the present.”
By doing so, you create space for new experiences that add to your life in ways you never thought possible.
Let’s celebrate our past but keep our eyes ahead of us.
There is opportunity around every corner.
Bright Reads
Interesting insights to ignite your inner optimist.
5 simple, science-backed ways to get more time in your day.
Being mentally resilient could make you live longer.
11,000 Post-it notes come together to create an animation.
The hidden psychology of ‘know it alls’ - why they think they know everything.
Alaska’s fat bear contest winner.
Inspiring Generations
The Story of Captain Tom Moore
Image sourced from - www.walk1000miles.co.uk
2020 didn’t provide many positive memories.
But when you scratch beneath the surface, there are countless hidden gems to highlight.
One that stands out is the incredible story of Captain Tom Moore, a British Army veteran who became a beacon of hope during the COVID-19 pandemic.
His journey wasn’t just about raising funds; it was about inspiring hope during challenging times and demonstrating the power of community.
A Humble Beginning
Born on April 30, 1920, in Keighley, West Yorkshire, Tom Moore grew up in a modest household.
He joined the Army at the age of 19 during World War II and served in both India and Burma.
After the war, he returned to civilian life, working as an insurance agent and later as a business owner.
Throughout his life, he always remained grounded and dedicated to helping others.
The Spark of Inspiration
Fast forward to 2020 - when the world was grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic.
Like many others, Captain Tom found himself in lockdown.
Instead of succumbing to despair, he chose to take action.
At the age of 99, he set himself a remarkable challenge: to walk 100 laps around his garden before his 100th birthday to raise money for the National Health Service (NHS).
What started as a personal goal, quickly turned into a nationwide movement.
With each lap he completed, people began to take notice.
His spirit and determination resonated with many who were struggling during unprecedented times.
Walking for a Cause
Captain Tom's original goal was to raise £1,000 for the NHS.
However, as news of his efforts spread across social media and television, donations poured in from all corners of the world.
By the time he completed his laps on April 16, 2020 - just days before his 100th birthday - he had raised over £32 million!
That is simply bonkers to think about - £32 million!
His simple act of walking became a positive symbol of hope and resilience for millions.
His message was clear: no matter how small our actions may seem, they can create a ripple effect of kindness and support.
“I want to show that we can all do something positive in this time of crisis.”
A National Treasure
Captain Tom's efforts did not go unnoticed.
He received numerous accolades for his remarkable contributions during the pandemic.
He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in July 2020 - a moment that brought tears to his eyes as he expressed his gratitude for being able to serve his country once again.
Image sourced from the Washington Post
Beyond the honours and recognition, what truly set Captain Tom apart was his humility.
He remained grounded despite becoming an international sensation.
What a guy.
He often emphasised that it was not just about him; it was about everyone who had contributed to the cause, yet another telltale sign of his humility.
Spreading Joy and Kindness
Captain Tom's impact extended far beyond fundraising.
He became a symbol of optimism during dark times.
His cheerful demeanour and positive outlook inspired countless individuals to face their own challenges.
He was constantly reminding others that “tomorrow will be a good day,” encouraging them to stay hopeful even when times are tough.
His legacy also included promoting kindness and community spirit.
Captain Tom encouraged people to reach out to one another and offer help where they could.
He believed that small acts of kindness would lead to significant change in society.
"I want to show that we can all do something positive in this time of crisis."
The Final Chapter
Sadly, Captain Tom Moore passed away on February 2, 2021, at the age of 100 after contracting COVID-19.
His death was mourned by many who had been touched by his story.
However, his life was also celebrated, given his remarkable resilience and the inspiration he provided to millions around the world.
His legacy lives on through the countless lives he inspired and the funds raised for the NHS.
In honour of Captain Tom’s contributions, various initiatives have been established to continue promoting kindness and community support in his name.
His story serves as a reminder that no matter our age or circumstances, we can all make a difference.
Lessons from Captain Tom
So what can we learn from Captain Tom’s incredible journey?
Here are some key takeaways:
Resilience: No matter how tough life gets, we have the power to rise above challenges.
Community Spirit: We can achieve great things when we come together with others for a common cause.
Kindness Matters: Small acts of kindness can have a profound impact on others.
Hope is Powerful: Maintaining a positive outlook can inspire those around us.
Captain Tom’s life is an uplifting tale that reminds us of our capacity for kindness and resilience.
As each of us navigates our own challenges, let’s carry forward his spirit by embracing hope and looking out for one another.
Because together, we can make tomorrow a better day.
"Tomorrow will be a good day."
See below for a brief video following his passing:
Bookmarks
How Minds Change
by David McRaney
In recent weeks, I’ve been exploring the concepts surrounding why people believe what they believe (guessing I’m not alone in this) and what it takes to truly change someone’s mind.
Having read it recently, I’m keen to share my thoughts on this book that offers a fresh perspective on belief and persuasion: How Minds Change by David McRaney.
If you’ve ever found yourself wondering why some people cling to their beliefs despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary, this book provides some insightful answers.
Key Highlights:
A Deep Dive into Human Psychology: McRaney explores the science behind how and why people change their minds. He emphasises that changing someone’s opinion isn’t just about presenting facts or data; it’s much more about opening people up to new thoughts and experiences. This concept really struck a chord with me, as it challenges the conventional wisdom that facts alone can sway opinions.
Engaging Stories and Research: The book is packed with compelling anecdotes and thoughtful research. McRaney discusses various methods of persuasion, including “deep canvassing,” which involves engaging in conversations that encourage individuals to reflect on their beliefs rather than simply trying to convince them with arguments. This approach highlights the importance of personal stories and experiences in shaping our views.
Community and Identity: One of the most profound insights from the book is how our beliefs are often tied to our social groups. McRaney explains that we tend to adopt the views of those around us because it provides a sense of belonging. This realisation made me reflect on my own beliefs and how they’ve been influenced by those around me over time.
Practical Applications: McRaney doesn’t just leave us hanging with theories. He offers practical advice on how to engage in meaningful conversations that can lead to genuine change. He suggests asking open-ended questions that encourage self-reflection, which will help others begin to question their assumptions without feeling attacked.
My Takeaway:
What I enjoy most about How Minds Change is its ability to blend psychology with real-world application.
It’s not just an academic read; it’s a guide for anyone looking to grow their understanding in an increasingly polarised world.
McRaney’s writing is clear and engaging, making complex ideas accessible to all.
For me, this book has been eye-opening.
It reassured my belief that changing people's opinions with data is virtually impossible and highlighted the importance of empathy and connection in discussions about deeply held beliefs.
If you’re interested in understanding the dynamics of belief and persuasion - or if you’re simply looking for ways to have more productive conversations - I recommend reading How Minds Change.
It’s an insightful read that might just change your mind … about how minds change.
“If you cannot change your mind, it’s not you doing the thinking. You’ve adopted someone else’s viewpoint.”
Got a recommendation?
Please share; I'm always keen to hear quality suggestions.
A Bright Idea to Consider
Wayne Dyer
Perspective is powerful, we often jump to conclusions or make assumptions without understanding the full story.
The above statement from Wayne Dyer encourages us to recognise that our perceptions have a powerful influence on our experiences.
When we adjust our point of view, we can transform not only how we see situations but also how those situations unfold.
The Power of Perspective
Mindset Matters: The way we interpret events guides our emotional responses and actions. A positive perspective can turn challenges into opportunities for growth, while a negative outlook can lead to feelings of defeat.
Reframing Situations: Dyer advocates for the practice of reframing. For instance, viewing a setback as a learning opportunity rather than a failure can empower us to move forward with resilience and confidence.
Practical Applications
Self-Reflection: Take time to assess your thoughts and beliefs about a situation. Consider how changing your perspective might impact your feelings and actions.
Gratitude Practice: Cultivating gratitude can shift your focus from what’s lacking to what’s abundant in your life, helping you see things in a more positive light.
Seek Different Views: Engaging with diverse perspectives enriches your understanding and helps you see situations from angles you hadn’t considered before.
The Lesson
Dyer’s insight is a powerful reminder that you can reshape your reality by altering your perspective.
When we adopt a more positive and open-minded view, we transform our experiences and create a more fulfilling life.
Embracing this mindset not only enhances growth personally but also improves our relationships with others and boosts our well-being overall.
"What is behind your eyes holds more power than what is in front of them."
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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