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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?

• Navigating Through Storms - My experience with grief and resilience

• Bright Reads - Quick links to fun or insightful articles.

• David Bowie - Why fit in when you’re naturally formed to stand out?

• Now Spinning - The rise and fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars

• A Bright Idea to Consider - Rabindranath Tagore.

• A Previous Tweet - Tentative vs. assertive language.

• Daily Gratitude Journal - Transform your daily routine through reflection.

• Positively Hilarious - Smile like you mean it.

Hi everyone,

Time waits for no one.

As I sit down to write this week’s newsletter, I find myself reflecting on the swift passage of time.

It’s hard to believe that we are already approaching the holiday season and it’s now been four months since my Mum's passing.

It feels both like a lifetime ago and also just yesterday.

Grief doesn’t disappear; it simply shifts and changes, just like we do.

In those early days, thinking about her brought me so much sadness.

I often found myself overwhelmed by the weight of loss.

But lately, when she pops into my mind (which is often), I find myself smiling instead.

I remember what an incredible person she was - her smile, the way she laughed, the warmth of her hugs and all the amazing moments we shared.

Those memories are treasures that bring light to my heart.

I miss her more than words can say, but I choose to celebrate her life and the love we had.

It’s a journey, and while the path of grief can be rocky, I’ve learned that it’s also filled with beautiful reminders of her spirit.

This week, I want to share my recent journey through grief and how I've had to show strength during some tough times.

I’ll talk about what has helped me navigate an emotional rollercoaster and offer some tips for anyone else who might be facing similar challenges.

Thank you to all subscribers, both old and new, for being here with me on this journey.

Your support means the world to me.

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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Navigating Through Storms

My Experience with Grief and Resilience

A major reason I started this newsletter was to share my perspective on life.

It’s a perspective I’ve realised isn’t as common as I once thought.

I’m an optimist, pure and simple.

I often see opportunities where others see challenges and I’m always looking for ways to learn, grow and move forward.

It’s been empowering to move through life focused on solutions and hope vs. obstacles and despair.

Through this lens, I’ve learned to face challenges head-on and emerge stronger from each experience.

It’s an approach that has served me well over the years.

Over the last five years, though, the impact of this mindset has been amplified.

I’ve experienced how focusing on the good has truly helped me navigate even my toughest days.

At some point - if you haven’t already - you will experience grief.

And that experience will be uniquely yours.

By understanding it, appreciating it and not denying or shying away from it, you’ll be better positioned to move yourself forward.

I’m not here to tell you how to live your life, not at all, just to share what has helped me greatly throughout mine.

As mentioned, I’ve been thrown some hefty challenges in recent years.

From the sudden passing of my father five years ago in a plane crash.

To leading a travel company during the COVID pandemic.

Losing my job (which I loved) of 17 years as a result.

Losing our beloved family pet of 14 years, Baxter.

It feels like I’ve been on a rollercoaster of grief.

Most recently, just four months ago, I lost my dear Mum.

Man … I miss her so much.

Putting it simply, I never envisioned a life where I’d lost both parents by this age.

Each of these experiences has shaped me in ways I never anticipated.

They’ve taught me that grief is not just a singular event but a journey filled with ups and downs - moments of joy intertwined with sorrow.

This week, I share some insights from my personal experience in the hope it might help you navigate your own storm.

The Weight of Unresolved Trauma

When we face traumatic events - like losing loved ones or experiencing sudden changes in our lives - it can feel like we’re constantly bracing for the next crisis.

Unresolved trauma has a way of keeping us on high alert, making it hard to find peace.

After my father’s unexpected passing, I found myself living in a state of anxiety.

Every phone call felt like it could bring bad news; every day was tinged with an underlying worry.

What I've come to realise is that grief is unique for each person and varies within each instance.

My experience dealing with my father's death was different from how I felt when Baxter passed, which was different to when we lost Mum.

Each loss brought its own set of emotions and challenges.

There has been ample research, in recent years, indicating that unresolved trauma can lead to chronic stress responses affecting both mental and physical health.

It’s like carrying a backpack full of rocks - you might get used to the weight, but it’s exhausting if you try to carry it everywhere with you.

Common Misconceptions About Grief

Through the last few years, I’ve encountered several misconceptions that often cloud our understanding of this complex process.

One common myth is that grief follows a linear path - that we must pass through defined stages like denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance in a specific order.

In reality, grief is not that predictable; it’s fluid and can vary greatly from person to person.

Another misconception is that grief is a sign of weakness, this couldn’t be further from the truth.

Grief is simply our emotional response to loss.

It’s not an indication of strength or weakness and research has clearly shown that crying is a healthy release of stress hormones and toxins from our bodies.

Many people also believe that time alone heals all wounds; while time can help us process our feelings, healing requires active engagement with those emotions.

However, healing is not a passive process; it involves acknowledging and working through our emotions rather than simply waiting for them to fade.

Lastly, there’s the notion that there are right and wrong ways to grieve.

This myth can create immense pressure on those who feel they must conform to societal expectations about how grief should look or feel.

Newsflash … you don’t.

You do you.

In reality, every person’s grieving process is unique - shaped by their relationship with who they have lost and their personal coping mechanisms.

The Shift Towards Healing

But here’s where things start to change: healing is possible.

It doesn’t mean forgetting or dismissing the pain; rather, it’s about learning how to cope with whatever life throws at us.

After losing my job due to redundancy during the pandemic, I realised that while I couldn’t control what happened to me but I could control my response.

These are the moments when people are watching you.

Keep your head held high, never burn bridges, maintain your dignity and keep moving forward.

Why?

You will never regret maintaining your integrity, and you never know who you will cross paths with again in the future.

Opportunities surface when you show strength and resilience because they are admirable traits.

Around this time, I began exploring different avenues for healing, and writing became my outlet.

Recording my thoughts daily helped me process my emotions and reflect on what I was truly feeling.

There is plenty of information to support that expressive writing can significantly reduce stress and improve mental health, like James W. Pennebaker’s book Opening Up.

In fact, it was this book that inspired me to create my own daily gratitude journal.

If you’re looking for my number one suggestion, grab a notebook and start writing.

It doesn’t have to be perfect; just let your thoughts flow.

It was this practice that allowed me to confront my feelings head-on.

In fact, I’m doing it right now 😄 

Understanding Resilience

Resilience is defined by the American Psychological Association (APA) as the process of adapting well in the face of adversity, trauma, tragedy, threats, or significant sources of stress.

It involves not just “bouncing back” from difficult experiences but also experiencing profound personal growth.

This means that even if you face emotional distress, resilience enables you to overcome challenges and emerge stronger.

While some people seem naturally equipped to cope with adversity, resilience can be learned and improved upon.

Just like building muscle, it requires time and effort.

The good news is that your past experiences can serve as valuable lessons in building your resilience.

Why is Resilience Important?

Resilience gives us the strength to cope with stress and challenges.

Developing and improving it will help you handle adversity better and adapt to changes.

It’s a key element in healing from many forms of trauma that we may experience throughout our lives.

Remember though, you are already somewhat resilient.

Your journey has brought you this far.

Once you realise that you can overcome life’s most challenging moments, it feeds your confidence and your ability to move forward.

See below for some additional approaches I've learned over the years:

8 Ways to Build Resilience After Trauma

1. Embrace Change: Accepting change helps you adapt better to difficult situations. Flexibility is essential for resilience. Many think they fear change but in truth, they fear the uncertainty that change brings.

2. Focus on What You Can Control: Shift your attention from what you can't control to what you can influence; this empowers you and reduces anxiety. The opposite is pointless. Read that again.

3. Keep Things in Perspective: When facing challenges, step back and see the bigger picture; ask yourself how significant this moment will be in the long run. How will you feel about this in one week, one month, one year? If it is the latter, it’s important to address your emotions rather than bottle them up inside.

4. Minimise Catastrophic Thinking: Avoid imagining worst-case scenarios; remind yourself that what happens now doesn’t determine your future. Worrying is like a rocking chair, it gives you something to do but doesn’t get you anywhere.

5. Establish a Support Network: Surround yourself with caring people who can offer reassurance during tough times; strong social support is vital for resilience. Asking for help isn’t weak, far from it. Reaching out for support shows strength and the right circle helps to create the right you.

6. Deal with Emotions Healthily: Focus on healthy ways to process your emotions such as daily journaling, talking to a trusted friend, mindfulness or meditation instead of resorting to unhealthy coping methods like binge eating, excessive drinking, or isolating yourself from others.

7. Take Care of Yourself: Prioritising self-care is essential for building resilience; take part in activities that replenish you, both your mind and your body. For me, I love to recharge by listening to records or working out, depending on how I’m feeling at the time.

8. Stay Hopeful: Maintaining hope keeps you moving forward even in difficult times; acknowledge that while bad things happen, they can be overcome and good things can also occur.

Finding Comfort in Community

Another crucial aspect of healing is connection.

After Baxter passed away, our family felt an overwhelming sense of loneliness.

He had been such a comforting presence in our home for 14 years.

Instead of isolating myself, I reached out to others who understood what it meant to lose a pet.

It was staggering (but not surprising) how heavy this loss felt, but the reality is, he was part of our life every day for 14 years - that leaves a hole.

Sharing stories and memories helped me feel less alone in my grief.

In support of this, research indicates that social support is vital for coping with loss; building strong social networks provides reassurance during tough times and makes a world of difference when facing adversity.

So don’t hesitate to lean on your community - whether it’s friends, family or even online support groups.

You’d be surprised how many people are willing to listen and share their own experiences.

Embracing Vulnerability

As I navigated these challenges, I learned that vulnerability is not weakness; it’s strength.

When Mum passed away just four months ago, I allowed myself to grieve openly - crying when needed and sharing memories with others who loved her while celebrating her life rather than purely mourning her death.

I learned this lesson 5 years earlier.

I know in my heart that I didn’t give myself the space and time to grieve properly back then.

I was just running on fumes, masking my pain with productivity while neglecting the grief that lingered.

Brené Brown, an author known for her work on vulnerability, courage, empathy and shame, emphasises that embracing our imperfections allows us to connect more deeply with others.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by grief or trauma, remember that it’s okay to let your guard down.

Keeping it inside is essentially kicking the can further down the road.

The Unique Nature of Grief

It’s important to recognise that grief isn’t one-size-fits-all; it varies from person to person and situation to situation.

For instance, while the loss of my father impacted me deeply at the time, I know now that I didn’t fully resolve that inner trauma before facing subsequent losses.

That said, through these experiences - each unique in its own right - I’ve improved my resilience.

Resilience isn’t just about bouncing back and forcing a smile; it involves profound personal growth if we choose to learn from our experiences.

I've learned that resilience isn't about never breaking; it's about beautifully rebuilding after each fall.

Each challenge you overcome is like a brushstroke on the canvas of your life, adding depth, texture and resolve to your personal story.

Having navigated these storms over the last few years, I am now supremely confident that I can overcome any obstacle life throws my way … which it will.

That is optimism.

The ability to keep moving forward with the knowledge that despite what happens to me, I can overcome it, and thrive.

A New Perspective

As I reflect on all I've been through, the losses and the heartache, I realise that healing doesn’t mean erasing those memories; it means integrating them into who we are now.

My past is a lesson - not a life sentence - it has shaped me but does not define me.

So if you’re navigating challenges right now, remember this: healing is not linear but rather a winding path filled with ups and downs.

Embrace the journey and the lessons it is sharing with you.

Lean into your community and don’t shy away from feeling deeply - because on the other side of grief lies resilience.

Let’s honour those we’ve lost by living fully and authentically ourselves - one day at a time - and remember: you are not alone in this journey.

Many others are silently battling similar challenges all around us; together we can find strength in our shared experiences.

Bright Reads

Interesting insights to ignite your inner optimist.

• How to change your perception of time (and make life seem longer)

• Being mentally resilient could cut your risk of death by 53%

• Do you speak Gen Alpha?

• Everyday objects are unrecognisable at super macro scale.

• The remarkable ‘Spiders of Paradise’ and their dancing

David Bowie

Why Fit In When You’re Naturally Formed to Stand Out?

Why fit in when you were born to stand out?

We don’t all look the same.

We certainly don’t all act the same.

We each possess unique qualities that make us who we are.

To me, the idea that we should all look, act and behave the same is utterly ridiculous.

Yet, there’s a pervasive desire across the globe to fit into predefined moulds.

This urge to conform can negatively impact many individuals, stifling their creativity and suppressing their authentic self-expression.

When we prioritise fitting in over being ourselves, we miss out on valuable opportunities for growth and limit our connections with like-minded people.

Embracing your authentic self is empowering.

It opens doors to new experiences and relationships based on genuine interests and passions.

Let's take a look at a remarkable figure who epitomised this philosophy, David Bowie.

There aren’t many humans who’ve embraced their authenticity quite like he did.

Bowie is a legendary figure in music and fashion, exemplifying the idea of standing out rather than fitting in.

Known for his flamboyant persona and innovative artistry, he was a master of reinvention, constantly challenging societal norms and expectations throughout his career.

Bowie's ability to reinvent himself was evident in his various alter egos, most notably Ziggy Stardust, a gender-bending rock star who captured the imagination of a generation.

This character allowed Bowie to explore themes of identity, sexuality and fame, encouraging his fans to embrace their own uniqueness.

Bowie's impact extended beyond music; he was also a fashion icon who used style as a means of self-expression.

His bold choices - ranging from vibrant costumes to striking makeup - challenged traditional gender roles and inspired countless fans to express themselves authentically.

He famously stated, "I don't know where I'm going from here, but I promise it won't be boring," reflecting his commitment to exploration and individuality.

Throughout his career, Bowie addressed social issues such as alienation, mental health, and the fluidity of identity in his work.

His song "Changes" became an anthem for those navigating personal transformations, resonating with listeners who felt out of place in a conformist society.

By openly discussing these themes, he created a safe space for fans to explore their own identities.

Bowie constantly reinvented his musical style, experimenting with genres such as glam rock, soul, electronic and punk.

Albums like "The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars" and "Heroes" showcased his willingness to explore new sounds and themes, challenging the music industry's expectations of what a rock star should be.

He often critiqued the concept of fame itself, declaring that he didn't want to be a star but rather an artist free to explore different personas without being confined by public perception.

His artistic evolution - from glam rock to soul, electronic and beyond - demonstrates that authenticity is not static; it can change and grow over time.

We’ve all heard the song: "We can be heroes, just for one day."

While this line is from one of his most famous songs, it reflects the idea that everyone has the potential to be extraordinary by embracing their true selves, even if just for a moment.

His life serves as a powerful reminder that we can all tap into our inner hero when we dare to be authentic.

This adventurous spirit encourages us all to embrace uncertainty and approach our journeys with curiosity.

Bowie's influence extended beyond film & music; he was also a champion for mental health awareness.

His openness about his struggles with addiction and anxiety helped destigmatise these conversations, reminding us that vulnerability is a strength rather than a weakness.

David Bowie's legacy is one of empowerment and inspiration.

He taught us that it's not only acceptable to stand out but that doing so can lead to profound personal growth and connection with others.

His life and work serve as a reminder that embracing one's individuality can have a lasting impact on both oneself and society at large.

Bowie's journey exemplifies the essence of standing out rather than fitting in.

His innovative spirit and fearless approach to self-expression continue to inspire generations to embrace their uniqueness and challenge society’s norms.

My Takeaway

Bowie's journey offers several key lessons about authenticity that are not just inspiring but also actionable in our daily lives.

He lived a life loaded with self-expression, reminding us that embracing our true selves can lead to profound transformations and greater creativity.

See below for some colourful insights we can draw from his legacy:

• Embrace Change: Bowie’s constant reinvention teaches us that change is not only natural but also essential for growth. Embracing change allows us to discover new aspects of ourselves.

• Be Bold in Self-Expression: Bowie’s fearless approach to fashion and identity encourages us to express ourselves authentically without fear of judgment.

• Challenge Norms: By questioning societal expectations, Bowie inspires us to challenge norms in our own lives - whether in our careers or personal choices - and forge our own paths.

• Create Safe Spaces: Just as Bowie created an environment for fans to explore their identities, we should strive to create safe spaces for others where they can be themselves without fear of ridicule.

• Celebrate Individuality: Bowie’s legacy reminds us that our differences are what make us special. Celebrating individuality not only enriches our lives but also fosters connections with others who share similar values.

As I reflect on Bowie's contributions, I’m reminded that true artistry lies in authenticity - an idea that resonates just as strongly today as it did during his remarkable career.

So remember: don’t be afraid to stand out.

Embrace your quirks, pursue your passions fiercely and surround yourself with those who uplift you.

The world needs more individuals like you - people willing to be themselves unapologetically.

Now Spinning

The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars

By David Bowie

Following on from above, I’m excited to dive into one of the most iconic albums in rock history: The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars.

Released in 1972, this album not only defined David Bowie’s career but also transformed the landscape of glam rock.

When I first listened to it, I thought it was cluttered and clunky.

Boy, was I wrong.

It sounds different, it sounds unique, yet ranks at number 41 in Rolling Stone’s Top 500 Albums of all time.

And it gets better with every listen.

Key Highlights:

A Concept Album Like No Other:

At its core, this album tells the story of Ziggy Stardust, an androgynous alien rock star who arrives on Earth as a saviour before an impending apocalypse. Yup, it’s pretty out there. Bowie masterfully weaves together themes of fame, identity and existential despair. The character embodies both hope and tragedy, ultimately falling victim to the very fame that elevated him. It’s a narrative that resonates deeply, reflecting our struggles with celebrity culture and self-identity.

Musical Brilliance:

The album is a superb blend of glam rock, heavy metal, and theatricality. Tracks like “Starman” and “Moonage Daydream” showcase Bowie's knack for catchy melodies paired with profound lyrics. The instrumentation is equally impressive; Mick Ronson’s guitar work is nothing short of electrifying, especially on songs like “Ziggy Stardust” and “Suffragette City.” The dynamic shifts from quiet introspection to explosive rock anthems keep you engaged from start to finish.

Standout Tracks:

Each song on this album is distinct yet contributes to the overarching narrative. “Five Years” opens the album with a sense of urgency and despair, setting the stage for Ziggy's journey. The title track “Ziggy Stardust” introduces us to our protagonist with unforgettable hooks. Then there's “Rock ‘n’ Roll Suicide,” which serves as a powerful conclusion to Ziggy's story, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles.

Cultural Impact:

Ziggy Stardust didn’t just change Bowie’s career; he altered the course of popular music. The character challenged norms around gender and sexuality at a time when such topics were often taboo. Bowie’s flamboyant style became a blueprint for future artists, pushing boundaries and redefining what it meant to be a rock star.

A Testament to Passion: 

What’s truly remarkable is how Bowie created this character with such depth and complexity. Even after he retired Ziggy in 1973, the impact of this persona continued to influence music and culture for decades. It’s a testament to pursuing your passions - Bowie didn’t just create music; he crafted an entire universe that invited listeners to explore their own identities.

My Takeaway

Listening to The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust feels like embarking on a journey through time and space.

It’s an album that encourages you to reflect on your own experiences while losing yourself in its storytelling.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to Bowie’s work, this album is essential listening.

So if you haven’t already …

… grab your headphones, turn up the volume (as Bowie himself suggested) and let Ziggy take you on an unforgettable ride through the cosmos of rock ‘n’ roll 👾 👽️ 🤘 

Got a recommendation?

Please share; I'm always keen to learn from great suggestions.

A Bright Idea to Consider

Lessons from the Brightest Thinkers.

Let’s break it down a bit:

1. Live in the Now:

   The present is all we truly have. Instead of worrying about the past or stressing over the future, try to soak in what’s happening around you. Notice the little things - a warm cup of coffee, a smile from a friend, or even the sound of leaves rustling in the wind. Life is beautiful.

2. Release Regrets:

   We all have things we wish we could change about our past. But holding onto those regrets can keep us stuck. Remember, time is circular; we can learn from our experiences without letting them define us.

3. Focus on Today for a Better Tomorrow:

   Sure, planning for the future is important, but don’t let it overshadow your current experiences. The choices you make today shape your tomorrow, so invest your energy in what matters most right now.

4. Practice Mindfulness:

   Ever tried mindfulness? It’s all about being present and aware of your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Simple practices like deep breathing or just taking a moment to pause can help ground you in the present.

5. Cherish Every Moment:

   Life is made up of countless little moments that often go unnoticed. When you’re fully present, you can create stronger connections with others and truly enjoy the simple joys of life.

Lesson:

Tagore’s words remind us that time isn’t just a straight line; it’s a circle where every moment counts.

By staying in the present, you enrich your life by savouring every experience.

Today, make an effort to live in the moment.

Embrace what’s happening right now, because that’s where you are!

A previous tweet …

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!

Positively Hilarious

A quick laugh as we part ways this week.

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