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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.
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Bright Side in Brief
What’s covered this week?
Mobile App - Access content easily and receive notifications for each send.
The Paradox of Pain - Why embracing discomfort is your ticket to growth.
Bright Reads - Quick links to fun or insightful articles.
The 4-Minute Mile - Just because it hasn't been done, doesn't mean it can't.
Bookmarks - ‘The Four Agreements’ by Don Miguel Ruiz
A Bright Idea to Consider - Alfred Mercier
Daily Gratitude Journal - Transform your daily routine through reflection.
Positively Hilarious - Smile like you mean it.
Our Mobile App is Here!
Hello, readers!
I’m pleased to announce that we now have our own mobile app,"The Brighter Side of Everything."
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See you on the Brighter Side,
Chris
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The Paradox of Pain
Why Embracing Discomfort Is Your Ticket to Growth
We've all been there, right?
That moment when you're faced with a challenge and every fibre of your being is screaming - "Nope, not today!"
It's human nature to want to avoid pain, to sidestep discomfort and to take the path of least resistance.
But what if I told you that this very instinct might be holding you back from reaching your potential?
The Counterintuitive Nature of Growth
Here's the kicker: the pain you're trying to avoid is often the very thing you need to experience to grow.
It's a paradox that's as frustrating as it is true.
Think about it – when was the last time you made significant progress in your life while staying comfortably within your bubble?
Let's break it down.
Our brains are wired for survival, not necessarily for growth.
That's why we instinctively shy away from anything that feels threatening or uncomfortable.
But in our modern world, where sabre-toothed tigers aren't exactly lurking around every corner, this instinct can do us more harm than good.
The Double-Edged Sword of Progress
In the last century, we've witnessed an unprecedented explosion of technological advancements and creature comforts.
From smartphones that put the world at our fingertips to smart homes that can be controlled with a voice command, we've made incredible strides in making our lives easier and more convenient.
Some, in fact, most, of these advancements are genuinely fantastic.
They've boosted our productivity and freed up time for other pursuits.
Think about how much time we save by using email instead of snail mail, or how online shopping allows us to get our errands done without leaving the house.
We can then channel this extra time into other pursuits, like learning new skills or spending quality time with our loved ones.
But here's the deal: not all conveniences are created equal.
Some of these modern comforts have inadvertently led us down a path of increased sedentarism and decreased physical activity.
Escalators, elevators, remote controls and food delivery apps – while convenient – have removed many previous opportunities for natural, everyday movement.
The Escalator Dilemma
Let's take the humble escalator as an example.
It's become such a ubiquitous part of our urban landscape that we hardly give it a second thought.
But have you ever noticed how many people choose to stand still on the escalator rather than walk up it?
A study conducted in a busy subway station found that when given the choice between stairs and an escalator, only about 5% of people consistently chose the stairs.
Only 5%!!
Even more telling, of those who took the escalator, less than 30% walked up it instead of standing still.
This small decision – to stand still rather than walk – might seem insignificant in the moment.
But when repeated day after day, year after year, these choices add up.
Across a lifetime our choices compound, whether they’re good or bad for us.
They shape our habits, our fitness levels, and ultimately, our health.
The Airport Travelator Dilemma
Now, picture this: You're at the airport, rushing to catch a flight.
You come across a long travelator – you know, those moving walkways that are supposed to help you get from point A to point B faster.
But here's the thing: the travelator is packed with people just standing still, letting the belt do all the work.
Meanwhile, the walking lane next to it is empty.
This scene is a perfect metaphor for modern life.
Image taken by me - Toronto Pearson Airport
The travelator represents the path of least resistance – it's comfortable, it's easy and it gets you where you need to go with minimal effort.
But is it really the best choice?
Comfort can creep up on you.
Every day, we're faced with decisions that either drive us forward or hold us back.
And more often than not, comfort quietly lures us into choosing the path of least resistance.
But here's the truth bomb: by always opting for the easy route, you're missing out on some serious benefits, both physical and mental.
The Science Behind the Struggle
Now, I'm not just pulling this out of thin air.
There's some pretty cool science backing this up.
Ever heard of neuroplasticity?
It's the amazing ability our brains have to rewire themselves based on our experiences.
And guess what?
Research shows that our brains form new connections when they're challenged.
A study from MIT found that when one synapse in our brain strengthens, neighbouring synapses weaken.
In plain English?
When we face challenges, our brains literally reshape themselves to better handle similar situations in the future.
It's like your brain is saying, "Alright, this is tough, but I'm gonna make sure we're better equipped next time."
The Benefits of Biting the Bullet
So, what happens when we actually face our fears and tackle the hard stuff?
Well, buckle up, because the benefits are pretty mind-blowing:
Increased Resilience: Every time you push through something difficult, you're essentially telling yourself, "Hey, I can handle this." Over time, this builds up your mental toughness, making you more resilient in the face of future challenges.
Enhanced Problem-Solving Skills: When you're constantly taking the easy route, you're not giving your brain the chance to flex its problem-solving muscles. Tackling tough situations head-on forces you to think creatively and develop new strategies.
Personal Growth: There's a reason why they say "no pain, no gain." Growth happens when we step outside our comfort zones. By facing your fears and insecurities, you're actively working on becoming a better version of yourself.
Improved Self-Confidence: Successfully overcoming challenges does wonders for your self-esteem. Each victory, no matter how small, is proof that you're capable of more than you think.
Expanded Comfort Zone: The more you push yourself, the more you realise that your limits aren't fixed. What once seemed impossible slowly becomes manageable and your comfort zone expands accordingly.
Physical Benefits of Choosing the Harder Path
In saying all of this, it's not just about the mental gains.
Choosing the harder path more often can have significant physical benefits too:
Improved Cardiovascular Health: Opting to walk instead of standing still on that airport travelator? That's a mini cardio workout right there. Over time, these small choices add up, improving your heart health and endurance.
Stronger Muscles: Taking the stairs instead of the elevator, carrying your groceries instead of using a cart – these small acts of resistance training can lead to improved muscle strength and tone.
Better Posture and Balance: Engaging in more physical activities, even if they're slightly more challenging, can improve your core strength, leading to better posture and balance.
Increased Energy Levels: It might seem counterintuitive, but expending more energy often leads to having more energy overall. Your body adapts to the demands you place on it.
Enhanced Cognitive Function: Physical activity, especially when it's challenging, has been shown to improve brain function, memory and even potentially reduce the risk of cognitive decline as we age.
The Takeaway
Look, I get it.
Facing our fears and embracing discomfort isn't exactly a walk in the park.
It's tough, it's scary and sometimes it downright sucks.
But here's the thing – on the other side of that discomfort is growth, progress and a version of yourself that you would likely aspire to be.
So the next time you're faced with a choice – like whether to stand still on that airport travelator or walk alongside it – pause for a second.
Ask yourself, "What could I gain by choosing the slightly harder option?"
You might be surprised by the answer.
Remember, it's not about seeking out pain for pain's sake.
It's about recognising that sometimes, the things we're most afraid of are the very things that will help us grow the most.
It's about understanding that discomfort is often a sign that we're pushing our boundaries and expanding our potential.
In this age of unprecedented comfort and convenience, it's more important than ever to consciously choose the path that challenges us, even if it's just a little bit.
Your body, mind and future self will thank you for it.
After all, in the grand scheme of things, those small, daily choices to take the stairs, to walk a little further, to face that difficult conversation – they're the building blocks of a stronger, more resilient you.
So, what's it going to be?
Are you going to let comfort creep up on you, or are you ready to embrace the challenge and grow?
The choice, as always, is yours.
Bright Reads
Interesting insights to ignite your inner optimist.
The best way to respond to an insult, according to science.
Climber breaks record for youngest to conquer world's 14 highest peaks.
Years you have left to live, probably.
Why socialising doesn’t have to feel exhausting.
Why Earth’s oceans aren’t all equally salty.
The Story of the 4-Minute Mile
Just because something hasn’t been done, doesn’t mean it can’t.
It was a big deal when Roger Bannister broke the 4-minute mile in 1954.
That part is commonly known.
What less of us truly understand is just how big a deal it actually was.
Let’s start this story with a quick history lesson.
The Origin of the Mile
The mile, as a measure of distance, originated from the Roman mille passus, meaning “thousand paces”, which measured the steps of 1,000 Roman soldiers.
This equated to approximately 1,480 metres.
It was around the year 1500, that the “old London” mile was defined as 8 furlongs (used primarily in horse racing), with each furlong being 625 feet making the mile equal to 5,000 feet or 1524 metres.
In 1593, during Queen Elizabeth I’s reign, the mile gained an additional 280 feet to become 5,280 feet.
This was codified by the Weights and Measures Act of Parliament which confirmed the use of a shorter foot, making each furlong 660 feet.
While the concept of a mile originated with the Romans, the modern statute mile of 5,280 feet was standardised in England in 1593 during Queen Elizabeth I’s reign.
This statute mile is the basis for the mile used today in the United States and a few other countries.
I can hear you thinking.
That’s very exciting Chris, but why should I care about when the mile was created?
I hear you loud and clear, I’ll come back to that a little later on.
The Impossible Dream
During the morning of 6 May 1954, Roger Bannister did the impossible.
On what was a blustery day at Oxford’s Iffley Road track, he took his position alongside his two pacemakers.
With the crowd buzzing with anticipation, they set a perfect pace for the first two laps.
As they entered the final stretch, one pacemaker surged ahead, with Bannister hot on his heels.
The roar of the crowd reached a crescendo as Bannister made his decisive move, powering past the pacemaker and hurtling toward the finish line.
After crossing the line, he collapsed in exhaustion.
He had done it.
Roger Bannister had etched his name in history.
Running the mile in an astonishing 3:59.4, shattering the seemingly unbreakable 4-minute barrier and in the process, officially blowing people’s minds.
“The earth seemed to move with me. I found a new source of power and beauty, a source I never knew existed.”
Breaking Through the Barrier
Only a month after Bannister’s historic run, Australian John Landy took the record even further, clocking an incredible 3:57.9 for the mile.
But that’s just the beginning.
In the three years that followed Bannister’s triumph, an astonishing 15 more runners joined the sub-4 minute mile club.
It was as if Bannister had unlocked a new realm of human potential, inspiring others to reach for the stars.
By shattering the barrier, he had fundamentally changed the way runners viewed their own physical limits.
He proved that with enough grit, determination and self-belief, the impossible can become reality.
Think back to the creation of the mile, this measure had stood as a barrier since Roman times, yet 15 runners achieved the feat within 3 years of Roger’s triumph.
Bannister’s achievement was a paradigm shift - a nod to the human spirit’s ability to transcend expectations and redefine the boundaries of what we can achieve.
Roger’s story continues to inspire athletes and individuals alike to challenge their limits and pursue their dreams, no matter how daunting they may seem.
More Than Just an Athlete
But … there’s another thing that makes all of this crazy …. Roger Bannister was NOT a professional athlete.
He was an amateur runner who broke the 4-minute mile record whilst pursuing a career in medicine.
His result in 1954 was achieved with minimal training, while also practising as a junior doctor.
There’s no doubt he was a high-class athlete, but he never turned professional, preferring to focus on his studies.
He studied neurology and went on to become a renowned neurologist and Master of Pembroke College, Oxford.
There was one thing Roger understood that everyone who had tried before him didn’t.
That breaking 4 minutes was less about the physical body and more about conquering your mind.
When he was later asked if the 4-minute mile was his proudest achievement.
Roger said he felt prouder of his contribution to academic medicine through research.
“Doctors and scientists said that breaking the four-minute mile was impossible, that one would die in the attempt. Thus, when I got up from the track after collapsing at the finish line, I figured I was dead.”
The Power of the Mind
I can’t help but draw parallels between Bannister’s journey and the mindset required to pursue your passions in life, or to try something new.
Don’t wait for someone else to show the way or to prove something is possible.
With enough grit and determination, you can achieve much more than you ever thought you were capable of.
Bannister represents one (albeit extreme) example displaying the fact that most of us are capable of more than we think.
In fact … I recently saw a video of a 100-year-old WWII veteran breaking the 100-metre world record for centenarians … incredible!
See below for the YouTube video.
It’s amazing what you can achieve when you understand the power of your own mind.
Lessons For Life
So, to finish up, if Roger can break the 4-minute mile, you can do that thing you’ve been putting off for so long, I believe in you, you just need to believe in you.
So many commas in that last sentence, but I’m running with it (I’ll see myself out).
Bookmarks
The Four Agreements
by Don Miguel Ruiz
Last year, a friend recommended The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz.
I hadn’t previously read it and found myself captivated by its profound insights.
This book, rooted in ancient Toltec wisdom, is a transformative guide that offers you a simple yet powerful code of conduct for achieving personal freedom and a more fulfilling life.
Key Highlights:
Accessible Wisdom:
Ruiz presents his teachings in a clear and engaging manner, making complex concepts easy to grasp. The simplicity of the agreements does not undermine their impact; instead, it emphasises how small changes in mindset can lead to significant transformations.
Concise and Impactful:
At just 138 pages, The Four Agreements is a quick read that delivers its message succinctly. This makes it an ideal choice for those of you seeking meaningful insights without a hefty time commitment.
Empowerment Through Responsibility:
The principles outlined in the book encourage you to take control of your thoughts, actions and reactions to external events. This emphasis on personal responsibility builds a sense of agency within your life, empowering you to break free from self-limiting beliefs.
The Four Agreements:
Ruiz articulates four key agreements that can revolutionise your approach to life:
Be Impeccable with Your Word: Speak with integrity and clarity, ensuring that your words reflect your true intentions.
Don’t Take Anything Personally: Understand that others’ actions are a projection of their reality and not a reflection of your worth.
Don’t Make Assumptions: Communicate openly and ask questions to avoid misunderstandings and unnecessary drama.
Always Do Your Best: Recognise that your best will vary depending on circumstances, but consistently striving for excellence helps avoid self-judgment and regret.
My Takeaway:
What resonates most about The Four Agreements is its ability to inspire change through practical wisdom.
Ruiz’s teachings encourage you to adopt a mindset that promotes personal freedom, joy and authenticity.
That’s my kind of mindset.
This book isn’t just for those of us who find themselves at a crossroads or in crisis; it’s a valuable resource for anyone looking to reclaim control over their lives.
I highly recommend The Four Agreements to anyone seeking personal growth and transformation because it reinforces the idea that we are not trapped by our surroundings; instead, freedom is attainable through conscious choices and self-awareness.
Whether you're navigating challenges or simply seeking clarity, this book provides a practical roadmap for living authentically.
In summary, Ruiz's work serves as a gentle reminder that adopting these four simple agreements can lead to profound changes in how we view ourselves and interact with the world around us.
“Find the courage to ask questions and to express what you really want. Communicate with others as clearly as you can to avoid misunderstandings, sadness and drama.”
Got a recommendation?
Please share; I'm always keen to hear quality suggestions.
A Bright Idea to Consider
Alfred Mercier
This simple yet powerful idea encourages us to recognise that pleasure is a key ingredient in effective learning.
We often overlook the importance of enjoyment, focusing instead on what we think we should learn rather than what truly grabs our interest.
When we engage with material that brings us joy, we not only enhance our understanding but also create lasting memories that enhance our lives.
The Connection Between Pleasure and Learning:
Mercier's insight highlights that when we engage with material in a pleasurable way, it significantly enhances our ability to retain information.
Emotional Engagement: Learning becomes more effective when we are emotionally invested. Positive emotions trigger the release of hormones like dopamine, which not only make learning enjoyable but also improve memory formation. This means that when we find joy in what we are studying, those lessons become more memorable.
Creating Positive Associations: When learning is tied to pleasurable experiences, it fosters positive associations with knowledge. This connection makes us more likely to revisit and apply what we've learned in the future.
Strategies for Enhancing Enjoyment in Learning:
To harness the power of pleasure in education, consider these approaches:
Incorporate Your Interests: By tailoring your learning experiences to include topics or activities that genuinely excite you, you can transform mundane tasks into engaging challenges.
Collaborative Learning: Engaging with peers can enhance enjoyment. Group discussions, projects or study sessions often lead to shared enthusiasm and deeper insights.
Celebrate Progress: Acknowledging and celebrating milestones along your learning journey boosts motivation and reinforces positive feelings toward the process.
Consider these aspects:
Joyful Learning: When we approach learning with pleasure, it becomes more meaningful and memorable. This applies to both personal interests and professional development.
Engagement Matters: Engaging with subjects or activities that resonate with us enhances our ability to absorb information and develop skills effectively.
Motivation Through Passion: Finding joy in what we do fuels our motivation, making us more likely to invest time and effort into mastering new concepts.
Creating Lasting Memories: Experiences that bring us joy tend to stick with us longer, influencing our choices and perspectives in life.
Emotional Connection: Learning through pleasure fosters a deeper emotional connection to the material, making it easier to recall and apply in the future.
The Lesson
Mercier’s quote serves as a powerful reminder that learning is not just about acquiring knowledge; it’s about enjoying the journey.
When I think back to some of my most memorable and sticky learning moments, they all tend to have an element of fun involved.
Embracing joy in our learning processes not only enriches our experience but also helps us retain knowledge.
When we embrace pleasure in our education, we create lasting memories and develop a deeper understanding of the subjects that matter most to us.
So, let’s focus on making learning an enjoyable experience, that enhances our life and stays with us long after the lesson is over.
“He who laughs most, learns best.”
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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