Waiting for Someday?

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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?

• Waiting for Someday? - A mistake that is all too common.

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

• Shaquille O’Neal - A giant with a heart of gold.

• Bookmarks - Think Again by Adam Grant.

• A Bright Idea to Consider - Alex Morton.

• A Previous Post - We are all human, we will all make mistakes.

• Positively Hilarious - Smile like you mean it.

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

Hello, Brighter Side readers! ☀️

I hope you're enjoying the spring (or fall) vibes as much as I am?

This week, Toronto gave us a sneak peek of warmer days with a high of 20°C.

And while we know more snow might (WILL) be on the way, it doesn’t mean we can’t take full advantage of it.

There's something magical about the seasons.

Watching buds form on the trees, birds returning and days growing longer is a wonderful reminder of the cyclical nature of life and the renewal that comes each year.

As I see kids shedding their layers and making the most of these fleeting warm days, it reminds me that life is full of moments like these.

Moments we shouldn't wait for "someday" to enjoy.

This week, we're exploring the idea of making the most of your time versus waiting for the perfect moment.

You all deserve to live fully and find joy in every season of life.

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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Waiting for Someday?

A mistake that is all too common

I've always been conscious of spending too much time scrolling on my phone, and for a long time, I managed to avoid it.

However, for a period after the pandemic, I found myself falling right into the trap.

It was a time when I wasn't finding as much joy in my work and the result was often plonking myself on the couch and scrolling mindlessly like a zombie.

During this time, I experienced a significant drop in energy, motivation and attention to my health and fitness like never before.

Fortunately, I recognised this pattern and took action to make changes.

Since then, I've made changes to ensure my time is focused on things that love me, lift me, educate me, humour me, or help secure my future.

This shift has been incredibly liberating.

It’s allowed me to rediscover activities that bring me joy and fulfilment.

As a result, I've found investing in these activities not only fills my time more meaningfully but also increases my energy and overall well-being.

Now, my evenings are spent playing games with my kids, cooking, learning a new language via Duolingo, reading a good book or getting in some exercise.

You know what I now no longer have time for?

Scrolling mindlessly through social media.

It's funny how our priorities can shift once we start focusing on what truly matters.

The truth is most of us overestimate what we can achieve in a day … but underestimate what we can achieve in a year.

It’s like we’re caught in a time loop.

Believing we're invincible for a single day, yet overlooking the fact that we have 365 opportunities to harness that power.

The Power of Perspective

Let's zoom out and look at the big picture.

An hour a day might not seem like much on its own.

Multiply that by 365 though, and suddenly you've got enough time to transform your body, learn a new language, or finally do that thing you’ve been putting off for years.

For instance, if you dedicate just 30 minutes a day to writing (something I can’t recommend enough), you could have the first draft of a novel done by the end of the year.

That's pretty cool, right?

One day a week for a year?

That's 52 chunks of time to level up your career, deepen your relationships or master a new skill.

Imagine dedicating one day a week to learning photography.

By the end of the year, you’d be taking stunning photos that you're proud to share with the world.

And if that doesn’t work, we can go even further, what about just 4 hours a month?

That's enough time to pick up a new hobby, expand your social circle, or finally finish that book you've been meaning to read.

If you were to spend 4 hours a month learning to paint, you’d have a beautiful collection of artwork by the end of a year.

And yet, so many don’t.

Living with Intent

The key to making the most of your time is to live your life with intent.

Find what drives you.

You know, the things that make you feel good on the inside.

Then … make time for them.

Whether it's playing music, hiking or cooking, by focusing on activities that bring you joy, you'll find that you have more energy and motivation to tackle other areas of your life.

Positive habits compound, just as negative ones do.

When you develop habits that are beneficial to your mind & body, you start to see progress.

And when you start to see progress, you start looking forward to each occurrence.

Flip the coin though and negative habits can lead to tiredness, stagnation and complacency.

So, it's essential to be mindful of the habits you're building and ensure they're leading you toward your goals.

But not only that, ensure they allow you to live your life.

Living intentionally also means knowing when to pause.

When to recharge your batteries so you can keep moving forward with energy and clarity.

Part of building positive habits is recognising that growth doesn’t come from constant hustle.

It comes from balance.

You can’t expect to thrive if you're always pushing yourself to the limit without taking time to rest and recharge.

Rest and Recharge

A strong rest ethic allows for a strong work ethic.

I can throw endless analogies at you but none of them will make it happen for you.

Don't burn the candle at both ends.

Make time for what charges your batteries.

For me, recharging means spending time with my family, my friends, travelling, exercising, listening to music and writing.

Each of these activities energise me.

They help me come back to my work with renewed focus and more importantly, creativity.

Rest is so much more than just lounging around, it's about doing things that recharge you mentally, emotionally AND physically.

It could be taking a short walk during your lunch break, a quick stretch, or simply enjoying a quiet cup of coffee in the morning.

Find what works for YOU and prioritise it.

Remember, taking care of yourself isn't selfish.

Because when you are at your best, everyone wins.

Consistency in Action

To build your confidence, it’s crucial to recognise that consistency doesn't have to be a straight line.

It can be messy, irregular and still incredibly effective.

Maybe you don't have an hour every day, but you can dedicate a few hours on the weekends.

Maybe you miss a week or two, but you come back stronger than ever.

The key is to keep moving forward, even if it doesn't look like a perfect graph.

Think of it like a puzzle.

Each piece might not fit perfectly into the next at first, but as long as you keep adding them, you'll eventually see the full picture.

And that's what matters – not linear progression, but overall progress.

Overcoming Obstacles

Of course, there will be days when you’re tired.

There will be days when you feel like giving up.

Maybe you miss a week of workouts or forget to complete a lesson.

Here's the thing: it's okay to stumble.

It’s not ok to give up.

After an 18-month streak, I recently took a three-day break from exercise.

Rather than getting discouraged, I saw it as a chance to rest and refocus.

I looked back with pride at the streak I had achieved and saw the break as a well-earned reward.

The best part though, I was craving a return and felt more motivated than ever to jump back into my routine.

This brief pause allowed me to appreciate the progress I had made and reignited my passion for staying active.

That small win reignited my motivation and reminded me that every step forward counts.

Missed a week at the gym?

Forgot to practice your new language?

Instead of dwelling on what went wrong, focus on what you can do next.

Every small step back on track is a victory and it's these small wins that keep you moving forward.

Practical Tips to Make it Stick

Here are some ways to help you think bigger and achieve more in the next 365 days:

1. Break It Down:

   Massive goals can be overwhelming, so break them into smaller, more manageable tasks. Want to read more? Start with 10 minutes a day, I guarantee you’ll start to run longer as you build the habit.

2. Track Your Progress:

   Use a habit tracker or journal to keep yourself accountable. Seeing your little wins add up over time is super motivating.

3. Find Your Tribe:

   Surround yourself with people who support your goals and push you to dream bigger. People who truly care about you will be happy to support your growth.

4. Embrace the Power of "Yet":

   Instead of saying "I can't do that," try "I can't do that yet." It's powerful how a small shift in language can open up a world of possibilities.

Three Pursuits That Have Improved My Life

In recent months, I’ve consistently dedicated a portion of my time to three key pursuits.

Pursuits that I previously neglected due to a ‘busy’ schedule:

1. Becoming Fluent in Spanish (3 months):

   Having maintained conversational Spanish for years thanks to my travels, I am now dedicating a minimum of 10 minutes every day to make it second nature. I'm 78 days in, and the progress is exhilarating, some days, it’s 10 minutes, others, it’s an hour. The result - ‘Estoy progesando bien’.

2. Writing a Fiction Novel (8 months):

   As someone that is passionate about the topics I write about daily, fiction writing serves as a powerful tool for growth. It allows my creative side to let loose, keeps my mind engaged and gives me a deeper understanding of the power of writing. By crafting stories and developing characters, I can explore new perspectives and challenge my own beliefs.

3. Maintaining My Daily Exercise Routine (18 months):

   Over the last 18 months, I've built a consistent exercise habit that has transformed my life. At 46, I feel stronger, healthier, and more mentally in tune than ever before. It's true what they say: when you respect your body and mind, they pay respect to you.

Pursuing these activities has shifted how I value my time, swapping out less productive habits for opportunities that drive me forward and give me energy.

The Sky's the Limit

So, here's my challenge to you: while the Earth makes its next journey around the sun, what are you going to achieve in 2025?

Unpopular opinion: the age at which you have everything figured out never comes.

And, that's perfectly okay.

Happiness isn't waiting for you on the other side of some future milestone.

It's found in the pursuit itself.

Whether it's starting a business or prioritising your health, the possibilities are endless.

Let's make a pact right here and now.

No more getting bogged down in the daily grind or putting off our dreams for "someday."

It's time to lift our heads, think big and embrace a world of possibility.

Every step forward counts, and your journey is uniquely yours.

Whether it’s a daily habit or an irregular effort, the key is to keep moving forward.

Finding your way is meant to be an adventure and it’s okay to feel like you’re figuring it out as you go.

Forget what others are doing or how far ahead or behind you might feel.

Those comparisons aren't real.

We're all moving targets in a changing world, constantly evolving and rediscovering ourselves.

So, when the Earth completes its next journey around the sun, where will you be?

The choice is yours.

Bright Reads

Interesting insights to ignite your inner optimist.

• Some foods expire in days - this one lasts for centuries.

• The actor who inspired Homer Simpson’s ‘Doh’.

• Small acts of kindness occur more frequently than you might guess.

• Pain is inevitable, suffering is optional.

• The simple ways you can change your personality.

Shaquille O'Neal

A Giant with a Heart of Gold

Imagine being a young child, eyes wide with excitement, as they open a brand new backpack filled with school supplies.

This isn't just any backpack.

It's one of millions distributed through Shaquille O'Neal's "Shaq-to-School" initiative.

This perfectly captures the essence of Shaq's philanthropic spirit.

Practical, impactful and deeply personal.

But before becoming a giant in philanthropy, Shaq was a giant on the court.

His NBA career was legendary.

Marked by four NBA championships, three Finals MVP awards and a regular-season MVP award in 2000.

He dominated the league with his unstoppable force, leading the NBA in scoring twice and earning 15 All-Star selections.

He was also named to the NBA 50th Anniversary Team in 1996 and the NBA 75th Anniversary Team in 2021.

Shaq's impact on the game was so profound that teams often game-planned specifically for him.

Yet he remained (almost) unstoppable.

His legacy extends well beyond his impressive stats though, he changed the way teams defended the centre position and inspired a generation of players with his unique blend of size & strength.

The larger-than-life NBA legend has become an even bigger presence off the court through his many businesses and charitable work.

His approach to giving back is as direct and powerful as that of his legendary NBA career.

The Philanthropic Giant

Shaq's journey into philanthropy was deeply personal.

Raised by his strict but loving mother, Lucille O'Neal, and his stepfather, Phillip Harrison, Shaq learned the value of giving back early on.

As a result, his foundation focuses on empowering underserved youth through education and sports.

His "Shaq-to-School" program has donated an impressive $10 million worth of school supplies across the USA.

This initiative isn't just about handing out backpacks.

It's about giving kids the tools they need to succeed and showing them that someone believes in their potential.

It’s about helping others get ahead vs. never choosing to look in the rearview mirror and appreciate where you have come from.

But Shaq's philanthropy goes far beyond school supplies.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, his foundation collaborated with American Express to provide $10 million in grants to Black-owned businesses affected by the crisis.

This swift action demonstrates Shaq's ability to shift his charitable efforts to meet current challenges.

Something he should be celebrated for.

Affordable Fashion for All

Something that stands out is his commitment to making quality products that are accessible to everyone.

He famously walked away from a lucrative shoe-making deal with Reebok to create shoes priced between $15 and $29.

This move wasn't just about business.

It was about making a real difference in people's lives.

As of 2025, Shaq has expanded this line to include performance basketball sneakers for just $40, ensuring that kids from all backgrounds can afford quality footwear.

But here's the best part: Shaq's shoes aren't just affordable.

They're also designed with families in mind.

He knows that parents often struggle to find shoes that fit within their budget, so he's made it his mission to change that.

By making quality footwear accessible, Shaq is helping families save money and feel confident in what they wear.

According to multiple sources, Shaquille O'Neal's affordable shoe line has sold over 400 million pairs.

That’s right, 400 million pairs. 🤯 

Lessons from Shaq

So, what can we learn from Shaquille O'Neal?

1. Empathy in Action:

   Empathy isn’t weak - that stereotype has to go. Shaq shows that empathy isn't just feeling for others, it's about taking action to make a difference. He's not just talking about helping others - he's doing it.

2. Accessibility Matters:

   By creating affordable products, Shaq demonstrates that everyone deserves access to quality goods, regardless of income. This mindset inspires us to think about how we too can make a difference.

3. Community First:

   His commitment to community development is a reminder that actions can have a lasting impact. Whether it's volunteering or simply being there for someone in need, every action counts.

4. Kindness is Contagious:

   Shaq's generosity inspires others to be kind and give back, creating a ripple effect of good deeds. When we see someone like Shaq making a difference, it motivates us to do the same.

5. Stay True to Your Values:

   Choosing to leave a lucrative deal behind for a more ethical business model shows that staying true to your values can lead to greater fulfilment AND success. It's a powerful reminder that doing what's right can be just as rewarding as doing what's profitable. I bet the big fella sleeps very well.

My Takeaway

Shaq's story is a powerful reminder that your impact can extend far beyond your professional achievements.

He's not just a giant in sports.

He's a giant in the hearts of those he touches.

With a business empire that's as impressive as his dunks, Shaq reminds us that success isn't just about what you achieve, but how you use it to lift others.

His story shows that true greatness is measured not by titles or wealth, but by the lives we touch and the differences we make.

Shaq's philanthropic efforts, from providing school supplies to supporting local businesses, show us that even the smallest acts of kindness can have a profound impact.

His legacy shows what is possible, if you’re willing to give back to your community and use your resources to lift others.

Setting the table for others to use their talents and resources to make a positive change in the world.

If you have 15 minutes, this video outlines the power of his impact:

Bookmarks

Think Again

by Adam Grant

If you’ve been reading my newsletter for a while, you’ll know I’m a big fan of Adam Grant.

His insights on leadership, psychology and personal growth have always been worth my time, and his book Think Again is no exception.

This week, I’m excited to feature this insightful read that challenges us to embrace the art of rethinking.

A Fresh Perspective on Thinking

At its core, Think Again is about questioning our own beliefs and assumptions.

Something I believe should be much more common than it is.

Grant argues that the ability to rethink is one of the most undervalued skills in today’s world.

He invites us to let go of outdated ideas and embrace mental flexibility, humility and curiosity.

It’s not just about changing your mind.

It’s about learning to think like a scientist, approaching ideas as hypotheses to test rather than absolute truths to defend.

Think about how many things that were true when you were a child, that are no longer the case.

The list is long because our understanding of the world is constantly evolving.

As we grow and learn, we encounter new information and perspectives that challenge our previous beliefs.

It empowers us to adjust to new information, refining our understanding and creating an updated perspective of the world around us.

The Danger of Mental Traps

I found Grant’s breakdown of the “preacher, prosecutor, and politician” mindsets the most compelling part of the book.

He explains how we often fall into these roles: preaching our beliefs as gospel, prosecuting others for being wrong, or politicking for approval rather than truth.

These habits confine us to our beliefs, hindering our ability to learn and grow.

Instead, as mentioned, Grant encourages us to adopt the mindset of a scientist - questioning assumptions, seeking evidence and staying open to being wrong.

Practical Lessons for Everyday Life

What I love about Think Again is how actionable it is.

He doesn’t just tell us why rethinking matters; he shows us how to do it.

Whether it’s learning to “complexify” arguments by exploring their nuances or using curiosity to defuse hostility in conversations.

This book is packed with strategies that are as practical as they are profound.

Stories That Stick

He brings his ideas to life with compelling stories.

From a black musician who persuaded white supremacists to abandon hate, to a debate champion who wins arguments by listening more than speaking.

These stories aren’t just inspiring.

They’re proof that rethinking leads to real change.

My Takeaway

Reading Think Again feels like an invitation.

An invitation to challenge your convictions, approach disagreements with curiosity instead of defensiveness and embrace the joy of being wrong.

That’s right the joy of being wrong.

Today, certainty is often valued more than nuance, so this book is a refreshing reminder that growth comes from questioning what we think we know.

Whether you’re navigating tough conversations at work or just trying to better understand the perspectives of others, this book offers tools that can transform how you think and relate to others.

It’s not just a guide for self-improvement.

It’s a manifesto for creating more open-minded workplaces, communities and relationships.

If you’re ready to rethink how you think (and trust me—it’s worth it), grab a copy of Think Again.

It’s one of those books that will stick with you long after you’ve turned the last page.

Got a recommendation?

Please share; I'm always keen for great suggestions.

A Bright Idea to Consider

Alex Morton

The Lesson

This quote hits home, doesn’t it?

It’s a reminder that while everyone loves the idea of success.

The applause, the accolades, the result.

True growth and connection happen in the process.

The grind.

The messy middle.

That’s where the magic happens and where you discover who else is as committed as you.

Let’s break it down.

Where the Real Work Happens

The process isn’t glamorous.

It’s late nights, early mornings, setbacks and small wins that no one else sees.

It’s where you learn what you’re made of and who’s willing to roll up their sleeves alongside you.

1. It Reveals True Commitment:
   Anyone can cheer for the outcome, but it takes real dedication to show up for the hard work. The process filters out those who are only there for the glory and highlights those who genuinely support your journey.

2. It Builds Resilience:
   The process is where you face challenges, adapt, and grow stronger. It’s not just about reaching the finish line; it’s about becoming someone who can handle whatever comes next.

3. It Strengthens Relationships:
   Those who stick with you through the ups and downs - those are your people. They’re not just invested in your success; they’re invested in you.

4. Teaches to Value Effort Over Applause:
   When you embrace the process, you stop chasing external validation and start appreciating the effort itself. That shift is powerful because the truth is, the only external validation you need, is your own.

Why Most People Skip the Process

Let’s be honest: the process isn’t fun all the time.

It’s uncomfortable, uncertain and often thankless.

That’s why so many people want to skip straight to the outcome - they don’t want to put in the work or endure the struggle.

But here’s the thing, without the process, there is no meaningful outcome.

My Takeaway

The process isn’t just a means to an end.

It is the end in many ways.

It shapes you, strengthens you and clarifies who belongs in your corner when you finally cross that finish line.

And when you get there?

You’ll know exactly who deserves to celebrate with you because they were there every step of the way.

Don’t rush through or resent the process.

It’s where all the good stuff happens.

Growth, connection, resilience, it all lives in those moments when no one else is watching.

So next time you’re knee-deep in hard work, ask yourself: Who’s here with me?

Those are your people.

The ones worth sharing both the struggle and the success with.

A previous post …

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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