Why Doing Right by People Matters

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?

• Why Doing Right by People Matters - It’s more than just being “Nice”.

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

• Paul McCartney - The Beat-le goes on.

• Now Spinning - Chorus by Mildlife.

• A Bright Idea to Consider - Kobi Yamada.

• A Previous Post - When was the last time you felt truly understood?

• Positively Hilarious - Smile like you mean it.

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

Hello, Brighter Side readers! ☀️

This week, I found myself reflecting on what makes life well-lived.

Is it fame? Or fortune?

Nope.

Perhaps it's the pursuit of passions and our impact on the lives of those around us.

Or is it something simpler?

Like the connections we forge and how we treat the people along the way?

What I do know is that moments of genuine connection and kindness undeniably create a lasting impact.

It’s the laughter shared with friends, the comfort of a loved one's embrace and the small acts of generosity that stick with us.

In the end, these experiences and relationships define a life well-lived far more than any material success or recognition ever could.

Read on to explore the impact of "doing right by others" across a lifetime and we also celebrate Sir Paul McCartney, an icon who embodies this spirit.

I hope you enjoy reading and have a great week 😄 

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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Why Doing Right by People Matters

It’s More Than Just Being “Nice”

Building strong relationships isn’t magic.

It’s about one simple choice you make every day.

Doing right by people.

Have you ever noticed how some folks attract loyal friends, trusted colleagues, and unexpected opportunities like magnets?

You might assume it’s luck.

It’s not luck.

More often than not, it comes down to how they treat others.

I’m not talking about being a doormat or trying to please everyone.

I mean acting with honesty, fairness, and respect in a natural way.

Not forced.

When you do that consistently, something amazing happens.

People trust you.

They want to stick around, and as a byproduct, doors you didn’t know existed will start to open.

Sound too good to be true?

Let's explore the significance of this and how you can seamlessly integrate it into your daily routine without becoming a saint.

Trust Is Your Secret Superpower

Think about the people you trust the most.

What makes them trustworthy?

Usually, it’s that they’re honest and consistent.

They don’t just say things.

They do them.

When someone acts with integrity, it’s like a breath of fresh air.

Throughout my life, I’ve faced my fair share of challenging moments.

Over the last ten years, I’ve found myself out of a job due to redundancy, not once, not twice, but three times.

While each occurrence was out of my control and circumstantial, my reputation stood firm each time.

More importantly, my network stepped up.

Whether they pointed me to new opportunities, offered roles, or presented business possibilities, these moments didn’t happen by chance.

They happened because I’d laid the groundwork.

Because I had built trust over time.

Trust is the invisible glue that holds relationships together.

Without it, things fall apart.

With it?

You’re building something that lasts.

And once trust is established, it shapes how others see you.

Your reputation becomes the reflection of that trust.

Your Reputation Is Your Personal Currency

Let’s be real, people talk.

Your reputation is what people say about you when you’re not in the room.

Nowadays, with the world online and reviews spreading fast, being known as someone who “does right by others” is pure gold.

Think of your reputation like a garden.

If you neglect it, ignore it, or act carelessly, you’ll be left with nothing but weeds.

But if you nurture it regularly.

Watering it with honesty, pruning it with fairness and feeding it with respect.

It will bear fruit.

Imagine a situation where you are choosing between two contractors: one with a reputation for cutting corners, and one known for fairness and honesty.

Who would you pick?

Exactly.

Your reputation isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being reliable and authentic.

When you build that kind of reputation, people want to work with you, refer you, and most importantly, stick around.

And … when your reputation is solid, it naturally leads to something even more powerful.

Loyalty.

Loyalty Isn’t Bought, It’s Earned

Ever repeatedly returned to a favourite coffee shop not just because of the coffee, but because of the service and the inviting atmosphere?

That’s loyalty in action.

When you treat people right, whether they’re customers, colleagues, or friends.

They remember.

They come back.

They tell their friends.

Suddenly, you’ve got a supportive community cheering you on.

Loyalty isn’t just about transactions, though.

It’s so much more.

It’s about connection.

When people feel valued, they stick around.

When they feel heard, they engage more deeply.

Even when there are shinier options available to them.

Loyalty grows when we are consistently kind and fair to each other, strengthening our relationships.

Kindness Creates a Chain Reaction

Now here’s something I love.

Kindness and fairness don’t just stay with you.

They spread.

When you treat someone with respect, chances are they’ll pay it forward.

Think about a time someone surprised you with a small act of kindness.

Didn’t it encourage you to want to do the same for someone else?

This ripple effect instantly changes the vibe in your workplace, friend group, or even your family.

It takes awareness to notice these moments and appreciate their impact.

By staying mindful AND intentional, you can develop an environment where kindness becomes contagious.

Whether you’re offering a genuine compliment, lending a hand, or simply listening attentively.

These gestures create a positive atmosphere and strengthen connections with those around you.

Doing Right Feels Like Winning at Life

That’s all easy to say, Chris, but let’s get real.

Doing the right thing isn’t always easy.

Sometimes it’s uncomfortable or inconvenient.

But here’s the thing: when your actions match your values, it feels good.

Like, really good.

Remember a time you stood up for something you believed in or helped someone without expecting anything back?

That feeling of peace and pride?

That’s personal fulfillment.

It’s not about being perfect but being true to yourself.

And that kind of authenticity is powerful.

How to Make Integrity an Everyday Habit (Without Overthinking It)

Alright, so how do you actually live this out day-to-day?

Here are some simple, no-nonsense tips:

• Be Transparent: Share what’s really going on, even when it’s awkward. People appreciate honesty way more than you think.

• Keep Your Promises: If you say you’ll do something, do it. Even small things count. Flaky people don’t earn trust, you have to show up.

• Listen Like You Mean It: Put down your phone, look people in the eye, and really listen to them. 96% of people think they’re good listeners, but retain only about half of what they hear. Developing active listening skills will set you apart from most.

• Treat Everyone with Respect: Everyone deserves kindness, regardless of their status or role. Thinking you’re above someone reeks of insecurity.

• Own Your Mistakes: We all mess up. Admitting it quickly shows you’re human and trustworthy. There’s nothing less attractive than someone who fails to take responsibility.

• Go the Extra Mile: Little surprises or extra effort can turn a good experience into a memorable one.

Why It Matters: The Bigger Picture

Healthy relationships don’t just make life more enjoyable, they improve our mental and physical well-being.

Research shows that strong social connections reduce stress, help us heal faster, and encourage healthier behaviours such as a better diet and exercise.

Being part of a supportive network gives us a greater sense of purpose and belonging, which can add years to our lives.

But relationships are a two-way street.

Never forget that.

Benefits without responsibilities don’t last.

Trust builds when both sides invest effort, show respect and hold each other accountable.

This balance creates lasting bonds, whether in business, friendship, or family.

My Takeaway

Here’s the bottom line.

Doing right by people isn’t about being perfect or trying to win everyone over.

It’s about building trust, creating a reputation that works for you and forming lasting connections.

When you act with integrity and kindness, you start a positive cycle that benefits everyone.

Including you.

Plus, living in alignment with your values brings a fulfillment no paycheck, compliment, or material possession will ever replace.

Now, I know some might see this view as naive or idealistic.

They might think, “That’s all well and good, but the world isn’t that simple.”

And I get it.

Life throws curveballs.

Things go sideways.

But here’s the truth from my experience - when things fell apart, I wasn’t alone.

Why?

I had a secure network of people who had my back.

A network built across many years of doing right by others.

Without that, I’d have been on my own.

That’s why it’s essential to build bridges, not burn them.

You never know who you might work with or for in the future.

Every connection matters.

And here’s a bonus - choosing this path allows you to sleep like a baby at night, with your integrity intact and your conscience clear.

So, next time you’re faced with a choice, big or small, ask yourself:

“Am I doing right by the people involved?”

Because that simple question might just change everything.

Bright Reads

Interesting insights to ignite your inner optimist.

• Optical illusions and how they work.

• Animals are more rational than you think.

• Music-induced “Chills” trigger natural opioids in the brain.

• Why do people have wisdom teeth.

• Why do Canadians say ‘Eh’?

Paul McCartney

The Beat-le Goes On

Try to picture the soundtrack of the last sixty years without Paul McCartney.

Ahhh yeah, good luck, it’s almost impossible.

His melodies have been whistled by school kids, strummed at backyard barbecues and echoed in stadiums around the world.

From the dizzying heights of Beatlemania to his decades as a solo artist, McCartney’s fingerprints are all over modern music.

But what really makes Paul McCartney stand out isn’t just his record-breaking hits or legendary collaborations.

It’s his relentless optimism, playful spirit and belief in the power of doing good.

I was lucky enough to see Paul perform live in Vancouver in 2012 with my wife.

It was such an incredible experience and a night I recall vividly.

Standing in that crowd, singing along to songs that are part of the fabric of my life, I was struck by the sheer joy he brought to every note.

It’s no wonder that when I think of the kindest, most highly regarded people on the planet, Paul McCartney may actually be number one.

What a guy he is.

I’ve honestly never heard a bad word said about him and just look at the success that’s followed him.

What Makes Him Special

So, what is it?

What is it that keeps Paul McCartney not only relevant but beloved after all these years?

For starters, there’s the music.

With The Beatles, McCartney helped turn pop into an art form, co-writing some of history’s most enduring songs.

"Hey Jude," "Let It Be," "Yesterday," and countless others.

His playful basslines, infectious melodies and knack for storytelling have shaped how the next generation understands music and emotion.

But his musical genius isn’t the whole story.

McCartney’s resilience is remarkable.

After The Beatles broke up, a split that could have easily cast a shadow over anyone’s career, he went on to form Wings, write more chart-toppers and carve out a solo legacy that’s at least as impressive as his start.

Which is bonkers, given the quality of his start.

He’s repeatedly shown that endings can be beginnings and that staying creative is the best way to bounce back.

What sets McCartney apart even further is his positivity and concern for others.

He’s championed animal rights, supported social justice causes and spoken openly about mental well-being.

When asked about the secret to his seemingly endless energy, he credits keeping a sense of humour, staying curious and refusing to let bitterness take root.

A masterclass in optimism.

And then there’s his kindness.

Ask anyone who’s worked with McCartney, from icons like Stevie Wonder to up-and-coming artists, and they’ll mention the same thing.

He treats everyone as an equal, remaining approachable and humble despite his legendary status.

Fame often seems to change people,, but Paul seems to have only grown more genuine and beloved over the years.

Putting it simply, the world needs more people like Paul.

Lessons from a Global Icon

What can we learn from Paul McCartney’s journey?

Quite a lot, actually.

First, embrace reinvention.

Whether it was picking up the guitar as a teenager, bravely singing "Yesterday" solo with just a string quartet, or trying out electronic music in his seventies, McCartney never stood still.

He shows us that it’s okay, more than okay, actually, to experiment, change direction, and keep growing.

Second, don’t be afraid of setbacks.

The Beatles’ breakup wasn’t just a professional hit.

It was a personal one.

Yet, McCartney didn’t let it define him.

He leaned into uncertainty, focused on what he loved, writing songs, and built something new, brick by brick.

Third, remember the power of positivity.

McCartney’s famous for seeing the bright side, even in dark circumstances.

Songs like “Blackbird” and “Let It Be” are anthems of hope during hard times.

Staying optimistic, finding reasons to be grateful and using creativity to process challenges are timeless lessons.

And finally, value collaboration and kindness.

Many of McCartney’s most magical moments came from working with others.

Whether it was the Lennon-McCartney partnership, the camaraderie of Wings, or his countless collaborations since.

He reminds us that the best things in life come from shared experiences and mutual respect.

Practical Tips Inspired by McCartney

What practical lessons can we take from the Beatles’ approach to life and work?

• Stay curious. Never stop learning or trying new things, whether a new instrument, hobby, or perspective. Life is one big, never-ending lesson.

• Be resilient. Don’t view setbacks as failures. See them as the next step in a long, winding journey. There’s a big difference between ‘Why me’ and ‘What can I learn from this’?

• Find your creative outlet. Everyone has a creative spark, whether or not they write songs. Let yourself play, experiment, and make mistakes. The only way to find out is to try, and the only way to try is to make time for it.

• Give back where you can. Use your skills and platform. No matter how big or small, to lift others and promote causes you care about.

• Keep it fun. Life is serious enough. Inject some playfulness, humour and joy wherever you go. Through finding moments to laugh and share joy, you create connections.

My Takeaway

Paul McCartney is more than a musician.

He’s a living lesson in optimism, creativity and kindness.

Who has shown that you don’t need to have all the answers or a perfect plan.

What matters most is moving forward with an open heart, being willing to change and bringing others along on the ride.

So, whether you’re facing a new chapter, a tough moment, or just looking for a little spark.

Remember McCartney’s example.

Stay hopeful.

Stay curious.

And if ever you find yourself at a crossroads, just remember …

When times seem tough, “take a sad song and make it better.”

A simple but powerful lesson from Paul, I’ll be singing for years to come.

Want to learn more from Paul McCartney? Check out this incredibly candid 15-minute interview from 1982:

Now Spinning

Chorus

by Mildlife

Some albums seem to slide perfectly into your day.

No matter what you’re up to.

For me, Chorus by Mildlife is one of those rare ones.

I first played it while working and it helped me focus and my writing flow.

My head nodded as the rhythm moved through my fingers while I typed.

A few nights later, it was the backdrop to my slightly clumsy, but very enthusiastic, kitchen dance party.

Whether you’re deep in focus or cooking up a storm, this album just works.

Why It’s Worth a Listen

1. Groove That Flows
Mildlife’s secret sauce is their groove. This isn’t foot-stomping pop or shout-it-from-the-rooftops rock. It’s sophisticated and impossibly smooth. Every track blends seamlessly into the next. Think cosmic funk meets smooth jazz, with a bit of disco sprinkled on top.

2. Detail in Every Layer
This isn’t music you simply hear, it’s music you discover. There’s always another layer to notice - the snap of percussion, the dreamy synths, the crisp basslines. Even when it’s in the background, it finds ways to surprise you.

3. Creative Flair You Don’t Expect
I honestly can’t recall a time I’ve heard a band use a wah pedal on a flute, but Mildlife pulls it off brilliantly. That kind of bold creativity is sprinkled throughout Chorus, reminding us that true originality comes from blending unexpected sounds with classic grooves.

4. Feels Like a Journey
The album flows like a late-night road trip with friends. There’s no rush, just good vibes and twists you didn’t expect. It’s immersive, which makes it perfect company for both when you need to be productive or simply have a relaxing evening.

5. Universal Appeal
You don’t have to be a jazz nerd to appreciate Chorus. If you enjoy thoughtful, warm and adventurous music, this album is for you.

Get to Know: Mildlife

Hailing from Melbourne, Australia, Mildlife has built a loyal following for their genre-blending sound.

They started out jamming in basements, and now, they’ve nailed a sound entirely of their own.

A sound that feels unique yet comfortably familiar and delivers on both craftsmanship and laid-back cool.

Fun fact: Their live shows are legendary for turning venues into full-on dance floors, no matter the crowd. If they come your way, do yourself a favour.

My Takeaway

At its core, Chorus is about connection.

The connection between rhythms, melodies and people.

The vibe is optimistic and exploratory.

Tracks like “Musica” and “Return to Centaurus” really stand out.

Lyrically, it’s less about telling a story and more about creating an atmosphere where you can find your own meaning.

It’s music that doesn’t demand your attention, but earns it just the same.

It’s creative and uplifting, reminding us that going with the flow can still take us somewhere new.

If you’re looking for something equal parts relaxing and energising, give this a spin.

You might just find yourself grooving along, too.

Got a recommendation?

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

A Bright Idea to Consider

Kobi Yamada

The Lesson

Let’s be honest.

How many times have you caught yourself thinking, “I’ll be happier when…?”

Maybe when work slows down, when the kids are older, when you finally take that big vacation, or even just “when things settle down.”

I know I’ve thought this way more times than I can count.

The truth is, life rarely delivers that perfectly calm moment when everything magically feels simple and stress-free.

Kobi Yamada’s words are powerful: “Don’t wait for things to be simpler, easier, or better. Life will always be complicated.”

It’s a gentle but no-nonsense reminder that if we keep waiting for the storm to pass, we likely miss out on a lot of sun along the way.

Here’s the thing.

There will never be a “perfect” time to be happy.

When one challenge passes, another often appears.

If you always tie your happiness to future circumstances, you’re essentially putting it on layaway, hoping you’ll finally cash in one day.

But life happens in the present.

Not in those imagined future days.

Learning to be happy now, as things are, takes a little practice.

It doesn’t mean pretending everything is perfect.

It means finding moments of gratitude, laughter, or peace even when there’s a mess in the kitchen, a deadline at work, or uncertainty about tomorrow.

Sometimes, it’s as simple as taking a breath and noticing the little good things.

There’s a certain freedom in realising, as Yamada puts it, “it will always be now.”

This moment, with all its flaws and quirks, is your life.

Waiting for a perfect version means missing out on the one you’ve actually got.

Practical Tips to Find Joy in the Now

• Pause and Notice:
  Take a few seconds each day to enjoy something simple, like a smell, a sound, or a taste. Slowing down helps you ground yourself and gain perspective.

• Celebrate Small Wins:
  Don’t wait for the big achievements. Acknowledge your progress and let yourself feel good about the smaller wins.

• Practice Saying Thank You:
  Keep a gratitude list, even if it’s just a mental note of three things each day. This practice will compound if you stay consistent and your perspective will shift over time.

• Let Go of 'Chasing Perfect':
  Remind yourself that life is always a bit messy, and that’s okay. Perfect is a pointless chase, so appreciate the beauty in imperfections and the growth that comes from challenges.

• Do One Thing That Brings You Joy Daily:
  I can’t stress this enough. Don't postpone your enjoyment, whether it’s a walk, a favourite song, or a call to a friend. In fact, one should be the minimum. You deserve it.

My Takeaway

Happiness doesn’t live in the future.

You need to nurture it right here, right now, in the middle of life’s beautiful chaos.

So, if you find yourself holding your happiness hostage to “when things get better,” try flipping the script.

What’s something small you notice or could appreciate right now?

How can you remind yourself that, despite the complications, this moment deserves a little bit of your joy?

I’d love to hear from you.

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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