In partnership with

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?

• Your Future Self Is No Stranger - Treat them with respect because ... it's you!

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

• Katherine Johnson - A trailblazer of courage and inspiration.

• Now Spinning - The Smile: Cutouts.

• Insights from an Expert - Dr. Susan David.

• A Previous Tweet - Become the author of your own story.

• Positively Hilarious - Smile like you mean it.

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

Hello, Brighter Side readers! ☀️

Thanks for joining me again this week.

Well, Toronto is officially a winter wonderland!

We're in the thick of an epic snowstorm this weekend, and I have to admit, I'm loving it.

There’s something magical about all that fluffy white snow blanketing the city and turning it into a giant winter playground. ❄️

Speaking of creating your own magic, this week's newsletter is all about connecting with your future self to make better choices today.

It might sound a bit "out there", but trust me, there are some seriously cool insights that can help you level up your life.

So, whether you're cozying up indoors watching the snow fall or keeping cool in the summer heat, take a few minutes to dive in and discover how to create the future YOU want.

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.

Brought to you by:

Looking for unbiased, fact-based news? Join 1440 today.

Upgrade your news intake with 1440! Dive into a daily newsletter trusted by millions for its comprehensive, 5-minute snapshot of the world's happenings. We navigate through over 100 sources to bring you fact-based news on politics, business, and culture—minus the bias and absolutely free.

Subscribe to 1440 today.

Your Future Self Is No Stranger

Treat them with respect because ... it's you!

Imagining your future self isn’t just some fluffy, feel-good exercise.

It’s a powerful way to convince your brain to make better choices today.

Think of your future self as the VIP version of you that exists down the road.

The stronger your connection with them, the more likely you are to make quality decisions now that benefit your health, wealth and happiness later on in life.

Behavioural science backs this up.

When we see our future selves as real people, not just an abstract idea, planning becomes easier … and way smarter.

Understanding Your Future Self

Your future self isn't some random stranger.

It's you, evolved.

Those who feel connected to their future selves are way more likely to engage in behaviours that boost their long-term game.

We’re talking saving for retirement, ditching junk food for kale and steering clear of overly risky stuff.

Read that again, 'overly’ risky stuff.

It’s calculated risk that allows you to get ahead.

I’ll admit, I wasn’t always so enlightened.

I remember laughing and joking with my now wife when I was much younger, saying that as long as I lived until 40, I’d be good because all the fun stuff happens before then anyway.

Classic case of ignoring my relationship with future me!

I couldn't have been more wrong.

Now that I’m here, at 46, I am grateful I had the resolve to take responsibility for such a ridiculous viewpoint and start making better decisions.

The truth is, well for me anyway, that life begins at 40.

How do I feel now?

Never better.

Never more capable and never more in touch with who I am and what I am capable of.

It's proof that reconnecting with your future self can completely transform your life, no matter when you decide to start.

The Psychological Basis

Philosopher Derek Parfit nailed it when he said our concern for the future hinges on how similar we feel to our future selves.

If future you feels like a total stranger, you're probably not gonna sweat the long-term stuff.

But when you see a strong connection?

That’s when you start making those patient, future-focused decisions.

Here's where it gets inspiring.

Take Jim Carrey, for example.

Back in the day, when he was just a struggling young comic dreaming big in L.A., he wrote himself a check for $10 million for "acting services rendered."

He dated it Thanksgiving 1995 and kept it in his wallet as a reminder.

Fast forward to just before that date.

And boom - he landed a $10 million gig on Dumb and Dumber.

Talk about manifesting your destiny.

Building a Connection

So, how do you actually build this connection with your future self?

Start with visualisation.

Seriously.

How can you get to where you want to go without clearly outlining where that is?

Close your eyes and picture what your life will look like in 5, 10 or 20 years.

See yourself crushing it - healthier, smarter, more accomplished.

This isn't just wishful thinking.

It can seriously rewire your brain to make better choices today.

And don’t give me any of the ‘I’m too old to start now’ bullshit.

The age at which we achieve certain goals in life is irrelevant.

Society has created goal posts but the truth is, they dont matter.

Want to earn a degree at 50, good for you.

Want to start a family in your early 20’s, good for you.

Want to learn to play guitar at 60, go for it.

The only validation you need is your own, so go get it.

Age isn’t a number, it’s an attitude.

These next suggestions might seem fluffy at first, but I assure you, they aren’t.

And the sooner you get over that fact and move forward, the sooner you’ll start to see results.

Visualisation Exercise

1. Set Aside Time: Find a quiet space where you won’t be disturbed.

2. Close Your Eyes: Take deep breaths to relax.

3. Visualise: Picture yourself at different ages - what do you look like? What are you doing? How do you feel?

4. Write It Down: Jot down key aspects of this vision to revisit later.

Writing Letters to Your Future Self

Another cool trick?

Write a letter to your future self.

Spill your goals, dreams and the kind of person you want to become.

It’s like creating a roadmap for your life and making a promise to yourself to get there.

When you're writing the letter:

1. Reflect on Your Present: What's your life like right now?

2. Envision Your Future: Who do you want to be?

3. Identify Changes Needed: What steps do you need to take to get there?

4. Make Predictions: What might change in your life along the way?

It’s not just about setting goals.

It's about creating a bond with the person you're working towards becoming.

The Importance of Continuous Improvement

Now, let’s talk about leveling up.

You know the old saying ‘a rolling stone gathers no moss’?

Life is all about growing.

If you aren’t growing, you’re stagnating.

Have you ever looked back at old videos or photos and felt a little cringey?

That’s a good sign.

It means you've improved yourself.

You've matured; you've grown.

Life is one long lesson, and what you do with those lessons is what propels you forward.

If you stop learning and growing, you can quickly find yourself left behind while others thrive.

With an abundant mindset - one that focuses on solutions and opportunities - you can develop your character and values into something truly powerful.

Committing to Lifelong Learning

1. Set Learning Goals: Choose one new skill or topic each month.

2. Find Resources: Use online courses (like Coursera or Udemy), books, or podcasts.

3. Schedule Time: Dedicate specific times each week for learning.

4. Reflect on Progress: At the end of each month, review what you've learned and how it applies to your life.

Taking Action and Holding Yourself Accountable

Taking action is key here.

It solves problems and erodes anxiety like magic.

When you actively pursue growth, whether through new skills or experiences, you’re not just waiting for life to happen; you're making it happen.

On the flip side, failing to take action leads to regret, missed opportunities and stagnation.

But here's the real kicker: continuous improvement requires self-accountability and discipline.

It's about showing up and putting in the work even when motivation wanes and things get tough.

It’s about having the integrity to do the right thing.

Even when no one is watching.

That internal drive.

The resolve to push forward without anyone dragging you along is what separates those who dream of success from those who actually achieve it.

Imagine being that multi-skilled powerhouse who’s always ready for whatever life throws at them.

You can become the person who embraces challenges instead of shying away from them.

Expert Insights

Experts have long emphasised the importance of connecting with our future selves to motivate long-term planning.

Philosopher Derek Parfit's work highlights that individuals who perceive their future selves as distinct may lack the motivation to care for that future self, impacting decisions related to savings, health and relationships.

Further research has demonstrated that visualising a future self enhances feelings of similarity to that self, which in turn can positively influence intertemporal choices.

These are decisions involving trade-offs between immediate rewards and future benefits.

For instance, studies using virtual reality have shown that exposure to images of your future self can enhance feelings of similarity and encourage behaviors that benefit the future you.

A further recent study explored how future self-continuity influences decision-making by showing that individuals who perceive their future selves as more similar are more inclined to make patient choices.

Furthermore, research indicates that high levels of self-concept clarity, how clearly an individual understands themselves, is associated with stronger connections between present and future selves.

This clarity helps individuals recognise their current needs while aligning them with their long-term goals.

But why do so many of us choose to ignore our future?

Many folks sabotage their future for short-term gain because of how our brains are wired.

We tend to favour immediate gratification over long-term rewards.

A phenomenon known as hyperbolic discounting.

This means we’re more likely to choose that yummy snack now instead of thinking about the fitness goals we want to achieve later.

Low self-esteem can also play a role.

Many people struggle with imposter syndrome, feeling unworthy of success and undermining their own efforts.

This focus on short-term comfort or perceived needs can easily overshadow the importance of building a better, brighter future.

My Takeaway

Introduce yourself to the future you.

Pay them the respect they deserve.

Building a relationship with your future self turns it from a fictitious idea into a real, influential force in your life.

Visualisation exercises.

Letter-writing techniques.

Goal setting.

Committing to lifelong learning.

Each of these strategies are not just woo-woo stuff.

They're actionable tools designed to help you create a killer vision of who you want to become.

This connection then fuels your motivation and empowers you to make choices that align with your big-picture dreams.

Before you dive into this journey, remember that every choice you make today is sculpting the reality of who you'll be tomorrow.

Positive habits compound, just as negative ones do.

Embrace the chance to build a meaningful bond with the awesome person waiting for you down the road while continuously improving yourself into an unstoppable force.

Most importantly, hold yourself accountable, stay disciplined and live with integrity.

They are the qualities that will pave the way for the remarkable future you're destined to create and, more importantly, ensure you distance yourself from that dreaded word:

Regret.

Bright Reads

Interesting insights to ignite your inner optimist.

• Hawaii is the rainbow capital of the world.

• Almost one in 10 people use the same four-digit PIN.

• Book chart showing Barnes & Noble opening new stores.

• The 15 weirdest pictures of nature's smallest animals.

• The hardest tongue twister in english is ...

Katherine Johnson

A trailblazer of courage and inspiration.

This week, I’d like to shine a spotlight on an extraordinary woman whose story has inspired countless individuals: Katherine Johnson.

Known primarily for her groundbreaking contributions to NASA as a mathematician, Johnson's journey is a testament to resilience, courage and the power of positivity.

After recently watching the movie Hidden Figures, I was moved by her strength and her integrity.

So much so, that I believe it’s important to share her story with others.

Born on August 26, 1918, in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, Katherine displayed a remarkable talent for mathematics from a young age.

By the time she was just 10 years old, she had already started high school.

A clear indication of her exceptional intellect.

She graduated with honors at 18 and began teaching math to Black students.

However, her thirst for knowledge didn’t stop there.

She enrolled in graduate school at West Virginia University, where she was one of the first Black students in the program.

Facing Challenges Head-On

Despite her impressive academic achievements, Katherine faced significant obstacles throughout her life.

The era she lived in was marked by racial segregation and gender discrimination, particularly in fields like science and technology.

After graduating from college, she struggled to find opportunities that matched her skills due to the prevailing biases of the time.

In 1952, at the age of 34, Katherine learned about job openings for Black women with mathematics skills at the Langley Research Center in Virginia.

It was here that she joined a team of "human computers," performing complex calculations that were crucial for America’s space program.

However, even at NASA, she encountered challenges.

The West Area Computers division where she worked was segregated by race and gender, and Katherine often found herself fighting against both prejudice and skepticism.

One memorable moment from Hidden Figures highlights this struggle: when Katherine was assigned to assist the Space Task Group but faced dismissive attitudes from some male colleagues.

Yet instead of letting their doubts deter her, she proved her worth time and again through her astonishing skills & calculations.

A Legacy of Achievement

Johnson’s most notable achievements include calculating trajectories for several key space missions.

No big deal.

She played a pivotal role in ensuring that astronaut Alan Shepard became the first American in space in 1961.

Just a year later, she calculated the trajectory for John Glenn’s historic orbit around Earth.

An achievement that solidified her status as a mathematical genius.

What’s even more remarkable is that despite her significant contributions, Katherine’s work went largely unrecognised for decades.

It wasn’t until the release of Hidden Figures in 2016 that her story, and those of her fellow mathematicians Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson, gained widespread attention.

The film not only celebrates their achievements but also highlights the systemic barriers they faced as women of color in a male-dominated field.

Inspiring Future Generations

Katherine Johnson's journey is not just about breaking barriers.

It’s also about inspiring future generations to pursue careers in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics).

Her story serves as a powerful reminder that with determination and hard work, anything is possible.

That’s right, practically anything.

No matter your background or the challenges you face.

In 2015, President Barack Obama awarded Johnson the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her contributions to science and humanity.

She continued to inspire others throughout her life until her passing on February 24, 2020, at the age of 101.

In honour of her legacy, NASA dedicated the Katherine G. Johnson Computational Research Facility at Langley Research Center.

A fitting tribute to a woman who helped launch America into space.

A Message of Positivity

What stands out most about Katherine Johnson is not just her incredible intellect but also her unwavering positivity and integrity.

Throughout her career, she maintained a focus on collaboration and teamwork rather than getting bogged down by negativity or discrimination.

She once said:

“I like to look at the math as an opportunity.”

This perspective reflects her ability to see challenges as opportunities for growth, a lesson we can all take to heart.

As we celebrate Katherine Johnson's life this week, let’s remember her courage in overcoming obstacles and her commitment to using her talents for good.

Her story encourages us to embrace our passions and strive for excellence while lifting others along the way.

So whether you’re inspired by mathematics or simply looking for motivation in your own life, let her legacy remind you that every challenge can be met with determination and optimism.

Let’s honour her memory by pursuing your dreams fearlessly and supporting those around you in their journey.

Because together, we can reach for the stars.

Now Spinning

Cutouts

By The Smile

If you’re anything like me, you love diving into the wonders of music and exploring the creative journeys of your favorite artists.

I recently discovered Cutouts by The Smile, a band made up of Thom Yorke and Jonny Greenwood from Radiohead, along with drummer Tom Skinner from Sons of Kemet.

As a long-time Radiohead fan, I’ve always been impressed by their innovative sound, but while I appreciated The Smile's earlier albums, I didn’t fully connect with them.

Until now.

Cutouts has grabbed my attention and I can’t get enough of it.

Key Highlights

Finding Their Groove

With Cutouts, it feels like The Smile has finally found their groove.

This album showcases a more relaxed vibe that invites you to unwind and enjoy the experience.

It’s almost as if they needed those previous albums to experiment and discover their true sound.

Now they’ve delivered something that really resonates.

Chill and Engaging

The tracks on Cutouts are effortlessly engaging, making it hard not to hit replay.

The album features a blend of soothing melodies and intricate arrangements that create a laid-back atmosphere.

It’s a delightful mix that feels both fresh and familiar, reminiscent of Radiohead while carving out its own unique identity.

Standout Tracks

From the moment I dropped the needle, I was drawn to standout tracks like “Bending Hectic” and “The Smoke.”

These songs showcase the band’s ability to create lush soundscapes while maintaining an inviting groove.

Thom Yorke’s ethereal vocals combined with the intricate instrumentation make for an immersive listening experience.

Perfect for Relaxing Evenings

What I love most about Cutouts is how relaxing it is to have on the record player during those quiet evenings at home.

It creates a soothing backdrop that allows your mind to wander freely.

This album feels like a warm hug.

Perfect for when you want to escape into music and let your thoughts drift away.

My Takeaway

Cutouts is a remarkable evolution for The Smile and a testament to their growth as artists.

If you’re looking for an album that combines creativity with relaxation, this one is definitely worth adding to your collection.

It’s refreshing to see how they’ve developed their sound while still honoring their roots in music.

So grab your favorite drink, put this record on, and let yourself be transported into the captivating world of The Smile!

Got a recommendation?

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

Insights from an Expert

Susan David Ph.D.

The Lesson

Dr. Susan David, a renowned psychologist and author of Emotional Agility, reminds us that our values are not just abstract concepts to ponder over.

They are meant to be lived out every day.

This insight is crucial for anyone looking to lead a more authentic and fulfilling life.

Dr. David's analogy of riding a bicycle perfectly illustrates the need for action in living our values.

Just like you can’t maintain balance on a bike without pedaling forward, you can’t truly embody your values without putting them into practice.

It’s about more than just knowing what you stand for.

It’s about demonstrating those beliefs through your actions.

When we actively engage with our values, we create a sense of purpose and direction in our lives.

This is especially important in challenging times when it’s easy to feel lost or overwhelmed.

By aligning our actions with our core beliefs, we not only reinforce our identity but also inspire those around us to do the same.

Practical Steps to Walk the Talk

1. Identify Your Values:

   Take some time to reflect on what truly matters to you. Write down your core values and consider how they align with your daily life.

2. Set Intentions:

   Each morning, set an intention that connects with your values. Ask yourself: What can I do today that reflects who I am and what I believe?

3. Take Small Steps:

   Living your values doesn’t require grand gestures. Start small - whether it's being more honest in conversations or showing kindness to others and gradually build up.

4. Reflect Regularly:

   At the end of each day, reflect on how well your actions aligned with your values. What went well? What could you improve? This reflection will help keep you accountable.

5. Seek Support:

   Surround yourself with people who share similar values or who encourage you to live authentically. Their support can help reinforce your commitment.

My Takeaway

Dr. David’s insight serves as a powerful reminder that living authentically requires action, not just intention.

When we "walk the talk," we create a life that resonates deeply with who we are at our core.

So next time you find yourself at a crossroads or facing a challenge, remember: it’s not enough to know your values; you must actively engage with them to truly thrive.

Let’s get moving!

A previous tweet …

Positively Hilarious

A quick laugh as we part ways this week.

Daily Gratitude Journal

Transform your daily routine with my specially crafted gratitude journal. Start (or end) each day with a moment of reflection and positivity.

Thank you to all who have purchased a copy so far, I am truly grateful and for every journal sold, I will donate $1 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. 

This means that as you develop daily gratitude, you're also helping grant wishes to children facing critical illnesses.

It's a powerful cycle of hope and optimism.

🌟 What's Inside:

• Thoughtful prompts to inspire daily gratitude.

• Space for personal reflections and affirmations.

• Beautifully designed pages to make each entry a delightful experience.

Ready to embrace the power of gratitude?

Click here to order a copy now!

Recommended Newsletters:

Let’s stay connected.

New to this newsletter? - Subscribe for free and join the Brighter Side!

Follow me on X for daily insights from the Brighter Side - @TheBSofE

Follow me on Medium for longer form content - @TheBSofE

I’d love to hear from you - via X or this email, I’ll be sure to respond.