Hi from Austin, TX - where I am spending a week meeting with my team.

Last week, the most clicked link was the open source catalogue of free audiobooks, some classics in there with no subscription or payment required.

This week, I've been thinking & writing about resilience, reading about freedom, learning about clouds and listening to indie music from Manchester. I've also been writing about self-care.

Thank you all for joining me on an endless journey of curiosity.

Till next Monday, enjoy...


πŸ‘“ The Big Stuff - building resilience

Things remain tough and building resilience is still an important skill.

Resilience is often described as the ability to bounce back from adversity, to adapt and thrive despite life's challenges. It's not about avoiding difficulties but rather facing them head-on with courage, determination, and a positive mindset. In a world filled with uncertainties, building resilience is more crucial than ever. It equips us with the tools to handle stress, overcome obstacles, and move forward even when the odds seem stacked against us.

This week, I read this excellent article from Tom Greene, on the three secrets of resilient people. I really like the idea (#2) that we are hard-wired with a bias for negativity and so we focus on negative events - one you know that, it's easier to try and shift your attention.

But how does one cultivate resilience?

It's not a trait that some are born with and others lack. Instead, it's a skill that can be developed and refined over time.

Here are three tips to help you build and strengthen your resilience:

1. Embrace a Growth Mindset

One of the foundational pillars of resilience is adopting a growth mindset. A growth mindset is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. It's the opposite of a fixed mindset, where individuals believe their talents are innate and unchangeable.

Action Step: Challenge negative self-talk. When faced with a setback, instead of thinking, "I can't do this," or "I'm not good enough," reframe your thoughts to, "What can I learn from this?" or "How can I approach this differently next time?" By viewing challenges as opportunities for growth, you'll be more inclined to persevere and overcome them.

2. Build a Strong Support Network

Humans are inherently social beings. We thrive on connections and relationships. A robust support network - friends, family, mentors, or even professional counsellors - can be a lifeline during tough times. These individuals can offer advice, lend a listening ear, or simply be there to remind you of your strengths when you're feeling low.

Action Step: Make it a priority to nurture your relationships. Spend quality time with loved ones, join groups, classes or clubs that align with your interests, or seek professional counselling if needed.

Remind yourself, it's OK to lean on others when you need support.

3. Prioritize Self-Care

Resilience isn't just about mental toughness, it's also about taking care of your physical and emotional well-being. Regular self-care can help replenish your energy, reduce stress, and enhance your overall wellbeing.

Action Step: Dedicate time each day for self-care activities that work for you. This could be anything from reading a book, taking a walk, meditating, or indulging in a hobby.

Listen to your body and mind, and give them the care they deserve.

🦾
Monday Motivation: Let this week be the one where you supercharge your memory. Here are some great habits that will help you.

🧠 The Other Stuff

✍🏼
Journal Prompt of the week: What's a compliment you received that significantly boosted your confidence? (Want more? Try here)

🌞 The Little Stuff

πŸ₯… Setting Goals: 5 Proven Tips for Achieving Personal and Career Success
Setting and achieving goals is a critical component of personal and career success and development. I’ve pulled together five proven tips, and a useful free tool to help define and track your goals.

🎧 Aural Stuff

On the Stuff Speakers this week...

🎧 This week, my aural treat is the new album from The Slow Show, an indie band from Manchester, who slipped onto my radar a couple of years ago with 'Lust and Learn.

The new album is Subtle Love, a beautifully constructed 10 tracks featuring some epic, sweeping string arrangements accompanied by the unusual voice of lead singer Rob Goodwin.

It's lovely, gentle music with interesting lyrics - and very listenable. Highly Recommended.

🎢
A reminder that every day I add to my mammoth 2023 highs playlist. I'm at well over 260 tracks now, everyone a banger!
Journal Prompts - Happiness
Finding time for introspection and reflection is a vital tool for growth, here are fifty journal prompts to help you find and cultivate happiness

πŸ‘‚πŸΌ Stuff Someone Said

In order to change skins, evolve into new cycles, I feel one has to learn to discard. If one changes internally, one should not continue to live with the same objects. They reflect one’s mind and psyche of yesterday. I throw away what has no dynamic, living use.

Anais Nin

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