VOLUME ONE
THE ESSENTIAL
TABLE of CONTENTS
THE BELIEFS AND BEHAVIORS THAT SUPPORT THE CHALLENGING PURSUIT OF PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL FULFILLMENT
THE ESSENTIAL ESSENTIALS
The Foundational Beliefs, Skills, and Strategy that Help Create Balance Between Life and Career
THE BODY, MIND, AND SPIRIT
It All Begins and Ends with Health
HONESTY IS STILL THE BEST POLICY
In Every Worthwhile Relationship, Often One Quality Is Valued Above All Others
What’s the Definition of an Honest Person?
The Complexity of Honesty
The Healing Powers of Honesty
The Battle with the Truth
Honesty and Success
Honesty Is Found in the Mirror
Surround Yourself with Honesty
The Brutality and Beauty of Honesty
The Forgiveness of Honesty
BEING PRESENT
Trying to Get Three Minutes for the Price of One Is Never a Good Deal
Taking the Time to Be Present
Being Present in Work
Being Present in Life
INTERNAL DIALOG
Who Says Talking to Yourself Isn’t Healthy
REALITY ALWAYS WINS
Reality Is No Game, but it Does Have Winners and Losers
THE BEAST IN THE BRAIN AND THE BODY
Summoning the Awareness, Determination, and Courage to Tame the Pain of Buried Rage, Anxiety, and Sadness
CONFIDENCE
The Belief in Yourself Is Often Your Greatest Strength to Prevail Over Life’s Struggles
The Meaning of Confidence
Knowing Confidence When You See It
Confidence Is a Turn On
The Path to Confidence
THE COUNTRY OF ME
Each of Us Is a Sovereign Territory Containing Our Physical, Intellectual, and Emotional Potential that Must be Nurtured, Fulfilled, and Protected
THREE THINGS
A Triad of Love, Trust, and Purpose to Carry Through Life
DEALING WITH ASSHOLES, LOSERS, AND JERKS
Valuing the Patience and Perseverance that will Help You Avoid Becoming an Asshole, Loser, or Jerk
THE BRUTALITY AND BRITTLENESS OF BULLYING
Never Forgetting the Gratitude and Grace of Living a Life of Compassion and the Capacity to Express Empathy for Others
DON’T BE A HERO
Calling Upon the Courage and Kindness to be the One Who Will Not Turn Their Back on Another in Need of Help
THE COMPETITION
Winner or Loser, Victory Is Found at the Finish Line
The Love of Competition
My Approach to Competition
The Intimidation of the Competition
Sometimes Your Greatest Competition Is in the Mirror
The Value of Competing
Play the Part of the Winner
THE GIVE AND TAKE OF CRITICISM
Your Ability to Accept the Advice and Opinions of Others Will Be as Essential to Your Success as any Skill or Knowledge You Possess
FUCK LUCK
Other than in this Sentence, the Word “Luck” Does Not Appear in the Pages of this Book—Not Lucky, Luckiest, Unlucky, Good Luck, Bad Luck, Bum Luck, Luck of the Draw, or Lucky Fuck
THE ESSENTIAL EDUCATION
Exploring the Practical Tools and Philosophical Concepts to Guide You on a Journey of Discovery
to Professional Success and Personal Fulfillment
ONE AFTERNOON CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE
Overcoming Paralyzing Fear and Doubt to Take the First Step on the Path to Seeking the Knowledge, Skills, and Inspiration that Will Last a Lifetime
MAKING YOUR DREAM A REALITY
Seeking, Discovering, and Believing in the Moment of Hope that Can Make Your Future Possible
TAKING RESPONSIBILITY FOR YOUR FUTURE
Making an Honest Decision
Will Allow You to Make the Right One
IT’S YOUR STORY
The Tale from Struggle to Success Told in Three Acts
THE COURAGE TO LEARN
Whatever Information Must be Taught, Be Brave when Confronting Complex Concepts and Daunting Skills
DON’T RUSH
For Some Students, the Leap from High School to College Is Too Vast
DON’T BOTHER
School Isn’t for Everyone
THE SCHOOL OF THE SELF-TAUGHT
Making the Decision to Seek Information, Instruction, and Inspiration from Beyond the Classroom
THE SEARCH
Finding the Best School for You
GETTING WHAT YOU PAY FOR
Your Investment of Time, Money, and Trust in the School You Choose Entitles You to Certain Expectations
FACING YOUR INDEPENDENCE
Leaving the Comfort of Home for the Adventure of College Is a Timeless Rite of Passage to Endure and Enjoy
LIMBO
A Happy and Healing Pause Before Your Journey Begins
LEAVING HOME FOR THE FIRST TIME
Many Can’t Wait to Take the Leap to Freedom. For Others, a Gentle Nudge Is Plenty—Leaving Only Those Stragglers in Need of
a Good Swift Kick in the Ass
LIVING ALONE VS. LIVING WITH OTHERS
Whether You Live Alone or with Others While in School, Chisel Out the Time to Retreat, Reflect, and Refuel
BUDGETING YOUR MONEY WHILE IN SCHOOL
Investing the Time, Honesty, and Discipline to Assume Financial Accountability for Your Education
THE EDUCATION PROCESS
Learning to Trust… To a Point
TAKING RESPONSIBILITY FOR YOUR EDUCATION
Although Trust Is Essential to the Teacher/Student Dynamic, it Should Not Be Blind or Absolute
SAYING GOODBYE TO YOUR PAST
The Habits, Beliefs, and Relationships You’ll Be Forced to Leave Behind are Unavoidable Sacrifices in Helping You Move Forward in Life
THE LONG VIEW
Keeping a Balance Between the Emotional and the Practical Will Empower You to Pace Yourself Through
a Demanding Education
PLAYING FOR KEEPS
Celebrate Your Dreams, Accept Your Limits, Maximize Your Strengths, and Emerge with a Greater Belief in Yourself
THE PROFESSIONAL WITHIN YOU
The Essence of Your Potential Has Always Been There—Growing, Seeking, Hoping
THERE ARE ONLY FOUR TYPES OF STUDENTS
Which One Will You Be?
RELISHING THE STRUGGLE AND HAVING FUN
Despite the Inevitable Bullshit of Tedious Teachers, Crappy Classes, and Asinine Assignments, the Timeless Joy of Learning will Enable You to Pace Yourself Through the Rigors and Rewards of School
YOUR SCHOOL
A New Home in which to be Challenged, Thrilled, and Fulfilled
THE ADMINISTRATION
Understanding the Bureaucratic Matrix of People, Policies, and Procedures that are the Checks and Balances to Keep an Educational Institution Functioning and Funded
THE FACULTY
Getting the Most Out of the Teachers Who Will Nurture, Nudge, or Needle You to Discover the Deepest Truths
of Your Passion, Purpose, and Potential
THE CURRICULUM
Seeking the Classes—No Matter How Hard or Boring—that will Prepare You to Be a Professional
THE SCHEDULE
Managing Your Time to Fulfill Your Educational Responsibilities
THE ATTENDANCE RECORD
Learning the Importance of Showing Up for Class,
As well as the Value of Playing Hooky for a Day, to Keep Your Sanity
THE VALUE OF FOUNDATION CLASSES
The Capacity To Make Great Leaps in Creative Expression and Innovative Thought Is Indebted to the Most Basic Concepts and Practices
DOING HOMEWORK
Realizing Much of Your Many Profound Learning Experiences Will Be Discovered Outside the Classroom
GETTING HOMESICK
Leaving Home for School Isn’t Only About Learning To Be a Pro, but Learning To Deal with Feelings of Loneliness, Loss, and Longing
CUTTING YOUR LOSSES
Coming to Terms with the Truth that Despite All Your Academic Efforts, Finishing School Isn’t for Everyone
BREAKING OUT (TOO) EARLY
Seeking the Educators Who Can Give You the Insight To Decide if You Should Leave School Early or Stick it Out
NEEDING A JOB WHILE IN SCHOOL
Balancing Your Educational Goals and Financial Obligations as a Working Student
YOU HATE YOUR SCHOOL
Coping with the Shock, Stress, and Sadness that What Once Promised To Become a Paradise of Possibilities, Can at Times
Descend into a Dungeon of Drudgery
YOUR EDUCATION AND YOUR EMOTIONS
Relying on Rational Thought and Practical Behavior to Balance the Intensity and Unpredictability of Feelings
YOUR TEACHERS
Learning from the Best and the Worst
THE TEACHER/STUDENT DYNAMIC
Exploring the Give-and-Take in the Collaborative Relationship Between the Educator and the Educated
DOING YOUR PART
Taking Responsibility in the Classroom
THE BLAME GAME
Rather than Finding Fault in a Teacher/Student Conflict, Find a Solution
TYPES OF TEACHERS
Lessons in Dealing with
Difficult, Disappointing, or Dangerous Instructors
Your Teacher Seems Picky
Your Teacher Seems out of Touch with the Times
Your Teacher Seems Lazy or Crazy
Your Teacher Seems to Hate You
Your Teacher Seems Impossible to Please
WHAT A TEACHER CAN BECOME
A Poem on Giving the Gift of Learning
YOUR CLASSMATES
Partners in Curiosity, Creativity, Calamity, and Community
THE HAVES VS. THE HAVE-NOTS
Dealing with Schoolmates Who Seem To Have an Endless Supply of Talent, Money, Discipline, and Optimism
CLASSMATES FOR LIFE
There Will be Those Fellow Students with Whom You’ll Be Sharing the Journey of Learning Far Beyond Your Time Together in School
YOU’RE NOT ALONE
Sharing Some Laughs, Shedding Some Tears, and Blowing off Steam with Fellow Students Will Allow You To Seek Common Cause in Dealing with Whatever Bullshit Is Getting to You
THE DESTINATION
Making the Decision to Begin Your Career
by Staying Put, Going Back Home, or Exploring the World
THE GOODBYE
The Sadness, Fear, Doubt, Thrill, and Joy in Letting Go of School
THE GOAL
Summoning the Courage, Clarity, and Commitment To Imagine Your Future Success
THE ESSENTIAL IDEAS
The Intellectual Concepts and Emotional Concerns To Support Life and Career
FAILURE
In Most of Life’s Worthy Endeavors, You Gotta Fail Before You Succeed
Failure Is Your Friend
Failure Is Everywhere
Failure Is Guaranteed, Success Is Not
The Fear of Failure
Putting Failure in its Place
Dealing with Failure
SUCCESS
Succeeding Is Life’s Way of Telling You that You’re Fulfilling Your Purpose to Yourself and Others
Success Is a Declaration
Success Is a Choice
Success as Destiny
Success as Strategy
Success Is Life
Success Is Shared
Success Is Possible
Success Is Balance
Success Is Hard
Success Is Scary
Success Is Fun
Success Is Profitable
Success Is Not Everything
Success Is Power
Success Is Worth It
Success Is the Answer
Success Is a Story To Be Lived
THE GROWTH OF THERAPY
Accepting the Need and Value of Professional Help to Face, Understand, and Heal Pain, Sadness, and Fear
Truth and Therapy
Therapy as a Life Tool Getting Help
Therapy Is Knowledge
My Journey through Therapy
Therapy Is Lasting
WHO’S DRIVING THE BUS?
The Terror and Thrill of Setting Boundaries
THE SPIRITUALITY OF DISCIPLINE
Relying on Self-Control, Self-Motivation, and Self-Reliance to Take on Life’s Obstacles and Opportunities
Discipline Is a Journey
Where Does Discipline Come From?
How Does One Develop Discipline?
What if You Lack Discipline?
Discipline Is in the Here and Now
Discipline and Joy
Discipline and Therapy
Discipline Keeps You Honest
Discipline Can Require Either Action or Restraint
Discipline Is Decisive
Discipline Is not Perfect
Discipline Is Efficient
OCDiscipline
Discipline Is Forgiveness
THE CLARITY OF SETTING BOUNDARIES
Declaring Realistic Limits to What You’re Capable of Giving to a Relationship or an Endeavor Can Bring a Healing Freedom
THE OBLIGATION TO OBJECTIVITY
Maintaining Faith in Rational Thought and Practical Behavior will Bring Clarity and Confidence in Prevailing over
Life’s Daunting Experiences and Interactions
THE PURPOSE OF PASSION
Conjuring, Controlling, and Capitalizing on the Intensity of Your Emotions To Fuel Your Success
THE POTENTIAL OF OPPORTUNITY
Keeping Your Eyes, Ears, and Heart Open to All that’s Possible in Life and Work
The Fear of Change
How to Spot an Opportunity
Opportunity Is Only Half the Story
Opportunity Is Shared
Opportunity Is Work
THE WISDOM OF THINKING TWICE
Relying on the Focus and Fortitude of Your Brainpower To Take Another Look at an Obstacle or Opportunity To Ensure
it’s Worth it to Move Forward
THE LOGIC OF MIND OVER EMOTIONS
The Power of Facts to Motivate, Balance, and Heal
THE THREAT OF REGRET
Trusting Common Sense and Past Experience To Avoid Making a Decision that Could Result in Unnecessary Pain, Sadness, or Fear
The Road to Regret
Sometimes Regrets are Informative
Don’t Create Regret
Avoiding Regret
THE REWARD OF RISK
Never Lose Sight of All that Can Come from Saying Fuck it, and then Going for It
THE HEALING OF LETTING GO
Sometimes the Best Path Forward Is To Accept that the Current Plan Is Not Working or Worth It
The Journey of Letting Go
Facing the Truth of Letting Go
The Gift of Letting Go
THE PROTECTION OF FRIENDSHIP
Devoting the Time, Energy, and Care to Human Connections that You Can Count on When All Else Fails
THE ESSENTIAL TOOLS
The Tactical Strategies and Philosophical Practices that Support Life and Career
THE VALUE OF TIME
A Powerful and Precious Tool To Build a Life
You and Your Time
The Time of Your Life
The Game of Time
Stick to a Schedule
All Work and No Play…
THE POWER OF THE LIST
Developing the Skill, Focus, and Guts to Organize a Collection of Tasks that Will Give You the Best Chance for Success
The Mystical Force of the List
A List Is a Contract with Myself
A List Is Private Property
A List Is a Spiritual Exercise
Your Lists Talk to You
How to Make a List
Handwritten Vs. Digital
Lists for the Day, Week, Month, Year, and Beyond
Listomania
Lists Get Better with Age
A List Is a Living Thing
THE ART OF THE WRITTEN WORD
Taking Pen to Paper or Fingers to Keyboard Is Often the Only Option to Find a Fulfilling Path to Creative Expression, Business Negotiation, and Human Connection
Writing Style, Point of View, and Simplicity
The Connective Power of a Letter
A Lifetime of Letters
A Dying Art
When to Write a Letter
Letters Aren’t Perfect
Some of the Best Letters Are Never Sent
How to Write a Good Letter
Writing Is Rewriting
The Efficiency of Work Habits
The Consequences of Your Letter
The Mechanics of Letter Writing
A Letter-Writing Checklist
Writing as a Creative Tool
Writing and the Truth
Learning To Write by Writing
Transforming Your Wisdom into Words
Transforming Your Words into Money
The Writer as Artist
THE GRIND, GUTS, AND GLORY OF WORK
Your Dreams of Success Will Fly No Higher than Your Work Habits Can Lift Them
What Are Good Work Habits?
An Inspiring Work Ethic Can Be Found Anywhere
The Thrill of Work
Work Habits in the Educational World
Work Habits in the Professional World
Finishing Strong
Getting It Done
THE CREATIVITY AND PRACTICALITY OF THE COMPUTER
A Computer Is Less than a Person, but Definitely More than a Machine
THE ESSENTIAL CHALLENGES
Recognizing and Resolving the Opportunities and Obstacles that Will Arise Again and Again in School, Work, and Life
THE DREAD AND THRILL OF CHANGE
Developing the Ability To Accept that There’s No Chance for Personal and Professional Fulfillment without Realizing that the Current Concern Must Be Confronted and Conquered
THE EUPHORIA OF MISERY
The Price of Joy and Hope Sometimes Must be Paid for with Pain and Dread
THE PRICE AND PRIDE OF LOYALTY
Having the Conviction and Confidence To Show Allegiance
to a Person, Project, or Purpose Can Bring Lasting Pride and Respect
THE RESPONSIBILITY OF KILLING THE MYTH
Trusting in Your Convictions and Abilities To Prevail over an Existing Concern or Assumption
THE FLEXIBILITY OF BEING PREPARED FOR ANYTHING
Staying Connected to the Most Decisive, Diplomatic, or Daring Options to Overcome the Unknown, the Unexpected, or the Unwelcome
THE REDEMPTION OF REJECTION
Remaining Positive when Denied or Defeated Can Yield Insight and Inspiration Equal to any Cherished Victory
THE LONGEVITY OF STAYING RELEVANT
The Ability To Provide Innovative Ideas and Timeless Talents Will Ensure You’ll Always Have Value in Future Endeavors
THE FREEDOM OF FACING THE TRUTH
Even when Painful and Terrifying, Honesty Is Your Best (and sometimes only) Option to a Healthy and Lasting Resolution
THE CURSE AND FORCE OF NARCISSISM
To See the World through the Grandiose Prism of Your Own Needs Can Blind You to the Lasting Value of Human Connection
THE CRUELTY AND VICTORY OF SHAME
Overcoming the Debilitating, Destructive, and Dangerous Forces of Insecurity, Anguish, and Regret Can Bestow
Unbreakable Power and Pride
THE PRESTIGE AND DANGER OF WORKAHOLISM
Building the Focus and Fortitude To Achieve Balance Between Career and Life, while Still Busting Your Ass To Pursue, Sustain, and Enjoy Your Success
THE BURDEN AND HONOR OF LEADERSHIP
The Work, Worry, and Wonder of Taking Charge
THE INTIMACY AND INCOMPLETENESS OF MARRIAGE
Sustaining Your Matrimony while Maintaining Your Autonomy Offers the Opportunity to Solve One of Life’s Demanding and Fulfilling Puzzles
Marriage Is a Piece of Bubblegum
Marriage Is a Thing
Marriage Is a Game
Marriage Is a Work of Art
THE TERROR AND TRIUMPH OF PARENTHOOD
We are the Garden Our Parents Plant, Yet it will be Our Job To Weed it as We Grow
THE ESSENTIAL CHOICES
Life Provides Opposing Forces that Offer Endless Obstacles and Opportunities to Enjoy, Endure, and Evolve
PATIENCE & PERSEVERANCE
PERFECTION & PROCRASTINATION
TEMPTATION & TEMPERANCE
RIGHT & WRONG
BEING GOOD & BEING GREAT
YES & NO
THE ESSENTIAL ODDS & ENDS
The Beliefs and Behaviors within the Complexity and Chaos of the Human Experience that Can Enhance and Empower Your Daily Journey through Career and Life
PICK A NUMBER
Choosing Between 1 and 10 to Gauge the Intensity of a Difficult Emotion or Challenging Endeavor, Can Clarify the Right Perspective to Resolve the Issue
EMOTIONAL CALORIES
To Feel Deeply Demands Honesty, Vulnerability, and Risk; Conserve Energy to Avoid Draining Your Ability to Gain Understanding in Achieving a Successful Outcome
HEALTHY TISSUE
It’s Often Necessary to Probe Beneath the Surface of the Obvious to Discover the Restorative Truth to Heal Emotional Wounds
LOOFAH FOR THE SOUL
Overcoming Fear and Denial To Scrub Away the Anguish that Will Reveal the Joy
STAYING AFLOAT
Exploring Obstacles and Opportunities through the Journeys of a Ship, a Sailor, and a Surfer Can Empower You
to Navigate the Ebb and Flow of Life
DON’T BE AFRAID TO SPEAK UP
Summoning the Courage and Conviction to Overcome the Fear of Confrontation Through the Written and the Spoken Word
A GOOD LIFE’S SLEEP
No Matter the Struggles and Stresses of Life and Work, it’s a Human’s Right to Claim the Healing Power of Rest as a Gift that Is Earned… and Deserved
WHAT’S IN A WORD?
KARMA AND SCHADENFREUDE
Never Allow an Exotic or Complex Group of Letters to Keep You from Discovering Their Value To Enhance and Evolve Your Life
SAVING CREATURES
Taking the Time, Focus, and Care To Rescue a Fellow Life Form Can Deepen Understanding and Gratitude for Your Own Existence
HAVING A PET
Facing the Responsibility and Revelations in Opening Your Life to the Privilege of Caring for a Member of the Animal Kingdom
CAFFEINE
Facing the Perils of Dependency on a Chemical that Will Undermine Your Body’s Ability to Generate Energy, Efficiency, and Enthusiasm
THE VALUE OF GOING BACKWARDS TO MAKE FORWARD PROGRESS
Developing the Skills, Determination, and Curiosity to Reverse-Engineer an Endeavor To Become More Confident and Successful
BE PRESENT WHEN WORKING WITH DANGEROUS TOOLS
Paying Attention when Using a Machine that Can Maim or Mangle Can Train Your Entire Being To Being in the Moment for All of Life’s Risky Endeavors
HOARDING
Having the Honesty, Strength, and Patience to Help a Loved One from Becoming Buried in an Avalanche of Misery, Rage, and Paralysis
RELIGION
The Journey To Discover the Spiritual Beliefs that Will Fill You with Love, Power, and Hope
HAVE A GOOD TRIP, AND BE GOOD
Conducting Yourself with Respect and Openness as You Encounter People from Different Cultures
THE CAREERS OF OTHERS
CAN HELP YOU BE BETTER AT YOUR JOB
Keeping an Open Mind To Learn from the Experience and Expertise of Other Professionals
MOTIVATION AS A PRACTICAL TOOL
Being Unapologetic in Your Quest for Success Can Provide Unwavering Purpose to Achieving a Goal
GOOD THINGS COME TO THOSE WHO WAIT,
GREAT THINGS COME TO THOSE WHO DON’T
Although Patience Is Invaluable in Avoiding Disaster, it’s equally Important To Know when It’s Time To Throw Caution to the Curb and Go for It
HELPING FRIENDS AND STRANGERS WITH YOUR TALENTS
Sharing Your Skill and Knowledge To Enhance the Lives of Others Can Deepen the Human Connection that Comes from Generosity
Protecting a Healthy and Humble Philosophy for Sharing Your Talent
Expressing Your Feelings Through Your Talents
Trading in Your Talent for a Talent of Equal Value
Sharing the Product of Your Gifts with the Less Fortunate
MANNERS
From Loved Ones to Complete Strangers, Treating Others with Respect Is Imperative To Building Strong Character
HOTEL ETIQUETTE
The Employees Who Work To Make Your Stay a Pleasant One Are Not Your Servants, but are Trained Professionals to Be Treated with Respect
LIFE IN THE BIG CITY… OR NOT
Exploring the Pros and Cons of Making Your Home in the Opportunity and Chaos of an Urban World
THE STORY OF THE STORIED STORYTELLER
The Undeniable Pride that Can Come from an Unexpected Encounter
TWO DAYS IN ONE
Staying Open and Eager to the Experiences that Can Come in Twenty-four Hours
SOMETIMES YOU JUST GOTTA PINCH YOURSELF
Hard Work and Sturdy Talent Can Manifest Experiences that Go Beyond Your Wildest Dreams
THE ESSENTIAL EVENTS
Exploring the Confidence and Respect in Professional Collaboration and Personal Connection
UNE RECETTE POUR UNE ATTAQUE D’ANGOISSE
The Emotional Stresses of Life Can Take a Physical Toll
I’M NOT WORTHY… OR AM I?
Balancing the Vulnerability and Volatility of Self Esteem Can Have a Positive Effect on Your Confidence and Compassion when Facing a Challenging Endeavor or Relationship
MR. MARSHAL JOHNSON AND MY UNCLE SAM
Taking Responsibility for Your Poor Decisions when Facing the Demands of Unexpected Visitors
OPEN YOUR DAMN MAIL
Summoning the Courage To Face Bad News Often Is the Only Way To Keep a Bad Situation from Getting Worse
TIME TO GROW UP
Facing the Point of No Return that Results in Deciding that the Only Option Is To Get Your Shit Together
THE MOMENT OF TRUTH
Learning To Realize when a Split-Second Decision To Take Action Can Save Hours of Regret
THE LEGEND
Giving Yourself Permission that You Deserve
to Connect with Your Personal or Professional Hero
SOUP WITH BONO
Being Invited To Break Bread with a Rock God
Can Make You Realize You Belong at the Same Table of Success
YOUR CAREER AND YOUR CONVICTIONS
Trusting in the Beliefs and Behavior To Make the Smartest Decisions and Take the Strongest Actions in Pursuit of Success
The Act of Conviction
The Challenge of Conviction
The Cost of Conviction
The Value of Conviction
TWO IN THE MORNING
What a Difference Six Months Can Make when
the Only Person You Can Count on to Get the Job Done Is Yourself
THE ANGER AND GRACE OF AGING
Seeing the Truth that Having Less and Less Time on Earth Is the Only True Path to Gratitude for Having the Gift of the Pain and Joy of Life
THE DUTY AND JOY OF TEACHING
Having the Generosity and Guts To Realize You Can’t Take all that Wisdom and Wit with You, Is the Secret To Leaving the Lessons of Your Successes and Failures Behind so Others
Can Strive, Struggle, and Succeed
DEATH (THE FINAL CHAPTER)
When Attempting to Share the Mystery, Tragedy, and Finality of Dying, Only a Poem Will Do
THE ESSENTIAL
TABLE of CONTENTS
THE BELIEFS AND BEHAVIORS THAT SUPPORT THE CHALLENGING PURSUIT OF PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL FULFILLMENT
THE ESSENTIAL ESSENTIALS
The Foundational Beliefs, Skills, and Strategy that Help Create Balance Between Life and Career
THE BODY, MIND, AND SPIRIT
It All Begins and Ends with Health
HONESTY IS STILL THE BEST POLICY
In Every Worthwhile Relationship, Often One Quality Is Valued Above All Others
What’s the Definition of an Honest Person?
The Complexity of Honesty
The Healing Powers of Honesty
The Battle with the Truth
Honesty and Success
Honesty Is Found in the Mirror
Surround Yourself with Honesty
The Brutality and Beauty of Honesty
The Forgiveness of Honesty
BEING PRESENT
Trying to Get Three Minutes for the Price of One Is Never a Good Deal
Taking the Time to Be Present
Being Present in Work
Being Present in Life
INTERNAL DIALOG
Who Says Talking to Yourself Isn’t Healthy
REALITY ALWAYS WINS
Reality Is No Game, but it Does Have Winners and Losers
THE BEAST IN THE BRAIN AND THE BODY
Summoning the Awareness, Determination, and Courage to Tame the Pain of Buried Rage, Anxiety, and Sadness
CONFIDENCE
The Belief in Yourself Is Often Your Greatest Strength to Prevail Over Life’s Struggles
The Meaning of Confidence
Knowing Confidence When You See It
Confidence Is a Turn On
The Path to Confidence
THE COUNTRY OF ME
Each of Us Is a Sovereign Territory Containing Our Physical, Intellectual, and Emotional Potential that Must be Nurtured, Fulfilled, and Protected
THREE THINGS
A Triad of Love, Trust, and Purpose to Carry Through Life
DEALING WITH ASSHOLES, LOSERS, AND JERKS
Valuing the Patience and Perseverance that will Help You Avoid Becoming an Asshole, Loser, or Jerk
THE BRUTALITY AND BRITTLENESS OF BULLYING
Never Forgetting the Gratitude and Grace of Living a Life of Compassion and the Capacity to Express Empathy for Others
DON’T BE A HERO
Calling Upon the Courage and Kindness to be the One Who Will Not Turn Their Back on Another in Need of Help
THE COMPETITION
Winner or Loser, Victory Is Found at the Finish Line
The Love of Competition
My Approach to Competition
The Intimidation of the Competition
Sometimes Your Greatest Competition Is in the Mirror
The Value of Competing
Play the Part of the Winner
THE GIVE AND TAKE OF CRITICISM
Your Ability to Accept the Advice and Opinions of Others Will Be as Essential to Your Success as any Skill or Knowledge You Possess
FUCK LUCK
Other than in this Sentence, the Word “Luck” Does Not Appear in the Pages of this Book—Not Lucky, Luckiest, Unlucky, Good Luck, Bad Luck, Bum Luck, Luck of the Draw, or Lucky Fuck
THE ESSENTIAL EDUCATION
Exploring the Practical Tools and Philosophical Concepts to Guide You on a Journey of Discovery
to Professional Success and Personal Fulfillment
ONE AFTERNOON CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE
Overcoming Paralyzing Fear and Doubt to Take the First Step on the Path to Seeking the Knowledge, Skills, and Inspiration that Will Last a Lifetime
MAKING YOUR DREAM A REALITY
Seeking, Discovering, and Believing in the Moment of Hope that Can Make Your Future Possible
TAKING RESPONSIBILITY FOR YOUR FUTURE
Making an Honest Decision
Will Allow You to Make the Right One
IT’S YOUR STORY
The Tale from Struggle to Success Told in Three Acts
THE COURAGE TO LEARN
Whatever Information Must be Taught, Be Brave when Confronting Complex Concepts and Daunting Skills
DON’T RUSH
For Some Students, the Leap from High School to College Is Too Vast
DON’T BOTHER
School Isn’t for Everyone
THE SCHOOL OF THE SELF-TAUGHT
Making the Decision to Seek Information, Instruction, and Inspiration from Beyond the Classroom
THE SEARCH
Finding the Best School for You
GETTING WHAT YOU PAY FOR
Your Investment of Time, Money, and Trust in the School You Choose Entitles You to Certain Expectations
FACING YOUR INDEPENDENCE
Leaving the Comfort of Home for the Adventure of College Is a Timeless Rite of Passage to Endure and Enjoy
LIMBO
A Happy and Healing Pause Before Your Journey Begins
LEAVING HOME FOR THE FIRST TIME
Many Can’t Wait to Take the Leap to Freedom. For Others, a Gentle Nudge Is Plenty—Leaving Only Those Stragglers in Need of
a Good Swift Kick in the Ass
LIVING ALONE VS. LIVING WITH OTHERS
Whether You Live Alone or with Others While in School, Chisel Out the Time to Retreat, Reflect, and Refuel
BUDGETING YOUR MONEY WHILE IN SCHOOL
Investing the Time, Honesty, and Discipline to Assume Financial Accountability for Your Education
THE EDUCATION PROCESS
Learning to Trust… To a Point
TAKING RESPONSIBILITY FOR YOUR EDUCATION
Although Trust Is Essential to the Teacher/Student Dynamic, it Should Not Be Blind or Absolute
SAYING GOODBYE TO YOUR PAST
The Habits, Beliefs, and Relationships You’ll Be Forced to Leave Behind are Unavoidable Sacrifices in Helping You Move Forward in Life
THE LONG VIEW
Keeping a Balance Between the Emotional and the Practical Will Empower You to Pace Yourself Through
a Demanding Education
PLAYING FOR KEEPS
Celebrate Your Dreams, Accept Your Limits, Maximize Your Strengths, and Emerge with a Greater Belief in Yourself
THE PROFESSIONAL WITHIN YOU
The Essence of Your Potential Has Always Been There—Growing, Seeking, Hoping
THERE ARE ONLY FOUR TYPES OF STUDENTS
Which One Will You Be?
RELISHING THE STRUGGLE AND HAVING FUN
Despite the Inevitable Bullshit of Tedious Teachers, Crappy Classes, and Asinine Assignments, the Timeless Joy of Learning will Enable You to Pace Yourself Through the Rigors and Rewards of School
YOUR SCHOOL
A New Home in which to be Challenged, Thrilled, and Fulfilled
THE ADMINISTRATION
Understanding the Bureaucratic Matrix of People, Policies, and Procedures that are the Checks and Balances to Keep an Educational Institution Functioning and Funded
THE FACULTY
Getting the Most Out of the Teachers Who Will Nurture, Nudge, or Needle You to Discover the Deepest Truths
of Your Passion, Purpose, and Potential
THE CURRICULUM
Seeking the Classes—No Matter How Hard or Boring—that will Prepare You to Be a Professional
THE SCHEDULE
Managing Your Time to Fulfill Your Educational Responsibilities
THE ATTENDANCE RECORD
Learning the Importance of Showing Up for Class,
As well as the Value of Playing Hooky for a Day, to Keep Your Sanity
THE VALUE OF FOUNDATION CLASSES
The Capacity To Make Great Leaps in Creative Expression and Innovative Thought Is Indebted to the Most Basic Concepts and Practices
DOING HOMEWORK
Realizing Much of Your Many Profound Learning Experiences Will Be Discovered Outside the Classroom
GETTING HOMESICK
Leaving Home for School Isn’t Only About Learning To Be a Pro, but Learning To Deal with Feelings of Loneliness, Loss, and Longing
CUTTING YOUR LOSSES
Coming to Terms with the Truth that Despite All Your Academic Efforts, Finishing School Isn’t for Everyone
BREAKING OUT (TOO) EARLY
Seeking the Educators Who Can Give You the Insight To Decide if You Should Leave School Early or Stick it Out
NEEDING A JOB WHILE IN SCHOOL
Balancing Your Educational Goals and Financial Obligations as a Working Student
YOU HATE YOUR SCHOOL
Coping with the Shock, Stress, and Sadness that What Once Promised To Become a Paradise of Possibilities, Can at Times
Descend into a Dungeon of Drudgery
YOUR EDUCATION AND YOUR EMOTIONS
Relying on Rational Thought and Practical Behavior to Balance the Intensity and Unpredictability of Feelings
YOUR TEACHERS
Learning from the Best and the Worst
THE TEACHER/STUDENT DYNAMIC
Exploring the Give-and-Take in the Collaborative Relationship Between the Educator and the Educated
DOING YOUR PART
Taking Responsibility in the Classroom
THE BLAME GAME
Rather than Finding Fault in a Teacher/Student Conflict, Find a Solution
TYPES OF TEACHERS
Lessons in Dealing with
Difficult, Disappointing, or Dangerous Instructors
Your Teacher Seems Picky
Your Teacher Seems out of Touch with the Times
Your Teacher Seems Lazy or Crazy
Your Teacher Seems to Hate You
Your Teacher Seems Impossible to Please
WHAT A TEACHER CAN BECOME
A Poem on Giving the Gift of Learning
YOUR CLASSMATES
Partners in Curiosity, Creativity, Calamity, and Community
THE HAVES VS. THE HAVE-NOTS
Dealing with Schoolmates Who Seem To Have an Endless Supply of Talent, Money, Discipline, and Optimism
CLASSMATES FOR LIFE
There Will be Those Fellow Students with Whom You’ll Be Sharing the Journey of Learning Far Beyond Your Time Together in School
YOU’RE NOT ALONE
Sharing Some Laughs, Shedding Some Tears, and Blowing off Steam with Fellow Students Will Allow You To Seek Common Cause in Dealing with Whatever Bullshit Is Getting to You
THE DESTINATION
Making the Decision to Begin Your Career
by Staying Put, Going Back Home, or Exploring the World
THE GOODBYE
The Sadness, Fear, Doubt, Thrill, and Joy in Letting Go of School
THE GOAL
Summoning the Courage, Clarity, and Commitment To Imagine Your Future Success
THE ESSENTIAL IDEAS
The Intellectual Concepts and Emotional Concerns To Support Life and Career
FAILURE
In Most of Life’s Worthy Endeavors, You Gotta Fail Before You Succeed
Failure Is Your Friend
Failure Is Everywhere
Failure Is Guaranteed, Success Is Not
The Fear of Failure
Putting Failure in its Place
Dealing with Failure
SUCCESS
Succeeding Is Life’s Way of Telling You that You’re Fulfilling Your Purpose to Yourself and Others
Success Is a Declaration
Success Is a Choice
Success as Destiny
Success as Strategy
Success Is Life
Success Is Shared
Success Is Possible
Success Is Balance
Success Is Hard
Success Is Scary
Success Is Fun
Success Is Profitable
Success Is Not Everything
Success Is Power
Success Is Worth It
Success Is the Answer
Success Is a Story To Be Lived
THE GROWTH OF THERAPY
Accepting the Need and Value of Professional Help to Face, Understand, and Heal Pain, Sadness, and Fear
Truth and Therapy
Therapy as a Life Tool Getting Help
Therapy Is Knowledge
My Journey through Therapy
Therapy Is Lasting
WHO’S DRIVING THE BUS?
The Terror and Thrill of Setting Boundaries
THE SPIRITUALITY OF DISCIPLINE
Relying on Self-Control, Self-Motivation, and Self-Reliance to Take on Life’s Obstacles and Opportunities
Discipline Is a Journey
Where Does Discipline Come From?
How Does One Develop Discipline?
What if You Lack Discipline?
Discipline Is in the Here and Now
Discipline and Joy
Discipline and Therapy
Discipline Keeps You Honest
Discipline Can Require Either Action or Restraint
Discipline Is Decisive
Discipline Is not Perfect
Discipline Is Efficient
OCDiscipline
Discipline Is Forgiveness
THE CLARITY OF SETTING BOUNDARIES
Declaring Realistic Limits to What You’re Capable of Giving to a Relationship or an Endeavor Can Bring a Healing Freedom
THE OBLIGATION TO OBJECTIVITY
Maintaining Faith in Rational Thought and Practical Behavior will Bring Clarity and Confidence in Prevailing over
Life’s Daunting Experiences and Interactions
THE PURPOSE OF PASSION
Conjuring, Controlling, and Capitalizing on the Intensity of Your Emotions To Fuel Your Success
THE POTENTIAL OF OPPORTUNITY
Keeping Your Eyes, Ears, and Heart Open to All that’s Possible in Life and Work
The Fear of Change
How to Spot an Opportunity
Opportunity Is Only Half the Story
Opportunity Is Shared
Opportunity Is Work
THE WISDOM OF THINKING TWICE
Relying on the Focus and Fortitude of Your Brainpower To Take Another Look at an Obstacle or Opportunity To Ensure
it’s Worth it to Move Forward
THE LOGIC OF MIND OVER EMOTIONS
The Power of Facts to Motivate, Balance, and Heal
THE THREAT OF REGRET
Trusting Common Sense and Past Experience To Avoid Making a Decision that Could Result in Unnecessary Pain, Sadness, or Fear
The Road to Regret
Sometimes Regrets are Informative
Don’t Create Regret
Avoiding Regret
THE REWARD OF RISK
Never Lose Sight of All that Can Come from Saying Fuck it, and then Going for It
THE HEALING OF LETTING GO
Sometimes the Best Path Forward Is To Accept that the Current Plan Is Not Working or Worth It
The Journey of Letting Go
Facing the Truth of Letting Go
The Gift of Letting Go
THE PROTECTION OF FRIENDSHIP
Devoting the Time, Energy, and Care to Human Connections that You Can Count on When All Else Fails
THE ESSENTIAL TOOLS
The Tactical Strategies and Philosophical Practices that Support Life and Career
THE VALUE OF TIME
A Powerful and Precious Tool To Build a Life
You and Your Time
The Time of Your Life
The Game of Time
Stick to a Schedule
All Work and No Play…
THE POWER OF THE LIST
Developing the Skill, Focus, and Guts to Organize a Collection of Tasks that Will Give You the Best Chance for Success
The Mystical Force of the List
A List Is a Contract with Myself
A List Is Private Property
A List Is a Spiritual Exercise
Your Lists Talk to You
How to Make a List
Handwritten Vs. Digital
Lists for the Day, Week, Month, Year, and Beyond
Listomania
Lists Get Better with Age
A List Is a Living Thing
THE ART OF THE WRITTEN WORD
Taking Pen to Paper or Fingers to Keyboard Is Often the Only Option to Find a Fulfilling Path to Creative Expression, Business Negotiation, and Human Connection
Writing Style, Point of View, and Simplicity
The Connective Power of a Letter
A Lifetime of Letters
A Dying Art
When to Write a Letter
Letters Aren’t Perfect
Some of the Best Letters Are Never Sent
How to Write a Good Letter
Writing Is Rewriting
The Efficiency of Work Habits
The Consequences of Your Letter
The Mechanics of Letter Writing
A Letter-Writing Checklist
Writing as a Creative Tool
Writing and the Truth
Learning To Write by Writing
Transforming Your Wisdom into Words
Transforming Your Words into Money
The Writer as Artist
THE GRIND, GUTS, AND GLORY OF WORK
Your Dreams of Success Will Fly No Higher than Your Work Habits Can Lift Them
What Are Good Work Habits?
An Inspiring Work Ethic Can Be Found Anywhere
The Thrill of Work
Work Habits in the Educational World
Work Habits in the Professional World
Finishing Strong
Getting It Done
THE CREATIVITY AND PRACTICALITY OF THE COMPUTER
A Computer Is Less than a Person, but Definitely More than a Machine
THE ESSENTIAL CHALLENGES
Recognizing and Resolving the Opportunities and Obstacles that Will Arise Again and Again in School, Work, and Life
THE DREAD AND THRILL OF CHANGE
Developing the Ability To Accept that There’s No Chance for Personal and Professional Fulfillment without Realizing that the Current Concern Must Be Confronted and Conquered
THE EUPHORIA OF MISERY
The Price of Joy and Hope Sometimes Must be Paid for with Pain and Dread
THE PRICE AND PRIDE OF LOYALTY
Having the Conviction and Confidence To Show Allegiance
to a Person, Project, or Purpose Can Bring Lasting Pride and Respect
THE RESPONSIBILITY OF KILLING THE MYTH
Trusting in Your Convictions and Abilities To Prevail over an Existing Concern or Assumption
THE FLEXIBILITY OF BEING PREPARED FOR ANYTHING
Staying Connected to the Most Decisive, Diplomatic, or Daring Options to Overcome the Unknown, the Unexpected, or the Unwelcome
THE REDEMPTION OF REJECTION
Remaining Positive when Denied or Defeated Can Yield Insight and Inspiration Equal to any Cherished Victory
THE LONGEVITY OF STAYING RELEVANT
The Ability To Provide Innovative Ideas and Timeless Talents Will Ensure You’ll Always Have Value in Future Endeavors
THE FREEDOM OF FACING THE TRUTH
Even when Painful and Terrifying, Honesty Is Your Best (and sometimes only) Option to a Healthy and Lasting Resolution
THE CURSE AND FORCE OF NARCISSISM
To See the World through the Grandiose Prism of Your Own Needs Can Blind You to the Lasting Value of Human Connection
THE CRUELTY AND VICTORY OF SHAME
Overcoming the Debilitating, Destructive, and Dangerous Forces of Insecurity, Anguish, and Regret Can Bestow
Unbreakable Power and Pride
THE PRESTIGE AND DANGER OF WORKAHOLISM
Building the Focus and Fortitude To Achieve Balance Between Career and Life, while Still Busting Your Ass To Pursue, Sustain, and Enjoy Your Success
THE BURDEN AND HONOR OF LEADERSHIP
The Work, Worry, and Wonder of Taking Charge
THE INTIMACY AND INCOMPLETENESS OF MARRIAGE
Sustaining Your Matrimony while Maintaining Your Autonomy Offers the Opportunity to Solve One of Life’s Demanding and Fulfilling Puzzles
Marriage Is a Piece of Bubblegum
Marriage Is a Thing
Marriage Is a Game
Marriage Is a Work of Art
THE TERROR AND TRIUMPH OF PARENTHOOD
We are the Garden Our Parents Plant, Yet it will be Our Job To Weed it as We Grow
THE ESSENTIAL CHOICES
Life Provides Opposing Forces that Offer Endless Obstacles and Opportunities to Enjoy, Endure, and Evolve
PATIENCE & PERSEVERANCE
PERFECTION & PROCRASTINATION
TEMPTATION & TEMPERANCE
RIGHT & WRONG
BEING GOOD & BEING GREAT
YES & NO
THE ESSENTIAL ODDS & ENDS
The Beliefs and Behaviors within the Complexity and Chaos of the Human Experience that Can Enhance and Empower Your Daily Journey through Career and Life
PICK A NUMBER
Choosing Between 1 and 10 to Gauge the Intensity of a Difficult Emotion or Challenging Endeavor, Can Clarify the Right Perspective to Resolve the Issue
EMOTIONAL CALORIES
To Feel Deeply Demands Honesty, Vulnerability, and Risk; Conserve Energy to Avoid Draining Your Ability to Gain Understanding in Achieving a Successful Outcome
HEALTHY TISSUE
It’s Often Necessary to Probe Beneath the Surface of the Obvious to Discover the Restorative Truth to Heal Emotional Wounds
LOOFAH FOR THE SOUL
Overcoming Fear and Denial To Scrub Away the Anguish that Will Reveal the Joy
STAYING AFLOAT
Exploring Obstacles and Opportunities through the Journeys of a Ship, a Sailor, and a Surfer Can Empower You
to Navigate the Ebb and Flow of Life
DON’T BE AFRAID TO SPEAK UP
Summoning the Courage and Conviction to Overcome the Fear of Confrontation Through the Written and the Spoken Word
A GOOD LIFE’S SLEEP
No Matter the Struggles and Stresses of Life and Work, it’s a Human’s Right to Claim the Healing Power of Rest as a Gift that Is Earned… and Deserved
WHAT’S IN A WORD?
KARMA AND SCHADENFREUDE
Never Allow an Exotic or Complex Group of Letters to Keep You from Discovering Their Value To Enhance and Evolve Your Life
SAVING CREATURES
Taking the Time, Focus, and Care To Rescue a Fellow Life Form Can Deepen Understanding and Gratitude for Your Own Existence
HAVING A PET
Facing the Responsibility and Revelations in Opening Your Life to the Privilege of Caring for a Member of the Animal Kingdom
CAFFEINE
Facing the Perils of Dependency on a Chemical that Will Undermine Your Body’s Ability to Generate Energy, Efficiency, and Enthusiasm
THE VALUE OF GOING BACKWARDS TO MAKE FORWARD PROGRESS
Developing the Skills, Determination, and Curiosity to Reverse-Engineer an Endeavor To Become More Confident and Successful
BE PRESENT WHEN WORKING WITH DANGEROUS TOOLS
Paying Attention when Using a Machine that Can Maim or Mangle Can Train Your Entire Being To Being in the Moment for All of Life’s Risky Endeavors
HOARDING
Having the Honesty, Strength, and Patience to Help a Loved One from Becoming Buried in an Avalanche of Misery, Rage, and Paralysis
RELIGION
The Journey To Discover the Spiritual Beliefs that Will Fill You with Love, Power, and Hope
HAVE A GOOD TRIP, AND BE GOOD
Conducting Yourself with Respect and Openness as You Encounter People from Different Cultures
THE CAREERS OF OTHERS
CAN HELP YOU BE BETTER AT YOUR JOB
Keeping an Open Mind To Learn from the Experience and Expertise of Other Professionals
MOTIVATION AS A PRACTICAL TOOL
Being Unapologetic in Your Quest for Success Can Provide Unwavering Purpose to Achieving a Goal
GOOD THINGS COME TO THOSE WHO WAIT,
GREAT THINGS COME TO THOSE WHO DON’T
Although Patience Is Invaluable in Avoiding Disaster, it’s equally Important To Know when It’s Time To Throw Caution to the Curb and Go for It
HELPING FRIENDS AND STRANGERS WITH YOUR TALENTS
Sharing Your Skill and Knowledge To Enhance the Lives of Others Can Deepen the Human Connection that Comes from Generosity
Protecting a Healthy and Humble Philosophy for Sharing Your Talent
Expressing Your Feelings Through Your Talents
Trading in Your Talent for a Talent of Equal Value
Sharing the Product of Your Gifts with the Less Fortunate
MANNERS
From Loved Ones to Complete Strangers, Treating Others with Respect Is Imperative To Building Strong Character
HOTEL ETIQUETTE
The Employees Who Work To Make Your Stay a Pleasant One Are Not Your Servants, but are Trained Professionals to Be Treated with Respect
LIFE IN THE BIG CITY… OR NOT
Exploring the Pros and Cons of Making Your Home in the Opportunity and Chaos of an Urban World
THE STORY OF THE STORIED STORYTELLER
The Undeniable Pride that Can Come from an Unexpected Encounter
TWO DAYS IN ONE
Staying Open and Eager to the Experiences that Can Come in Twenty-four Hours
SOMETIMES YOU JUST GOTTA PINCH YOURSELF
Hard Work and Sturdy Talent Can Manifest Experiences that Go Beyond Your Wildest Dreams
THE ESSENTIAL EVENTS
Exploring the Confidence and Respect in Professional Collaboration and Personal Connection
UNE RECETTE POUR UNE ATTAQUE D’ANGOISSE
The Emotional Stresses of Life Can Take a Physical Toll
I’M NOT WORTHY… OR AM I?
Balancing the Vulnerability and Volatility of Self Esteem Can Have a Positive Effect on Your Confidence and Compassion when Facing a Challenging Endeavor or Relationship
MR. MARSHAL JOHNSON AND MY UNCLE SAM
Taking Responsibility for Your Poor Decisions when Facing the Demands of Unexpected Visitors
OPEN YOUR DAMN MAIL
Summoning the Courage To Face Bad News Often Is the Only Way To Keep a Bad Situation from Getting Worse
TIME TO GROW UP
Facing the Point of No Return that Results in Deciding that the Only Option Is To Get Your Shit Together
THE MOMENT OF TRUTH
Learning To Realize when a Split-Second Decision To Take Action Can Save Hours of Regret
THE LEGEND
Giving Yourself Permission that You Deserve
to Connect with Your Personal or Professional Hero
SOUP WITH BONO
Being Invited To Break Bread with a Rock God
Can Make You Realize You Belong at the Same Table of Success
YOUR CAREER AND YOUR CONVICTIONS
Trusting in the Beliefs and Behavior To Make the Smartest Decisions and Take the Strongest Actions in Pursuit of Success
The Act of Conviction
The Challenge of Conviction
The Cost of Conviction
The Value of Conviction
TWO IN THE MORNING
What a Difference Six Months Can Make when
the Only Person You Can Count on to Get the Job Done Is Yourself
THE ANGER AND GRACE OF AGING
Seeing the Truth that Having Less and Less Time on Earth Is the Only True Path to Gratitude for Having the Gift of the Pain and Joy of Life
THE DUTY AND JOY OF TEACHING
Having the Generosity and Guts To Realize You Can’t Take all that Wisdom and Wit with You, Is the Secret To Leaving the Lessons of Your Successes and Failures Behind so Others
Can Strive, Struggle, and Succeed
DEATH (THE FINAL CHAPTER)
When Attempting to Share the Mystery, Tragedy, and Finality of Dying, Only a Poem Will Do
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