Open Your Eyes with McKay Christensen

Today, McKay brings to us an important topic - starting your impossible. Recognizing that we all have to face what appears to be the absolutely unachievable from time to time, McKay shares with listeners, using real world examples, how to start and keep doing the impossible. He begins the episode describing the accomplishments of the Wright brothers, who, through the challenges associated with air travel, were able to do the impossible. McKay also speaks about finding inspiration as the path to success just like the Wright brothers did, the impact of walking with giants, and why social learning is effective for doing the impossible. He rounds off the episode with a story about some wives who showed immense courage and encourages us to forge our own courage by building our optimism so we can start our own impossible. The Finer Details of This Episode: -   The impossible challenges that came with air flight in the past-   How the Wright brothers dared the impossible-   Otto Lilienthal’s impact on the Wright brothers’ success-   Why you need an inspiration to start the impossible-   Why do Alcoholics Anonymous have high success rates?-   John Woolman’s mission-   Walking with giants-   The reason why social learning works-   The power of faith in doing the impossible-   The castle of the loyal wives-   Gathering courage for the impossible-   Keeping your optimism for courage Quotes: “We all have the impossible from time to time - a change needs to happen, but it seems impossible.”  “You need a connection with other people where you can find inspiration.” “The people with which you surround yourself have a huge impact on how you see yourself, your challenges, and your ability to face those challenges.” “When you learn from others, and you learn from ongoing interaction with others, you store those memories with emotion, and, as a result, they're more powerfully recalled and used.” “I believe that the moment you let faith into your life, you will see more power and peace enter into your life. You worry less, you trust more.” “There is power in faith. Faith is an enabling power. ” “Open your eyes to the fact that you can do what you set out to do.” “Courage is the mental or moral strength to resist opposition, danger or hardship. It implies firmness of mind and will in the face of extreme difficulty.” “The truth is that whenever you're facing the impossible at its deepest, most fundamental level, it requires courage.” “We must fix our minds on the fact that we can do the impossible, and we have to decide in advance that it is worth it.” “Find your courage.” Show Links: Open Your Eyes with McKay Christensen

This week, McKay discusses the role of luck in your life and how you can become lucky. Recognizing that there are, indeed, qualities that lucky people possess, McKay shares his wisdom with real-life examples on how to become lucky people. McKay opens up the show with a story about his great-great-great-grandmother, Maren Peterson, who, in spite of being told her daughter, Anna Christina, was dead, got lucky and found her alive. However, was it really luck? McKay teaches that lucky people are people of action, who are open to new opportunities. He also explores the four primary skills lucky people have - they maximize chance opportunities, follow their hunches, expect good fortune and turn their misfortune into good luck. McKay finishes off by sharing some ways you can reframe your past and your thinking, and start your new, luckier life. Take this opportunity today to open your eyes to the qualities found in people who are lucky, and learn how you can become one as well. The Finer Details of This Episode: -   Anna Christina’s story-   Interesting results from Dr. Richard Wiseman’s research on lucky people-   Qualities lucky people possess-   4 primary skills that turn unlucky people into lucky people-   How to maximize chance opportunities-   The story of SUE the T. Rex - the result of following a hunch-   What is counterfactual thinking?-   Lessons from Billy Joel’s life-   3 ways to reframe your past Quotes:  “What causes some people to be lucky and others not?” “Being lucky or being in the right place at the right time has everything to do with being in the right state of mind.” “By venturing out, you improve your opportunities for success.” “Quite often we don't see opportunities because we're too focused on looking for something else, and, as a result, we pass by those opportunities. ” “Are there opportunities in the people you meet, the friends you have, what you read today, or other encounters that come your way, that you miss because you're not open?” “Lucky people have a strong sense of intuition and, most importantly, they follow that intuition much more frequently than unlucky people.”“Because lucky people see stars, they  constantly expect stars in their future.” “Choosing the positive side empowers me to deal with my pain more productively.” “If you have problems in life, don't assume there is something wrong with you. Struggling with those problems is at the very core of life's purpose.” “We can change our lives by substituting new habits for old, and we can mold our character and future by better thoughts and nobler actions.” “Too many of us don't value where we're starting.” Show Links: Open Your Eyes with McKay Christensen   

Are you waiting for the best time of your life? McKay is here to tell you that NOW is that time and all you have to do is seize the moment. Turn this hour into your finest hour and watch that make all the difference. Today, McKay opens the episode with a story of Winston Churchill, who against all odds refused to give in to the battle with Hitler, resulting in his finest hour, and goes on to discuss the need to  listen to that tug, the feeling that tells you to seize the day. He then broadly expands upon the fact that the most important time in your life is now, not later, and rounds off with tips on how to make the best time of your life by breaking with unimportant things, and getting into the habit of not listening to others who try to discourage you. Listen in today and learn how to make your finest hour happen now. The Finer Details of This Episode: -   Winston Churchill’s finest hour-   The change you experience when you decide to seize the moment-   How do you make this the best time of your life?-   Why you should value who you were before today-   The labor of Lin-Manuel Miranda - writing Hamilton-   Listening to the tug-   McKay’s finest years-   The 30 million word gap research at The University of Kansas-   2 tips for getting started on making your finest hour happen-   What Southwest Airlines did different Quotes: “Many of us have felt like we've retreated over and over again, we've been let down, and in many ways life hasn't kept its side of the agreement - health problems, children's health problems, and other struggles.” “Let us, therefore, brace ourselves to our duties, and so bear ourselves that if the British Empire and its Commonwealth last for a thousand years, men will still say, 'This was their finest hour.’”“Will your friends and family and business partners look back on this time and say this was your finest hour?”  “When you open your eyes to the opportunity in front of you right now and decide that you will seize it, it's like you opened a jar of enthusiasm and adventure, and this infuses your living with real living.”  “Get focused on the work of today, rather than the hope of tomorrow.”    “You're not doing anything wrong, you're simply not doing enough of what's right.” “If you could go back to age 20, keeping the knowledge that you have now...and you could start again knowing what you know now, would you do things differently? Would you make different choices?” “Life is made up of little things - smiles and kindness and doing good.” “There are many people who can do big things, but there are very few people who will do the small things.” “The value of a future goal is the present change in you that it fosters.”  “Don't let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice.”  Show Links: Open Your Eyes with McKay Christensen

What does it mean to be twice-born? Today, McKay talks about the key characteristic that successful parents and leaders possess - they are twice-born, and when they try a second time, they’re more successful because the second time around is an empowering one. The episode opens with McKay narrating the story of New Orleans when the city was overwhelmed by Hurricane Katrina which ravaged the city, leaving it damaged and killing thousands in the process. The people soon lost faith in the city, until a rebirth occurred. McKay encourages listeners to imagine they are at day one whether struggling with a habit or with a business. Noting that there is immense power in becoming a rookie, McKay gives four helpful tips on how to get in the rookie zone and rounds off with lessons from the movie, Groundhog Day. The Finer Details of This Episode: -   New Orleans’ Superdome - a story of rebirth.-   What does it mean to be twice-born?-   The devil in Mainville.-   The characteristics of twice-around leaders.-   Lessons from rebuilding a business-   The power in doing the opposite - what George Costanza teaches us-   Being in the rookie zone - Liz Wiseman’s research results-   4 tips on how to get into the rookie zone-   Seeing the world from both sides - the power of perspective-   Lessons from Groundhog Day Quotes: “It's easy to feel beaten down by the storms of life, discouraged, wondering if you can rebuild what you once had.” “When you attempt and possibly fail, and then decide to repeat or revive or improve and start again, there's immense power.” “The second time around gives you perspective. It gives you strength, it awakens your mind to the challenge.” “Twice-around leaders know how to influence and they lead by example, and build consensus.” “People are like sticks of dynamite. The power is on the inside, but nothing happens until the fuse gets lit.” “Begin again with new eyes.” “There's power in starting again, and going back to year one and being a rookie, again.” “With experience, comes a lot of virtues and assets but with experience also comes a number of blind spots.” “In that rookie space, we ask better questions, we're more alert, we listen more, we value feedback, we seek feedback.” “If I were starting again, what would I do differently?” “I would trade youth for perspective any day.” Show Links: Open Your Eyes with McKay Christensen 

Today, McKay brings to you another important subject — personal power. He highlights the importance of finding your personal power for an enriched life, the benefits of determination, and how learning and improving your skills can boost your personal power. As he notes, “You have the power to make your life a glorious life”, and today’s episode provides further guidance in reaching this noble goal. McKay begins with the story of Juliane, the sole survivor of the LANSA Flight 508, who against all odds, never gave up and put on her personal power in order to survive the Amazon rainforest. He also looks at settling the dispute within you in order to fuel your determination, and moves on to offer tools that help you put on your personal power and turn your weaknesses into strengths. He admonishes listeners to gain new skills, play their cards right, give themselves a new title and increase and increase their positive emotion by laughing and exercising. Once you achieve these goals, you will get to watch your life change for the better. The Finer Details of This Episode: The story of Juliane, the sole survivor of the deadliest lightning-strike disaster in aviation history.Settling the dispute withinHow determination turns into personal powerWhy you need to have personal powerHow to put on your personal powerTurning your weaknesses into strengthsHow to be a better listenerWalter Mischel’s Marshmallow testThe importance of skills and learning for self determinationThe power of putting on a new title - Ruth’s successHow horoscope titles impact usThe power of positive emotionThe Losada effect3 benefits of exercise Quotes: “Have you ever felt that way in life - powerless? Waiting for the right circumstance? Hoping for things to change? Wishing life was different?” “Should I continue or give up?” “Your determination does not often result in some huge, perfect immediate solution, but a small stream of opportunity.” “You are of more value than your past performance and you're greater than your habits.” “You are equipped, able and fortified to make an amazing contribution still in this life and your talents are needed.” “Everyone can find their personal power.” “The more skills I learned, the more I wanted to put them into practice, and the more I put them into practice successfully, the more I wanted to learn, each time gaining personal power.” “The biggest barrier to success in almost any endeavor is powerlessness, negativity, and helplessness.” “If we see ourselves in a certain way, we gain personal power.” “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, 'Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?' Actually, who are you not to be?.... As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” “There is great value in disaster. All our mistakes are burned up. Thank God we can start anew.” “The medicine of laughter is a miraculous thing.” “Small streams lead to rivers, and rivers lead to your end goal. ” Show Links: Open Your Eyes with McKay Christensen

This week, McKay delves into the concept of following the right impressions and the impact that can have on our lives. How do you tell right impressions from wrong ones? How do you get into the habit of following the right impressions? McKay answers these questions and more in today’s episode. He begins by narrating the near-death accident that his family was involved in a few years ago in Northern Cincinnati, recounting the anger he felt towards the drunk driver who caused the accident and how he was going to do whatever it took to make him pay. After feeling pity for the driver and forgiving him, McKay found that following that impression of forgiving the driver has made him forgive others easily. He also reviews the science behind following impressions and also teaches about finding and doing what you love as the path to happiness. The episode comes to a close with McKay giving advice on how to use your educated self to follow right impressions and why you should record your impressions for an inspired life. The Finer Details of This Episode: The tragic accident in Northern CincinnatiHow following impressions impacts your life.How do you decide what impressions to follow?The tale of a married couple and a lamp.The power that comes from doing what you love.Differentiating purpose from profession.The science behind following impressionsHow does positivity affect our impressions?Cultivating the habit of following impressions.Using our educated self to know when to follow the right impressions.Why you should save your impressions. Quotes: “That is how we felt on that special day - we had won the prize, we had walked away from the accident intact.” “That impression has helped me throughout my life. I forgave others more easily after that.” “I've learned in life that following impressions is a skill that you can learn.” “This way of living, of following a hunch now and then, is the faith that makes life worth living.” “Follow your bliss.” “There's a great feeling of peace that comes with moving towards what you love to do.” “It's not your profession that determines your calling in life. It's what makes you tick. It's your talent. It's your passion.” “Happiness is found in what we do, not necessarily in doing less.” “Find a job you like and you add five days to every week.” “Following impressions gives us energy and perseverance. ” “When we feel positive, we make better decisions. We follow our impressions better. ” “Positive energy and curiosity towards something automatically bring the right impressions to bear.” “Following our impressions or not following impressions does become a habit.” “As impressions come your way, don't lose them. Write them down and return to them.”  Show Links:  Open Your Eyes with McKay Christensen

What does it mean to be inspired? Why does it matter to be inspired? If you’re looking for answers to these questions, you’ve definitely come to the right place. In today’s episode, McKay not only offers his responses to them, but, along the way, he also teaches us the characteristics of an inspired person, and how to grow into someone who lives an inspired life, in order to achieve your purpose. McKay uses his illustrative storytelling to bring to life the story behind the famous Iwo Jima photo and Martin Luther King’s “I Have A Dream” speech. He delves into what being inspired means, discusses the characteristics of an inspired person, and challenges you to increase your intrinsic motivation by seeking regular feedback, making meaning of what you're doing, and learning with other members of your team. He rounds off with the story of Jake Olson who dared the impossible and encourages us to do the same. Prepare to be inspired yourself while learning all about the power of inspiration here today. The Finer Details of This Episode: The inspiring story of the famous Iwo Jima photo “I Have A Dream” - The result of being inspired What makes a thing or a person or a life inspired? How do you live inspired? The characteristics of an inspired person. Intrinsic motivation vs extrinsic motivation Why extrinsic motivation does not last. 3 ways to increase your intrinsic motivation Doing the impossible - Jake Olson’s story. The most inspiring time in McKay’s life Quotes: “We all wonder sometimes if our current efforts or job or life's choice of work is worth the effort.” “Imagine if you and I could harness the power of being inspired.” “When we let inspiring people and words into our life, we change, we get inspired.” “Being inspired is more than just a momentary thing.” “There's something that enters into our very being when we are growing and learning.” “When you reflect on yourself or you see your reflection when you look in the mirror, I hope you see what I see, what your family and what your team and your Maker see - your inspiring potential.” “Every day in every city, on your team, you can make more of a difference than you imagined.” “You were not made to be invisible. You were made to be invincible.” “Let the inspired feeling of what you can do work inside of you.” “Ships were not made to sit in the harbor where the water is smooth. They were made to sail in the ocean, where there are risks and danger.” “Start by doing what's necessary, then do what's possible, and suddenly, you're doing the impossible.” “When you're inspired, you find something unexpected - you find who you really are and what you can become.” Show Links: Open Your Eyes with McKay Christensen

From time to time, we all get to the point of utter discouragement, and the idea of giving up may arise. In response to that, today’s episode is all about the power of trying despite being faced with challenges, of persevering, and of having patience to maintain your pursuit of your goals. Listen in today as McKay teaches us all that we should always continue to try - no matter what. This episode starts off with the story of George Washington’s army that decided to reenlist despite having little success with the war against the British army. McKay then discusses the power of trying and never giving up, how residual pain can prevent you from trying again, and 3 ways on how you can gain the ability to keep trying and to reach your goals. As you will hear today, it all begins with doing something today, doing more of what works and less of what doesn’t, and above all, never quitting The Finer Details of This Episode: The story of the brave army of George Washington that decided to try again The power of trying. A mission to try - a story of a missionary couple. Trying the extremely difficult - Queen Esther’s predicament. Celebrating your scars; what the art of Kintsugi teaches. The story of Bethany Hamilton who never gave up. How residual pain keeps you from trying again. 3 ways to gain the ability to keep trying. Quotes: “Wherever you are in life, you need to just show up and try.” “You are more than enough.” “Trying is noble.” “Ignore the negative self-talk when you feel like you don't measure up and try to focus on the joys in the learning, in the work of it.” “Good things come to those who wait and keep trying.” “You are the right person at the right time, and your small try can make all the difference.” “Don't give up. Don't ever give up.” “Growth and development takes time. Learning takes time. That's why you keep trying.” “We all have scars from our mistakes and weaknesses.” “We are what we repeatedly do. So keep doing.” “It's often through some of our simplest actions that some of the greatest changes occur.” “We must learn the virtue of patience.” “Happiness does not depend on what happens outside of you but what happens inside of you.” “Patience is a willingness, in a sense, to watch the unfolding purposes of life with a sense of wonder and awe rather than pacing up and down within the cell of our circumstance.” Show Links: Open Your Eyes with McKay Christensen

This week, McKay discusses the power of action as a reinforcer of our goals. Recognizing that we all, at some point, give in to pressure and refuse to act, he takes us on a journey on the dangers of inaction and the benefits that come with starting - and starting immediately. This episode drives this message home as McKay starts off with the tragic story of the 1986 NASA launch crash that occurred as a result of inaction. He then delves into the rewards that come with being a person of action and goes on to discuss how you can act now on your goals and become the person who you are meant to be. Drawing upon real life examples and the wisdom of Chinese proverbs, and great minds such as Thomas Jefferson and Ralph Waldo Emerson, Mckay presents a compelling argument here today for the undeniable and ultimately rewarding power of action. The Finer Details of This Episode: The tragedy of the 1986 NASA Challenger launch- a consequence of inaction What is the normalization of deviance? How failure to act results in a normalized behavior of missing your goals. The dangers of being a person of inaction. From waiting tables to a life of great value- Lynn Orman’s success story How do you become a person of action? The power of extreme clarity. How to start small then build up from there. The power of small choices and making them now. How to become the person that doesn’t wait. Quotes: “We all fail to act, to do what we know we should do. We set goals and don't act….and we deviate from what we can and should accomplish.” “Every time we choose not to act, or to correct our course, we stray further from our goals, we normalize our deviation from who we are meant to be.” “When you don't act, you're not standing still. You are, in fact, paying a price.” “Do you want to know who you are? Don't ask, act. Action will delineate and define you.” “You have the power to act, the power to do, the power to be what you want to be, it's been inside you all along.” “I believe that God put you in your circumstance at this point in your life, to act, to learn to grow to be someone remarkable.” “Everything you see is the result of action. Every successful person, every successful business, successful relationship, every successful before and after picture.” “The difference between becoming a person of action, and a person of regret is less than you think.” “Action attracts.” “By the yard is hard; by the inch it's a cinch.” “That which we persist in doing becomes easier to do, not that the nature of the thing has changed, but that our power to do the thing has increased.” “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.” “The very best to-do-list is an empty list.” Show Links: Open Your Eyes with McKay Christensen

Do you ever wonder why some people know exactly where they’re headed and are willing to take calculated risks? Why, no matter what they face, they are determined and have clear-headed goals? They have the power of positive reframing.In this episode, McKay gives insights to what positive reframing is about, beginning with the story of the scientist, Galileo, and how he was able to reframe his mindset despite criticism. McKay also shares his personal story of reframing, goes on to discuss the benefits of reframing your mindset, and finishes by sharing some reframing tools that you can use to help get you started.The Finer Details of This Episode:A lesson from the man who proved that the Earth orbits, Galileo Galilei.How your belief window affects your life.The thinking of the best golfers—Jack Nicklaus’ principle.The positive expectancy of Jeff Bezos— The Amazon story.How McKay changed his mindset with the help of his teacher.Why you should step up and take calculated risks.Building your belief window through cognitive framing.4 basic steps to reframing your mindset.A reframing technique health practitioners use.4 reframing tools you can apply immediately.Quotes:“People who are not moved seem to have a fixed view and the ability to only see their end goal.”“This prevailing view interprets all that goes on in your life.”“Too many of us fail to take calculated risks in life.”“What lens are you looking through? What is your frame of reference? What telescope, so to speak, is forming or framing your belief?”“You've got it inside you. Step up and be yourself.”“The stuff of life is made from a new purpose.”“Everything in your life has improved by passion and challenge.”“Doubt is a mental habit, and it can, and does, spread to other areas of your life.”“Failure is simply the opportunity to begin again.”Show Links:Open Your Eyes with McKay Christensen

This week, McKay explains the science behind priming and shielding. Priming and shielding affect our behavior which, in turn, influences our goals. McKay discusses how to use priming and shielding to our advantage and to achieve our purpose. McKay opens the episode with the story of George Danzig and how he was primed into facing challenges. He explains what priming is and how we subconsciously prime everyday. Throughout this episode, he gives studies of priming including John Bar’s experiment, and goes on to explain how priming can be used to shape up our lives using the power of reading and imagery. He concludes with 3 keys to make shielding work for you and the power of knowing your ‘why’. The Finer Details of This Episode: The priming story of the American mathematical scientist, George Bernard Danzig What is psychological priming? How pre-established habits influence your thinking and ultimately prime you The legend of the Touchstone: A priming example How does priming reflect in our lives? The outcome of John Bar’s priming experiment Engaging the power of priming to your advantage The power of reading and imagery and how they affect your thinking 2014 Super Bowl: The power of imagery at work What is psychological shielding? 3 keys to making shielding work for you Harnessing the power of “Why” to do what seems impossible Quotes: “What you read will control the way you act.” “We are primed everyday.” “Prime your brain with the right input each day.” “He who has a ‘why’ to live can bear almost any ‘how’.” “There is tremendous power in shielding.” “The ultimate shield is to have a real purpose in our life or goal.” “That purpose, if strong enough, will override habit, temptation, or any other disruption.” “When you find your ‘why’, you can't see very many obstacles.” “A ‘why’ is the ultimate shield against bad habits. The stronger the ‘why’, the stronger the shield.” Show Links: Open Your Eyes with McKay Christensen

This week, McKay delves into the topic of confidence – something about which he is often asked to speak. Recognizing that so many people suffer from not having confidence either in the moment or throughout their lives, McKay, supported by examples taken from real life, shares his wisdom and advice on ways to both create and keep confidence. In addition to his trademark illustrative stories, McKay discusses the perils of comparing yourself to others, the ‘80/20 Rule’, and 3 ways to pivot away from the ‘comparison trap’. He also shares 4 daily actions that will change your confidence, as well as the results of some experiments in taking responsibility. Given the vast amount of experience and understanding which he brings to this topic, you will quickly understand precisely why McKay is regularly invited to speak to others about confidence, and just how fortunate we all are that he shares this knowledge in today’s informative and instructive episode. The Finer Details of This Episode: ·   The stories of James Monroe and Napoleon, McKay’s daughter Mary, Kurt Warner, Dean Furness, Nokia, and Bob Gale, and the lessons they teach·   Comparing yourself to others·   The 80/20 Rule·   3 ways to pivot away from the ‘comparison trap’·   4 daily actions that will change your confidence·   Experiments in taking responsibility Quotes:  “We often fail to see our own value. We underestimate what we have and who we are and the extent of our ability to contribute to the world, all while others are realizing the value in their life.” “The only measure that matters is how we compare to where we have been or where we're going.” “Comparison is the thief of joy.” “The apostle Paul once wrote to the Hebrews, ‘Cast not away your confidence, which has great possibility of reward’.” “He realized the quicker you move on to the next thing and focus on doing a little bit better. Soon, the good outweighs the bad, and that's when your confidence returns.” “When we compare, we become stuck, paralyzed in our ability to act.” “Whatever we hold on our belief window or consistently hold in our mind will eventually be what we experience in life. Where focus goes, energy flows.” “Focus on what's most important to you, letting the small minor things go.” “Remember what you've got, return to your confidence, and refocus on what you're grateful for.” “You are exceptional, you have immense value.” “Any action of any kind creates confidence, and consistent action repeated with intent helps you keep that confidence.” “Focus yields success, and success yields confidence.” “Your future is waiting - waiting for you to give your full confident self so you can improve your life and change what needs changing.” Show Links: Open Your Eyes: 10 Uncommon Lessons to Discover a Happier Life

This week, McKay shares the most powerful trait you can possess in life that will allow you to genuinely change, lead, and influence others. Altering your view of your position compared to others, finding humility, and practicing servant leadership can have a drastic impact not only on your own life, but on the lives of others around you. Today, McKay demonstrates why this is true, and how it can be achieved. He begins by recounting the truly inspirational story of Art Berg and the lessons we can all learn from him, providing definitions of humility and pride, and describing how to find humility. He also explains the gift of servant leadership, reviews findings from studies regarding humility, and shares a moving tale involving a reporter and her involvement with the Safe Haven Act. Along the way, McKay also references a powerful resource, and leads listeners through an exercise in determining their own potential for servant leadership. As McKay states, ‘leadership is one of the most noble professions if practiced well’, and, in today’s episode, he shares his vast amount of experience and insight into how to make this a reality in your life. The Finer Details of This Episode: · Art Berg’s story · Humility and pride · Benjamin Franklin’s virtue list · Finding humility · The gift of servant mindset · Clayton Christensen’s How Will You Measure Your Life? · Findings from studies on humility · The story of Suzanne and the Safe Haven Act · A servant leadership exercise Quotes: “I think all of us, at some point in life, feel a little bit paralyzed, sometimes by our habits or circumstances or past choices.” “The minute Art looked outside of himself, he found strength.” “Humility is born of the willingness to accept where you are and to put others’ interests ahead of your own.” “It's not what happens to us. It's what we do with what happens to us that matters.” “Humility is not an easy virtue to acquire or practice, and it's even more difficult to apply personally in all of life’s situations.” “Pride is your greatest enemy, humility your greatest friend.” “We are often humbled by consequences that come our way as a result of our arrogance or focus on our own selfish desires or mood or need for accolades.” “Christensen goes on to suggest that God will evaluate us personally, on what we did with the circumstances in which we were placed, and how we helped others who were placed in those circumstances with us.” “Who could you serve and how could you serve?” “The most important thing you can do to be a humble leader is to change your view of your position relative to others.” “Just keep your view of your real authentic position and serve in small ways. You will change your life, and, in the end, you will measure up.” Show Links: Open Your Eyes: 10 Uncommon Lessons to Discover a Happier Life How Will You Measure Your Life? Episode Notes Notes go here

If you’ve ever set a goal, but life, circumstances, or even your own self-doubt got in the way and it just slowly disappeared, you are certainly not alone. That is precisely why today’s episode is all about determining your true identity, working toward living that truth, and crossing the finish line that will get you there. Listen in as McKay shares the steps and strategies that will help you let go of your old story and write a new one that will set your course of action to resurrect and achieve those goals. Through some of his trademark inspirational stories and an exploration of the ‘X Factor’, McKay highlights the power of knowing your identity, some ways to get to living this identity, directing energy toward your goal, and taking responsibility. Along the way he shares his perspective on running as a metaphor for both business and life, and his favorite short poem which offers a profound message. As McKay states, ‘you have greatness and power within you’ – join him today to learn how to access these God given gifts and to ‘finish what you started’. The Finer Details of This Episode: ·   The stories of Laura Hillenbrand, Nia Vardalos, McKay’s daughter, and Dr. Michael Kroth·   The power of knowing your identity·   Running as a metaphor for business and life·   How to live your true identity·   The X Factor and how to find and keep yours·   McKay’s favorite short poem·   Directing energy toward your end goal·   Taking responsibility Quotes: “How did I get so far from my goals and the life that I imagined?” “We all find ourselves at times held back by habits, unmet goals, and life’s misdirections.” “She decided she would finish what she started.”                      “It is our decisions and not our circumstances that determine our destiny.” “You have greatness and power within you, and you are greater than your fears and stronger than your circumstances and more powerful than your habits.” “There is a goal calling you to finish what you started and you are more precious and valued by your Maker than you can possibly imagine.” “You have to put on your identity.” “Some of you have been retreating for a while trying to decide when you will finally let the spirit of what you felt inspired to be and do move you to write a new story for your life.” “When people are set aside and know that they have something worth fighting for they will rise to the level of performance required.” “Write the story that declares who you are, and part of that story is a clear vision of what you're trying to do and what it looks like when you cross the finish line.” “Change is not linear.” “You must be able to both see and choose your course of action to make that X Factor work.” “Clarity trumps persuasion.” “When we take responsibility, we move.” Show Links: Open Your Eyes: 10 Uncommon Lessons to Discover a Happier Life

We all get discouraged or are unclear about our goals or destination, and, as a result, we live in the murky middle. This week, McKay shares the powerful and instructive stories of some amazing women, explores the path to any worthwhile goal, and explains what the murky middle is, what leads to it, and how to stay out of it. He concludes by revealing the one characteristic that he knows will make all the difference in your efforts. Today, then, is your opportunity to learn with McKay how to let go of procrastination, get clear about your biggest emotional pull, and stop pretending. Following his experience, wisdom, and guidance, you will learn one clear practice that will bring clarity to, and immediately change, your life and business. The Finer Details of This Episode: · The stories of Tammy van Wisse, Florence Chadwick, and Sarah Thomas · The path to any worthwhile goal · The murky middle · Procrastination and ‘present bias’ · Overcoming the procrastination trap · J.K. Rowling’s story · The characteristic that will make all the difference to you in your efforts Quotes: “Knowing your destination is half the journey.” “Too often we're stuck in the murky middle, unable to really decide, because we haven't been clear.” “Nothing in life that's worth doing is ever done without immense course corrections.” “There is power in you to do what you may not think is possible, but you've got to get out of the murky middle.” “It's not a time management problem, it's an emotion regulation problem.” “The way to overcome procrastination is not a matter of finding more self-will, but rather learning to deal with our immediate negative mood.” “Every breakthrough requires a ‘break with’.” “When you give into that feeling of doing something you love, that you see is valuable or important, the voices of procrastination in your head are silenced.” “Exercise integrity in the moment of choice.” “God has given us a space between stimulus and response and in that space, in that moment, is where life's battles are won.” “Begin today to choose in that space to exercise integrity, and watch the strength, and power, and peace that will come to you in your life.” Show Links: Open Your Eyes: 10 Uncommon Lessons to Discover a Happier Life

Call it perseverance, stick-to-it-iveness, guts or grit. When we learn to stay in the game, we can find greatness. But staying in the game takes specific skills. Learn with McKay as he shares those skills and how you can create a character and habit of perseverance. Throughout the episode, our host looks at fostering greatness, finding lessons in the stories of others, highlighting the gift of perseverance, and sharing what can be learned from staying in the game. Today, McKay engages in an exploration of what it means to fuel yourself and your future, how to go about it, and, as a result, find greatness. The Finer Details of This Episode: · Fostering greatness · Bob Mankoff and Arnold Palmer’s stories and what we can learn from them · The gift of perseverance · George Foreman’s story and its lesson for us · Maxcy Filer’s story · What running marathons has taught McKay · Fuelling yourself and your future Quotes: “Even successful people face rejection all the time.” “It is in the failure and perseverance of it that you find your greatness.” “Don't give in to short term struggles, get better, stay in the game, and if you do, you will do what others are unwilling to do.” “Fall seven, rise eight.” “Nothing, nothing, replaces perseverance and staying in the game.” “The road to greatness is paved with failure and perseverance.” “The city attorney in Compton said ‘Maxcy was just too busy doing good deeds to everyone around him to pass the test.’” “A clear image of where you're headed, a clear well-defined image, makes all the difference in enabling you to persevere.” “It is not over until you win.” “We're just halfway towards who you are meant to become.” “If you persevere, persevere, persevere, you will find greatness.” Show Links: Open Your Eyes: 10 Uncommon Lessons to Discover a Happier Life

Inspired by the story of Beck Weathers, a Dallas pathologist whose harrowing experience on Mount Everest led to profound change, McKay explores the transformative power of resilience, reflection, and personal growth in today’s episode. He interweaves Beck's gripping journey with inspiring tales and scriptural insights, emphasizing themes of obsession, identity, and the importance of taking a “halftime” moment to confront apparent failures and make any necessary adjustments for the future.McKay traces Beck's path from battling depression and an obsessive passion for climbing to surviving a near-fatal ordeal on Everest. His miraculous survival and personal transformation highlight the essence of failing forward and finding inner peace, much like a team reassessing and strategizing at halftime. Featuring other stories such as missed basketball opportunities, resilience in the Miss USA pageant, and Esther's biblical story, McKay underscores the significance of undertaking a halftime reflection and moving on to embrace one's true identity, learn from failures, and leverage spiritual insights to navigate life's challenges.Episode Highlights:Beck Weathers' remarkable journeyInsights on embracing failure and using it as a stepping stone to success.Inspiring stories illustrating the importance of embracing challenges and staying true to one's identityThe importance of embracing one's true identity through scriptural references and personal faith.Practical tools and perspectives for overcoming challenges and making pivotal changes in life.The infinite worth of individuals and their potential for positive change and impact.Quotes:"Life is made up of a series of attempts and failures.""Successful people learn how to fail forward, to learn from their failures in a healthy way.""You are of immense worth. Your potential is endless.""Your potential to make a difference in this world and to other people for good is unlimited.""Don't wait for things to be perfect. Be mediocre with all you have. And remember, let go of the fear of failure.""Halftime is perhaps the most important part of the game.""When you can see who you really are, you can become who you really can be."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

McKay unveils the powerful theme of tuning into our authentic inner voice amidst the multitude of life's decisions and challenges in this latest installment of the Open Your Eyes podcast. Highlighting a variety of narratives involving such figures as Vincent van Gogh, Oprah, and Moses, the episode underscores the significance of listening to the voices that truly guide and shape our destinies.Delving into the essence of recognizing and following the voices that genuinely matter, McKay reflects on these narratives and insights, urging listeners to reevaluate their life's priorities and the impact of their choices. The episode also goes on to offer practical advice on how to sift through life's distractions to uncover clarity, purpose, and joy. McKay’s wisdom shared here today acts as a reminder that, by listening to those good voices and focusing on what truly enriches us, we can find our own voices, reach our full potential, and lead lives of profound fulfillment.Episode Highlights:Prioritizing what truly matters as a means to amplify the guiding voices towards living a purposeful lifeFocusing on what we cherishPractical guidance on navigating life's challenges by granting 'lifetime passes' to those who hinder us, enabling us to concentrate on the voices that truly matterA goal-setting strategy emphasizing dedication and a period of undivided effort to achieve aspirations without succumbing to doubtsEmbracing our present circumstances as a foundation for advancementInstructive narratives involving Oprah, Vincent van Gogh, Moses and othersQuotes:"The truth is, there are true and correct voices that if we learn to listen to them, we can improve our life, our actions, and become more of who we're supposed to become.""You are extraordinary. You are not made or put here by your Creator just to get by, or to wait until it is convenient.""Decide what matters most... When you decide what matters most, it becomes a louder voice in your life.""Focus on what you love, completely abandon your focus on what you don't. Let it go.""You never will know if something works until you give it everything.""You are exactly where you're supposed to be.""You have within you the DNA to make your life fabulous and remarkable.""Whenever we begin something worthwhile, there's a part that is not fun. It seems tedious and is difficult.""We act as if achieving the goal will make us happy. And you might be a little happier, but you can be happy today.""Give your whole heart for a period of time to whatever you're doing... Accept where you're starting and follow the good voices that come to you and watch. You will find your voice."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

McKay examines the transformative power of words and how they forge our identities and destinies in today’s episode. Exploring the significance of the labels we adopt and the profound effect words have on our perception and actions, our host invites listeners to reconsider their self-perceptions and strive for excellence.Expanding on this theme, McKay shares captivating stories, such as a rancher's encounter with a federal agent, an MIT classroom experiment, and Harper Lee's inspiring journey, each underscoring the influence of language on our lives. These anecdotes, coupled with scientific research, illustrate the dramatic shifts that positive affirmations and constructive self-talk can initiate, propelling us beyond mediocrity to embrace our exceptional selves. McKay's narrative here today is a compelling reminder that the words we choose to internalize and the labels we accept can either constrain us or catalyze our growth, highlighting the essential role of humility and faith throughout.Episode Highlights:The deep impact of labels and perceived authority on our sense of self and our actionsHow the labels we adopt can shape our identity and influence our life's trajectoryThe significant role a single word plays in altering our perceptions of others and ourselvesCelebrating the power of belief and encouragement in overcoming obstacles and achieving greatnessThe transformative effect of positive affirmations and self-talk on personal developmentHow words scientifically influence our mental and physical well-beingHow humility and faith in the words we internalize can lead to meaningful changes in our livesEncouraging a reevaluation of the words we hold onto as a path toward growth and escaping mediocrityQuotes:"Words do create worlds.""Sometimes labels are nothing more than a meaningless badge in the arena of life.""One word, one label can change our perception of ourselves.""Every day and in every walk of life, ordinary people do extraordinary things.""Words are a big deal. They can bring joy, answer prayers, give belief, and change perspectives.""What you believe, the words you lay hold on, matter.""Remember the power of words to change your life, to change your mind, to give you gifts meant for you.""Mediocrity is pretty darn comfortable.""The truth is we often place labels on ourselves, such as talented or unable, unworthy, fake, selfish, ugly.""You are extraordinary. Sometimes we and you need a reminder of just how precious you are in the eyes of your Maker."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

What you can’t see, you can’t be. That’s why we all need a clear vision of who we are and what we can become. On ‘Open Your Eyes’, you are invited to join author and business leader McKay Christensen, PhD, to discover the steps to lasting change on your path to personal and business growth. From personal improvement to team leadership, get the insights and tools you need to open your eyes to a happier life. Highlighting the fact that our reality is a reflection of our strongest beliefs, Mckay explores the concept of our "belief window" and its profound influence on our lives here today. Throughout the episode, our host demonstrates that we all have such a belief window through which we shape, color, and filter what we experience each day, and prompts us all to consider how our beliefs can mold our actions and decisions.McKay begins by illustrating the limitations of narrow perspectives with the Japanese proverb, "a frog in a well cannot conceive of the ocean," and shares a lesson from Dr. Stephen Covey on the power of imagination to effect change. He then delves into the inspiring story of Coach Dabo Swinney, highlighting how belief in oneself can overcome adversity and lead to remarkable success. McKay also goes on to emphasize the importance of questioning and challenging our beliefs, offering practical strategies to replace limiting beliefs with empowering ones. As you will hear today, through cultivating a positive self-talk mindset and embracing the journey of transformation, we can all harness the power of our beliefs to shape a more fulfilling and successful life.Episode Highlights:How imagination can reshape our reality and drive meaningful change in our livesInspiring stories of resilience and determination, illustrating how belief in oneself can overcome even the greatest challengesThe importance of questioning our beliefs and challenging the narratives that hold us backThe profound influence of self-talk on our beliefs and behaviorsThe science behind habit formation and how to leverage the power of repetition to instill new beliefs and behaviorsThe importance of self-compassion in challenging our beliefs and fostering personal growthEmbarking on a journey of self-discovery and transformation as we navigate the complexities of our belief windowQuotes:"You have a gift, a God-given gift, that no other living thing has: the ability to imagine, to see yourself in a situation other than the one that you're in.""Your reality is a reflection of your strongest belief. Belief is a powerful tool, and it drives our life more than we realize.""You are not defined by where you've been, only by where you're going.""Focus on what you love about the other person... Be a light and not a judge.""There's a space between the trigger and response in which I can choose to act differently.""Your beliefs can change, and that will enable you to change. It's time to replace your beliefs on your belief window and begin to live the life that you can live.""As we challenge our beliefs, we begin to see how we can change, how to be proactive rather than passively following whatever wrongs life has placed on our belief window."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/ to Discover a Happier Life

What you can’t see, you can’t be. That’s why we all need a clear vision of who we are and what we can become. On Open Your Eyes join author and business leader McKay Christensen to discover the steps to lasting change on your path to personal and business growth. From personal improvement to team leadership, get the insights and tools you need to open your eyes to a happier life.