The difference between an amateur and a professional

An amateur hopes a goal will happen. The professional sets a goal then works backwards.

An amateur cuts with words. Professionals look for ways to raise their own game while lifting others alongside them.

An amateur relies on hope. The professional acts and demonstrates results.

The amateur… More...

Give thanks

The ability to show and express gratitude is one of the greatest gifts we can give to another. Gratitude is a powerful tool, one that can shift perspectives and brighten a dreary worldview in an instant.

A dear friend in Nepal once told me, “It is always possible to look up and see who is above you. People driving cars. The airplanes. My father said we have to also look…

Intentional spaces, event planning, and work that matters

Recently I had the pleasure of speaking with Will Bachman on his podcast Umbrex. We talk about my dinners in New York, my work with Seth Godin, and what I’m doing now in Nepal.

Listen here.

Consider this your friendly reminder that it is never too late to start.

Want to leave a lasting impression? Do this.

People want to be snapped out of their reverie. They want something different, something new. They want the unexpected to happen.

And this is why most people’s faces are tucked into their devices, mindlessly scrolling. They are searching for meaning. They want to find something that makes them feel. Anything — A photo, a comment, a message, a piece of news that makes their pulse quicken and heart skip.

What if…

Time to rest

With expectations from work and family, one of the biggest challenges entrepreneurs face is deciding when to push and when to rest. Drawing lines and setting boundaries can be difficult with so many demands, yet rest can be an asset to your schedule and goals, providing the inspiration and stamina needed to finish tough projects and tackle new challenges.

Rest days aren’t just for athletes….

When there isn’t a spark

When your heart no longer flutters in your relationship, at work, or for a project, you have a decision:

1.) Walk away

2) Dig in

If you choose Option 1, take time to consider what went well about the experience. What aspects were enjoyable? What attracted you in the first place?

For Option 2, make sure there’s an upswing. How is the situation serving you and helping expand your skillset? What goals are…

Quality connections

Gone are the days when you attend networking events with a stack of business cards, trying to pass out as many as you can. The most seasoned professionals know that quality, not quantity, matters when it comes to relationships and networking.

If you’re trying to make an impression, ask thoughtful questions. Listen. And be curious.

A meaningful connection is worth far more than a printed business card.

P.S. There’s one seat left…

Announcements (plus a free ebook)

Have you heard? I’ve put together a free ebook on adventure and risk-taking. You can download it here.

Also, September’s NYC dinner event is almost sold out. Get in touch if you’d like to be considered. This private event is limited to fifteen participants in order to encourage meaningful conversation and constructive networking. If not this time, we can keep you on More...

11 reasons to work for free

“Why do you work for free?”

I hear this question often, especially after having volunteered for five years in Nepal. Most creatives, freelancers, and entrepreneurs will face this very same question at some point in their careers.

Should I work for free? Should I participate in this unpaid project? Should I volunteer my time?

Working for free can come with many benefits. Here are my top nine:

1. Connections
2. Personal satisfaction
3. Appreciation
4. Experience

…

More...

The stories you tell

Every day you tell yourself stories; stories about what you are capable of, about who loves you, about the work you do, about the family you belong to, about the money you make, about the way you look in the mirror.

These stories are fuel for your tomorrow. They are the kindle for your actions. Your behavior is reinforced by the stories you tell yourself, and in turn, how others…