During the early part of my career, I adopted several mantras to help me get through stressful work situations. One of my favorites was, “This, too, shall pass,” which I would say to myself when I had a major deadline approaching. It’s quite powerful, because it’s true when it comes…
“Be Organized” is the fourth of my Six Simple Rules for a Better Life. Some of my favorite “Be Organized” strategies didn't exist when my book was published just over four years ago. I use the built-in Notes app on my iPhone to write down all kinds of things. I…
Participants at most of my presentations will remember my suggestion to "Say No to Gossip." As I explain, I used to think gossip was something very specific, but it's really anything you say about other people when they are not around. I recently read this New York Times piece about…
As someone who has written and spoken countless times on making habits that stick, I was very interested in this piece in the Wall Street Journal: The New Science on Making Healthy Habits Stick. And, of course, January is a famous time for making, or attempting, to make new habits.…
An early happy and healthy New Year! As I have done for quite a few years, here are some of the experiences I enjoyed this past year: what I listened to, what I read, what I watched, and more. Reading The best books I read this year, all of which…
I read an article that talked about ways to be happier. The piece said happiness can be learned, and recommended practicing these habits, most of which I've written about in my book and/or here: Performing acts of kindness, Increasing social connections, including initiating conversations with people you don’t know, Savoring…
A colleague and I were comparing notes on how we were doing at work this year. I said I was having a good year, and that I had some luck. He said, “It’s not luck, it’s consistency.” I agreed. I explained that what I meant by luck was a lot…
Like many other people, my favorite tennis player ever is Roger Federer. Since his 2022 retirement, I have read a couple of interviews with him. As each interview made clear, he is spending a lot of time with his kids. I am glad I prioritized spending time with my kids.…
I am very happy to share a link to this piece I wrote for the insurance industry publication, Leader’s Edge. I am grateful for all the positive feedback I received when I posted a link to it on LinkedIn. All my best, David
Dana Smith, in an article in the New York Times, listed seven keys to longevity. They are not a big susprise, but are worth thinking about and, more importantly, making a priroity in our lives. Move More Eat More Fruits and Vegetables Get Enough Sleep Don’t Smoke, and Don’t Drink…
I recently heard a simple but powerful quote attributed to Ben Franklin. I wanted to share it here considering “Be a Lifelong Learner” is one of my Six Simple Rules for a Better Life. “Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.” I…
A friend of mine was telling me her car windshield cracked as a result of a pebble that got kicked up by a truck in front of her on the highway. She had to pay to have it repaired, and it also cost her time. Soon after, it happened again.…