Terry Storch Dispatch w.50.2019
Dispatch w.50.2019
If you always do what you've always done, you'll always be where you've always been. - T.D. Jakes
This time of year for me is about reflection and direction. There’s nothing technically special about the end of the year. But because of the way our calendars work and the way we typically set goals and plan mentally, it creates a great opportunity to pause and take account of our lives. I recommend checking out John Maxwell's thoughts here, as well as a great article from Fast Company here.
For me, I am thinking about starting a personal annual report. One where I actually sit down and write an annual report of my life from both a personal and work perspective. James Clear has been doing this for over six years, and I really like his approach. So far, I have skimmed my 2019 calendar and logged the obvious events, meetings, and decisions into a Google Doc like Maxwell shared in his article. I’m also discussing this with my family, and gaining their perspective of the year. They may have insight into memorable events and activities that may not have been on my calendar or at the forefront of my mind. It’s also really helpful to have this weekly dispatch to look back as a journal of sorts! I’m looking forward to hearing from you and your reflection on 2019.
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In the past few weeks, Tim Ferris linked to Stephanie Peirolo’s video, Walking with RJ. Tim warned viewers that the video is “moving and brutal,” and I would agree. This video is a personal account from a mom and her journey with her son RJ. I highly recommend watching the video to put our lives into perspective. Stephanie’s story is inspiring and brings a deep appreciation and thankfulness for my own journey.
The Center for Humane Technology (CHT) introduced some new principles at the What’s Now Conference in San Francisco. Tristan Harris, CHT Co-Founder, shared a powerful thought:
“Instead of 'technology is neutral,' we realize technologists are the urban planners for the social fabric. We organize the wiring flows of human attention, the terms and basis of people's relationships.”
I think these new mindsets and principles are worthy of wrestling with and processing how they can intersect our design process and everyday thinking. You can watch his talk and Q&A if you have interest.
Self-awareness is the core of self-leadership. Why is this so critical? Because if you can’t effectively lead yourself, you’ll never be able to lead others. Leading yourself well starts with self-awareness. I opened this dispatch by discussing my plan to reflect on the year and draft a fresh and new direction for next year. My desire to do this is centered on self-awareness. Laurie Ruettimann wrote a fantastic article about self-leadership that will give you some powerful ideas and new thoughts. I loved that she highlighted that self-leaders are endlessly curious. Brilliant! (read more)
A few weeks ago, Robin and I joined LifeTime Fitness in Oklahoma City. More than a decade ago when we lived in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area, we were members at LifeTime and absolutely loved it. Recently, LifeTime offered a Black Friday special by waving the standard joining fees, and that was the tipping point for us. The LifeTime environment is amazing, and we’re loving being members. I just got an email from the general manager at LifeTime, and he offered to waive joining fees for new members at the Oklahoma City club. So, if you’re considering joining before Christmas, shoot me an email, and I’ll forward you a way to get signed up without any fees!
I will leave you this week with this, The Internet didn’t turn out the way we hoped. An interesting read that gives a broader, more global look at the state of the Internet, or at least one's opinion of it.
Have a great weekend!