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How Ikigai Helped Me Years Before I Thought I Was Good Enough

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Ikigai: Beyond the Venn Diagram
A Guide for the Solopreneur

The digital age has opened doors for countless individuals to become their own bosses, solopreneurs venturing into the exciting (and sometimes daunting) world of running their own businesses.

In this new landscape, the search for meaning, purpose, and the sweet spot of sustainable income is paramount.

Enter Ikigai, the captivating Japanese concept that promises to guide us towards our “reason for being.”

Ikigai, often depicted as a four-circle Venn diagram, identifies the intersection of what you’re good at, what the world needs, what you love, and what you can get paid for.

Ikigai – 生き甲斐 “a reason for being”

This framework offers a compelling starting point for solopreneurs.

However, a closer look reveals a hidden truth: the simplistic charm of Ikigai can be a double-edged sword.

The Idealistic Trap:
Redefining “Good” and “Needs”

One of the biggest pitfalls associated with Ikigai is the inherent pressure of “being good enough.”

Often, individuals interpret “good” as “expert” or “master,” leading to crippling imposter syndrome.

Remember, the journey to mastery is a lifelong pursuit.

Just like on the martial arts mat, different skill levels contribute to the overall ecosystem.

An intermediate student can guide a beginner, an expert can push the intermediate student further, and a master can refine the expert’s technique.

There’s immense value in being “good enough” to solve problems and provide value, even if you’re not at the top of your game.

Similarly, the vastness of “what the world needs” can overwhelm solopreneurs.

Global issues like climate change or poverty might seem insurmountable for a single individual.

The key here is to find your niche within the bigger picture.

Perhaps you’re passionate about environmental sustainability and can help small businesses in your community adopt eco-friendly practices.

Maybe you love teaching and can create online courses to empower others with a specific skillset.

Focus on the impact you can make in your area of expertise.

The Shifting Sands:
Adapting to the Flow of Life

Another crucial aspect often overlooked in Ikigai is the dynamic nature of life.

Our passions evolve, the skills market fluctuates, and what people are willing to pay for can change.

Clinging too rigidly to a single point in the Ikigai diagram can lead to stagnation.

The beauty lies in using it as a flexible framework, revisited and refined as you navigate your entrepreneurial journey.

For instance, your initial passion for graphic design might morph into a love for web development as you learn new skills.

The world’s need for content creation might evolve, requiring you to adapt your services to include video editing or social media marketing.

Don’t be afraid to pivot your offerings to stay relevant and aligned with your evolving skillset and passions.

Ikigai:
A Compass, Not a Destination

Ikigai serves as a powerful compass, guiding solopreneurs towards a fulfilling and sustainable path.

However, it’s crucial to remember that it’s not a static destination.

Embrace the journey, acknowledge that your skills, passions, and market demands will evolve over time.

Regularly revisit your Ikigai to ensure it reflects your current reality and guides your next steps.

So, how can you leverage Ikigai effectively as a solopreneur?

Here are some actionable steps:

  1. Shift Your Focus: Instead of obsessing over being an “expert,” identify your current strengths and how they can benefit others.

  2. Zoom In: Don’t get bogged down by “what the world needs.” Focus on a specific niche within a broader issue where you can make a tangible impact.

  3. Embrace Change: Recognize that your passions, skillset, and market demands will evolve. Regularly revisit your Ikigai to ensure it reflects your current reality.

  4. Build Flexibility: Develop a growth mindset and embrace the opportunity to learn and adapt your offerings as you grow.

  5. Celebrate Progress: Don’t wait for the “perfect” Ikigai to fall into place. Acknowledge and celebrate your progress, no matter how small.

Remember, the path to a thriving solopreneurship is rarely linear.

By embracing the dynamic nature of Ikigai and fostering a spirit of continuous evolution, you can navigate the ever-changing digital landscape with purpose, passion, and ultimately, success.

Now, go forth, brave solopreneur, and build your dream with the ever-evolving wisdom of Ikigai as your guide.

Quitting vs. Pivoting: How to Tell the Difference and Become Unstoppable

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Don’t Throw in the Towel, Warrior:
Why Quitting Early is the Ultimate Enemy of Success

Let’s talk straight, warrior.

You’re here because that fire in your gut, the one that used to blaze so bright, feels like a dying ember.

Maybe you started a business, a creative project, hit the gym with gusto, only to find yourself staring at the ceiling, questioning everything.

Sound familiar?

Here’s the truth they don’t tell you: Everyone faces setbacks.

Everyone hits walls so high they feel like mountains.

It’s those pesky “enemies” – doubt, fear, and frustration – whispering sweet nothings about quitting.

They want you to believe the lie that this is all some cosmic joke, that your dreams were never meant to be.

But here’s the secret weapon they don’t want you to know:

Setbacks are not failures.

They’re battle scars, warrior.

They’re proof you stepped into the arena, that you dared to fight for what you believe in.

Remember that feeling you had at the beginning?

That unbridled enthusiasm, the unshakeable belief?

That’s still there, buried beneath the frustration.

Think of it like this:

You wouldn’t quit building your dream house because you hit a rock during excavation, would you?

You’d adjust your plans, maybe even find a hidden treasure (who knows?).

The same goes for your goals.

Difficulties are inevitable, but quitting is a choice.

One step at a time

But hold on.

There is a time to “pivot,” as they say in the fancy business world.

This isn’t about mindlessly banging your head against a wall.

New information can change the game.

Maybe your initial plan wasn’t the best, or maybe the market shifted beneath your feet.

That’s okay.

But quitting because it’s hard?

That’s letting the enemies win.

Here’s how to tell the difference:

  • Setback: You hit a roadblock, need to adjust your strategy, but the core goal remains the same.
  • New Information: You discover something fundamental that changes the entire landscape of your goal. Maybe a key technology becomes obsolete, or your target market evaporates.

So, how do you keep the fire alive when the quitting monster whispers its lies?

  1. Remember Your “Why”: Close your eyes and revisit that initial spark. What ignited your passion? What problem are you solving? Reconnect with that purpose, let it reignite the fire in your belly.
  2. Celebrate Small Wins: Quitting whispers “nothing is working.” Fight back by celebrating every tiny victory. Finished a chapter? Celebrate! Learned a new skill? Do a victory dance (even if it’s just in your head).
  3. Find Your Tribe: No warrior fights alone. Surround yourself with positive, supportive people who believe in you and your dreams. Share your struggles, celebrate your wins, and let their encouragement fuel your journey.
  4. Reframe Your Thinking: Instead of “This is too hard,” try “This is challenging, but I’m learning and growing.” Shift your perspective from victim to victor.
  5. Take Action, Even Small Steps: The quitting monster thrives on inaction. Take one small step forward every day, even if it’s just researching a new strategy or reading a motivational article. Momentum is your friend.

Remember, warrior, the greatest achievements often lie just beyond the point where most people give up.

Don’t be most people.

Embrace the setbacks, learn from them, and keep pushing forward.

The world needs your unique fire, your unwavering spirit.

Don’t let the quitting monster steal your dreams.

You got this.

Stuck in a dead-end job? This might be your wake-up call.

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You, the Unlikely Hero:
How Personal Leadership is Your Epic Adventure

Ever feel lost, stuck in a routine, unsure of your next move?

That’s the call to adventure, warrior.

It’s the itch that tells you there’s more to this life than the daily grind.

Welcome to your hero’s journey – a path of personal leadership that will forge you into the leader you were meant to be.

This journey, inspired by Joseph Campbell’s “The Hero’s Journey” and Christopher Vogler’s “The Writer’s Journey,” is a roadmap for anyone ready to break free and achieve success, both personally and professionally.

Ordinary World:
The Discontent You Already Know

Your hero’s journey begins in your ordinary world – your current reality. Maybe you feel stuck in a dead-end job, unfulfilled in your relationships, or unsure of your purpose. This discontent is the hero’s “call to adventure,” a nudge towards something bigger.

  • Action Step: Identify your discontent. What nags at you? Is it a lack of direction, a stifled ambition, or a yearning for a more fulfilling life?

Refusal of the Call:
Fear is the Dragon at the Gate

Fear, the first enemy on your path, might try to hold you back. It whispers doubts like “What if I fail?” or “This is too hard.” But remember, every hero faces a guardian at the threshold.

  • Reframing Fear: Fear is simply excitement in disguise. It’s a sign you’re stepping outside your comfort zone, which is exactly where growth happens.

Meeting the Mentor:
Find Your Tribe

Just like Luke Skywalker needed Obi-Wan Kenobi, find your mentors – people who believe in you and guide your journey. Look for leaders you admire, teachers, or even online communities.

  • Action Step: Who are the leaders you respect? Reach out for mentorship, or join online groups focused on personal development.

Crossing the Threshold:
Taking That First Step

This is the point of no return. You commit to your journey, take action towards your goals, and leave your ordinary world behind.

  • Action Step: Set clear goals that excite you. Write them down, visualize achieving them, and take that first concrete step, no matter how small.

Tests, Allies, and Enemies:
The Battlefield of Growth

Your journey is a training ground. You’ll face challenges (tests), find allies (supportive people), and encounter enemies (doubts and negativity).

  • Tests: See setbacks as opportunities to learn and adapt. Each challenge strengthens your resolve.

  • Allies: Surround yourself with positive people who believe in you. Let their encouragement be your fuel.

  • Enemies: Identify your inner critic and negativity from others. Silence them with action and focus on your vision.

Approach to the Innermost Cave:
Confronting Your Weaknesses

Every hero faces their greatest fear. Here, you confront your deepest doubts and limitations. This is your chance to shed old versions of yourself and embrace your true potential.

  • Action Step: Practice self-reflection. Journal about your fears and insecurities. Then, develop strategies to overcome them.

Ordeal:
The Crucible Forges the Leader

This is the toughest part of the journey. You’ll be pushed to your limits, and tested mentally and emotionally. But remember, champions are forged in fire.

Perseverance: Don’t give up! Focus on your goals, visualize success, and celebrate small victories.

Reward:
Seizing Your Destiny

You’ve conquered your challenges, faced your fears, and emerged stronger. Now, claim your reward – the success you’ve earned through your leadership journey.

  • Action Step: It’s amazing that when so many get close to the goal, they stop. This is not the time to stop, you’ve worked too hard. Finish the race and take your reward!

The Road Back:
Sharing Your Wisdom

A true hero doesn’t keep their victory to themselves. Now, it’s your turn to inspire others. Share your story, mentor those starting their own journeys, and use your leadership to uplift others.

  • Action Step: Become a mentor or volunteer your skills to help others. Share your learnings and guide them on their own paths.

Resurrection:
The Never-Ending Journey

The hero’s journey isn’t a one-time event. It’s a continuous process of growth and leadership. Embrace new challenges, keep learning, and inspire others on their own heroic journeys.

Remember, warrior-in-training, you have the power to be the leader of your own life. Embrace the adventure, conquer your fears, and use these tools to write your own epic story of success.

P.S. This is your heroic journey.

But only if you stand up and take the first steps. No one else can take them for you.

If you need help on your journey, get my FREE 3-week email course, Learn to Lead. That, plus my daily emails, The Daily Dojo will give you all you need to help you be the hero you were meant to be.

Get it here: Learn to Lead

The “Lazy Man’s” Guide to Success: How Tiny Habits Can Crush Your Goals

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One Small Step: The Compound Effect That Builds Empires

Imagine this, leader-in-training.

  • You wake up feeling energized, a roadmap clear in your mind.
  • At work, you lead with confidence, ideas flowing freely.
  • Your relationships thrive, built on open communication and unwavering support.

This, my friend, is the power you hold within.

But how do you get there?

The secret lies in a concept so simple, yet so revolutionary:

​James Clear graph of the 1% Compounding Effect​

The 1% Compound Effect

Think of it like this.

You wouldn’t expect to build a skyscraper overnight, would you?

Brick by brick, floor by floor, that steel giant rises.

The 1% Compound Effect works the same way.

It’s about taking small, consistent actions that, over time, create massive transformations.

Let’s bust a myth: achieving big things doesn’t require superhuman effort.

Look at the pull-up bar hanging lonely in your gym.

You might scoff at the thought of knocking out 2 pull-ups, let alone 10.

But here’s the magic – with the 1% Effect, you can conquer that bar and unlock a level of strength you never thought possible.

Here’s how: Imagine doing just one pull-up a day to your routine.

Sounds manageable, right?

For the first 40 days, that’s all you do.

One.

But here’s the crazy part: by the end of the year, you’ll be cranking out a staggering 37 pull-ups.

That’s right, 37!

Think about it. From barely hanging to achieving near-superhero status – all from a single, daily action.

The 1% Compound Effect of 1 Pull-Up

Here’s what that progression looks like of doing 1% more every day:

  • Days 1 – 41: 1 Pull-up
  • Days 42 – 93: 2 Pull-ups
  • Days 94 – 126: 3 Pull-ups (3 months in, only doing 3)
  • Days 127 – 152: 4 Pull-ups
  • Days 153 – 172: 5 Pull-ups
  • Days 173 – 189: 6 Pull-ups (6 months, 6 pull-ups!)
  • Days 190 – 203: 7 Pull-ups
  • Days 204 – 216: 8 Pull-ups
  • Days 217 – 227: 9 Pull-ups
  • Days 228 – 237: 10 Pull-ups
  • Days 238 – 246: 11 Pull-ups
  • Days 247 – 254: 12 Pull-ups
  • Days 255 – 262: 13 Pull-ups
  • Days 263 – 269: 14 Pull-ups
  • Days 270 – 276: 15 Pull-ups (9 months, 15 pull-ups)
  • Days 277 – 282: 16 Pull-ups
  • Days 283 – 288: 17 Pull-ups
  • Days 289 – 294: 18 Pull-ups
  • Days 295 – 299: 19 Pull-ups
  • Days 300 – 304: 20 Pull-ups
  • Days 305 – 309: 21 Pull-ups
  • Days 310 – 313: 22 Pull-ups
  • Days 314 – 318: 23 Pull-ups
  • Days 319 – 322: 24 Pull-ups
  • Days 323 – 326: 25 Pull-ups
  • Days 327 – 330: 26 Pull-ups
  • Days 331 – 334: 27 Pull-ups (1 month to go!)
  • Days 335 – 337: 28 Pull-ups
  • Days 338 – 341: 29 Pull-ups
  • Days 342 – 344: 30 Pull-ups
  • Days 345 – 347: 31 Pull-ups
  • Days 348 – 350: 32 Pull-ups
  • Days 351 – 353: 33 Pull-ups
  • Days 354 – 356: 34 Pull-ups
  • Days 357 – 359: 35 Pull-ups
  • Days 360 – 362: 36 Pull-ups
  • Days 363 – 365: 37 Pull-ups (10 pull-ups in 1 month!)

That’s the compounding effect in motion.

Your small wins snowball, building momentum and propelling you towards your goals.

It’s the quiet hum of the engine that drives you to success, not the explosive roar of a one-time burst.

So how do you harness this power in your own life?

Here are your action steps:

  • Pick your “pull-up bar”: Identify a goal you deem “impossible.” Is it that promotion? Mastering a new skill? Public speaking like a pro? The choice is yours, leader.
  • Start small, ridiculously small: Maybe it’s reading 5 pages a day for your promotion, practicing a presentation for 10 minutes, or simply researching public speaking tips.
  • Be relentless: Consistency is key. Life will throw curveballs, but recommit to that small action every single day. Even tiny progress builds momentum.
  • Celebrate the wins: Did you hit your daily goal? Awesome! Acknowledge your progress, no matter how small.

The 1% Effect extends beyond physical feats. It applies to every aspect of your life:

  • Personal Growth: Dedicate 15 minutes daily to learning a new skill. In a year, you’ll have invested over 90 hours!
  • Relationships: Send one thoughtful text a day to a loved one. Over a year, that’s 365 reminders of how much they matter.
  • Finances: Invest 1% of your income every day. Watch your savings snowball over time.

Remember, leader: Big dreams require small, consistent steps.

The 1% Effect empowers you to take control, build the life you desire, and become the best version of yourself.

So, what are you waiting for?

Grab your metaphorical brick, and start building your success, one powerful 1% at a time.

Bonus Tip: Track your progress! Seeing your daily wins visualized is a powerful motivator.

The Secret to Effortless Progress: It’s Not What You Think

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The Flow Channel: Building Your Success Muscle, One Rep at a Time

Ever feel like you’re spinning your wheels?

You grind away at a task, but progress feels nonexistent.

Frustration mounts, motivation dips, and suddenly that “dream life” seems like a distant mirage.

Leader, there’s a better way.

Enter the Flow Channel

The Flow Channel

Imagine yourself in the gym.

You’re not struggling to lift a weight that’s way too heavy, nor are you mindlessly curling ten-pound dumbbells.

You’ve found that sweet spot – a weight that challenges you, but still allows for controlled reps.

This is the Flow Channel, the zone where difficulty meets skill, intensity meets time, and growth thrives.

Why the Flow Channel is so powerful

Think of it like building muscle memory.

When you lift weights that are too light, you don’t build new muscle fibers.

Too heavy, and your form breaks down, leading to injury and hindering progress.

The Flow Channel is that perfect weight, pushing you to your edge while keeping you in control.

This sweet spot ignites several key benefits:

  • High Interest, Low Stress: You’re engaged, motivated to push further. No mind-numbing boredom or crippling anxiety to hold you back.

  • Muscle Memory: Consistent, controlled reps in the Flow Channel etch new skills into your brain. You become more efficient, more confident.

  • Neural Pathways: Imagine the roads in your brain – the Flow Channel helps carve out new, stronger pathways, making it easier to navigate towards your goals.

I first got introduced to the Flow Channel training in Hapkido in the 80s and 90s, though it wasn’t called that.

Instead, they called it the beginner, intermediate, and advanced classes.

  • Beginners were the white, yellow, and orange belt students

  • Intermediates were purple, green, and blue belt students

  • Advanced were brown, brown-stripe, red, and red-stripe students

In your class, you were training and sparring with your peers.

In this way, you would train and be tested within a range of relative skill and ability, not too hard or too soft. And like Goldilocks, just right.

So, how do you find your Flow Channel and unlock its power?

Buckle up, warrior, here’s your roadmap:

1. Know Your Limits, Push Your Edges:

  • Self-Awareness: Reflect on your current skill level. Be honest – where are you strong? Where do you need improvement?

  • Challenge Yourself: Don’t shy away from tasks that push your comfort zone. Stepping outside your bubble fosters growth, but remember, it shouldn’t feel like falling off a cliff.

Example: You want to be a master presenter. Start by giving mini-presentations to a trusted friend or colleague. Then, gradually increase the audience size and complexity of the topics. Celebrate your progress, and identify areas for improvement.

2. Break It Down, Conquer It:

  • Chunking: Don’t be overwhelmed by a massive goal. Break it down into smaller, achievable chunks. This makes the task less daunting and allows for steady progress.

  • Focus on the Present: Don’t get bogged down by the enormity of your long-term goals. Focus on mastering the task at hand – crushing that one rep in the Flow Channel.

Example: Let’s say you want to write a novel. Don’t aim for 100,000 words in a month. Set a daily goal of 500-1000 words. Each day you hit that target is a victory, building momentum and propelling you closer to your dream.

3. Celebrate the Journey:

  • Acknowledge Your Wins: Don’t wait for the “big win” to celebrate. Give yourself a pat on the back for hitting those daily goals, mastering new skills. These mini-victories fuel motivation and keep you in the game.

  • Find Your Reward: Positive reinforcement is powerful. After completing a task in the Flow Channel, reward yourself with something you enjoy. It can be a simple pleasure – a walk in nature, a good book – anything that reinforces the positive experience.

Remember, leader, finding the Flow Channel is a journey, not a destination.

There will be days when it feels elusive, but keep these action steps in mind.

As you consistently train in this zone, you’ll build the skills, confidence, and resilience needed to conquer any challenge and achieve success in work and in life.

You’ll be sculpting not just your physical muscles, but your success muscle, a powerful tool that will carry you far.

So, step into the Flow Channel, embrace the challenge, and watch your leadership potential take flight.