Stacey Ruth

Rick Riordan poignantly noted, "Humans see what they want to see," highlighting how our perceptions are deeply colored by our biases, beliefs, and past experiences.

This shaping of our views is a fundamental aspect of the human condition, influencing our success in life and work.

How can we see what is, instead of what wish was true?

To transcend these limitations, we must embrace curiosity rather than accept every thought as truth. By seeking perspectives that challenge our own and exploring what we often overlook, we turn reality into an ally. This journey of curiosity not only enriches our understanding but also deepens our connections with the world and each other.

Our minds are constantly filled with thoughts, but not all thoughts propel us forward.

Often, we find ourselves stuck in cycles of worry, obsession, and rumination, thinking in circles that lead nowhere. This pattern can drain our energy and divert our focus from what truly matters.

It's crucial to pause, to recognize the unproductive noise in our heads. Take a moment to write down these thoughts. See them on paper.

This act alone can be incredibly clarifying. Ask yourself: What actions, if any, are required in response to these thoughts?

More often than not, you’ll find that many worries need acknowledgment but no action, allowing you to move past them.

By consciously choosing to step out of the mental loops and direct our energy towards actionable thoughts, we escape the trap of being stuck. This is how we focus on what matters most, conserving our mental energy for the tasks and decisions that truly deserve our attention.

Let's not just think, but think forward.

Owning our shift is hard. (I wrote a book about it, if you're interested.)

This week (yeh, it's only Tuesday) I saw my e-newsletter has lost a lot of subscribers. Not at once. But over time. I gained some, and I lost some.

But here's the shift I need to really OWN: I have changed.

And the old database of subscribers aren't vibing with my new content.

So, what's a girl to do?

Revisit my strategy, and connect with a tribe who has my vibe.
I'm pausing my newsletter.

It's what I preach. So it's time to live it.

There's nothing wrong with my content. And the lack of engagement isn't personal - or at least I hope it isn't!

But who I am talking to has changed. Trying to speak Portuguese (as if I could) to a Japanese-speaking audience isn't likely to work, except in the rare case an individual here or there has chosen to learn Portuguese.

Everything takes time. The process shows itself when we look for it.

I keep flowers on my desk as a reminder that slowing down and surrendering to the process in my work is the fastest way to succeed. They're not just decoration—they're a daily nudge that great results need patience and time.

When we allow ourselves the space to breathe and focus, our productivity isn't just maintained; it's enhanced. This approach has reshaped how I tackle my tasks and deadlines, ensuring quality and reducing stress.

Exciting news—I have a new book coming out this fall: All The Things: How Busy People Get More Done. Stay tuned for more details!