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Mindset Shifts that Lead to Growth

Hey Reader,

I just turned 29, and it got me thinking about all the lessons I wish I’d learned sooner. Over the next few emails, I’ll share 29 of them—quick insights that might just change how you see things. So let's get started!

1. Life as a Movie

Imagine living your life as if someone were following you around with a camera. Would your life's movie inspire, thrill, or teach its audience? Too often, we fall into routines, forgetting that every choice we make shapes our story, and every action today is an investment in our future self.

• Actionable Tip: Each day, ask yourself, “What can I do today to make my life more meaningful or exciting?”
• Reflection: What would make your life’s plot unforgettable?

2. Happiness is a Choice

Happiness isn’t something that happens to us; it’s something we cultivate. Instead of chasing fleeting moments, learn to find joy in the present.

• Example: Practice gratitude by listing three things you’re thankful for every evening.
• Challenge: Spend 10 minutes today fully immersed in something you love without distraction.

3. Extreme Ownership

Success begins when we take full responsibility for where we are, no matter the circumstances. When you stop blaming others or external factors, you gain the power to change your situation.

• Thought Experiment: Consider an area where you feel stuck. What’s one step you can take today to move forward?
• Quote: “You must own everything in your world. There is no one else to blame.” – Jocko Willink

4. The Power of Small Actions

It’s not the big, dramatic efforts that build a better life—it’s the small, consistent actions. Each time you honor a commitment, no matter how small, you reinforce trust in yourself.

• Micro-Action: Commit to one achievable task today—like drinking a glass of water first thing in the morning.
• Mantra: “Small steps every day lead to big changes over time.”

5. Systems Over Goals

Goals give direction, but systems create progress. Instead of focusing solely on end results, design habits that make success inevitable.

• Example: If you want to write a book, start by writing 300 words daily instead of fixating on finishing the entire manuscript.
• Insight: Systems reduce decision fatigue, making it easier to stay consistent.
• Using this journal as a part of my systems has been a game changer, maybe it can help you get things done as well!

6. Avoiding Distractions

Our phones can be our greatest tools or our worst enemies. They hold the power to connect us, provide knowledge, and amplify productivity, but they can also drain our time and attention.

• Challenge: Analyze your phone usage. Are you using it intentionally or letting it control you?
• Actionable Steps:
  1. Turn off non-essential notifications.
  2. Use apps like Focus Mode or timers to limit social media use.
  3. Create tech-free zones—like during meals, the first hour of your morning, and/or the last hour before bed.
• Reflection: How often are you using your phone as a tool versus as a distraction?

Stay tuned for next week where I share the next set of lessons which focus around building resilience!

Until then,
Gabe

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PS.
Check out my favorite books, decluttering tools, phone plan & more https://hopp.bio/gabebult
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