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Mental Health vs. Mental Fitness: Why We Should Work Our Brains as Hard as Our Bodies

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Mental Health vs. Mental Fitness: Why We Should Work Our Brains as Hard as Our Bodies

The first time I heard someone mention metnal fitness (in relation to mental health) was Simon Sinek. In recent years, there’s been a growing awareness about mental health, and rightfully so, however very little has been talked about in relation to mental fitness. And to me it is as important as physical health. While mental health is about managing mental illness and emotional well-being, mental fitness is all about strengthening the mind—building resilience, sharpening focus, and improving cognitive endurance. Like physical fitness, mental fitness requires consistent effort. Here’s why working our brains out is as essential as hitting the gym and how we can make that happen.

The Difference Between Mental Health and Mental Fitness

  1. Mental Health: This term refers to our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It includes managing stress, how we think and feel, and how we navigate life’s challenges. Mental health can be affected by trauma, stress, genetics, and lifestyle, and it often requires professional support when someone is dealing with mental illness, like anxiety, depression, or other mood disorders.
  2. Mental Fitness: Mental fitness is about proactively strengthening the brain, much like we do with our muscles. It focuses on cognitive abilities like memory, attention, focus, and emotional regulation. Building mental fitness helps us not simply respond better to stress and challenges but also enhances our overall cognitive capacity and emotional intelligence.

Why Work Out Our Brains?

Like your body, your brain needs regular stimulation to stay sharp. We wouldn’t expect to run a marathon without training our body, right? The same goes for our mind. If we want mental clarity, better focus, and resilience to stress, we’ve got to work for it.

  1. Builds Resilience: A well-trained mind handles stress and adversity better. By challenging our brain regularly, we enhance its ability to cope with tough situations and bounce back from setbacks more quickly.
  2. Improves Focus and Productivity: Mental fitness exercises improve cognitive functions like focus, memory, and problem-solving skills. This means better performance at work, in social settings, and in our personal life.
  3. Emotional Stability: As physical exercise releases endorphins, strengthening your mental fitness can help regulate emotions, keep our mood balanced, and reduce the likelihood of feeling overwhelmed by stress or anxiety.
  4. Prevents Cognitive Decline: Regular mental workouts help protect against age-related cognitive decline. Keeping the brain active and challenged slows down the onset of dementia and other neurodegenerative diseases.

How to Work Out Our Brain

Here are some effective ways to build our mental fitness:

  1. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation: Mindfulness exercises help enhance our awareness and focus. Meditation trains our brain to control our thoughts and emotions better, reducing stress and increasing clarity. Start with 5-10 minutes a day and gradually increase.
  2. Learn Something New: Challenge our brain by learning a new skill or hobby. Whether it’s picking up a musical instrument, learning a new language, or trying a new craft, our brain forms new neural connections, strengthening its capacity for learning and problem-solving.
  3. Physical Exercise: Believe it or not, physical exercise benefits mental fitness. Cardiovascular activities increase blood flow to the brain, which enhances memory and cognitive function. Yoga and Tai Chi are also excellent for both mind and body coordination, although I am not going to lie, I need to imporve my stretching durng Yoga 🙂
  4. Play Brain Games: Puzzles, brain teasers, and strategy games are fantastic ways to engage our mind. Apps like Lumosity or Elevate offer structured brain training programs to enhance memory, focus, and cognitive speed and they are great for me when I am on the plane.
  5. Journaling: Writing helps organize our thoughts and improves self-awareness. I am more of a jotter than a writer and that still helps me too. It can serve as a reflective practice that clarifies emotions, reduces mental clutter, and improves cognitive processing.
  6. Get Adequate Sleep: Sleep is essential for mental recovery and brain health. It’s when our brain processes information, solidifies memories, and repairs itself. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep to maintain mental sharpness. I know this can be hard for some of us who are parents to young kids too, so give ourselves some grace during this time.
  7. Healthy Diet: A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and nutrients like vitamin E and B vitamins supports brain function. What we eat can either fuel or fog our mental fitness, so nourish your brain with the right foods.
  8. Challenge Your Beliefs: Engage in conversations that make us think differently, read books that expand our comfort zone, or even take up debates on challenging topics (maybe avodi politics right now, ha). This kind of intellectual stretching helps us stay mentally flexible and open-minded.

Balance is Key

Mental health and mental fitness go hand in hand. While mental health ensures that we are emotionally well, mental fitness ensures that our minds are strong and resilient. As physical exercise keeps our bodies healthy, consistent brain workouts help keep our minds agile and adaptive.

Incorporating both into our life—being mindful of our emotional well-being and actively challenging our mind—will lead to the more balanced, fulfilled, and successful life.

Ryan Avery - THE Keynote Speaker 2020

The Power of “Do” vs. “Don’t” in Shaping Behavior and Outcomes

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The Power of “Do” vs. “Don’t” in Shaping Behavior and Outcomes

As I share in most of my posts, the language is what we use to shape our perceptions, influences our behavior, and can ultimately determine the outcomes of our actions. One subtle but impactful way this happens is through the use of positive versus negative commands—specifically, using “Do” versus “Don’t.” While both serve to guide behavior, their psychological and emotional effects can be drastically different. Understanding how and when to use these phrases can help improve communication, productivity, and even the way we see ourselves.

The Psychology Behind “Do” and “Don’t”

At the heart of the “Do” versus “Don’t” dichotomy is how the human brain processes information. Research in cognitive psychology suggests that people are more likely to focus on and remember the main idea or action presented in a statement, regardless of whether it is framed positively or negatively. In simple terms, when someone says “Don’t think about a pink elephant,” most people immediately picture a pink elephant. The brain has to process the idea of the pink elephant before it can process the negation.

This is why “Don’t” can often have the opposite of its intended effect. When we tell someone, or even ourselves, “Don’t procrastinate,” the word “procrastinate” becomes the focal point, potentially reinforcing the very behavior we’re trying to avoid. On the other hand, a positive command like “Do your work on time” directs attention to the desired behavior, making it clearer and easier to follow.

The Impact of Positive Framing

Using “Do” statements taps into the power of positive reinforcement. Positive commands focus on the action we want to see, providing clarity and a roadmap for success. When we say “Do eat your vegetables” instead of “Don’t eat junk food,” the focus shifts to a specific, beneficial action rather than an abstract negation.

This principle applies in various settings:

  1. In the Workplace: Managers and leaders who frame their expectations using “Do” rather than “Don’t” can foster a more constructive, goal-oriented culture. For example, telling an employee, “Do prioritize important tasks first” is likely more effective than “Don’t get distracted by unimportant tasks.” The former gives clear direction, while the latter only highlights what to avoid without suggesting an alternative.
  2. Parenting: We as parents often tell their children what not to do—”Don’t run in the house,” “Don’t touch that,” “Don’t yell.” While these commands are well-meaning, they can be confusing or frustrating for a child, who may not understand what behavior is expected of them. Reframing these as positive commands like “Walk carefully inside” or “Use your inside voice” helps children grasp what is acceptable and reinforces good behavior.
  3. Self-Talk: The way we speak to ourselves is as important as how we communicate with others. Negative self-talk, such as “Don’t mess up” or “Don’t be lazy,” can create anxiety and diminish motivation. Replacing these with “Do your best” or “Stay focused” shifts the focus to achievable actions, improving both mindset and performance.

The Pitfalls of “Don’t”

There are certainly situations where “Don’t” is necessary—particularly when safety is at risk (“Don’t touch the hot stove!”). However, over-reliance on negative framing can lead to several unintended consequences:

  • Increased Anxiety: Constantly hearing or telling oneself what not to do can create a sense of restriction and anxiety. The focus becomes avoiding mistakes, which can lead to overthinking or paralysis by analysis, where fear of failure stifles action altogether.
  • Ambiguity: “Don’t” statements often leave room for misinterpretation. If we tell someone “Don’t rush,” do we mean “Take your time” or “Work more carefully”? Without clear guidance on what the alternative is, the listener may become confused or even ignore the instruction altogether.
  • Focus on the Negative: “Don’t” statements can create a negative atmosphere, especially when used frequently. Whether in personal relationships, the workplace, or even self-reflection, focusing on the “don’ts” can lead to feelings of inadequacy or constant correction, which is demotivating.

Striking the Right Balance

While the research supports the benefits of positive framing, this doesn’t mean we should eliminate “Don’t” from our vocabulary entirely. There are moments when it’s appropriate—especially when addressing behaviors that pose immediate harm or when a direct “stop” is necessary. The key is in balancing these directives with positive alternatives.

For example, instead of only saying “Don’t be late,” we could say, “Make sure you’re on time.” This combination acknowledges what needs to be avoided while providing a clear, positive action to replace it.

Conclusion

The distinction between “Do” and “Don’t” may seem subtle, yet it holds significant power in shaping both behavior and outcomes. By focusing on what we do want, rather than what we want to avoid, we set clearer, more positive expectations that are easier to follow and internalize. Whether in the workplace, at home, or in our own self-talk, leaning toward “Do” over “Don’t” can promote a more constructive, empowered mindset and lead to more successful outcomes.

Experience vs. Experiences: Why Varied Experiences Matter More Than Time for Effective Leadership

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Experience vs. Experiences: Why Varied Experiences Matter More Than Time for Effective Leadership

I have found that in certain leadership circles, the concepts of “experience” and “experiences” are often confused or used interchangeably, but they carry distinct meanings and implications for our growth and effectiveness. For leaders, focusing on the depth and variety of our experiences is far more beneficial than merely counting the number of years we’ve been in a position.

Differentiating Experience from Experiences

Experience typically refers to the total amount of time spent in a specific role or field. For instance, having a decade of managerial experience indicates ten years of time in that position. However, this duration doesn’t necessarily reflect the range or diversity of situations encountered.

Experiences, however, encompass the varied situations and challenges faced over time. This includes different roles undertaken, teams led, obstacles overcome, and lessons learned. It’s not merely about how long we’ve been active but about the breadth and depth of the scenarios we’ve navigated.

Why Varied Experiences Outweigh Time Alone

  1. Breadth of Knowledge:
    • Experience: Simply accumulating time in one role or position might limit exposure to different facets of leadership. If our role remains static or we stay within a narrow scope, our knowledge may become restricted.
    • Experiences: Engaging in a variety of experiences—such as leading diverse teams, managing different projects, and working in various organizational cultures—expands our understanding. This comprehensive knowledge allows us to approach problems from multiple perspectives and develop innovative solutions.
  2. Adaptability and Growth:
    • Experience: Longevity in a position might sometimes lead to stagnation. Performing the same tasks in the same manner year after year can limit growth.
    • Experiences: Encountering new challenges and expanding our comfort zones foster adaptability. Leaders who actively seek and embrace diverse experiences are better prepared to handle unexpected situations and drive change effectively.
  3. Skill Development:
    • Experience: This is one of the biggest ones I mention to my clients, simply spending time in a role does not guarantee skill development. Skills improve through practice, feedback, and reflection.
    • Experiences: A broad range of experiences encourages the development and refinement of the more extensive set of skills. Experiences provide opportunities to learn and grow, enhancing our leadership capabilities.
  4. Perspective and Empathy:
    • Experience: Years spent in a single role might provide a limited perspective that remains unchallenged if not actively expanded.
    • Experiences: Exposure to diverse experiences helps us understand different viewpoints and contexts. This variety fosters empathy and improves our ability to connect with and lead diverse teams.
  5. Innovation and Creativity:
    • Experience: A narrow focus can sometimes result in a fixed mindset, where reliance on established methods prevails.
    • Experiences: Engaging in a range of experiences promotes creative thinking and innovation. Facing different challenges and environments stimulates new approaches and solutions.

Cultivating Valuable Experiences

To ensure our experiences are enriching and beneficial, here are a few things to consider…

  • Seek Diverse Opportunities: Look for projects or roles that challenge us in new ways. This could mean volunteering for cross-functional teams or exploring different industries.
  • Reflect Regularly: Take time to reflect on our experiences. What lessons have been learned? How can these lessons be applied moving forward?
  • Pursue Continuous Learning: Invest in learning opportunities such as courses, workshops, and mentorship to continually expand our knowledge and skills.
  • Embrace Change: Be open to change and new experiences. Expanding our comfort zones can lead to significant growth and development.
  • Relabel Failure: Instead of seeing things as a failure, label things as experiences so we know we are growing and expanding in ways others might not be.

All I wanted to share in this article is the idea that, in leadership, the quality and diversity of our experiences often outweigh the sheer quantity of time spent in a role. By focusing on cultivating a variety of experiences, we position ourselves to be more effective, adaptable, and innovative leaders. It’s not simply about how long we’ve been in the game, but how well we’ve played it, shoot, and how many plays we have been a part of (are we on the field or on the sidelines?). So, let’s seek out new challenges, embrace diverse experiences, and continuously strive to grow and evolve as leaders. Our leadership journey will be all the more impactful for it.

Ryan Avery Content

The Balance Between Ambition and Contentment: Striving for More While Appreciating What We Have

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In today’s fast-paced, goal-driven world, ambition is often celebrated as the key to success. We hear it in motivational speeches, read it in business books, and see it played out in the lives of those we admire. But what happens when ambition takes over, leaving no room for contentment?

Is it possible to be both ambitious and content, and if so, how do we strike that delicate balance?

Being overly ambitious without the ability to appreciate where we are can lead to burnout, dissatisfaction, and even unhappiness. On the flip side, being too content can cause stagnation, a lack of growth, and unfulfilled potential. Ugh, so what do we do? Well, the real magic lies in finding the balance between ambition and contentment—striving for more while also embracing the present moment.

The Importance of Ambition

Ambition drives us to reach new heights, push our limits, and set higher goals. It’s the force behind growth, achievement, and self-improvement. Without ambition, we wouldn’t challenge ourselves to improve or create new opportunities. It’s what keeps us moving forward. Ambition allows us to ask questions like, “How will this add value to my life?” It makes us consider how our goals and pursuits can enhance our personal and professional journeys.

Ambition is the fuel that ignites progress and achievement, pushing us toward our highest potential. But (and), unchecked ambition can become exhausting. Constantly striving for the next thing—whether it’s a promotion, financial success, or personal achievements—can create a cycle of “never enough.” (now I need to listen to The Greatest Showman, if you know you know)! This is where contentment plays the crucial role.

The Importance of Contentment

Contentment is the ability to find peace and satisfaction in the present moment. It allows us to appreciate what we have and where we are in life. When we are content, we give ourselves the gift of enjoying life as it is, rather than constantly yearning for what’s next. However, being too content can also pose challenges. If we’re too satisfied with where we are, we may miss opportunities for growth, become complacent, or fail to realize our full potential. Like ambition, contentment requires balance. This leads us to a question worth pondering: “Where can I do a better job of being more content?”

Maybe it’s in our personal lives, where we rush through each day without pausing to appreciate the relationships we’ve built. Or perhaps it’s in our careers, where we’re so focused on the next goal that we fail to acknowledge how far we’ve come. Contentment isn’t about settling or giving up on your dreams. It’s about finding joy in the journey, not simply the… yes cliché…destination.

Finding the Balance

So, how do we find a middle ground between these two powerful forces? Here are some key strategies I work on doing

1. Set Meaningful Goals: Aim for goals that align with our values, purpose, and long-term vision. This will ensure that our ambition is purposeful and fulfilling, rather than empty or exhausting. Ask, “How will this add value to my life?” If the answer isn’t clear, it might be time to reassess our goals.

2. Practice Gratitude: The simple yet powerful way to stay content is by practicing gratitude. Take time each day to reflect on what we are grateful for—whether it’s our health, relationships, or career progress. By focusing on what we have, rather than what we lack, we will naturally cultivate more contentment.

3. Enjoy the Journey: It’s easy to get so caught up in the end goal that we forget to enjoy the process, I have been so guilty of this myself in many stages of my life. Ask, “How can I enjoy being content?” The answer might lie in celebrating small wins, enjoying moments of rest, or simply appreciating the present for what it is.

4. Reflect Regularly: Take time to reflect on our ambitions and whether they’re serving us in the best possible way. Are our goals still meaningful? Are they bringing joy, or mostly stress? Equally, reflect on areas where we may be too content. Where could we challenge ourself to grow or expand our comfort zone?

5. Create Space for Both: Balance doesn’t mean we have to alternate between being ambitious and content. We can embody both at the same time. We can be content with where we are in life while working toward future goals. The key is to create space in our life for both—to be present and grateful while still moving forward.

How Will This Add Value to My Life?

I have found that using that one question has helped me stay on track and have both contentment and ambition. I have also been asking myself lately, “How can I add more value to other people’s lives?” and this has brought me a lot of contentment and ambition. Balancing ambition with contentment allows us to experience the best of both worlds: growth and fulfillment. When we are ambitious, we push ourself to achieve more, which can lead to personal and professional growth. When we are content, we are able to enjoy what we have worked for, preventing burnout and fostering long-term happiness. By striking this balance, we can ask ourself how our goals will truly add value to our life, without getting caught in the endless pursuit of “more.” We will also learn to savor the present while still looking toward the future.

Living with Balance

Being both ambitious and content is one art that takes practice. It’s about setting meaningful goals while appreciating what we have. It’s about pushing ourself to grow while allowing ourself to rest and enjoy the present. By asking ourself questions like, “Where can I do a better job of being more content?”* and “How can I enjoy being content?” we begin to open the door to a more balanced, fulfilling life. Ultimately, learning to live with both ambition and contentment is the key to lasting happiness and success.

Ryan Avery in Boston

Changing vs. Transforming: Why It Matters to Us as Leaders

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Changing vs. Transforming: Why It Matters to Us as Leaders

I am in Boston this week keynoting. This past month has been my third best month financially in my company’s 12 years doing business. After my wife shared some insight from this mediation expert, Davidji, it got me thinking about all the change and transformations that have happened over the last decade and I couldn’t stop thinking about those two words, change & transformation. As leaders, we often find ourselves at the crossroads of change and transformation. Both are vital to our growth and success, yet they serve different purposes and lead to distinct outcomes. Understanding the difference between these two concepts can profoundly impact how we lead our teams, shape our strategies, and ultimately, achieve our goals.

The Nature of Change

Change is about making adjustments. It’s when we tweak a process, revise a strategy, or alter a behavior to adapt to new circumstances. Change is often reactive, driven by external pressures or the need to address immediate challenges. For instance, when we introduce a new tool to improve productivity or adjust our management style to better align with team dynamics, we are implementing change.

Change is essential because it allows us to stay relevant and responsive in a fast-paced world. However, change often operates on the surface level. It’s like rearranging the furniture in a room—while it may create a fresh environment, the fundamental structure remains the same. Change is necessary, but it can be limited in scope, offering incremental improvements rather than revolutionary shifts.

The Power of Transformation

Transformation, on the other hand, is about the complete shift in our approach, mindset, or identity. It’s this deeper, more profound process that fundamentally alters how we operate, think, and lead. Transformation is not simply about doing things differently; it’s about becoming different.

As leaders, transformation requires us to challenge our assumptions, embrace new paradigms, and be willing to step into the unknown. It’s about reimagining our leadership style, our organizational culture, and even our vision for the future. Transformation is proactive, driven by a desire to achieve higher purpose or to create lasting impact.

While change might involve adopting a new communication tool, transformation could mean redefining how we communicate altogether, fostering the culture of transparency and collaboration that permeates every level of the organization. Transformation is like remodeling a house—it changes the structure, the layout, and the very essence of the space, creating something entirely new.

Why It Matters to Us as Leaders

The distinction between change and transformation is crucial for us as leaders because it influences how we approach our roles and responsibilities. Here’s why it matters:

  1. Depth of Impact: Change can solve immediate problems, but transformation creates long-lasting solutions. By focusing on transformation, we ensure that the changes we implement are sustainable and deeply rooted in our organization’s values and vision.
  2. Resilience and Adaptability: In today’s volatile business environment, being able to adapt is essential. However, true resilience comes from transformation. When we transform, we build the foundation that allows us to thrive in the face of adversity, rather than simply survive.
  3. Empowering Our Teams: As leaders, our goal is not simply to manage but to motivate/inspire and empower our teams. Transformation invites us to lead by example, showing our teams that growth is not solely about small changes but about embracing new ways of thinking and being. This, in turn, encourages them to pursue their own transformations.
  4. Visionary Leadership: Change is often tactical, focusing on immediate needs. Transformation, however, is strategic and visionary. It pushes us to look beyond the present and envision the future that is radically different and better. By embracing transformation, we position ourselves as leaders who are not all about being reactive but are shaping the future.

As we navigate our leadership journeys, we must recognize when change is necessary and when transformation is required. Both are valuable, and transformation holds the key to creating a lasting impact and leading our organizations into the future with strength and purpose. Let’s challenge ourselves to go beyond mere adjustments and strive for profound, meaningful transformations that redefine what’s possible for us and those we lead.

Ryan Avery being open vs being inviting

Being Open VS Being Inviting

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In our journey towards personal growth and fulfillment, there are two concepts I see often people (myself included) getting wrong or not paying attention too that that is the difference between being open versus being inviting.  Understanding the small nuances between these two concepts can significantly impact how we navigate our relationships, opportunities, and overall well-being.

Openness…

Being open encompasses a broad spectrum of attitudes and behaviors. It involves receptivity to new ideas, perspectives, and experiences. When we are open, we embrace diversity, novelty, and change. It’s about breaking free from rigid mindsets and allowing ourselves to explore the unfamiliar with curiosity and without prejudice.

Openness extends beyond what some people might call tolerance; it’s about genuine acceptance and appreciation for the richness that different people, cultures, and ideas bring into our lives. It encourages us to challenge our assumptions, broaden our horizons, and evolve personally and intellectually.

Inviting…

On the other hand, inviting implies proactive engagement and deliberate choice. To invite means to actively seek out and welcome specific experiences, relationships, or opportunities into our lives. It’s about setting intentions and taking actionable steps to manifest our desires. There are different outcomes that happen in being open to feedback vs inviting feedback. There are different results for us when we are open to love and inviting love. There are different courses we can take when we are open to change versus inviting it.

Inviting involves clarity of purpose and the courage to pursue what resonates with our values and aspirations. It’s this proactive stance that empowers us to shape our reality rather than passively accepting what comes our way. By inviting, we align our actions with our goals and create pathways for meaningful connections and growth.

Why Invitation Matters

While openness fosters more of this broad-minded approach to life, invitation adds intentionality and direction. Together, they form some powerful synergy that enhances our personal development and overall satisfaction:

  1. Alignment with Goals: Inviting aligns our actions with our desires and goals, ensuring that we actively pursue what we truly want in life.
  2. Empowerment: It empowers us to take charge of our experiences and relationships, rather than feeling passive or reactive.
  3. Connection and Fulfillment: By inviting what we genuinely want into our lives, we cultivate deeper connections and experiences that resonate with our authentic selves.
  4. Growth and Adaptability: Openness combined with invitation promotes continuous learning, adaptation, and resilience in the face of challenges.

Staying inviting requires cultivating the mindset of abundance rather than scarcity. It involves letting go of fear or hesitation and trusting that there is enough space, opportunity, and love for what we desire. When we remain inviting, we signal to the universe and to ourselves that we are ready and deserving of positive experiences and relationships.

Ultimately for me, embracing both openness and invitation enriches our lives in profound ways. It encourages us to explore the world with curiosity, engage purposefully with others, and manifest our dreams into reality. So, let’s continue to nurture these qualities within ourselves and welcome the beauty of life’s possibilities with open arms and continue to be open while also being more inviting.

What is ONE invitation we can make this week that will bring more good things into our life? 

Reach with Ryan Avery

What is Your Word of The… QUARTER?

By Communication, Family & Personal Life, Motivation No Comments

For the past 5+ years, I have chosen a word for the year that helps guide my decisions and keeps me on track for my goals.

This year was the first year in which I felt like I wanted more than one word as 2020 has been… well a year!

So with that, I am challenging myself (and us) to look at the word for the next QUARTER instead of the entire year. What word do you want to focus on for Q1 of 2021 that will keep you motived, get you going and help you reach your goals?

My word for Q1 2021 will be:  REACH!

To me, this word means many things:
I want to reach new heights.
I want to reach out.
I want to reach for things I usually wouldn’t try.
I want to reach new levels of speaking.

My word is going to be REACH. What is your word going to be?

Ryan Avery 2020 Photo Challenge

The 2020 Photo Challenge

By Communication, Family & Personal Life, Motivation No Comments

Every year my family and I select the number of photos that correlate with the last two numbers of the year. This year we will select 20 (for 2020). Last year we selected 19 (for 2019) and so on.

We select the photos from our cameras that best represent the year for us and we share them with each other. This is a very fun and eye-opening experience to see what your year was all about and hear from your family about how they saw the same year.

My challenge to you starting this week is to select the 20 photos that best represent your 2020 and share them with your family and friends.

Ready… set… go!

Go From Could To Can With Ryan Avery

Go From Could to Can

By Communication, Leadership, Motivation No Comments

Many of us are starting to look at setting our goals for 2021.

When doing so, here is one small difference I found that makes all the difference in motivating me to want to follow up and follow through with goals I have been contemplating.

Try it out this week with any decision you have and see how it changes our ability to act on our ideas. Here is the video…

What Are You Not Thankful For Ryan Avery

What Are You NOT Thankful For?

By Communication, Family & Personal Life, Leadership, Motivation No Comments

Every year in America, millions of families sit down together to talk about and share what they are thankful for. However, one thing we don’t talk about is… what are we NOT thankful for?

In this week’s notes I challenge us to think about what we are NOT thankful for and why. Here is the video:

What are you not thankful for and what can you do about it or how can you change your perspective around the thing you are not thankful for?

Ryan Avery on Leadership

The AAA of Leadership: Attention. Attitude. Approach.

By Communication, Leadership, Motivation No Comments

Taking a look at all that is going on right now, there are three “A” words that come to mind for how we can get better results and be THE leader. Check out the 4-minute video this week (with a cameo from my son)!

What can we all do this week to pay attention to something outside of what we usually do, change our attitude to improve our character and look at our approach to better our results?