I recently celebrated 100 episodes of Bri Books podcast, and while reflecting I realized there were 10 major life lessons I've discovered along the way. Please tell me what you'd like to hear by leaving a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and SoundCloud. Show me your latest read by using #bribooks on Instagram, and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter.
Lesson #1: You'd be surprised how much you can accomplish in a day
Once a month, I assign myself a challenge: to brainstorm, produce, record, edit, and distribute an episode of Bri Books in 24 hours. This practice helps keep me sharp and teaches me to prioritize execution over perfection.
Lesson #2: Use momentum to propel yourself from moment to moment
Use momentum to propel yourself from moment to moment. Whenever you get a small win, use it as fuel to encourage you to move the goalpost again and again. Use any accomplishment, no matter how small, to remind yourself what you’re capable of.
Lesson #3: Success is in a hurry, so drive the speed limit
Success is in a hurry, so drive the speed limit. If something you’re pursuing is met with enthusiasm, don’t let it get cold! Success is a dish best-served piping hot, straight from the fire like a shishito pepper-topped oven-baked pizza. Not executing on a “Yes” can be just as detrimental as not trying. You have to execute on the “Yes!”
Lesson #4: You have everything you need to succeed, right now
I’ll let you in on a secret: I recorded this podcast episode with my iPhone and headphones, instead of using my usual Blue Yeti mic (which is out of commission at the moment and desperately needs to be replaced.) With just my Voice Memos app, a notepad, and a set of headphones, I’m able to recreate the magic of Bri Books with much less equipment, for the time being, a gentle reminder that you have everything you need to succeed, right now.
Lesson #5: Find the fastest rabbits and run with them
Find the fastest rabbits in your circle, and run with them. By that I mean look around your industry/ peer group/ competitors, and point out the individuals who inspire you and who are doing what you want to do—these are your rabbits. Run on the same track as the rabbits. You’ll train one another, challenge another, and before you know it you’ll find yourself alongside those you admire, innovating and pivoting eagerly and with grace.
Lesson #6: Be a fan! It costs you nothing to be kind
Be a fan! It costs you nothing to be kind. If you like something, talk about it and enjoy it—like it out loud. By developing authentic hobbies and interests, you’ll open yourself up to new inspiration.
Lesson #7: Replace envy and jealousy with study
Replace jealousy with study. In my experience, inspiration often comes disguised as envy. I’ll see someone accomplishing something and ask myself, “What makes them so good and me such a wreck?” But if you can replace defensiveness with studiousness and curiosity, you’ll find yourself letting go of negative emotions that don’t serve you.
Lesson #8: Write what you know!
Write what you know! Whatever knowledge you have to give, start right where you are, and write what you know. For me, I’m all about beauty, technology, social media, professional development, gardening, cooking, and books! By tapping into my genuine interests, I’ve been able to expand my knowledge base and thereby the breadth of content I’m able to bring to you.
Lesson #9: If you can do it all day, you can do it right now
If you can do it all day, you can do it right now. Ask yourself, “Is this a topic or subject I’m passionate about? Do I have enthusiasm? Yes? Then you’re on the right track!
Lesson #10: Break it down and make it plain
By breaking things down and making it simple, digestible, others can consume and understand your storytelling better. Don’t be afraid to drill down and get to the central nugget of your idea. Niching down will often reveal new opportunities and avenues for creating.
