Question to get unstuck:

What can you do today that wasn't possible for you six months ago?

I generally receive some version of this note a few times per week:

First off, I get it, and I've definitely been there. In fact, as recently as a few months ago, I was facing this exact struggle in a few of my own pursuits.

Whenever I feel that sensation of being stuck, I ask this question:

What can I do today that wasn't possible for me six months ago?

Building on this week's theme of highlighting your growth, this question forces a reframe that shines a light on where you've been and where you are.

What felt hard that now feels easy (or at least easier)?

That's growth.

Remember: "Stuck" is often more perception than reality.

Quote on the power of today:

"You pile up enough tomorrows, and you'll find you are left with nothing but a lot of empty yesterdays." ― Meredith Willson, The Music Man

Stop waiting to live the life you want. Start acting to build it.

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Framework for improving health and wellbeing:

Shinrin-yoku

Shinrin-yoku ("forest bathing") is a Japanese practice that leverages time in nature as a form of therapy and healing.

It is generally characterized by a slow, immersive experience that promotes presence in the natural, soothing forest environment. A participant in the practice walks leisurely through a forest and is encouraged to embrace the setting with all of their senses.

Interestingly, there is real, hard science to support the soothing and healing impact of this type of therapy:

​A study out of the United Kingdom that surveyed nearly 20,000 participants found that spending 120 minutes or more in nature each week improved self-reported health and well-being.

That daily walk in nature may be even more beneficial than you realize.

To get everyone started, I want to offer a simple challenge...

For the rest of this month, commit to a daily 15-minute technology-free walk:

• No phone
• No music
• No podcasts
• No articles
• No audiobooks

You can do it with a partner, a friend, a child, or alone. You can talk or do it in silence. Lean into gratitude while you walk.

You can do it whenever it fits into your schedule. It is a simple reset that will change your life. I guarantee it.

Reply YES to this email to let me know if you're going to accept the challenge!

Ancient story on the power of perspective:

This is one of my favorite Zen stories:

Nearing the end of a long journey, a young Buddhist comes to the banks of a deep, wide river. He doesn’t know how to cross it and begins to ponder the challenge.

After several hours, he sees a Zen master on the other side of the river and calls out to him:

"Oh wise one, can you tell me how to cross this river and get to the other side?"

The Zen master thinks for a few moments and then replies:

"My son, you are on the other side."

In life, you're always trying to get somewhere else. Some new goal, some new achievement, some new summit.

But this story offers an important reminder:

Maybe you're already there. Maybe you're right where you're supposed to be.

Important visual for brain health:

This is a neat scorecard for thinking about your long-term brain health. It covers physical, lifestyle, and social/emotional factors.

While I might argue against the usefulness of some of the indicators (e.g. BMI may not be a great indicator for an individual with significant muscle mass), it's a good overall assessment.

You can download a full PDF here.