Welcome to Da Coach's Corner for December 2023

The purpose is to inform, inspire and have a little fun along the way.

If you'd like to set a time to talk about what coaching can do for you, click here.

The Shot Heard 'Round the Earth Inspired by President John F. Kennedy’s “Moonshot” challenge in 1962 to land a man on the moon within a decade, The Earthshot Prize was launched by Prince William in 2020 to search for and scale the most innovative solutions to the world’s greatest environmental challenges. There were five 2023 winners in these categories: restoring nature, cleaning the air, reviving oceans, recycling waste and fixing the climate. Certainly provides hope for a better planet in our future, no? (You can watch the one-hour PBS awards show here.)

A Step (Or Two?) Forward In order to avoid another government shutdown Congress passed a "two-step" stopgap spending plan that extends the default deadline twice: January 19th & February 2nd. This fancy footwork shows that our elected officials have turned pro at avoiding a long-term government funding measure.

Good Counsell The Cubs made a surprising move by hiring Craig Counsell as their new manager, replacing the popular David Ross. Although he grew up in Milwaukee and was the Brewers' manager for 9 years I guess he wanted leave the smallest MLB market for Wrigleyville. Next: Ohtani? (I'd prefer a Counsell/Josh Hader reunion.)

War, Continued 🇮🇱 Israel : The horrifying Hamas attack on innocent civilians has been met by an Israeli military siege on Gaza. At least there was a temporary cease-fire to exchange hostages. You can donate to the neutral Red Cross here. 🇺🇦 Ukraine: This slog of a war goes on with some encouraging news. Global democracy is at stake here -- IT MATTERS TO ALL OF US. You can donate to the Ukrainian people here. ❤️ Or, you can buy a Ukraine candle -- all proceeds go to a not-for-profit there.

Book Recommendations I read 50+ non-fiction books a year -- it's where I find ideas to help my clients grow their business. I get them (free!) out of my local library. Below are the ones I read this past month. (Note: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)

Be Useful: Seven Tools for Life Need to get pumped up? Arnold Schwarzenegger shares his no BS approach on how he became a world champion bodybuilder, top grossing actor, then governor of California. Chapter titles include "Have A Clear Vision," "Work Your Ass Off" and "Shut Your Mouth, Open Your Mind."

Working to Restore: Harnessing the Power of Regenerative Business to Heal the World Global journalist Esha Chhabra provides inspiring examples of entrepreneurs who don't just strive for sustainability but have started businesses that actually restore our planet. In decades to come I believe we'll look thank these eco-trailblazers.

Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things Good News: You don't need to have been a child prodigy to become a leader in your field. Adam Grant shares how top performers have unique approaches to improvement like embracing failure, making practice a game and avoiding perfection while measuring progress.

Your Future Self: How to Make Tomorrow Better Today The choices you make now will determine your seemingly distant (though not that far off) future. Choose wisely.

Financial Advisors I coach Financial Advisors around the country to help them grow their clientele. I always want to meet FA's, branch managers and/or fund wholesalers anywhere in the US. Your introductions are greatly appreciated. 

Audio Recommendation Want great ideas from Earl Nightingale, Brian Tracy, Tony Robbins and other personal development superstars? You can always go to Nightingale.com for hundreds of hours of motivational/inspirational/educational audios to help you stay on track with success.

Contribution  There are lots of ways you can "Pay It Forward" for good karma. If you want to contribute to a military veteran's transition to a civilian job like I do, sign on as an advisor with ACP AdvisorNet.org. Also, the American Red Cross will always welcome you to donate blood.

Healing Thoughts If you would be so kind, please take a moment to send healing energy as I do daily to individuals you know who have serious health challenges or are dealing with difficult circumstances. Every positive thought helps, thanks.