1000 Day Challenge

Many of us feel overwhelmed by the demands of daily life, and it can be hard to focus on what truly matters.

But what if there was a simple method to help you make real progress every day?

That’s where Robin Sharma’s 90/90/1 rule comes in.

Robin Sharma is a world-renowned author and leadership expert.

He’s famous for helping people unlock their potential.

One of his most powerful ideas is the 90/90/1 rule. It’s simple, clear, and it works.

What Is the 90/90/1 Rule?

The 90/90/1 rule is straightforward:

• For the next 90 days, spend the first 90 minutes of your workday focusing on your #1 most important task.

That’s it. Just one rule. But it can change everything.

Why Does It Work?

1. Focus Is Powerful: Most people start their day by checking emails, scrolling through social media, or doing small, easy tasks. But this scatters your energy. By using your best 90 minutes for your most important work, you set yourself up for success. You’re fresh, energized, and able to give your best effort.
2. Consistency Builds Momentum: Doing something every day for 90 days creates a habit. It also builds momentum, which makes it easier to keep going. Over time, this steady progress can lead to big results.
3. Eliminates Overwhelm: Instead of worrying about 10 different things, you focus on one. This reduces stress and makes your work feel manageable.

How to Apply the 90/90/1 Rule in Your Life

Here’s how you can make the 90/90/1 rule work for you:

1. Identify Your #1 Task: What’s the one thing that will make the biggest difference in your life or work? Maybe it’s writing a book, building your business, learning a new skill, or working on a project that’s been on your mind. Choose something meaningful—something that aligns with your goals.
2. Schedule Your 90 Minutes: Decide when your first 90 minutes of the day will be. For most people, it’s best to start right after waking up, as your mind is fresh. Avoid distractions during this time. Turn off notifications, close unnecessary tabs, and let your family or coworkers know you’re unavailable.
3. Stick to It: The magic of this rule is in the consistency. Do it every day, even if you’re tired, busy, or not in the mood. Some days might feel harder than others, but what matters is showing up.

Let’s say you’re an entrepreneur who wants to grow your business.

Your #1 task might be reaching out to potential clients or developing a new product.

By focusing on this for 90 minutes every day, you’ll make real progress.

Reflecting on the Impact of 90/90/1

The beauty of the 90/90/1 rule is its simplicity.

It cuts through the noise of modern life and helps you focus on what truly matters.

In a world filled with distractions, having a clear, simple plan can be life-changing.

This rule is not just about productivity—it’s about living intentionally.

It’s about choosing to spend your time on things that move you closer to your dreams.

When you follow the 90/90/1 rule, you’re not just working smarter; you’re also building discipline, confidence, and a sense of accomplishment.

You might have heard that it takes 21 days to form a habit. While this idea sounds encouraging, it’s not entirely accurate.

Research shows that creating a long-lasting habit usually takes 66 days.

This insight comes from a 2009 study published in the European Journal of Social Psychology, which revealed that habit formation varies widely from person to person, ranging from 18 to 254 days.

On average, though, it’s about 66 days.

What Makes Habits Stick?

Habits form when you repeatedly act in the same context until it becomes automatic.

This process takes time for several reasons:

1. Rewiring the Brain: Forming a habit involves creating new connections in your brain through repetition. This neural rewiring doesn’t happen overnight.
2. Breaking Old Patterns: It’s not just about starting something new—it’s also about overcoming resistance from old habits that feel familiar and comfortable.
3. Consistency Over Perfection: Building a habit isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being consistent enough for the behavior to feel natural over time.

From Victim to Hero

Robin Sharma’s teachings on The Victim to Hero Leap emphasize moving from a victim mindset to a hero mindset.

Here’s how this shift applies to building habits:

• A victim mindset might say, “I can’t stick to this; it’s too hard.”
• A hero mindset reframes this as, “This is challenging, but I can start small and keep improving.”

This proactive approach helps you take ownership of your actions and focus on growth rather than obstacles.

How to Build a Habit in 66 Days

Forming a habit requires self-leadership—the ability to guide yourself toward your goals.

Here’s how you can do it:

1. Set a Clear Goal: Decide on the habit you want to build and understand why it matters. A clear purpose keeps you motivated.
2. Start Small: Don’t overwhelm yourself. For example, begin with a 5-minute workout instead of an hour-long session. Gradually increase as you progress.
3. Track Your Progress: Use a habit tracker or journal to stay consistent. Visual reminders of your success reinforce the behavior.
4. Celebrate Wins: Reward yourself for milestones, no matter how small. This keeps you encouraged to continue.

Why Personal Growth Takes Time

Personal development is a journey, not a quick fix. Books like The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy and Atomic Habits by James Clear highlight the power of small, consistent actions.

These incremental steps lead to meaningful, lasting change.

When you commit to a habit for 66 days or more, you’re not just adopting a new behavior—you’re reshaping how you see yourself.

You become someone who values discipline, consistency, and improvement.

Key Takeaways

Building a habit takes time and effort, but the 66-day rule gives you a realistic timeline. Focus on consistent action and embrace the challenges as opportunities to grow. Each step you take moves you closer to becoming the best version of yourself. Stick with it—the results will be worth it.

In his book Atomic Habits, James Clear introduces a concept that resonates deeply with anyone striving for personal growth—the Valley of Disappointment.

This is the phase where the results of our efforts seem invisible, progress feels agonizingly slow, and frustration starts to creep in.

Despite the hard work we’ve put in, it feels like nothing is happening. It’s in this valley that many people give up, believing their efforts are in vain.

But if we understand this phenomenon and adjust our perspective, we can navigate through it and eventually see the fruits of our labor.

The Nature of the Valley of Disappointment

Imagine planting a seed.

For weeks, you water the soil, ensuring it gets enough sunlight and care.

Yet, nothing appears above the surface. This waiting period can feel like a failure—but beneath the soil, the seed is germinating, developing roots, and preparing to grow.

The Valley of Disappointment mirrors this process in our lives. It’s the gap between effort and visible results.

Clear explains that change doesn’t happen linearly. Instead, it follows what he calls the “plateau of latent potential.

“Early on, progress might be imperceptible because foundational work is being done beneath the surface.

It’s only when we persist long enough that we experience the breakthrough—the point when all those small, consistent actions lead to visible success.

Reflecting on Our Goals

Think about the goals you’re pursuing right now.

Are you trying to lose weight?

Build a business?

Learn a new skill?

It’s natural to expect quick wins. You put in the effort today and hope to see results tomorrow. But life rarely works that way.

If we give up too soon, we’ll never see what’s on the other side of the valley.

For example, consider someone trying to lose weight.

They’ve been exercising regularly and eating healthier for a month, but the scale hasn’t budged.

At this moment, it’s tempting to think, “What’s the point?” However, what’s happening behind the scenes—improved cardiovascular health, stronger muscles, better habits—isn’t visible yet.

Giving up now means abandoning the progress that’s been silently building.

Strategies to Climb Out of the Valley

So, how can we navigate the Valley of Disappointment and continue toward our goals?

1. Focus on Systems, Not Outcomes Clear emphasizes the importance of building effective systems rather than obsessing over specific outcomes. For instance, instead of setting a goal to “lose 10 pounds,” commit to a system of exercising three times a week and eating more vegetables. By focusing on the process, you’ll stay motivated even when results aren’t immediate.
2. Celebrate Small Wins Recognizing incremental progress can keep your morale high. Did you stick to your habit for a week? That’s a win. Did you learn a new technique or skill? Celebrate it. These small victories add up over time and keep you moving forward.
3. Reframe Your Expectations Accept that progress takes time and that setbacks are a normal part of the journey. Remind yourself that you’re building something meaningful and lasting, even if it’s not yet visible.
4. Track Your Habits Sometimes, progress is happening, but we fail to notice it. Keeping a log of your habits can provide evidence of growth, even when it feels slow. For example, journaling about your workouts or practice sessions can reveal patterns and improvements you might otherwise overlook.
5. Find Motivation in the Bigger Picture Reflect on why you started in the first place. Connecting with your deeper purpose can help you push through the tough moments. Whether it’s improving your health, achieving financial freedom, or creating something meaningful, your “why” is the anchor that keeps you grounded.

The Time Delay in Achieving Greatness

One of the biggest lessons from the Valley of Disappointment is understanding the time delay between effort and reward.

The bamboo tree is a classic example. After planting, it doesn’t show significant growth for years.

Then, suddenly, it can grow up to 90 feet in just a few weeks. This explosive growth is possible only because of the deep root system it built during its dormant years.

Similarly, your efforts are laying the groundwork for future success.

The time delay isn’t a sign of failure; it’s part of the process.

Each small action you take, each habit you reinforce, is like watering that bamboo tree.

Success may not be immediate, but it’s inevitable if you stay consistent.

Embracing the Journey

The Valley of Disappointment is challenging, but it’s also where resilience is forged.

Remember, progress isn’t always visible, but that doesn’t mean it’s not happening.

When you’re in the valley, trust the process, celebrate small wins, and keep taking consistent steps forward.

Eventually, you’ll look back and realize that the very valley you once resented was the foundation for your greatest growth.

So, if you’re feeling stuck, don’t despair. Keep showing up, keep watering the seed, and trust that your breakthrough is closer than you think.

As James Clear reminds us, “Habits are the compound interest of self-improvement.”

Small actions, repeated over time, lead to extraordinary results.

Yesterday was a tough day. I was so busy fixing a website issue that I couldn’t write the article I planned.

I had been taking the same steps to fix this problem for over two years, but yesterday, those steps failed.

That failure cost me over three hours. At the same time, I was hosting a Zoom call with leaders and regular forum attendees.

The experience taught me a powerful lesson—it’s not about the crisis; it’s about delivering results despite it.

This is the story of shifting from “can’t” to “can” and focusing on results.

The “Can’t” Mindset

The “can’t” mindset holds us back. It’s full of excuses and reasons why something won’t work.

For example:

• “I’m too busy.”
• “I’ve tried everything.”
• “It’s impossible with my current resources.”

Yesterday, I almost fell into this trap.

My to-do list was full. The website issue seemed unsolvable.

Hosting a Zoom call made me feel stretched too thin. If I had accepted these “can’t” thoughts, I wouldn’t have learned what I did.

Why Results Matter More Than Excuses

In life and work, results are what count. Nobody remembers your reasons for not delivering; they remember whether you delivered or not.

If I had focused on results early on, I could have worked on this article even while solving the website issue.

The real problem wasn’t my busy schedule—it was my mindset.

Shifting to the “Can” Mindset

The “can” mindset transforms obstacles into opportunities.

Here’s how to embrace it:

1. Focus on Solutions, Not Problems
   Instead of thinking, “I can’t write because I’m fixing a website,” think, “How can I write while fixing this?” Split the task. Delegate parts of it if possible.
2. Prioritize Results
   Results aren’t about perfection. They’re about impact. Could I have written this article in less time yesterday? Absolutely. By focusing on results, I could have delivered value despite the crisis.
3. Practice “Can Do” More
   Action creates momentum. Sometimes, it’s better to start imperfectly than to delay. Yesterday taught me that every step forward counts, even when things aren’t going smoothly.

Overcoming “Can’t” in Real-Time

Let’s break down how to practice “can do” more, even during challenges:

1. Acknowledge the Challenge
   It’s okay to feel stuck. Yesterday, I felt the pressure of fixing something that wasn’t working. But acknowledging it is the first step to overcoming it.
2. Ask Better Questions
   Shift from “Why is this happening?” to “What’s the simplest next step?” I could have asked myself, “What’s the shortest version of the article I can write now?”
3. Adjust, Don’t Stop
   Progress isn’t always linear. I could have written a draft in breaks between troubleshooting or dictated key points while on the Zoom call. Small steps compound over time.

Lessons Learned

The biggest takeaway from yesterday is this: results aren’t about waiting for perfect conditions.

They’re about moving forward despite imperfection. It’s about choosing “can” over “can’t” every time.

If I had focused on delivering results, I could have shared this lesson yesterday.

But I’m sharing it now, and that’s what counts. “Can” isn’t about doing it all.

It’s about doing what matters most.

Final Thoughts

Adopting a “can” mindset is a daily practice.

It’s about delivering results, learning from challenges, and moving forward.

Yesterday, I learned that even when things go wrong, we always have a choice: to stay stuck or to adapt.

So today, let’s choose “can.” Let’s focus on results.

And let’s practice “can do” more.

Have you ever tried to learn something new, like playing the guitar or understanding a tricky math problem, but felt stuck?

Maybe you kept thinking, Why is this so hard for me when others seem to pick it up so quickly?

The secret might lie in how you learn.

Everyone learns differently, and discovering your learning style is the key to unlocking faster learning.

The Three Main Learning Styles

Experts have identified three main ways people learn:

1. Words (Verbal Learners)
   • These people learn best through reading, writing, or listening to explanations.
   • If you’re a verbal learner, you probably enjoy reading books, taking notes, or listening to podcasts.
2. Visuals (Visual Learners)
   • Visual learners need to see things to understand them.
   • Charts, diagrams, pictures, and videos make learning easier for them.
   • If you’re a visual learner, you might prefer watching how something works rather than hearing about it.
3. Demos (Kinesthetic Learners)
   • Kinesthetic learners thrive when they can do things hands-on.
   • They learn by practicing, experimenting, or physically engaging with what they’re trying to learn.
   • If you’re this type of learner, sitting through long lectures might not be your thing.
   • You’d rather roll up your sleeves and dive in.

Why Does Knowing Your Style Matter?

Imagine trying to build a piece of furniture using only a list of written instructions (words), but you’re a visual learner who needs diagrams to make sense of it.

It would feel frustrating, right?

Understanding your learning style helps you:

• Save time by focusing on methods that work best for you.
• Stay motivated because the process feels natural and enjoyable.
• Retain information better since you’re learning in a way your brain prefers.

How to Discover Your Learning Style

Here are three simple steps to find out what works best for you:

1. Reflect on Past Experiences
   • Think about when you learned something quickly and easily.
   • Did you enjoy reading about it, watching videos, or doing it yourself?
   • That’s a big clue.
2. Experiment With All Three
   • Pick a simple task, like learning a new recipe. Read the instructions (words), watch a video tutorial (visuals), and try cooking step by step (demo). Which method felt easiest and most effective?
3. Ask for Feedback
   • Sometimes, friends or coworkers notice things about us that we overlook. They might say, “You always understand better when you watch a demo,” or “You’re great at remembering things after writing them down.” Their insights can guide you.

Blending Styles for Maximum Learning

While most people have a dominant learning style, blending methods can be even more powerful.

For example:

• If you’re a visual learner, add diagrams to your notes while reading.
• If you’re a kinesthetic learner, take notes while watching a video to reinforce the lesson.
• If you’re a verbal learner, explain what you’ve learned to someone else. Teaching is a great way to deepen your understanding.

Make Learning Fun and Personal

The most important part of learning faster is making it enjoyable.

Choose topics you’re genuinely curious about and match your learning method to your style.

Whether it’s mastering a new skill, studying for an exam, or just picking up a hobby, knowing how you learn can make the journey smoother and more fun.

Final Thoughts

Learning isn’t one-size-fits-all.

By understanding whether you learn best through words, visuals, or demos, you can customize your approach and see faster results.

So, the next time you’re stuck, pause and think: Am I using the best method for me?

Once you find your groove, there’s no limit to what you can achieve!

Have you ever wondered why some businesses thrive while others struggle to stay afloat?

The secret often lies in one key concept: value creation.

Whether you’re running a small shop, leading a team in a big company, or just thinking about starting a business, understanding value creation can make all the difference.

What is Value Creation?

At its core, value creation is about helping people solve problems or meet their needs in a way that makes their lives better.

It’s not about fancy marketing tricks or chasing profits—it’s about giving people something they truly care about.

For example, think about your favorite restaurant. You don’t just go there because they sell food.

You go because they offer something valuable: delicious meals, a cozy atmosphere, or friendly service.

That’s value creation in action.

Why Value Creation Matters

According to the book Your Personal MBA by Josh Kaufman, value creation is the foundation of every successful business.

Kaufman explains that a business exists to provide something useful to others.

If you don’t create value, there’s no reason for people to give you their time, money, or attention.

Here’s why value creation is so important:

1. It Attracts Customers: People are drawn to products and services that solve their problems or make their lives better. For example, if you sell a food supplement that boosts energy levels and improves health, you’re offering real value to people who struggle with fatigue.
2. It Builds Loyalty: When you consistently deliver value, people will keep coming back. They’ll trust you, recommend you to others, and become your biggest supporters.
3. It Drives Growth: Businesses that focus on value creation grow faster. When you solve meaningful problems, people are willing to pay for your solutions, and this fuels your success.

How to Create Value in Your Business

Creating value doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some simple steps to get started:

1. Understand Your Audience: Who are you trying to help? What are their biggest challenges or needs? Talk to your customers, listen to their feedback, and learn what they care about.
2. Solve Real Problems: Focus on making life easier, better, or more enjoyable for your customers. For instance, if you’re running a network marketing business, you could provide health products that truly improve people’s well-being.
3. Deliver Quality: People value things that work well and last. Whether it’s a product, a service, or an experience, aim for high quality every time.
4. Make it Accessible: Even the best solutions won’t matter if they’re hard to get. Ensure your products are easy to find, affordable, and convenient to use.

Whether you’re creating a product, offering a service, or just starting your entrepreneurial journey, always ask yourself:

“How can I make someone’s life better today?”

By making value creation your priority, you’ll not only build a thriving business but also leave a lasting impact on the people you serve.

Running a business can be exciting, but it is also full of challenges.

Many small business owners in the Philippines dream of growing their businesses, but they often struggle with how to do it.

One of the best ways to achieve consistent growth is by having a system that is both doable and easy to duplicate.

What is a Doable and Duplicable System?

A doable system is simple and easy to follow. It breaks down tasks into manageable steps that anyone can understand.

A duplicable system can be easily repeated by others.

This allows your team or future partners to follow the same steps and get the same results.

Why is This System Important?

1. Saves Time A clear system helps you save time. Instead of figuring things out over and over, you follow the steps.
2. Reduces Mistakes When everyone knows exactly what to do, mistakes become less frequent. This leads to higher quality work.
3. Builds Consistency Customers appreciate consistency. A system ensures your product or service is always reliable.
4. Enables Growth You cannot grow your business alone. A system allows others to step in and help without needing constant guidance.
5. Empowers Your Team When you provide a simple system, your team feels more confident and capable. This boosts morale and productivity.

How to Create a Doable and Duplicable System

1. Start Small Focus on one part of your business first. For example, start with your most time-consuming task.
2. Write It Down Put the steps on paper or a digital file. Make it as clear as possible.
3. Test It Try following your system yourself. Make adjustments if it’s too hard to follow.
4. Train Others Teach your system to someone else. If they can do it, you know it works.
5. Improve Constantly Review your system regularly. As your business grows, you may need to update it.

The Power of Duplication

Without a system, every branch might do things differently.

But if you create a detailed guide for making drinks, training staff, and managing sales, your new branches can succeed just like the first one.

Final Thoughts

A highly doable and duplicable system is not just a tool; it is a foundation for success.

It allows you to save time, reduce stress, and grow your business faster.

For small business owners in the Philippines, it is the key to scaling up without losing quality.

Start building your system today, and watch your business thrive!

Rejection is a word that often brings discomfort.

Whether it’s not landing a job, losing a client, or facing criticism, rejection can make us feel disheartened.

However, what if I told you that rejection isn’t just a setback but an opportunity?

Handling rejection well can be one of the most valuable skills you develop for your career.

Rejection Builds Resilience

Resilience is the ability to bounce back from challenges.

For many Filipinos from low-income families, life is already filled with hardships, from financial struggles to limited opportunities.

Facing rejection can feel like another weight to carry, but every time you choose to move forward, you strengthen your resilience.

The more you practice bouncing back, the more confident and capable you become in handling future challenges.

Rejection can teach you that setbacks are temporary and that your determination to rise above them is what truly counts.

Rejection Teaches You to Reflect and Improve

Rejection often comes with lessons. Even if no feedback is provided, it’s essential to take a moment and reflect on what could have been done differently.

Did you lack certain skills? Could your approach have been more polished?

This process of reflection helps you grow and prepares you better for the next opportunity.

For young Filipinos, particularly those aiming for scholarships, jobs, or other life-changing opportunities, learning to reflect and improve is a crucial step toward success.

When you experience rejection, ask yourself:

• What can I learn from this experience?
• How can I better prepare next time?
• Are there skills or tools I need to develop?

The key is to focus on growth rather than dwelling on failure.

Rejection Reduces Fear of Failure

Many young people are paralyzed by the fear of failure.

They worry about what others might say or how it might affect their confidence.

However, experiencing rejection repeatedly teaches you that failure is not the end.

Each rejection becomes a stepping stone to building courage and reducing the fear of trying.

For Filipinos struggling with limited opportunities, the fear of taking risks—whether applying for a competitive program or starting a small business—can be overwhelming.

But rejection reminds you that trying and failing is better than not trying at all.

As mentioned in a previous article, life is about choosing your pain: the pain of taking action or the pain of staying stuck.

The pain of rejection is temporary, but the regret of not trying can last a lifetime.

Rejection Opens New Opportunities

Sometimes, rejection is life’s way of redirecting you to something better.

It may close one door but lead you to another that aligns better with your goals.

The key is to keep moving forward and remain open to possibilities.

Rejection encourages you to explore other paths, and often, these new paths bring unexpected success.

For example, if you are rejected from a job, it might push you to pursue further education, gain new skills, or discover an entirely new career that suits you better.

Staying persistent and open-minded allows you to see rejection as a stepping stone rather than a stumbling block.

Rejection Builds Empathy

When you face rejection, you gain a deeper understanding of how it feels to struggle and strive for something.

This builds empathy and makes you more compassionate towards others.

As you climb higher in your career, this empathy will help you connect with and inspire others who are also working hard to overcome challenges.

For younger Filipinos who dream of becoming leaders, teachers, or community advocates, this empathy is a powerful tool.

It allows you to support and guide others, creating a ripple effect of growth and positivity.

Practical Ways to Handle Rejection

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings: It’s natural to feel disappointed. Allow yourself to feel, but don’t dwell on it for too long.
2. Separate Rejection from Your Identity: Rejection doesn’t define your worth. It’s a part of life, not a reflection of who you are.
3. Seek Feedback: If possible, ask for feedback to understand areas where you can improve.
4. Reframe Rejection: Instead of seeing it as a failure, view it as a lesson. Ask yourself, “What can I learn from this?”
5. Keep Moving Forward: Don’t let rejection hold you back. Take the next step, no matter how small it may be. Progress is key.
6. Focus on What You Can Control: Work on developing your skills, building connections, and improving your mindset.
7. Find Inspiration: Look up to individuals who overcame rejections and went on to achieve great things. Let their stories motivate you.

Every successful person has faced rejection. What sets them apart is their ability to rise above it.

Choose your pain wisely—embrace the temporary pain of rejection and action rather than the lasting pain of regret.

With this mindset, you’ll find that rejection is not something to fear but a stepping stone to your dreams.

This idea isn’t new.

Many highly successful people attribute their achievements to the power of deep work—a state of uninterrupted focus where you give your full attention to a single task.

It’s not about working harder or longer; it’s about working smarter.

Here’s why deep work is so important and how you can implement it in your own life.

Why Deep Work Matters

1. Quality Over Quantity Deep work allows you to produce higher-quality results in less time. When you focus entirely on one task, your mind can fully engage with the problem, leading to better solutions and creativity.
2. Skill Development Mastering new skills or solving complex problems requires intense focus. Deep work helps you learn faster and retain information longer because your brain isn’t constantly switching between tasks.
3. Competitive Edge In a world full of distractions, the ability to focus is becoming increasingly rare. Developing this skill can make you stand out, whether you’re climbing the career ladder or running your own business.
4. Less Stress, More Satisfaction When you complete important work without distractions, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment. This reduces stress and boosts your confidence in your abilities.

How to Implement 4 Hours of Deep Work

1. Plan Your Day Start by identifying your most important tasks. Choose one or two that require your full attention and dedicate time to them during your peak productivity hours.
2. Eliminate Distractions Turn off notifications on your phone and computer. Let coworkers or family members know you’re unavailable during your deep work sessions. Find a quiet space where you can concentrate.
3. Use Time Blocks Set aside specific blocks of time for deep work. For example, you could work from 8 AM to 12 PM and leave the afternoon for meetings and emails. Use a timer if it helps you stay on track.
4. Take Breaks Deep work can be mentally exhausting. Take short breaks between sessions to recharge. A five-minute walk or a quick stretch can help you refocus.
5. Build the Habit Start with smaller blocks of focused time and gradually increase them. Consistency is key. The more you practice deep work, the easier it will become.

Tips for Younger Professionals

• Start Small: Don’t aim for four hours on your first day. Begin with 30-60 minutes of deep work and build from there.
• Protect Your Time: Learn to say no to unnecessary meetings or tasks that don’t align with your goals.
• Focus on One Thing: Multitasking is a productivity killer. Choose one task and give it your full attention.
• Reflect and Improve: At the end of each day, review what worked and what didn’t. Adjust your approach as needed.

Final Thoughts

Deep work is a superpower in the modern workplace.

By dedicating just four hours a day to focused, intentional work, you can achieve more, learn faster, and feel more satisfied with your efforts.

It’s not easy, but it’s worth it.

Start small, stay consistent, and watch as your professional life transforms.

For much of my life, I was caught in the web of perfectionism.

Every decision was meticulously analyzed, every step scrutinized for flaws.

I believed that by overthinking and preparing endlessly, I could avoid mistakes and pain.

But in reality, this constant analysis kept me stuck—trapped in a cycle of inaction.

Then, life delivered a lesson I could never prepare for.

My mother passed away.

Her death hit me like a tidal wave, not only with grief but with a stark realization: time waits for no one.

The life we live now is all we truly have.

Suddenly, the pain of my perfectionism—the endless procrastination, the avoidance of action—felt unbearable.

I saw how my fear of making mistakes had robbed me of the simple joys of being present.

And I understood something profound: whether I act or stay stuck, there will always be pain.

The question is which pain I’m willing to endure—the pain of effort or the pain of regret.

The Pain of Perfectionism

As a perfectionist, I often told myself, “Not yet. I’ll start when it’s perfect.”

I would spend hours analyzing every possible scenario, trying to ensure I had every answer before I began.

But this delay was its own kind of suffering.

Each day I postponed, I felt the quiet ache of knowing I could have done more, lived more, or experienced more.

But I told myself the lie that “later” would be better.

When my mother passed, I realized “later” is a myth.

There is only now.

And with that realization came the truth: the pain of waiting and overthinking is no easier than the pain of taking action.

Living in the NOW

In the weeks after her passing, I began to see the power of the present moment.

Every decision I’d been afraid to make, every action I had delayed, became an urgent choice.

I asked myself:

• What if tomorrow never comes?
• What if I never get another chance to say yes to life?

These questions shattered my perfectionism.

I stopped worrying about doing things perfectly and focused on doing them now.

Whether it was pursuing a project, spending time with loved ones, or simply enjoying a quiet moment, I chose to act.

Taking Action Is a Gift

It’s not easy to let go of perfectionism.

Taking action often feels messy, uncomfortable, and imperfect.

But what I’ve learned is this: the discomfort of trying is a gift.

When I choose to act, I feel alive.

The pain of effort transforms into growth. The sting of uncertainty becomes the thrill of possibility.

And even when I fail, I find peace in knowing I tried.

By contrast, the pain of staying stuck—the pain of “what if” and “if only”—is heavy and endless.

It’s a pain that leaves you powerless, wishing for a chance you no longer have.

My Mother’s Legacy

Losing my mother taught me the most valuable lesson of all: life happens in the NOW.

She lived her life fully, embracing both the joys and challenges without waiting for the “perfect” moment.

Her example reminded me that the only way to honor life is to embrace it, flaws and all.

When I think about her, I remind myself that the pain of taking action and the pain of regret are the same—but the outcomes are worlds apart.

A Message for You

If you, too, feel paralyzed by perfectionism or hesitation, I encourage you to ask yourself:

• What am I waiting for?
• If not now, when?

Remember, every day you wait is a day you can never get back.

The pain of taking action might feel overwhelming at first, but it will lead you toward growth, joy, and fulfillment.

The pain of inaction, however, will only deepen your regrets.

I’ve made my choice.

I choose the pain of action, knowing it brings me closer to the life I want to live.

My mother’s memory inspires me to seize the NOW, and I hope it inspires you too.

So, which pain will you choose?