Latest news with #motivation
Forbes
a day ago
- Health
- Forbes
‘Psychology Of Winning' Pioneer Denis Waitley Dead At 92
Dr. Denis Waitley, speaking on the Psychology of Winning, at the Wentworth Hotel, June 27, 1980. ... More (Photo by Paul Stephen Pearson/Fairfax Media via Getty Images). Famed motivational psychologist Dr. Denis Waitley died in his sleep on June 7th, 2025. He was a major player in a new phenomenon that arose in America – the motivational rally. In auditoriums and convention centers, businesspeople, educators, salespeople, and homemakers gathered to hear speakers such as Norman Vincent Peale, Zig Ziglar, and Art Linkletter, among others, extol the virtues of positive thinking, unbridled optimism, and hard work. Waitley's The Psychology of Winning self-development program would go on to sell over two million copies and capture the hearts of many baby boomer age adherents, eager to carve out their place in the world. Waitley's message was built on his study of the traits that high-achieving people have in common. As a young magazine journalist, I interviewed Waitley in 1982 and asked him which characteristic, above all others, seemed to define winners from the rest of the pack? 'It's their understanding of the degree of control that their thoughts have over the actions that follow in their lives," he said. "Whether they are astronauts, parents, or prisoners of war, these individuals have taken responsibility for their actions. The deepest, most significant choice we make is in the way we choose to think." The difference between winners and losers, Waitley taught, was in what he called a person's 'self-talk.' 'The mind is talking to itself constantly at some eight hundred words per minute. Winners, he found, think constantly in terms of 'I can,' "I will,' and 'I am,' while losers concentrate their waking thoughts on what they should have or would have done, or what they can't do. When our self-talk is positive, Waitley observed, the mind then goes to work instructing the body to carry out the performance of the thought as if it had already been achieved before and is merely being repeated. Waitley would go on to sell these ideas and many others to audiences of self-improvers worldwide. He spent more than four decades on the international speaking circuit, logging an average of 500,000 miles each year, helping people—from astronauts to Olympic athletes, corporate leaders to schoolchildren—redefine success from the inside out. Waitley's clients included everyone from members of the U.S. Olympic team to Super Bowl champions, as well as scores of corporate clients. Waitley was the former Chairman of Psychology for the U.S. Olympic Committee's Sports Medicine Council and authored 16 books, including classics such as Seeds of Greatness, The Winner's Edge, and Empires of the Mind. He was invited to join NASA's astronaut training program, where he worked with space shuttle crews on mental preparation. Around the same time, he began coaching elite athletes on visualization techniques. He popularized the use of guided imagery and mental rehearsal long before it became mainstream. His speeches—delivered with laid-back authority, a radio announcer's voice, and self-effacing storytelling—centered on mental toughness, personal responsibility, and visions of a brighter future. Forty years after my interview with Waitley, his observations ring relevant today. When asked to summarize his primary message, he responded: 'The period we're living in is no worse than any other period in history, and probably better. Since society is changing rapidly, it's up to the individual to view change as normal, and to see many of the changes taking place as positive rather than negative.' Yet behind the inspiring keynotes and bestselling books was a man whose private life was marked by turmoil. Born in 1942, Waitley grew up in Depression-era San Diego, California. His mother worked in a factory, and his father was a warehouseman. They soon divorced. 'One night my father came into our bedroom to say goodbye,' Waitley recalled in an interview with Success Magazine. 'We didn't see him again for six years.' Waitley's struggle to break free of a loser mindset and shift into an abundant winner's mindset propelled his determination to make something of himself. 'I wrote The Psychology of Winning while I was losing,' Waitley recalled. 'I wanted to remind myself what I needed to do to change myself from loser to winner.'
Globe and Mail
2 days ago
- Business
- Globe and Mail
How cutting down on meetings and ‘intentional serendipity' can improve your team's cohesion
Question: I feel like my team isn't clicking the way we should be. We went through some changes this past year, including a couple of layoffs and a move back into the office three days a week. Now, no one seems very happy to be here. As a team leader, how can I encourage more motivation and cohesion? We asked Jennifer Moss, international speaker, co-founder of the Work Better Institute and author of Why Are We Here?, to tackle this one: This is happening all over the place right now. It is very much what I'm hearing from a lot of leaders. When we have been given agency to do things in a certain way and then it is clawed back, our instinct as humans is to hold on to that sense of freedom, even at personal cost. We can be emotionally resistant and it is often subconscious. It's important for leaders to understand and validate that resistance. I think that we need to have more conversations about it with our teams. Maybe you're not working fully remote anymore, but are there other things that could increase your flexibility? Maybe it's not where you work, but how you want to work. Are there ways to job craft? To use more of your strengths so that you're working on what you love to do? The happier people are at work, the more they are going to get along with other people. Return to office mandates can actually reduce team cohesion and reduce community. Everyone is saying remote work is creating this loneliness epidemic. I say it's time poverty that is creating the loneliness epidemic. Microsoft reported that there was a 252 per cent increase in time spent in meetings for the average Teams user between February 2020 and February 2022. A 2023 survey by Slack found that more than two hours a day in meetings starts to decrease productivity. Let's think about how we can increase time wealth. Figure out how to cut down on meeting fatigue and how to create intentional serendipity. We used to have rituals. People thought it was forced fun; they would roll their eyes and say now I have to go into the break room and have this terrible slab cake and celebrate four birthdays. But what happened is it created these ad-hoc chats about the movie we saw last week, and that increased our connectivity with people. Now there's none of that. There are ways to slowly build morale. Maybe it's 20 minutes once a week of having lunch together. Great research out of Cornell University found that employees having lunch together changed retention, improved well-being and decreased safety risks. Leaders also need to celebrate more of the small wins every week. We need to get people feeling like, 'Today I did a good thing, this week I did a good thing, this month I did good thing.' And if you are going around and saying, 'This is a cool thing that my team did,' you are also protecting your team from layoffs because you're giving them visibility to the rest of the organization. That provides psychological safety and creates loyalty. The spillover is more cohesion, because when people are feeling good, they tend to be nicer to other people. 'I felt like a hamster on a wheel': Why some millennials are choosing micro-retirement According to Sumana Jeddy, a Calgary-based work wellness coach for large enterprises, micro-retirement is a 'strategic, intentional break' that helps individuals with recovery over a health issue or a significant personal experience; it can also redirect personal ambitions. Instead of waiting until 65 to stop working, micro-retirees are taking an extended work break in their 30s or 40s. They do whatever they can to recover and refocus over a three or four-year time period, then return refreshed to the same or a different job with some newly acquired skills and experience. Working long hours can change our brain – and not in a good way, study shows Previous research has found correlations between working long hours and other negative health outcomes, such as cardiovascular disease, burnout, anxiety and depression, but the researcher says this is the first study to observe physical changes to the brain. 'Our study extends this understanding by providing novel neurobiological evidence that chronic overwork directly correlates with structural changes in brain regions that control cognitive and emotional functions,' says Wanhyung Lee, a researcher in the department of preventive medicine at Chung-Ang University in Seoul, South Korea. These women are leading in male-dominated industries – and they're hiring all-women teams Annastacia Plaskos shadowed a contractor for several years before she felt she had the skills to set out on her own. Then, she launched Fix It Females, a home renovation business that does everything from house painting to drywalling to building. The business rapidly grew from three to nearly 40 employees within a few years – all of them women. 'For me, showing other women you can do this, that it is possible [is important],' she says. 'You can make the same amount of money that a male can in this industry. It is doable.'
The Sun
2 days ago
- Health
- The Sun
Exact time Brits are most likely to get ‘hangry' revealed in survey – do you agree?
A SURVEY has revealed the exact time Brits are most likely to get 'hangry'. The portmanteau refers to the combined emotion of ' hungry ' and 'angry' - a common feeling among those surveyed. The average Brit gets 'hangry' around 100 times a year – typically at 2.22pm. A poll of 2,000 adults found 72 per cent have fallen victim to this at one time or another – with 45 per cent of these stating 'you wouldn't like me when I'm hangry.' And being in this state of mind has far-reaching consequences - 32 per cent admit it impacts their motivation to do anything productive. While 17 per cent revealed it has led to a mistake at work and 30 per cent said their sense of humour has taken a hit. Commissioned by McDonald's, which has launched the new Big Arch burger made with two 100 per cent British and Irish beef patties, topped with white cheddar, onions, lettuce, pickles, and Big Arch sauce, the research found 26 per cent admit they cope 'poorly' with hanger symptoms. Almost a third (31 per cent) say they've been caught out by a loud stomach rumble in a meeting, while 12 per cent have even experienced an ill-timed grumbling stomach mid-date. A spokesperson for McDonald's: "It's an easy trap to fall into because hanger can spring upon us at any moment. 'It's important that we are prepared for these moments and have something on hand to relieve the hanger symptoms.' Other than lack of food, the study found stress (39 per cent) is the biggest cause of hanger, with lack of sleep (33 per cent) also a common factor. More than a third (35 per cent) revealed it tends to happen mostly when they're bored – although 27 per cent say it's unpredictable – and occurs at 'random times.' McDonald's CEO reveals major 'menu news' as fans cry for snack wrap return Hanger doesn't just strike on the go—it's a regular challenge at home too, with 24 per cent saying it's a common problem in their household. It emerged 63 per cent recognise the signs of hanger before it fully takes over, according to the figures. And when it hits, speed matters —57 per cent act fast and reach for something readily available, while 36 per cent attempt to curb it with water. Those aged between 18 and 24 are the hangriest age group, with 48 per cent admitting this happens to them at least three times per week. A spokesperson for McDonald's added: 'It is a good sign that Brits are aware when they're feeling hangry. 'A quick solution is always key so that you can continue to go about your day, at your best.' 3
Entrepreneur
3 days ago
- Business
- Entrepreneur
The CEO's Guide to Thriving as a First-Time Parent
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own. Becoming a first-time parent is one of those transformative life experiences that fundamentally reshapes your perspective. As a CEO and a new father, my world recently flipped upside down, in the best possible way. Fatherhood brings immense joy, but it also introduces a whole new set of challenges around balancing motivation, delegation, mental fitness, opportunity pursuit and time management. For leaders accustomed to full-throttle work, the transition to parenthood can seem daunting. Yet, if navigated thoughtfully, it can strengthen your leadership capabilities, sharpen your strategic thinking and enhance your personal growth. Related: 5 Ways Becoming a New Dad Has Made Me a Better Leader Finding motivation in new priorities One immediate impact of parenthood is an evolution in what motivates you. Prior to becoming a father, my drive was predominantly professional — launching products, hitting revenue targets, scaling teams. But fatherhood quickly reshapes priorities, anchoring your motivations around family stability, long-term security and creating a legacy that extends beyond the boardroom. Take Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta, who openly shares how becoming a parent changed his outlook. After the birth of his daughters, Zuckerberg notably increased his commitment to philanthropy, dedicating significant resources toward initiatives aimed at improving education, health and community well-being. Parenthood encouraged him to think deeply about the broader societal impact of his work, showing that new motivations born from family can profoundly enhance leadership. Mastering the art of delegation As a first-time parent, your available time shrinks drastically. Suddenly, the hours you could freely dedicate to your startup narrow significantly, requiring a greater reliance on delegation. This constraint, though initially frustrating, is actually a hidden gift, forcing you to become a better, more efficient leader. Elon Musk, founder of Tesla and SpaceX, openly discusses his approach to delegating critical tasks after becoming a father to multiple children. Musk stresses the importance of building strong, capable teams to whom you can confidently delegate substantial responsibilities. As a CEO, the necessity to delegate effectively is heightened by parenthood, compelling you to empower your team more intentionally and thus accelerating organizational growth. Related: How I Started a Business and Had a Baby in One Year Without Going (Completely) Insane Staying mentally fit and sharp Balancing the demands of parenthood and leadership requires impeccable mental fitness. Sleep deprivation, emotional stress and shifting priorities can test your mental resilience. However, by establishing routines that prioritize mental health, you not only become a better parent but also a more effective CEO. Meditation, regular exercise and deliberate rest become non-negotiables rather than luxuries. Jack Dorsey, co-founder of Twitter and Square, has often spoken about how mindful practices such as meditation became integral to his routine after significant life shifts. These routines sharpen decision-making capabilities, increase emotional intelligence and foster resilience, all critical to both effective parenting and leadership. Aggressively pursuing opportunities with new constraints While parenthood introduces constraints, it also teaches efficiency in pursuing opportunities. With limited hours, every minute of work becomes more strategic, targeted and intentional. Parenthood can clarify what truly matters, pushing you to aggressively chase the right opportunities rather than simply every opportunity. Alexis Ohanian, co-founder of Reddit and father to Olympia, has been vocal about how parenthood refined his perspective on work and investments. His advocacy for parental leave and family-friendly policies also opened new professional avenues aligned with his personal values, demonstrating that parenthood can help clarify and focus your professional pursuits. Balancing work, life and legacy Ultimately, balancing parenthood and CEO responsibilities isn't about compartmentalizing your life into work and family boxes. It's about creating harmony and recognizing how each role enriches the other. Parenthood expands your empathy, enhances your strategic thinking and deepens your understanding of long-term planning. Jeff Bezos famously prioritizes family breakfasts, maintaining that quality time with family sets a positive tone for his professional engagements. These habits create an integrated, sustainable approach to balancing responsibilities, ensuring that neither your business nor your family suffers at the expense of the other. Related: What Entrepreneurship and Parenthood Taught Me About Empathy Looking forward Becoming a first-time parent as a CEO is undeniably challenging. It demands significant adjustments in how you delegate, prioritize, maintain your mental health and pursue opportunities. Yet, this life-changing experience is not just a personal milestone but an extraordinary professional advantage. Parenthood shapes you into a leader who is more focused, empathetic, strategic and resilient. To fellow CEOs entering parenthood for the first time: Embrace the challenge. Recognize that your experiences as a parent don't detract from your role as a CEO; they elevate it. By thoughtfully integrating parenthood into your leadership style, you can achieve greater professional success while nurturing a fulfilling, meaningful family life.
Daily Mail
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Rob Lowe, 61, reveals the real reason he can't stop posting shirtless selfies... after wowing fans in snap with son
Rob L owe has revealed why he is determined to keep posting shirtless snaps of himself well into his 60s. The actor, 61, who wowed fans by posing with his topless nepo baby son earlier this month, said of his sexagenarian sexy snaps: 'If you've got it, flaunt it.' 'Every once in a while, you've got to throw it down. You've got to be like, "Yeah, come on,"' Rob told People. 'If you got it, flaunt it, use it or lose it, and it ain't bragging if you've done it. Those are my three go-tos,' he added. And he's passed the shirtless photo habit down to his son John Owen Lowe, 29. 'Lowe family tradition: self-indulgent shirtless gym photos,' the Parks and Recreation alum joked in the caption of his post last month. The About Last Night actor talked more about the shirtless selfie with his son, saying it inspired a little familial competition. 'It got really competitive. Then we were doing extra sets, you know what I mean?' the St. Elmo's Fire star said. He continued, 'It's a little bit motivating, and you've got to find your motivation wherever you can find it.' The longtime Atkins spokesperson credits his muscular frame to his workout routines. 'Atkins helps me achieve my health goals,' The Floor host explained. 'For me, the real value in it is whatever your goals are — whether it's losing weight, maintaining weight or replacing mealtime. The products just really make sense and are delish,' Rob said. 'The high-healthy-protein, low-carb lifestyle is just a great fit for me, and it's helped so many people that I love be a part of that way of thinking and eating [too],' he added. And when it comes to his favorite Atkins foods, the West Wing star said her enjoys 'the shakes' and 'the protein bars.' 'I have a sweet tooth, which is a brutal one. Rob is staying busy by hosting the podcast Literally! With Rob Lowe, where he regularly welcomes A-list guests including Adam Scott, Jason Isaac, and Kristin Davis. He is also the face of the Tubi game show The Floor. Earlier this month Lowe shared vivid memories of his grandmother Mim's battle with breast cancer. The actor, known for his role in 9-1-1: Lone Star' shared a close bond with his grandmother during his childhood, and has said his grandmom's health fight became a pivotal experience that would shape his life and the way he approaches cancer awareness today. He told People: 'My memory of it is like it happened yesterday because of this sort of uproar it caused in our family. In those days, the odds were not good. I 100 percent remember our family feeling lost, wishing that there was more that could be done.' Rob affectionately refers to his grandmother as 'my beloved,' and recounts the profound impact her illness had on their family. As Mim's condition worsened, doctors told her to 'get her affairs in order' in a grim diagnosis that devastated the family. But just as it seemed there were no options left, Mim's fate took a dramatic turn when she was accepted into a clinical trial for breast cancer treatments. Rob also explained how the clinical trial changed everything for his grandmother, saying: 'There were multiple times where she had run out of options and just at that moment there was a clinical trial (that) changed the course of her cancer journey.' Mim's survival story became a beacon of hope for Rob and his family. The actor said: 'She survived and thrived longer than anyone with her type of cancer in those days.' He added Mim's success in the trial not only defied the odds but also paved the way for treatments that would later become standard care.
