#48 | 5.10.24 - Seize the Pencil: How to Rewrite Your Story // GenZ on DND / Stay at the X-Men House! / Lauren Gunderson's Notes
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Seize the Pencil: How to Rewrite Your Story
I’ve been privileged to have some truly memorable conversations over the past couple of weeks with folks who have one thing in common—they are all at a crossroads in their lives and considering some type of change.
One theme in each conversation was the power we hold to ‘change the story’ if we don’t like the way it’s being written. Even in situations that are out of our control (and there are many!), we can decide how we respond and the steps we take afterward.
As I reflect on these conversations, I want to offer an empowering reminder this week that each of us holds the pencil to rewrite our own story, especially when we don't like the way it's currently unfolding. If your current storyline doesn't resonate with who you are or who you aspire to become, it's within your power to change it.
Steven Covey wrote in one of my favorite books, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, “I am not a product of my circumstances. I am a product of my decisions." This is an interesting premise that our choices, more than our conditions, shape our lives.
Similarly, Brené Brown, in her book Daring Greatly, says, “Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we will ever do." A good reminder that embracing your story with all its imperfections allows you to begin writing a new chapter.
So, to that end, here are three quick actionable steps to rewrite your story:
1. Reflect on Your Current Story
Take some time to journal about the story you've been living. What is one of your biggest joys in this season? What is one of your biggest challenges? What themes and patterns no longer serve you? Reflection is a powerful tool for awareness and the first step towards change. When I do this, I usually just start writing with no agenda, and definitely no editing. It’s a brain dump of sorts and I’ve been surprised with what comes out.
2. Define Your Core Values and Vision
Identify what truly matters to you. What are your core values? What are the things you will fight for? What are the things you won’t tolerate? What is your ultimate “why I get out of bed”? Simon Sinek wrote, "People don't buy what you do; they buy why you do it." Knowing your 'why' can guide the chapters you write next.
3. Take Small Consistent Actions
Start small, but be consistent. Whether it's changing a habit, enhancing a skill, or altering the way you interact with others, I like to say, “Little things make big things.” Similarly, James Clear wrote in Atomic Habits, "You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems." Implement systems that align with your new story.
Remember, rewriting your story is not about achieving perfection but about embracing a story that excites you versus just going through the motions. It may require some effort, but anything that is worth doing usually does. :)
Gen Z on DND
This is a fascinating article that highlights a trend in Gen Z to use the Do Not Disturb feature on their phones during the day. I’m very intrigued by this…
Stay at the X-Men house
In doing some research for an upcoming trip, I saw that AirBnB is now offering ‘Icon’ experiences, including the chance to stay at the X-Men’s house! The pictures of this place are crazy with the amount of detail in each room!
By the way, if you ARE an X-Men fan, you owe it to yourself to check out the (fairly) new series on Disney+, Xmen ‘97. It’s a reboot of the classic X-Men cartoon that was on Saturday mornings, though I haven’t counted 97 of them yet. 😆
Lauren Gunderson's Notes
Lauren Gunderson is one of my favorite playwrights. Her play, Book of Will was one of my favorite theatrical experiences to be part of. Lauren recently posted notes she routinely gives. There’s a lot of wisdom here, yes, for performers, but also some good lessons in general.
Words to wrap up
