When Work & Life Crossover: How Athletes, Pop Culture Stars and Biz Leaders Maximize Their Mojo Between Sun-up and Sundown

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It’s one of those events that seem to get better and better. As the Superbowl buildup came to its highpoint, many wondered who’d be named league MVP. While Lamar Jackson didn’t make it to the big game, folks got their eyes on what he’s gonna do next season to shake the post-season blues.

The TV ratings numbers suggest that the Superbowl pulled more eyeballs than any other program ever. The expectation for Usher’s performance at the halftime show was met with collab appearances from some main players in pop music. Then to top things off, Usher tied the knot and dropped new music.

He wasn’t the only one breaking pop culture news. Beyonce and Taylor Swift spilled the beans on their latest projects. Over the years, we’ve watched them go from green shoots to icons right before our eyes. They’re among an elite level of performers who have style, fandoms and ‘energizer bunny’ type mojo.

A recent USA Today news article suggests that professionals these days see work/life balance as important to their well-being. But it also showed that many are willing to give-up some dollars for having work/life meaning. It’s this modern-day mindset that points to them having more work/life mojo.

So how do athletes, pop culture stars and biz leaders maximize their mojo between sun-up and sun-down when work and life crossover? It’s true, many have the resources to hire nannies and assistants for their to-do lists. If they take-on a greater load in how they serve country and family, they’re focused on:

Legacy:- As the saying goes, “begin with the end in mind and work your way back”. It’s one of the 7 habits of highly effective people. It’s a way to not be limited by the now or the not yet.
Opportunity:- Some say luck is where preparation meets opportunity. But sometimes opportunities come disguised or hidden to the naked eye. You gotta have an ‘A+ eye’ as your AI.
Voice:- Finding your voice isn’t just about the sounds you make. It’s also about the leaps and bounds you’ll take. When truths are faced and voices get shaped then dreams get draped.
Earnings:- Are you earning your keeps? That’s to say are you getting better, smarter, calmer, wiser in your work/life activities? It’s not just about how you make a living but also make a life.

Keys might say it’s all about the L.O.V.E. you bring to the table. Love for people reminds us to serve the ‘least of these’; love for country makes you wanna serve on the frontlines, whether in battle of war or halls of civics. A love for your game makes you wanna put in the work so folks know you’ve got what it takes.

The talk is that the Kansas City Chiefs are on a ‘dynasty streak’. With back-to-back Superbowl wins, they’re looking to do the unthinkable…a three-peat. Folks are wondering what’s it gonna take for them to raise their game. Well, seems like they’re already thinking about legacy, opportunity, voice and earnings.

Talkback: What does work/life mojo say about the love you bring to the table?

Tip: When work and life crossover, it takes balance and meaning to experience the greatest earnings.

Tracks: Buju Banton – Born for Greatness – https://youtu.be/mNXfca7eo14?si=siwGKirIliaESFNp

Hil St. Soul – Blessed – https://youtu.be/Tk6FKBT8tkk?si=W1FCzuRKq2aGle05

The Next Crop of Block-Busters: How Jay-Z and Mike Epps are Making Good on Their Connections in High Places

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There’re so many streaming media outlets trying to bundle their service. Industry experts believe that’s become necessary in order to survive. Gen Z’ers might not even know that before there was ‘Netflix and Chill’, there was mail-order DVD delivery. And before that was the Blockbuster store.

Well, the next crop of block-busters isn’t from the movie business. As Hip-Hop celebrates its 50^th anniversary, a biz mogul is being celebrated with a multi-floor exhibition at the Brooklyn Public Library. “The Book of HOV” exhibit celebrates the life & work of Shawn ‘Jay-Z’ Carter, the first hip-hop billionaire.

While that’s happening in NYC, Comedian Mike Epps has teamed-up with HGTV on ‘Buying Back the Block’ in Indy. He and his TV-producer wife bought six houses where he grew up, turning them from ‘rundown to uptown’ in appeal. He wants to give the community a chance at a hometown comeback.

Jay-Z says it’s important to remember where you came from. This way it can keep you on course for where you’re going. For sure, the exhibit reflects that and captures his many multi-platinum albums. Epps has travelled all over the country and seen ‘blight by flight’ when residents leave and resources scatter.

They’re both making good on their roots, riches and relationships in biz. The fact that the exhibit is in Brooklyn seems to light Jay’s fire as a ‘full circle’ moment. For Epps, one of the houses that went under reno was once owned by his grandmother. They’re at a point of ‘flashback and comeback’ fueled by:

Motivation:- Jay-Z says his upbringing was ‘normal’ but there were times of violence and bloodshed not far away. His success motivation came from not trying to fit-in but to break-out.
Mastery:- He and Epps have put in the work to be a master at their craft. That makes it easier to duplicate themselves in other areas even if it’s not the primary skillset that got them famous.
Membership:- As the credit card commercial likes to say, “membership has its privileges”. In their case they’re drawing on relationships over the years from their network and net worth.
Meaning:- With many career tracks, there’s a time money is the driver. Then the focus expands to being a mainstay in the game. After a while, it’s about more meaning in your life’s work.

When asked what’s next, album or enterprise, HOV wasn’t locked-in one way or other. His social justice work is front-and-center. Plus, his NFL collab led to production honors of a Grammy for the Superbowl halftime show in LA. That was nothing short of major considering his life’s journey growing up in danger.

These guys got lots on their plates to keep them busy on the road, in showbiz or family life. They’ve made the money, become a mainstay and are now banking on having more meaning. They’re showing us what it takes to not just make a living but to make a life as the next crop of block-busters. It’s how we’ll roll!

Talkback: What else might Jay-Z or Epps have up their sleeves as top dawgs in the marketplace?

Tip: While making a living gets you going, making a life keeps you on a path of money, mainstay and meaning.

Tracks: Ciara, Chris Brown – How We Roll – https://youtu.be/xnumI3_qt-w?si=49A_QxeAbHLbKdCE

Nailah Blackman – Jam of the Year – https://youtu.be/_EepymWJeXc?si=JnW2rgt-BcYQEKTQ

Next Gen Ready to Ball? How Aliyah Boston and Diamond Miller Show Up Not Just for the Fame But to Raise Their Game

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It was ‘lights out’ excitement at the recent NCAA Women’s Final Four Championship. The build-up was epic and the boost in game cred carried over from semis to Finals. The numbers speak for themselves, on the court in player stats, in sports entertainment as well as market stats. Why is all this happening?

Well, seems like next gen is ready to ball! Just look at team play and individual records of Aliyah Boston and Diamond Miller. Boston is prob the most heralded South Carolina Gamecocks player in history. While Miller is the second Maryland Terrapins player to achieve high first-round pick in the WNBA draft.

**Aliyah Boston on GMA**
#1 Overall Pick

Boston’s stat sheet reads like a long form record book of accomplishments. The highlights include three straight Final Four appearances, Finals Most Outstanding Player, multiple Defensive Player of the Year Awards along with Player of the Year distinction. You could easily run out of breath trying to list them all.

Miller is no slouch either as a product of Somerset NJ (hometown of this blog’s editor) and a scoring machine for the Terps. At the end of her high school days she realized she had what it took to be among the best. So, she just put in the work and feels blessed for the chance to grow as a player and person.

It’s a very proud moment not just for Miller in NJ but also Boston who’s a native of the U.S Virgin Islands. Friends and fam know that they don’t just show up for the fame, but moreso to raise their game. Plus, since the WNBA isn’t just a game but also a business, they’ll up-level their value as players by turning:

Skill into silver:- When they sign that contract they’ll be trading their talent for cash, coins and maybe a few pieces of silver? Going from NIL to the pro space gets dollaz added to the bag.
Product into gold:- Every team starts out the season hoping to go as far as possible and to maybe one day win it all. This requires stellar performance for players to take home the gold (silver) trophy.
Hustle into rubies:- That’s when passion for the game makes a player/team red hot. We saw that with Boston and the Gamecocks. The Indiana Fever hope she’ll light the same fire there.
Status into diamond:- To have diamond status in the music biz is to forge impact in industry and beyond the charts. Miller’s fandom thinks she’s got the goods in the game and beyond the arena.

Here’s some more on the market stats. The TV ratings for the Finals game was almost double from the semis two days earlier. It was also almost double since the last record high in 2002 when UCONN won the title. The jump in market appeal reminds us of what U.S. Women’s Soccer has done over the years.

In the next few weeks, the dust will settle before the start of the WNBA season. The veteran players and rookies will take the court to showcase their skills, improve the product, fire-up their passion and elevate the status of the league. You can bet Boston and Miller will be among names making the highlight reel.

Talkback: Did the Finals game between LSU and Iowa meet or beat fan expectations?

Tip: You go from ‘diamond in the rough’ to top draft pick by turning skill into silver, passion into rubies as well as hustle & flow into what makes winners go.

Tracks: Rihanna – Diamond – https://youtu.be/lWA2pjMjpBs

Ace Hood – Hustle Hard – https://youtu.be/r_dh16HQkqQ

Crush It Like These Major Players: Key Steps to Being on Top of Your Game and Having First-Rate Status!

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GOAT! That’s a term Mikaela Shiffrin doesn’t like having said about her. It brings a flashback of the real animal. Also, she prefers the term ‘resetting records’ over ‘breaking records’. No one can take away her first-rate status as a downhill skier. She recently became the winningest female athlete in World Cup.

In a different world, Lebron James reigns supreme. He recently passed the all-time scoring record once held by Kareen Abdul-Jabbar. The GOAT label often comes up with James too. Interestingly, breaking the scoring record wasn’t something he thought possible or set out to do in the early days of his career.

While Shiffrin and James dazzle in different sports, they just crush it on the ski slopes and basketball hoops. The similarities stack-up based on how they’ve maintained longevity, are media savvy and bring a high sense for social consciousness. James is vocal on justice issues, Shiffrin on climate change.

Jabbar had kind words to say about James when his record was smashed. He reminded us that “when one person climbs higher than the last person, we all feel like we are capable of being more.” Lindsey Vonn might agree with those words since it was her winning record that Shiffrin passed to being on top.

Shiffrin had a low period after the sudden loss of her dad from a head injury. Her focus went off-track as her passion was low grade. Even with James breaking the record, the Lakers haven’t been putting up enough points. So how do they keep their game at such a high level? What’s the secret to their longevity?

Creativity:- As Shiffrin raises her level of preparation for upcoming events she finds ways to keep her performance on the up-and-up. Plus, creativity isn’t always flashy but it’s likely groovy.
Consistency:- For James to break the all-time scoring record, he had to be dropping points on a consistent basis. That might explain how he broke the record in one less season than Jabbar.
Reinvention:- James has changed NBA teams three times and with each team he’s won a championship. Beyond his physical condition, he’s also been about game reinvention.
Collaboration:- Shiffrin has teamed-up with other skiers on sounding the alarm about climate change. They feel the future of the sport rests on not having warm winters that cause snow melt.

Shiffrin still has some fuel left in the tank. Many believe she’ll pass the all-time World Cup wins record held by a male skier. While her last Olympic appearance was a disappointment, she’s the only skier to have won in all six World Cup disciplines, according to the LA Times.

If not GOAT, then at least first-rate status is something they both can claim based on how they crush it. James is still running up and down the court like he’s got spring-chicken legs. Shiffrin is used to being on top of the mountain heading down. But renewed passion inspires us to rise from low grade to high-point.

Talkback: Could James be as good as Shiffrin on the slopes, or Shiffrin as good as James on the court?

Tip: ‘GOATS’ know how to ‘crush it’ with passion and maybe even go from low grade to high point.

Tracks: Tedashii Ft Lecrae – Get Out My Way – https://youtu.be/ZBshbsz1nGg

Archie Eversole Ft ‘Chiefs’ Playoff Hype – We Ready – https://youtu.be/Lzuc2fiwIOk

Shaking Things Up Beyond How You Impress: Find the Moxie You Need to Rock the Game in a Way That’s Priceless

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Doc Cunningham
“Da Island Guy”

Time Magazine has named its person of the year. It’s a big deal in some circles to see if their key influencer made it among the finalists. The honor, normally going to public figures across, politics, business and showbiz, tries to bring some end-of-year ‘umph’ to kinda top-off the wild and wonderous.

No worries, though Quinta Brunson and Lizzo didn’t make the list, they’re among pop culture’s movers and shakers. Brunson has had a world-wind year with the success of the sitcom Abbott Elementary. It leads the Critics Choice TV category nods and she’s also one of People Magazine’s Persons of the Year!

In the case of Lizzo, she’s been making the rounds on her album release promotional stops, like the Today Show and SNL. Plus, with her Apple TV+ documentary, she’s giving fans a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to put on a concert. Ofcourse, fans get a look & feel for what makes her tick.

Brunson recently had a sit-down interview with Oprah where she got high praise about her work. The media mogul was impressed with how Brunson has been shaking things up beyond how you impress. Meantime, Lizzo recently made history playing the flute once owned by founding father James Madison.

While as kids, neither Brunson or Lizzo were seen as future superstars, they’ve found the moxie to rock the game in a way that’s priceless. For Brunson, it started with doing short comedy clips that went viral, while with Lizzo it was in mixing hip hop with her performance style. So they know you gotta be:

Ready:- Brunson had flashes of fame in her early days of trying out comedy bits. While going viral was what gave her the initial exposure, it’s messaging that would click and make her stick.
Steady:- Lizzo remembers having to skip hanging out with friends so she could go to music class and bond with her flute. That gave her a feeling of steady, even with the craziness in her world.
Element:- In Science class students learn the Periodic Table of Elements. It gives the basic makeup of things. In showbiz they’ve found their connecting talent/element for crossover appeal.
Represent:- Brunson might say Abbott Elementary was meant to represent the value that teachers bring to society. For Lizzo, it’s about how ‘big girls’ get to represent their fullness in life.

Brunson isn’t so concerned these days about going viral. The thing that drives her passion is in making a show that brings generations together. She got the idea from reminiscing of a time when she could watch a TV show with her grandfather and they’d both get the joke.

After a long day in the studio or on the road, they’ll tell you that there’s nothing like being in your element and having the chance to represent. It turns the feeling of making an impression into a fun form of expression. Those moments in their niche are the ticket for how they bring content that’s cool and rich.

Talkback: While at the office, how do you get the most out of your element?

Tip: Turning passion into niche gives the feeling of turning impression into a fun form of expression.

Tracks: Busta Rhymes Ft Mary J. Blige – You Will Never Find Another Me – https://youtu.be/XKwmuRT2VOI,

Maffio, Kymani Marley, Julian Marley – Blessings – https://youtu.be/8Sc5yOzrNDM

How Folks Headline the Main Event: By Getting the Most Out of Their Careers Even When It Means Changing the Game

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Doc Cunningham

The college homecoming season is the place to be! It’s when alums return to their alma mater to reminisce on their experience. It’s usually built around the big football game between rivals. That was the case recently in Jackson Mississippi and the JSU squad with Deion ‘Coach Prime’ Sanders.

But there’s another kinda homecoming with the Netflix release of “The School for Good and Evil” starring Kerry Washington and Charlize Theron. The story is about a school that produces heroes and villains, depending on their social track and pedigree. Washington plays the Dean of the School of Good.

Since becoming head coach, Sanders has been generating major buzz and team play. Companies have come calling to support the program. High School recruits are giving HBCU’s a second look. The team has raised its game as fans get turned-up where the recent homecoming was a blockbuster sellout.

It’s like Sanders could be thought of as ‘Dean of Prime Athletics’ by how he’s impacted the gridiron space. Plus, he and Washington, are no strangers to making social impact. In between movie promo stops, she’s also helping to get the word out on the upcoming midterm elections. It’s that important to democracy.

From early days, Sanders knew how to get the headlines. His flashy style and breakout play often made the highlight reel. Now he’s about to create a major first, as ESPN’s GameDay Crew’s live broadcast will happen on the JSU campus. They’ve both been getting the most out of their careers by how they:

Learn the Game:- Sanders knows it’s not just about doing drills and mastering game skills. It’s also about those transferrable skills no matter where they take their mojo on the field of dreams.
Flip the Rules:- Usually, ESPN’s College GameDay broadcast happens on a Power-5 conference school campus. But Sanders has his team balling and sports media folks talking.
Perform the Sell:- Washington took a different type role than we’re used to from her days on Scandal. But she connects the film’s entertainment value with her market value as an actress.
Bring the Sizzle:- The idea behind the School for Good & Evil isn’t just about life’s choices. It reminds us of how to balance our yin and yang, our old-school and new-school to bring the sizzle.

Washington says she enjoyed shooting the movie because her kids were there to admire the costumes. The chemistry between her and co-star Theron was an instant connect. They made the most of the project as a career move by ‘breaking the mold’ to play a role somewhat outside of their comfort zone.

Sanders has been breaking news with a recent appearance on CBS 60 Minutes. The team will prob headline coverage and analysis on ESPN’s Saturday line-up. If a homecoming sellout didn’t get your attention, then chances are you think it’s just certain schools that can create the next generation of pros.

Talkback: Is ‘Prime Vision’ something just for JSU or will it catch on elsewhere?

Tip: Be a headliner by how you maximize a second chance, cause folks to give you a second look and be amazing.

Tracks: Mary J. Blige – Amazing – https://youtu.be/CRZig-WX_U8

El DeBarge – Second Chance – https://youtu.be/CBhw5FUBHY8

Underdogs Rise Up: How Viola Davis and Frances Tiafoe Turned Their Backstory to Breakout Glory

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The wall-to-wall coverage across broadcast and cable is over! The world was watching the pomp and circumstance around Queen Elizabeth’s homegoing events. With every angle covered in location and legacy, some folks aren’t sure if the whole Monarchy thing will survive without having to scale back.

While her son Charles has assumed the throne as King, there’s still a coronation ceremony in the works in the coming months. Imagine how some Brits feel about him taking over? Even a few Commonwealth countries are thinking about their next steps. That story is still unfolding and extends for 1000 or so years.

How ‘bout the other unofficial ‘Kings’ that fans these days are giving props to? There’s Viola Davis in her new movie role as ‘The Woman King.’ And there’s Frances Tiafoe who some think could be the next king of tennis (so to speak). Think of them not simply as ’rags to riches’ but more like ‘underdogs rise up’.

Davis spreads her wings from TV screen to big screen as both star and producer. She plays a warrior in an all-female African army from the 1800’s. Tiafoe is the first Black American to advance to the U.S. Open semis since 1972 and Arthur Ashe. He’s stepped-up his game from junior tennis to being ranked top-25.

Their journeys played out differently but with a similar thrust. For Davis, it was looking around and being on the socio economic low-end. She still found a way out and way up to her breakthrough. For Tiafoe, he grew-up seeing wealth, it just wasn’t his own. They’ve turned their backstory to breakout glory with a:

Dream:- At 12, he got bit by the tennis bug from hanging around the Sports Center where his dad worked as a custodian. Dreams can happen by association, aha moment or even trial & error.
Goal:- To build-on his desire and skills, a coach took him under his wings. Then one tournament after another he started to achieve his goal of eventually winning big on the youth circuit.
Lane:- Davis decided to pursue this movie project as she considered new acting roles. Sometimes in careers it means re-inventing yourself in a new lane or a new line of success.
Brand:- She’s expanded her cred not just as actress but as producer and can begin to carve her niche as a brand. Your brand is how you want others to see you, based on how you do you.

Davis shares how persistence and perseverance was needed to make the movie. Sometimes when a thing has never been done before, it can be a tough sell. But along the way it took moments of faith to the guide the hands of fate. That also came from personal experience in how she met her husband.

Tiafoe might not say he’s on the fast-track to #1. But he’s certainly seen as the latest American male tennis player who’s got next, once the big names like Federer, Nadal and others move on. They’re inspiring young and older to live out their dreams, even when times are hard or a job isn’t as it seems.

Talkback: Kobe gave us the mamba mentality. What’s the motivation mindset that works for you?

Tip: Underdogs rise up by turning dreams into brands and backstory into breakout glory.

Tracks: Alicia Keys – Underdogs – https://youtu.be/izyZLKIWGiA

Jennifer Hudson – Hallelujah – https://youtu.be/LgMCm5NWtII

Dream Out Loud: Here’s to Rolling Out the Red Carpet Under the Bright Lights of Success

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Doc Cunningham

Who thinks the NBA playoffs ‘bout to get poppin’? The post-season slate of games started off with the play-in tournament. Teams on the bubble got to earn the last few slots before the first round series matchups. This year the Lakers are out of the running and the Bucks seem like favorites to repeat.

Fans got watchful eyes on some teams while franchise execs looking at whether their squad’s got the right stuff. In-between quarters, we get to see LeBron talking with his younger self in a TV ad. It’s like a back-in-the-day preview of things to come, a kinda before and after. And as they say the rest is history.

Maybe Lebron’s hoping we’ll see another ad someday of him talking with his son about making it in the league. He stirred lots of buzz recently about wanting to one day play with his son before retiring. It’s as if he was trying to dream out loud, wishing that the ‘hoop gods’ were listening. Well, the media crew were.

As a kid, he had coaches who saw his potential. That got shaped over the years to the point where he went from high school straight to primetime. That’s not easy to do. Just think, only two percent of college athletes make it to the pros. It’s a much smaller number that jump directly from high school.

Folks who dream out loud do more than just say stuff and hope it happens like magic. Bron might tell his son you gotta believe it before you see it. Spend time building-up in the weight room and taking shots in the gym. But listen closely, there’s other heads-up points you’ll hear in convo or on sports shows about:

Planning:- The off season brings downtime as things happen behind the scenes. Soon he’ll be back at it during training camp. But he’s prob also thinking thru next-level moves in career & biz.
Passion:- In that post-game interview he said he’d like to play a few more seasons. As long as he’s in good shape and still got love for the game, he feels his passion will stay strong.
Pizzazz:- Fans get excited for his high-flying dunks in a game. They like the no-look passes on a score assist. His eye for the game and his heart for winning is often the spark for a turnaround.
Patience:- It took a while before he won his first NBA championship. Year-in year-out he kept working at it until things clicked. Sometimes success feels slow, but patience gets you to the win.

Bron knows there’s more to it than just swag, right? You gotta have discipline to have game. You gotta see things thru from first shot before you’re named the MVP. There’s even the idea that you gotta do that thing thousands of times before it’s a breeze in doing it almost like second nature and with ease.

Being under the bright lights of success is a great place to be seen. Sometimes it takes a setback for that push to go from stop to star, from seeing red to seeing green in dollars and a dream. Lebron says retirement’s gotta wait if he can still produce at a high level and if in his spirit, he still got the fire to amaze.

Talkback: Lebron/Wade vs Durant/Irving, best tag-team combo? Plus, what’s Lebron doing these days in the off-season, spinning his wheels or cutting new deals?

Tip: Those who dream-out-loud set things in motion to go from first step to bright lights and red carpet.

A WordPress Community & Lifestyle Feature in #WordPrompt

Signing-off From the Office: What the “Great Resignation” Did to Create a New Vision for Work, Career and Lifestyle

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Doc Cunningham

In sports news, Tom Brady is on his way back! Retirement didn’t last long. Rumors kept swirling he’d maybe head to the 49ers since they’ve been his childhood dream team. But not this time, he’s staying put in a different ‘Bay’ area. Some weren’t surprised while others were annoyed that he just won’t step aside.

The numbers are major in his pro career. He’s been on more Superbowl winning teams than any other player in history. He has so many championship rings he could almost wear them on each finger. It seems Brady isn’t quite ready to sign-off, hang-up his cleats or “take the bridge” to an off-the-field role.

There’re some other stunning numbers though around news of the Great Resignation. That’s the large wave of folks who’ve been stepping out, moving up and shifting gears in their careers. The pandemic caused many to reassess what’s important in work, career and lifestyle.

What’s driving the job change numbers into the millions? Well, it’s a dream come true to be doing what they love. It’s a way of getting lost in the work and having fun. Plus, it’s about enjoying more time at the parks and 9-to-5 benefits in the perks which bring big energy, money and happiness.

Some opted to start a biz, grow a side-hustle or pause to redirect their passion. Some might have made the move from job to career, while others took the career to vocation route where “purpose in living” is priceless. A big takeaway from all this is in a new vision for work based on great résumés that:

Crossover:- Some skills are tied to a job and some have crossover appeal. Life’s transferrable skills can move from job to job as easily as traveling over a bridge from end to end.
Connect:- Does your favorite song keep playing in your head? Is it the verse, chorus or vibe that connects with your core? Social & professional networks forge connections around a skillset core.
Callout Dreams:- Early education gives baseline knowledge. Then we go deeper within a subject area. The pandemic pushed folks deeper to callout goals, dreams and bucket-lists.
Collaborate:- Adding two numbers gives us a sum. Multiplying two numbers gives us a product. A collab across two numbers creates greater visibility and a sum of products in the marketplace.

Of-course there was more sports news with word the baseball season isn’t lost. Sports fans were full of joy knowing that the seventh-inning stretch will be in full effect. The athletes’ careers have a season’s window of games. Over time they get to showcase clutch performances, or even change teams.

Other careers have a season’s window too, maybe with promotion or crossroads decision. Those not ready to retire, whether “comeback jocks” like Brady or “bounce-back execs” like Starbucks founder Howard Schultz, are proof of times pushing us towards ‘joy & mojo’ at work or ‘gin & juice’ at Happy Hour.

Talkback: Alexa, did Tom Brady retire? Siri, is Howard Schultz back at Starbucks? Hey Google (or Cortana), is Colin Kaepernick still in shape?

Tip: On the road of career travels, pit-stops come and go but a dream is like fuel for the ride.

A WordPress Community & Lifestyle Feature in #WordPrompt

Megan Thee Stallion and Bryce Young Getting Raves on the Big Stage for Their Game That’s Like in Another League

Posted by doc2comm

As folks wind-down another year, others getting ready to turn-it-up “like they don’t care”. The holiday season is a good time to look back on the year-in-review. Plus, some will party-on in “jingle bells” style. That might be the case for Megan Thee Stallion and Bryce Young who’ve become even hotter this year.

Megan made it known that while she’s gone from ‘hot girl summer’ to pushing her ‘hottie sauce’, she’s more than just a one-hit wonder. Now that she’s a college grad, she’s ready to top the music charts and market share. True, with her degree in the Healthcare field she hopes to open an assisted-living facility.

For Young, he’s upped his cred leaps and bounds in winning the Heisman trophy as a college sophomore. This gave Alabama’s football program consecutive wins. Maybe if he puts up big numbers again, he’d be right back here next year. It’s happened once before of a back-to-back winner as a player.

Considering that each year Time Magazine names its Person of the Year, they’re on track in a similar way. While they didn’t make that list, they’ve been getting that kinda press. Winning the Heisman makes Young like Player of the Year in college. She’d be happy to run with the title of Hip/Hop Grad of the Year.

They’re getting raves for their game that’s like in another league. Even if their style of play doesn’t fit some people’s taste, there’s more left in the tank. Megan says she got her mojo from watching women in her family make that paper. Young learned as an understudy to Mac Jones. Their success is built on a:

System of Excellence

The QB position has produced lots of Heisman winners over the years. Many have gone on to be pro-bowl players in the big leagues. But it seems there’s something about Alabama squads that turn out gems in players in all positions. Maybe it’s about a system of excellence that helps them rise to the occasion.

Boxset of Skills

For those Christmas giving purchases, sometimes folks just want to order one of a particular type of merchandise. But for others, they’d like to pick-up the boxset with a combination of styles or flavors. Well, for Megan and Young, they bring a boxset of skills to their game with a winning combo of style & flava.

Bucket-list of Goals

They might also know something about stepping outside the box to achieve a bucket-load in money or stats. For Megan it seems her push to be a college grad was more like a bucket-list goal. While her music career took-off for sure, she still wanted to show that she could finish her studies in Health Administration.

Sense of Purpose

There’re stories like the “5 plays that made Bryce Young” or the “key collabs that put Megan on the map.” Those articles and sports clips might be just about on point. But to take a page from a famed college coach, to be an even bigger blowout and make a difference in their careers involves a sense purpose.

Megan’s prob working on her next project. In a few months we might be hearing ‘hot girl summer, part 2’. For Young, the season isn’t done yet since Alabama is in the College Playoffs. When the dust settles, they might look back and see lessons learned and look forward being ready to step hottie next year.

Tip: No matter the field of dreams, league of play or line of work, the standouts find a way to make big moves with a system of excellence and make a difference with a sense of purpose.

Talkback: Who’s got that end-of-year vibe or lala feeling?

Tracks: Alicia Keys ft Swae Lee – LaLa – https://youtu.be/fmx8ww3XYHg

Skip Marley ft Popcaan – Vibe – https://youtu.be/pTwMEpSZq9M

Willie Geist, Abby Wambach & Diddy: Showing Us What It’s Like to turn Dreams into Golden Moments

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It’s another fall day in the Northeast with the color-spectrum of leaves. This time of the year has some of the best views of the foliage. Then, not long from now we’ll be trying to get through snow, sleet and freezing rain. But just before that, folks are getting ready for a few other harvest-time traditions.

In NYC excitement is building for the return of the Marathon. It was suspended last year due to Covid. Now, athletes from far and wide and getting ready to run their hearts out. The event stats are just crazy. Over 30K runners from 140 countries set to run a 26.2 mile stretch. And yes, some celebrities too.

With this the 50^th anniversary, there’s buzz to go along with the carbs. Willie Geist from NBC News is in it for the first time. Abby Wambach, soccer Olympic gold medalist and FIFA World Cup champ as well. Hip-Hop Icon Diddy (LOVE) did it in 2003. Even a runner who was there for the first one is set to run this one.

The event is like a tour of the five boroughs of NYC, starting in Staten Island and ending in Manhattan. The starting line-up will include pros as long-distance runners. For some it’s become like a walk in the park. There’ll also be folks like friends and neighbors who see this as a crowning moment of sorts.

The collective experience has great lessons for participants and onlookers. Some have recovered from a life-altering situation and see this event as a coming-out party. For many more no matter their professional station or social status in life, it’s a show of strength, inspiration and determination through:

Training

While running is a basic physical activity, only a fool would show-up to run a marathon without the training. To go from start to finish takes having put-in the work of running miles and miles each day. In other words, they gotta do more than break-a-sweat, they gotta break the mold, fear and pain in stages.

Tribute

Part of the incentive is in doing something that seemed like a stretch. If you’ve never run a mile non-stop, how ya gonna pull-off running more extra miles? For some, the inspiration is in paying tribute to a family member, friend or lost loved-one as appreciation for the personal connection. Geist is doing it for his dad.

Fundraiser

Often in the case of celebrities, they’re doing it as a fundraiser for a cause. Before we had online crowdfunding, there were sponsor sheets that folks would get friends and family to fill-out a donation. They’ll sponsor a certain amount for each lap or mile or mountain peak achievement you get to reach.

Crowd-pleaser

Even on cold days, fans will hang for hours along the course to wave, cheer and catch the thrill. It’s the kind of crowd-pleaser that doesn’t cost much but brings a lot of heartfelt returns. Just think about the feeling a runner has at the finish line, after hearing friends and family scream their name along the way.

The night before the race is when runners get to load-up on carbs. This way they’ll have the energy to take them through the finish. No matter a runner’s age, ability or reason, the experience reminds us all of what it takes to turn dreams into golden moments. You gotta run, run, run with vision and purpose.

Tip: To turn dreams into golden moments no matter your age, sex, ability or nationality, you gotta start somewhere and then run run run with vision and purpose to the finish line.

Talkback: Who’s up for the marathon challenge?

Tracks: One Republic – Run – https://youtu.be/TKkcsmvYTw4

BBD – Run – https://youtu.be/lRrY2_4AKKs

Bubba Wallace and Dak Prescott Show That One Thing Career ‘Joes’ and Sports Pros Have in Common After a “Make or Break” Moment

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Hot off the press! The sports wire reports that Zaire Wade, son of NBA great Dwyane Wade, plans to skip college and go pro. Word is he’ll set up shop with the G-league team of the Utah Jazz. That’s a major decision and gutsy move by the youngster. Gonna miss-out on having some college play under his belt.

He grew up in a household where winning is par for the course. He’s had a front row seat in watching his father win NBA Championships. So yea, he’s got a leg up on his peers. That’s not always the case for career Joes or sports pros in basketball or other leagues. Not always much of a legacy to follow.

It might be one reason why Bubba Wallace is getting so much attention. He’s the first Black driver to win the Nascar Cup in motor racing since 1957. The last time that happened, the black driver wasn’t even recognized in front of the fans. His trophy ceremony was done reluctantly after the stadium emptied out.

To get a sense for what this feat means outside of racing, think about Dak Prescott coming back from major injury last season. It was a lonely road to recovery, but he put in the rehab time to be back on his grind. There’s a lot that goes into winning in sports or life beyond just the physical demands.

That one thing career Joes and sports pros have in common is mental toughness. Wallace dealt with blowback from calling out the confederate flag at Nascar events. Prescott had to believe he’d make it back from a potentially career-ending injury. You see this in how they handled two sides of a coin around:

Pressure (Side A)

When you know something hasn’t been done before or happened a long time ago, that’s a kinda pressure where lot’s riding on your shoulders. When you find a noose in your team garage after you put a spotlight on social justice issues, that’s a kinda pressure to take you off your game. But still, that didn’t stop him.

Pain (Side B)

The image of seeing Prescott’s injury on the gridiron was hard to un-see. There was his foot pointing one way and his leg another. The physical pain must have been off the charts. But pain isn’t only tied to what you feel in the flesh, but also what you might feel in having to defy the odds to be back on your feet.

Pathfinder (Side A)

In the work world it can be tricky to make a name for yourself. There’s the idea of being a team player but at the same time being a go-getter. Balancing the two means being a pathfinder in carving out a lane for yourself or niche for your skillset, without diminishing what others are doing for themselves.

Pioneer (Side B)

When it’s all said and done, many will look back and see Wallace as a pioneer. These are individuals who make such an impact in their field or the marketplace, that there’s a rush of candidates that follow in their footsteps. Many in the motorsport game see that as a potential silver lining in what Wallace achieved.

The NBA pre-season is almost done. Wade Sr is now part owner of a team. Kyrie Irving seems bent on giving up his dream. And young Wade is setting his sights and going full steam. All that to say, he might have crossover dribble in his genes, but it’s mental toughness that makes you a winner in the game.

Tip: With mental toughness in career and the game, you can get past those make-or-break moments to secure the bag.

Talkback: Is Zaire Wade taking a risk to skip college and go pro?

Tracks: Koffee – Pressure Remix Ft Buju Banton – https://youtu.be/JLcdjysXPgs

Chloe X Halle – Do It – https://youtu.be/a9HIaGcBocc

Ready, Aim, Aspire: The #Inspiration4X Space Crew On What It takes to Be Trailblazing

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The back-to-school drill is in full swing. Folks are returning to the building, kinda in a groove they once knew. The TV season is off and running. Some fav shows have had their first run. Elected Officials are back in Washington. They’ve got a tall order of bills to make happen, with the usual drama in play.

This time of the year also brings buzz around the next iPhone gizmo. That news came and went. With Covid still dominating the lead story, seems like there’s not much room for tech talk. One story that got major coverage is the first-ever all-civilian space flight. It reached a higher orbit than other such trips.

The crew members blasted-off with great fanfare and returned with excitement to spare. They included regular ‘Joes & Janes’ who did months of space flight training. They were celebrated by public officials, science enthusiasts and all levels of students. In other words, their achievement had broad appeal.

Their collective stories might be described as “ready, aim, aspire.” A couple of them won the chance to take the trip as part of a ‘space flight’ competition. Some say they’ve been preparing for this all their life based on their own professional training, personal trials and business triumphs.

The crew got recognized by all corners of society. One artist built a sculpture with the words “Leadership, Hope, Generosity, Prosperity.” Others might agree their trailblazing work is summarized by “Struggling, Hustling, Discovering, Tuning.” It’s all about keeping your life instrument working right and drawing on:

Courage

As with any new endeavor, they prob had some fears to manage. This might have showed up as having second thoughts or having butterflies in their stomachs with each new test, task and turning point. Courage doesn’t mean there’s an absence of fear. It’s about having those butterflies fly in formation.

Curiosity

This can get the best of us or the scariest of us. The expression “curiosity killed the cat” didn’t hinder the experiments which put them on the edge or flirted with danger. It’s also said that a cat has nine lives. So maybe curiosity can help us to experience as many facets as possible of life in one lifetime.

Passion

The things we love to do might be put in boxes like first love, second love, other love, etc. Plus, when we string together our abilities, strengths, skills and expertise this helps to give our passion some more push or pull. There’re times passion is good for pulling your goals along or pushing your vision ahead.

Dream

On some level, this trip was a lifelong dream for each crew member. In their own way, the dream might be in the seed of an idea, the science of the mission, the thrill of achievement or the glory of philanthropy. What brought them together is a shared purpose that had them pulling together as a dream team.

Whether at school, work, public service or showbiz, we can take a page from #Inspiration4X to reach a higher orbit. Make sure your personal/professional instruments are working right to take you to new heights as you “ready, aim, aspire.” And to be trailblazing, add-in courage, curiosity, passion and dream.

Tip: Where the stars and dreams line-up bring a great feeling of achievement and sense of fulfillment.

Talkback: Who’s got next for a ride to space or for a new level of ‘wow’ at work, play or gameday?

Tracks: U2 – Beautiful Day – https://youtu.be/co6WMzDOh1o

Elijah Blake Ft Trinidad James – Dreams – https://youtu.be/PTXBhlgLwVI

Drew Brees Retired, Justin Fields ‘Bout to Get Hired; How Career Moves Can Involve a Leap of Faith

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It’s been a different kind of NFL off-season as Covid-19 is still on many minds. Since the Tampa Bay Buccaneers won their first Superbowl ever, eyes have been on Brady and whether he’s up for another season. It’s something Drew Brees had hoped to pull-off as he leaves the game after 20 seasons.

With Brees retired, the rumor mill had folks thinking Russell Wilson was about to get hired. Well, the jury is still out as NFL Draft buzz picks up. Lot’s of QBs on the list of choices, including Ohio’s Justin Fields. Some sports junkies think he’ll be in the top 5 while others see him further down in the top 10.

No matter where Fields ends up, he’s sure to get hired. Teams often have eyes on the QB spot because it’s so central to a well-run offense. Fields isn’t losing any sleep for now, while Brees hopes to get more zees and maybe time at home with the fam. As he likes to say, “it’s not the end but a new beginning.”

That’s because he’s already been locked-in by NBC as a commentator in the primetime booth. For him, It’s a shift from playing on the gridiron to being an analyst around plays, passes and points. He was on a winning Superbowl team during his time with the Saints, so he’s got the goods and receipts as well.

Fields and Brees find themselves at the start and end of their pro football playing days. But both have to approach things like taking a leap of faith. This means moving forward as if it’s a done deal while looking around knowing your chances for success are for real. How they move through this phase comes with:

Revelation

It’s not clear what was the ‘writing on the wall’ that made Brees throw-in the towel. Was it the 20 years, or the offer from NBC or the mid-season injury? Sometimes there’re are clues going into a decision and cues in the process that give you a picture of what’s possible or a feeling of peace whether win or lose.

Promotion

At first when Brees got traded from the Chargers to the Saints, he probably wasn’t sure how things would play out. He became starting QB for the Saints and as the saying goes, the rest is history. This wasn’t a decision he controlled but was a career move that led to promotion and Superbowl XLIV MVP.

Coronation

Fields has seen his college career go from contender to coronation. He was a Heisman Trophy finalist, even after having to transfer schools to land the starting spot at Ohio. Now he’s hoping that being drafted in the first round would be one more feather in his cap as another elite player headed to the pros.

Validation

A leap of faith is sometimes preceded by validation. This is when you’re fairly certain about the next move to make. But other times the validation happens after when what you envisioned for yourself comes to past. Fields is working with some of this from his college days and hoping for more of it in his NFL days.

Soon, fans will know where Fields will go. Then in a few months we’ll hear Brees breaking down his game. Brees has to kinda reinvent himself from player to announcer while Fields has to up-level his game from college to the pros. For both, it’s just a matter of stepping-into the moment.

Tip: A leap of faith requires stepping-into the moment that presents itself and living in the moment that elevates yourself.

Talkback: Is Fields a top 5 or top 10 pick or does it even matter?

Tracks: Lupe Fiasco Ft Matthew Santos – Superstar – https://youtu.be/hVkBlsgthLg

Common – Don’t Forget Who You Are – https://youtu.be/mp2681a91NM

Scott Drew & Jordan Spieth on How to Reach Your Goal No Matter the Field of Dreams or Slumps & Bumps with Your Team

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The sports wire has been on fire! On the basketball court it’s due to the level of championship play. The men’s Final Four tournament lived-up to its billing. While Gonzaga didn’t come out on top, they gave the Baylor Bears everything they had. Bears Head coach Scott Drew is being hailed as a master in his lane.

Speaking of Masters, the annual pro golfing trip to Augusta won’t have Tiger Woods in the mix, who’s still recovering from his car accident. But it will have Jordan Spieth who’s coming off a recent tour win, after a 4-year winless streak. Spieth says his game has been off these past few years so he’s happy to be back.

Drew took the job of head coach almost two decades ago when Baylor’s men’s program was reeling from scandal. A player was killed by an ex-teammate. The coach at the time was cited for corruption issues around paying the tuition for a student. Drew applied for the job even though things looked bleak.

He approached the interview like he had nothing to lose. He might say that’s just one factor for him getting the job. He’d probably add that he shared a vision for the program’s turnaround. He wanted to move the culture in a new direction, as long as he had the time and support to flip the script.

Fast forward to their recent wins and some might wonder how’d they do it? How did they get past the slumps and bumps in the road? How did they turn a period of bruising to now having the experience of cruising? They’d remember the long days and dark nights working at it with these things in mind:

Firsts

Spieth remembers the first time he put on the winner’s green jacket. He felt his game had hit the jackpot. But sometimes our ‘firsts’ can be beginner’s luck. So he’s been working at his game trying to recapture the grit and feeling of excitement like what Drew is feeling from winning his first national championship.

Focus

Spieth took cues from the success he saw with Bill Belichick and the Patriots. During his first visit to their home stadium, he was struck by the commitment to preparation that was part of the team’s mystique. He’s been giving more attention to that not only as a player but also with his supporting golf team/staff.

Faith

It’s been said that success comes with enjoying the journey just as much as the destination. For Drew it’s been quite a journey. In the early days of his tenure, athlete recruitment might have been a challenge. In trying to turn around a losing program, he ‘drew on’ something we probably all heard… to keep the faith.

Family

This is Spieth’s first win as a husband, after getting married a few years ago. They both have reason to celebrate not just with their teams but also with their families. Spieth is grateful for how his wife hung in there during his game’s rough patch. For Drew it’s a generational family affair of “like father, like son.”

In the “instant clout” world, it’s not normal for a coach to last that long with a college team, with mixed results. But Baylor gave Drew the room, space and time to deliver. Spieth says it’s true that his wife gave him the same. Now they’re riding on cloud nine and Spieth got back that smile.

Tip: Destiny is sometimes where preparation takes you from beginner’s luck to pulling the big bucks.

Talkback: Is the Master anybody’s to win or can Spieth turn his recent win into a lucky charm?

Tracks: Rudimental Ft Major Lazer – Let Me Live – https://youtu.be/L08uxunfLi4

Katy Perry – Smile – https://youtu.be/vZA5heWazIQ

Dawn Staley and Lebron James: Fire-Brand Performers Who Push the Limits of Their Game and Help Light-up the Team Stats Frame

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So where are folks headed on spring break these days? Well, it depends on who you ask. Some travelled south to the warm weather of Florida. It’s always been the spring break capital for college students. This year with folks wanting to get past Covid restrictions, things have kinda gotten out of hand.

Same time, the NCAA March Madness frenzy has landed in Indy! Yea, on the women’s side it’s in San Antonio. March Madness is also a place people go on spring break to raise their praise for breakout performances. Of course, there’s always the Cinderella team that busts up the brackets.

For those wondering or asked the question, Where do folks go to understand greatness? Well, we see it in the play of Lebron James and the eyes of coach Dawn Staley. James has had to sit-out a few games after a high-ankle sprain injury. He’s missing the chance of the Lakers being positioned for a playoff run.

Staley recently called out the NCAA for disparities in supporting women’s teams. After pics went viral on social media showing a less-than-stellar setup for their facilities, Staley wrote an open letter calling out the diss. Her take was the NCAA message of “togetherness and equality” was just marketing jargon.

James and Staley bring focus on issues of social justice. They’re admired by peers, players and the hometown posse for using their platform to spur reform. While they get attention for putting their names to causes, it’s also how they put passion on the line, reminding us of how greatness is tied to:

Gifting

A proverb says, “a man’s gift makes room for him and brings him in front of great people.” Well, think of that in universal terms and you can see why James at his age is still performing at a high level and Staley has such impactful coaching. Your gifting when tied to passion makes you do stuff that folks can’t teach.

Branding

James doesn’t only marvel us on the court, he also has his hands in biz ventures and social projects. His career track might have started out with basketball, but his branding has reached new heights in media, fashion, entertainment and sports. He recently became part owner in the Boston Red Sox franchise.

Networking

A recent story on Staley shared how much her success has inspired other women to consider coaching. Plus, there’s a whole eco system of black women in particular who’re plugged-in to what Staley has done throughout her career as a player, recruiter and U.S. head coach for the upcoming Tokyo Olympics.

Collaborating

After events of social protest prompted by the George Floyd killing, James rallied an investment group to purchase the WNBA Atlanta Dream. While he’s not the main figure in the new ownership structure, he’s the main player that helped bring together a collaboration of interested parties to secure the deal.

The “Cinderella Team” stories will get told throughout March Madness. You might even hear some players being described as ‘supernova athletes.’ There’s room to do something special on the court or in one’s career for those whose performance push the limits of their game and light-up the team stats frame.

Tip: You create your own “Cinderella Story” by how you bring passion to the table in ways that maximize your gifting, branding, networking and collaborating.

Talkback: Did the NCAA miss the mark or drop the ball on the women’s facilities in March Madness?

Tracks: Usher – No Limit – https://youtu.be/3w0yqAdJ1iY

Khalid – Disclosure (Know Your Worth) – https://youtu.be/aEDULPGIwcg

Oprah and Tim Cook: Two Master Leaders Working with Others to Turn Personal Crossroads or Career Setbacks into Life Skills for the Ages

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This isn’t a sequel, but it might as well be now that the Oprah interview with Harry and Meghan has landed. The much-anticipated sit-down with them had its share of ‘ooh and ahh’ moments. Oprah is known to celebrate aha moments too, but those will come later as she reads the media tea leaves.

Then there’s the story of Malala Yousafzai who is now a college graduate and working her way into the biz world. She’s teamed-up with AppleTV+ and CEO Tim Cook in developing human-interest stories that bring hope and connects with hearts. Malala sees him as a mentor and he sees her as a walking miracle.

The Orpah interview attracted 17 million viewers. That’s just for starters as folks who missed it are likely to stream it. The ‘tea spills and bombshell kills’ from them has royal watchers gasping for air. But there’s a growing divide between those who think they were brave and those who think it was attention crave.

In Malala, Cook sees someone who has already created a shift in her home country. It’s the kind thing where “if people can see it then they can believe it even more.” That’s what Malala represents to girls in her recovery for near human tragedy. If was a kind of personal crossroads that she had to face head on.

With Harry and Meghan, it’s confusing if they left the Palace or the Palace left them. He gave up his military role and lost his royal title. She gave up her partnership with his many causes. But once folks get pass the Palace intrigue and tabloid drama, their life skills lessons for the ages include what they:

Learn

How they got here isn’t just about what happened to them, but also what happened in them. For Harry it’s probably what he learned watching how his mother was treated when he was a child. For Malala it’s in how she found strength, courage and wisdom during recovery, even with the threat of further harm.

Meghan tried to dance a delicate balance in what she shared and how she dropped some nuggets. Those nuggets provided insight but might even bring some foresight for how she plans to make a difference from the experience. Sometimes what we share is invaluable, especially for others in the same boat.

Plant

Everyone understands the idea of “you reap what you sow.” But the pain of loneliness that Meghan mentioned isn’t something she brought on herself. Nor were the multiple surgeries that Malala had to go through. They’re turning those personal crossroads and career setbacks into a bigger field of dreams.

Sell

At the top of the interview, Oprah made clear that they weren’t getting paid for the ‘tell-all.’ But that’s not where the story ends. She asked Meghan how she plans to apply lessons learned to the company they formed. Her answer of “using the company to capture stories” wasn’t only a tell but also a sell.

The total footage of the interview was three hours plus. They had to pare it down to around 80 minutes. There’s probably other stuff that didn’t make it to the highlight reel but might be important life lessons on how to heal. How they get there is as much about feelings of melancholy and not to sweat the technique.

Tip: How we move past personal crossroads and career setbacks might mean handling feelings of melancholy and working through things but not sweat the small stuff.

Talkback: What was the most surprising bombshell from the Meghan & Harry interview?

Tracks: Nailah Blackman – Melancholy – https://youtu.be/qsu1rYipDOU

Eric B & Rakim – Don’t Sweat the Technique – https://youtu.be/6Y1Emb7Jyks

Queen Latifah and Naomi Osaka Might Not Have Royalty in their Veins But They Have Star Power in Their Gains

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The first big celeb interview of the year is set! As Oprah plans to do a sit-down with Harry and Meghan, word is their royal titles and privileges will no longer go with them. They’ll be on their own in how they’re seen in the eyes of celebrity, aristocracy and world diplomacy. But that’s not slowing them down.

Meanwhile, the comeback stories of Queen Latifah and Naomi Osaka have also got folks buzzing. Latifah who’s seen her career go through twists and turns is now back on TV, with 20+ million who watched her debut on The Equalizer. It’s a first to have a woman as the lead for that showbiz franchise.

Not sure how many eyeballs watched the Australian Open in tennis, but Osaka put on a show in winning her fourth grand slam championship. The win moved her up to the #2 spot in the rankings. It also put her in the company of a handful of tennis pros who’ve won at least that many majors.

Latifah’s career has spanned entertainment from music to sitcoms to her talk show to the big screen. She’s gone full circle in now starring in her latest project. Osaka has gone through some circles of her own where she showed signs of being a rising star and then had a few “crash and burn” moments.

They credit bounceback-ability to having folks in their corner who keep them lifted but at the same time grounded. They seem to have a similar fierceness where even while they don’t have royalty in their veins, they have star power in their gains. They wrap their magic on the screen or on the court around their:

First love

Latifah says she gets to do some of the stunts in the show. But when it gets to the really crazy stuff she leaves that to the experts. What she’s excited about is how the role draws on her skillset and experience over the years. She gets to ride a motorcycle which is one of those ‘first loves’ she had in younger days.

Comfort zone

Osaka shared how she’s seen able to maintain poise under pressure. At the young age of 23, she’s got a lot in her view and expectations on her shoulder. She’s gotten to a point of being comfortable in what she can do on the court while stepping outside of her comfort zone in how she sheds light on social issues.

Drive lane

In sports, athletes have a way of figuring out their ‘drive lane.’ It’s where they can make a move to change the game or dominate the moment. It’s a special effort or effect that puts their passion on full display. Well, when Osaka can up her game with big serves and powerful groundstrokes, she’s in her drive lane.

Inner Strength

Both can give you that bright smile on the outside with turnt-up firepower on the inside. It’s a kinda yin and yang that they seem to balance in their work, play and around the way. They have an easy-going personality but when the game’s on the line they can turn off the charm and deliver the swarm.

Latifah says one of the things that helps her in those kick-butt scenes is the music playing in the background. She gets into a rhythm and tries to step to the groove as she connects the blows. They’re both enjoying the roles they play in being seen as bad to the bone but like royalty on the throne.

Tip: How you wrap your magic around your passion and purpose will help determine your rise & shine and your claim to fame.

Talkback: Will Harry and Meghan be able to move on from royalty without a penalty?

Tracks: Protoje Ft Popcaan – Like Royalty – https://youtu.be/WFxyPB_LcBA

George Thorogood – Bad to the Bone – https://youtu.be/MAb81olgCNs

Russell Wilson is on Brand, Amanda Gorman is on Point and Their Passion is on Game!

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Well, lots of ground to cover, buzz to breakdown and chatter to scatter after the Superbowl. Alright, not everybody was happy about how things went lopsided in a hurry. Some think the refs were off their game, but that The Weeknd as halftime performer made up for all the things that were missing due to Covid.

Some frontline workers and health professionals were honored to see the game in person. But after the post-game interviews fans at home were glued to see Queen Latifa as ‘The Equalizer’. She was kicking butt, taking names and getting high praise for her new breakout show.

Leading up to the big game was word that Russell Wilson won the Walter Payton Man-of-the-Year Award. That’s something many in the game aspire to get because of who Payton was to sports fans. When you think of Payton (aka “sweetness”) there’s a similar suave and swag that Wilson brings to the party.

We saw Amanda Gorman give another world stage performance. She’s the youngest poet laureate to speak at a Presidential Inauguration. It’s as if she’s poised to be like a Maya Angelou of our time, having recently made the cover of Time Magazine. She combines words with delivery into an inspiring story.

Folks say the TV commercials had some of the old and more of the new, with lots of celeb cameos. What we might get from watching the Superbowl is like what we get from watching Wilson and Gorman. He’s on brand, she’s on point and their passion is on game. They show how folks can get there too by how they:

1. Work

Wilson shared a few tips on how he gets ready for each season. He’s big on putting in the time, not for the crime but for the climb. It’s the things he does in mind, body and spirit that carry over to the things he does in pass, run and score. If his body is his temple, then the field is his place for getting fan praise.

2. Sacrifice

Gorman stays on point by remembering the part that sacrifice plays in one’s journey. To us it might seem like she came out of nowhere. But to her it’s been a slow and steady march towards a brighter day. Sacrifice for her in a sense means giving up something without giving up on yourself.

3. Step

Ever watched the foot work of a quarterback while in the pocket? It’s a kinda dance with a backstep here or a leap step there. Every QB probably has a certain rhythm and flow to how they step to their game. He’s in the socket and in the pocket before passing like a rocket. That’s how you step to your game.

4. Represent

How does she at such a young age have the calm and composure of a seasoned veteran? How does he go from amazing on the field to a servant in the community? It’s how they pull it together to represent their brand, their talents and their love for what they do. To represent is to know how to rep your presence.

So history was made in all kinda ways at the game. There was the first female on a referee crew in a Superbowl. The first team to play in the game as a home team. But even when you’re not in it to be making history, there’s still the chance to work, sacrifice, step and represent in giving it your best.

Tip: In order to represent your best, you have to rep your presence in a way that is like sunshine of your essence.

Talkback: Who’s ready for more Queen Latifah or Amanda Gorman?

Tracks: Shalamar – Right In The Socket – https://youtu.be/sNGyMe3bu1E

Fat Joe ft Amorphous – Sunshine – https://youtu.be/kuO9OC2H9Qs

Time to Check-in With Patrick Mahomes and Kevin Hart About Putting the Dream to Work in the Huddle or Around Your Hustle

Posted by doc2comm

The Superbowl matchup is set! For the first time in NFL history, the host venue will have the home team in the big game. That’s where the Tampa Bay Buccaneers comes in. Led by someone seen as the G.O.A.T., the Bucs and Tom Brady are going up against Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs.

Mahomes is the franchise face for the NFL as a young quarterback in the game. After signing a mega contract for lifetime-years, he’s also trying to do something that’s not easy to come by: win back-to-back Superbowl games. The Chiefs bring a high-scoring offense with lots of receiving weapons on the roster.

Another franchise face (but in the comedy game) is Kevin Hart, who’s been laying low since Covid. Yet, he’s always looking for ways to build market appeal and keep it real. So Hart has teamed-up with a brand that’s focused on helping folks manage the emotional highs, lows and bouts with depression.

Not that he’s dealing with these struggles, but he’s mindful of how close he came to losing it all after a car wreck. That, coupled with quarantine rules nowadays kept him home for periods much longer than he’s used to. Maybe this helped tamper down his ‘wild side’ and put a spotlight on the family by his side.

Hart says he’s the hardest working dude in showbiz (let him tell it). Some sport junkies might see Mahomes as the ‘rising star’ who’s not just about scoring in the game but also adding social impact to his name. They’ve got a track record for going from huddle to hustle to giving hope by how they:

1. Align

For Hart being able to align means getting to a decision point for “turning today’s BS into tomorrow’s success.” Not just the everyday BS but for him also going from big setback to major comeback. It’s all about how you align passion with purpose, effort with expectation, goal with role and calling with destiny.

2. Bond

Over the past year Hart has found new ways to bond with his kids now that he’s kinda always home. The bonds we share allow us to care and as the saying goes, “people don’t care how much you know but how much you care.” Like with his kids, it’s in how we bond that can be a source for feeling empowered.

3. Grind

When Mahomes suffered a concussion in a recent playoff game, things seemed bleak for him playing the next week. But after passing the medical protocol he was back at practice. The grind isn’t just about what you do every so often. It’s about how you ‘bring it’ especially when you just want to say, ‘forget it’.

4. Flow

One reason the grind is important is that it gets you closer to being in flow. This is when things just fire on all cylinders. It’s when things feel effortless or seem weightless. After a few snaps, just watch Mahomes as he goes to work making side-arm passes in ways the defense didn’t see coming or couldn’t stop.

So will history be made at the Superbowl? It might be with the commercials as some regular sponsors are spending their ad dollars in new ways. Companies have had to adjust from taking a hit to their bottom line. But Mahomes and Hart remind us that dreams come thru when we align, bond, grind & flow.

Tip: Just ‘do it’ by putting the dream to work around the clock or block to block and make it ‘do what it do’.

Talkback: Kevin Hart wants to know, “What’s your game, what’s your grind?”

Tracks: Notorious B.I.G. – Juicy – https://youtu.be/PMM8wcQUcxE

Chloe X Halle – Do It – https://youtu.be/a9HIaGcBocc

Michael B Jordan & Tracee Ellis Ross Bring Sexy Back for Career Sake as a Signature in Showbiz

Posted by doc2comm

The Grammys are coming! Yet, as Awards season rolls-on there’s another casualty due to Covid-19. The Red Carpet before the live show has been quarantined. So far, that’s the case for the People’s Choice and American Music Awards; no cat walks, celeb interviews or fashion slip-ups to set social media abuzz.

With the holidays also a good time for family and friends to gather, this year it feels like 2020 can’t end fast enough. So for some, they’re happy to feast their eyes on Michael B Jordan being named as People Magazine’s sexiest man alive, or to celebrate Tracee Ellis Ross as People’s Choice Fashion Icon.

As if on cue, Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson joked that he’s not ready to concede the ‘sexiest man’ title. It’s something he won a few years ago. But People magazine editors say going into each year’s final selection they give thought to what the world wants and needs at that point and who’s bringing sexy back.

Jordan and Ross add style, looks and mojo to showbiz like the king and queen they are. Their pre-Hollywood careers helped set them up for making waves today. At first, Ross worked in the fashion magazine industry and credits her mom, Diana Ross a fashion icon herself, in forging her dreams.

But maybe it’s also the way they engage the consciousness of fans that adds to their mainstream appeal. Whether it’s with the diversity rider in hiring talent at his production company, or supporting #MeToo initiatives in her off-screen roles, they inspire us to strive and arrive with:

Clout

Ross has her own, even though she could have gotten some from mom. It’s a matter of how she builds-up reputation which takes time to turn into clout. In the early part of your career, reputation follows you. But in later years when reputation goes before you, that means it’s been built up with its own track record.

Chops

Jordan and Ross have developed their acting chops for primetime in a way that attracts large audiences. It’s in how they bring to life a character and bring character to life. That’s also been true for their career success. It’s about bringing to work a skillset and bringing a skillset to their life’s work.

Calling

Clearly, the acting and biz side of things aren’t all that they’re about. They are often very vocal when it comes to social justice issues. Calling for them is seen not as a call to self-service but to higher service. While for some Calling might have a religious feel, it’s really about connecting with humanitarian zeal.

Culture

Some might drool, swoon or even lust for their presence, but their impact is in what they do for the culture. They seem to cause a wake-up, level-up, serve-up, rise-up effect on people. Some celebs might impact us in one or two of these areas. But they don’t let things go to their heads as they keep it real.

It’s hard to imagine that the Red Carpet will be back for the Grammys. Plus, word is that the holidays are going to be much different this year with Covid-19 taking its toll on gatherings. But if we can hold on a bit longer while using time wisely, we can come out on the other side shining a little brighter.

Tip: The ladder of success has rungs that take you from skillset to your best yet.

Talkback: For the Grammy nominations, who got snubbed and whose fans feel a little rubbed?

Tracks: Common – The Light – https://youtu.be/OjHX7jf-znA

Brand Nubian – Don’t Let it Go to Your Head – https://youtu.be/500F9W1qku8

President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris Turned Campaign Trail Moments Into Career Trail Magic

Posted by doc2comm

It’s T-minus-70 and counting towards the inauguration of the next U.S. President. The campaign season came to a halt when the projected winner was declared by media and other independent observers. As a gradual shift begins to unfold around Washington, some still hold on for dear life to a different reality.

Going from candidate to “you’re hired” has ups and downs, twists and turns, ebbs and flows. Over these months we saw political ads with their views on certain issues. We could review their professional backgrounds covering years of public service. Then it’s the people who made the hiring decision.

Along the way as candidates debated and fund raised, they hoped to win primaries like rounds in a boxing match. There were good rounds and bad rounds which helped determine who survived and who exited stage left. Biden and Harris on the campaign trail was like where the magic happens on the career trail.

A potential candidate for a job gets to respond to a company opening. They’ll send in their resumés as a professional background summary. Then the decision is made among the hiring team on who gets the call back. Plus, there’re intangibles (like an endorsement or referral) that can change the outlook in a flash.

While the campaign trail had its nasty-lie moments, we can learn what it takes to jumpstart the job search, advance career moves or rebrand a biz venture. Along the way, folks are checking the record and comparing notes. They’re watching to see who makes the grade or who’s worth getting paid based on:

Ambition

The difference between Biden and Harris is like old-school and new school. Biden has been in the game for many years. Harris has been rising up the charts over recent years. Their journeys came together because of shared ambition. Ambition helps in making a name for yourself and a role for your skills.

Vision

Biden’s vision is about unity of purpose in saving the soul of the nation. Since Harris isn’t at the top of the ticket, her vision lines-up with Biden. But from a history-making standpoint, she probably shares that broader vision of women breaking the glass ceiling in their careers.

Reinvention

Biden has run for President three times. He had a chance to reinvent himself the last two times. He says it was the events of Charlottesville that got him into the race the third time. Sometimes when career goals seem hard to come by, we have to find ways to reinvent ourselves to better meet the moment.

Connection

Beyond qualifications, it’s also connection that helped things come together as running-mates. Harris first knew Biden when she was Attorney General of California and his son Beau was AG of Delaware. What she probably was reminded of was that people don’t care how much you know, but how much you care.

Biden and Harris might ask what’s your reality? Is it stuck on past miss-steps or geared to future step-ups? When people see how much you know your stuff, they say you’re good. But when they sense how much you care, they can tell you’re good for the part. That’s how they bring magic to what they do.

Tip: Your ‘happy’ is in bringing magic to what you do by how much you know and how much you care.

Talkback: What’s it like seeing “you’re hired” and “you’re fired” getting played out right before our eyes?

Tracks: Bruno Mars – 24K Magic – https://youtu.be/UqyT8IEBkvY

Pharrell Williams – Happy – https://youtu.be/ZbZSe6N_BXs

Beyoncé and Lizzo, ‘Two Peas in a Social Change Pod’ Who Aren’t Just About the Brand but Also Being at Their Best and Taking a Stand

Posted by doc2comm

Remember when Lizzo melted after finding out that Beyoncé sang happy birthday greetings to her? She didn’t think one of her idols would have her on mind. It’s the kind of thing Beyhive fans knew all along. She tries to look beyond herself just like when she called out public officials in the Breonna Taylor case.

These days it’s almost as if Beyoncé and Lizzo are like two peas in a social change pod. They’re looking at the issues and making it plain. They’re connecting with fans letting them know they feel their pain. Over the past few weeks, they’ve been clear about one thing: it’s time to do our civic duty.

The music biz as with everything else has seen shutdown due to Covid-19. Concerts on pause, album drops have slowed. The usual hype before project releases are low-key. That hasn’t stopped these ladies in their tracks. As artists, they aren’t just about the brand, but about being at their best and taking a stand.

With her latest fashion line statement about to drop, Beyoncé is still turning it out. She’s building on the ‘Ivy Park’ brand she started and teamed-up with Adidas. It’s a kind of throwback to an 80s vibe, while the promo says to find your ‘beast bode.’ It’s as if the subtext could also be to flaunt your ‘beauty streak.’

For Lizzo, she’s brought much attention to being ‘body positive’, or as she prefers to say, ‘body normative’. For the ‘big girls club’, she has become proof positive about feeling good in your skin. But what they both bring beyond fashion statement or plus-size placement is how to find your flow when you:

Be Still

The impact of Covid-19 on essential workers has been seen over these past months. They tend to be more out-front and vulnerable. The impact to others has been things coming to a grinding halt. For Beyoncé, “It was the first time in my life I’ve been so still.” Sometimes that’s where your flow starts.

Be Creative

After releasing the first edition of the clothing line, Bey’s looking to make waves with the updated looks. During the downtime of her music she’s been busy in the uptime of her fashion. When you flow your gifts, talents and skills, there’s always room to be creative. You might even surprise yourself sometimes.

Be Ready

During the early stages of her music Lizzo wasn’t sure how she’d incorporate her classic side with her pop side. Her classic side comes with the flute. Her pop side comes with the lyrics. But her creative process flows from musical sound to breakout rhythm in turning out the hits with crossover appeal.

Be Real

They both do their best to keep it real. For Lizzo, her ‘real’ flows from not acting like more than who she is, while being ‘bold & fearless’. For Beyoncé her ‘real’ flows from being even bigger than who we think she is, while showing ‘calm & coolness’. Flow makes you ‘be real’ and when you’re real you find flow.

As musical artists they might have different ways in how they flow. But as music stars they’re about being at their best and taking a stand on social issues. Their love for the game is just as strong as their love for their fans. And at their best, they make us fell good about ourselves in doing what it takes to level-up.

Tip: Find your ‘beast mode’ or at least find your flow when you be still, be creative, be ready and be real.

Talkback: Which is it, ‘bold & fearless’ or ‘calm & coolness’ that brings out your best?

Tracks: Ciara – Level Up – https://youtu.be/Dh-ULbQmmF8

James Brown – I Got You (I Feel Good) – https://youtu.be/Lrv-Morm-c0

Lebron James & Dawn Staley Give us Motivating Lessons on Rising, Winning & Shining at Work, Play and Round-the-Way

Posted by doc2comm

There’s more to basketball, than basketball! That’s how Tracee Ellie Ross begins as the narrator of that new TV ad. It gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges that NBA players had to overcome this season. When the first player tested positive for Covid-19, the league decided to shutdown all games.

Then, a few months later, a careful restart was underway with the playoffs. The players would live in a ‘bubble’ on the grounds of the ABC Sports complex. In the case of the WNBA they also went through a similar process, but they’d restart games at another venue with similar restrictions.

Well, they made it through without a virus outbreak and crowned the champions. The Seattle Storm won their 4^th trophy while the Los Angeles Lakers won their 17^th. Their records say a lot about the ABCs of bringing your A-game, having a B-side to life-balance and proving your value to the C-suite execs.

Lebron James still has some playing days left in him, while former WNBA player Dawn Staley has since left the game and is now a college coach. They give us lessons in rising, winning and shining at work, play and round-the-way. It’s also what the TV ad tries to do without selling their next breakout shoe.

The importance of sports to biz and culture is well known. Whether at a restaurant, bar or hometown playground, folks talk about, study and emulate their fav player. It’s more than just what they do on the court that matters. They know that with preparation, passion and practice you can go the distance with:

Work Ethic

Both James and Staley have played on Olympic teams. They made it there because of talent and work ethic. It’s the things you do that no one has to tell you that you have to do. You might do it for the love of the game. But there’s a need to improve, invest or capitalize on skills because work ethic demands it.

Team Dream

When pro players started going to the Olympics, they first became known as the “Dream Team.” They were among the best of the best in the game at any level. But what James has been able to do wherever he goes in the league is to have others commit to the team dream. That’s how they step-up their game.

Game Changer

When league play was put on hold, James wasn’t gung-ho about playing without fans during the restart. That was a game changer for the rest of the way. Sometimes being a game changer means being comfortable with starting over. That’s what James has done in his career with every team he’s been with.

Street Cred

Staley grew up on the hard side of town. She was often with her brother and his friends at the playground. She wanted to play but wasn’t sure they’d let her. She brought her own ball, which upped her chances of getting picked. In time, her street cred wasn’t just from having the ball, but from “ballin” on the court.

These days when it comes to sports, it feels like something’s in the water on the West Coast. The Seattle Storm wins the WNBA, the Lakers win the NBA and the NFL Seattle Seahawks are on a hot streak. These players show us that even in tough times, we gotta get up and rise each day to secure the bag.

Tip: Get your hustle on, or at least bring your A-game so that your street cred as a game changer is in using work ethic to inspire team dream.

Talkback: What’s the off-season gonna be like for the players with social issues on their minds?

Tracks: Steel Pulse – Rize – https://youtu.be/m-bVaqDm7Hs

Ace Hood – Hustle Hard – https://youtu.be/r_dh16HQkqQ

Tyler Perry & Issa Rae Took Different Paths but Have a Similar Message on Turning Fed-Up into Step-Up

Posted by doc2comm

There’s a kind of hazy cloud hanging over people and places these days. In some parts of the country there’s the cloud of forest fires. With millions of acres burning during this ongoing dry season, we see news reports of damage and destruction. In some parts, the whole town has been wiped out.

Then there’s the cloud hanging over people trying to take next steps. For some who’ve lost everything due to the fires it’s about figuring out where to lay their heads. For others who’ve lost their job due to the economic calamity caused by Covid-19, it’s a case of wishing and praying that things turn around.

While Tyler Perry and Issa Rae haven’t seen this kind of devastation in their lives, they have a similar message on turning despair into emergence and fed-up into step-up. Perry who was once homeless when he first started on his dreams, was the recent recipient of the Governor’s Award at the Emmys.

For Rae, it’s been a tug-of-war in emotions as she creates a path in her Hollywood career. She remembers having a meeting with an industry exec who liked what she was doing but missed the point of her work. The rub was in the exec not seeing her work for its worth but for his exerting power and control.

They know the feeling of having a hazy cloud over their heads. But they’ve also seen what can happen when things clear with peaks of sunshine. It’s those glimmers of light that have helped them build their showbiz following and business acumen as actors. They used that time of clearing to build on the:

1. Moment

Perry spoke in his acceptance speech about his grandmother’s quilt and how he realized he took it for granted. He visited an antique store and saw a similar quilt for sale. It was then he got the power of the message in grandma’s quilt. There’re moments in life when we realize the power to work our magic.

2. Motivation

In the meeting Rae had with the exec she realized that it was a moment for motivation and change. She chuckles about how “someone got fired” in that meeting, but she turned the moment into motivation to build her brand cred. Now she’s known for her own HBO series and select roles in big screen movies.

3. Journey

Perry says he looks back from time to time to appreciate from whence he came. The advice he once got from Oprah to start a journal has now been turned into a journey. Fast-forward to where he is now in receiving the Governor’s award and you’ll find stage plays, movies and TV shows in his portfolio.

4. Story

The magic and magnetic attraction Perry and Rae bring comes from the stories they tell. Sometimes it’s a fictional story made for TV sitcoms and acting stage. Sometimes it’s a real-life story adapted to a movie role. And sometimes it’s their own story of momentary digest, passion quest and dream conquest.

As the fall season of TV shows take shape, there’ll be retuning favorites and newbie projects. Things might be a little different where shows won’t have an audience or have to comply with social distancing. But when the haze clears there’s always a bright light or spot for those who make hay while the shines.

Tip: Good times come when life’s moments get turned into motivation that leads to a journey for your comeback story.

Talkback: Was Schitt’s Creek really waiting in the wings over the years for this many Emmys?

Tracks: Hill St Soul – One Life – https://youtu.be/9TL3rOzxU5g

Angie Stone – No More Rain (In This Cloud) – https://youtu.be/UgG0Hu_FeiA

Serena Williams & Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson Working on Getting Back in Stride to Make that Move and Secure the Bag

Posted by doc2comm

The back to school season is really upon us now as pretty much most students across the country open their Zoom window. With Covid-19 still an issue, school districts are working on getting students back in stride for the upcoming year. Some started off with in-person classes while others do remote learning.

The Labor Day holiday is seen as the unofficial end of the summer and the first ramping-up of normal life. Kids return to school and parents wrap-up on vacation time. As to how normal things will be in the first few weeks is still a question. Whether at work or play, some feel being in lockdown mode is getting old.

In sports and showbiz, there’s some glimmer of hope in trying to get back on the regular. There’re events happening in a bubble, or at least without fans. Serena Williams is back on the tennis court at the US Open in NY while ‘The Rock’ surprised NY-area first responders with special props (or rather ‘kicks’).

Johnson recently announced a special giveaway of his sneaker-line to members of a local firehouse for all the work they’re doing on the frontlines. During this week of 9/11, he especially wanted to shoutout those who were impacted by tragedy as many reflect on what it means to serve your community/country.

Williams and Johnson are working with different motivations. For Johnson he’s bouncing back from being Covid-19 positive. For Williams, it’s her ongoing quest to hit that 24-mark in grand slam wins. No matter where we live, whether we’re trying to make that move or secure the bag, we can get motivation by being:

New York Tough

As the song reminds us, “if you can make it here (in NY), you can make it anywhere.” Many (including the Governor) might say that’s a dream confession of a ‘NY Tough’ state of mind. There’s a certain kind of ‘grit & grind’ that makes NY a place people love to live and others want to visit as a global attraction.

New Jersey Strong

When Superstorm Sandy hit the East Coast, there was loss of life as in 9/11 but there was also more widespread damage/loss in property. The strength that people showed in bouncing back became known as ‘Jersey Strong.’ No matter where things are career-wise or in life we can up our game with resilience.

California Dreaming

There was a time when heading west meant reaching new lands. Plus, there was a period of ‘California Dreaming’ as seen in the Gold Rush. Well, after Labor Day might be a good time to think about reaching new heights. But to make that move and secure the bag these days is a different kind of ‘gold rush’ and life dreams.

Colorado High

The CBD business has taken off across the country. One of the first places it started was in Colorado where recreational use was legalized. The State isn’t only known for the ‘mile high’ city of Denver. It also represents a kind of ‘Colorado High’ on figuring out new streams of opportunity for success.

This week, NY Governor Cuomo gave a blistering readout on hometown rebound due to Covid-19. He thinks the Federal government has a silly vendetta against NY. Well, for the economic situation to get back in stride where folks get to secure the bag, it will take leadership that’s more than just a ‘sugar high.’

Tip: To get back in stride and secure the bag takes adding ‘NY Tough’ to ‘California Dreaming’ from coast to coast.

Talkback: What other State slogan gets you going?

Tracks: Maze ft Frankie Beverly – Back in Stride Again – https://youtu.be/waSM0rXDLys

Harry Styles – Watermelon Sugar – https://youtu.be/E07s5ZYygMg

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