Words of Wisdom from Our Heroes to Get You Out Of Your Funk
BY JENNY JUNG
Six key mantras from The Macallan Meet Your Heroes event that changed my perspective.
27 AUG - 2024
Sometimes, all we need is a nudge in the right direction.
Times are tough. It’s no secret that we’re all feeling the strain of a sluggish economy, high interest rates, and, yes, the cost of living crisis. Believe me, I’m just as tired of hearing about it as you are (I don’t know a thing about interest rates).
Honestly, I’m not usually one for motivational platitudes because it can feel a little bit like bullshit at times. But there’s something about a well-timed quote that can spark a eureka moment, especially when you’re in a mental slump. If you’re struggling with low ambition, seasonal blues and an ever-growing list of self-help books that remain unread – it’s time for a mental refresh. Here are some of my favourite quotes from the The Macallan “Meet Your Heroes” event to revive your spirit.
P.S: If your misery is needing some company and some direction on how to channel it, check out my latest Mindcrumb on embracing fear for positive change. I open a small little window into my (deeply shattered) psyche, sharing insights on how to transform anxiety into a powerful force for growth and resilience. We gotta do what we gotta do!
Meet Your Heroes 2024.
Meet Your Heroes 2024.
“You Really Don’t Know Somebody Until They Don’t Get What They Want” - Melodi Barzandeh
Reflect on the last time you witnessed someone facing an unmet expectation. Did they respond with patience and understanding, or did they lash out in frustration? This mantra from Melodi captures the importance of observing reactions of people facing adversity as a true measure of someone’s character. It's in these challenging moments that authenticity surfaces, unmasked by the veneer of control and satisfaction.
Have you ever rejected a man, only to be met with an immediate shift in his demeanour? A man who seemed warm and friendly moments before suddenly turns cold, his attitude angry or bitter. I know we’ve all been there. Or, have you ever been awarded a promotion or opportunity at work, only to have a colleague react in a way that surprised you? Perhaps a colleague who once appeared supportive and friendly suddenly becomes distant or resentful, shifting from a sense of camaraderie to coldness.
It really goes to show that it’s easy to maintain composure and grace when everything is going our way, but when confronted with disappointment or denial, the facade falls away, revealing a person's true nature.
Melodi Barzandeh
“Vulnerability is Is Not Winning or Losing; It’s Having the Courage to Show Up and Be Seen Where We Have No Control over the Outcome” - Aroha Jakicevich
This quote by Brené Brown brilliantly highlights the essence of true courage. Vulnerability is often misunderstood as a weakness, when really, it is a profound strength. It takes immense courage to present our true selves, especially when the outcomes are uncertain. There is nothing more brave than showing up as your most authentic self. This vulnerability forms the foundation of connecting with others in a meaningful way. It’s about showing up fully, despite the fear of rejection or failure.
Aroha Jakicevich
“Not All Money is Good Money” - Melodi Barzandeh
This reminds us that the means of acquiring money is as important as the amount itself. I remember as Melodi shared this mantra, the room filled with murmurs of agreement. Although she didn’t delve deeply into the details, I reflected on it from my own perspective as a law student in my final semesters. Growing up, becoming a lawyer was all my family cared about, believing it would ensure financial security. However, over time, I realised that I didn't want to work merely to live; like many people, I want to live so that I can work. This means putting in a lot of extra time and effort into something that is professionally and personally more challenging – like co-founding my own start-up, for example!
"Not all money is good money" also speaks to the integrity of our actions. It challenges us to consider the broader impact of our financial decisions: the ethical implications, the societal consequences and the personal cost. Wealth gained through exploitation, deceit or harm to others carries a weight that can erode the soul. This mantra encourages a more holistic view of prosperity, one that aligns with personal and communal ethics.
On the other hand, while money can provide comfort and security, it shouldn’t come at the expense of our happiness or peace of mind. Financial success is meaningful insofar that it contributes to a fulfilling and balanced life. Ultimately, the best kind of wealth is that which enriches not only our bank accounts but also our hearts and minds. Watch out for karma, people!
Melodi Barzandeh
“Conflict and Despair Are Expected, and You Should Welcome It” - Shivana Pemberton
In other words, expect the unexpected! This insight speaks to the inevitability of challenges and encourages us to embrace conflict or despair, rather than avoiding or fearing it. It is through facing and overcoming adversity that we grow and build resilience. Negative experiences are natural parts of the human experience, and they often serve as catalysts for change and self-discovery. By welcoming these difficult moments, we allow ourselves to learn and evolve.
Learn to welcome conflict and despair to train yourself to stay prepared and make informed decisions that help mitigate these situations. Over time, this approach fosters resilience, enabling you to remain calm in the face of panic and level-headed in high-pressure environments – something we should all be aiming for!
Shivana Pemberton
“If Someone Says No, You’re Asking the Wrong Person” - Melodi Barzandeh
Persistence is often lauded as the key to success, and this mantra encapsulates that tenacity perfectly. Rejection is a natural part of any ambitious endeavour, but how we interpret and respond to rejection can make all the difference. This saying suggests that a "no" is not necessarily a dead end but rather a redirection.
It encourages us to seek out those who align with our vision and values, rather than be disheartened by rejection. It’s a call to find the right allies and partners - those who see the potential and share the enthusiasm. In essence, it’s a reminder that the right support can transform a ‘no’ into a powerful ‘yes’. Not to mention that all business people are essentially sales people. If you have ever worked in sales, you will be familiar with the daunting process of accepting rejection. Although it may be discouraging initially, like everything, learning to move on is like flexing a muscle. Over time, you grow thicker skin and resilience, making each subsequent rejection easier to handle and each acceptance more rewarding.
Adding to this theme of persistence, here is one of my own personal mantras: "closed mouths don’t get fed." Silence may seem like a safe option, but it often leads to missed opportunities and unfulfilled potential. Speaking up and asking for what we need or want is crucial in achieving our goals.
Melodi Barzandeh
“You’re the Average of the Five People You Spend the Most Time With” - Sophie Chung
Jim Rohn famously stated, "You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with." This quote is underscored by the law of averages, suggesting that our environment heavily influences our outcomes. Whether we like it or not, the people we keep close have a profound impact on our personal development.
Rohn highlights the importance of our social circles in shaping who we are. Surrounding ourselves with individuals who understand and align with our values is crucial for personal growth. To thrive in life, we should be seeking people who recognise our needs. These are individuals who not only comprehend how we operate and perceive life but also challenge and support us in becoming the best versions of ourselves.
High EQ individuals, for example, can discern our strengths and weaknesses, offering guidance and encouragement that fosters our emotional and intellectual growth. By cultivating relationships with people like this, we create an environment conducive to our success and well-being. This principle emphasises that our personal and professional achievements are often reflections of the company we keep.
So, take a good look at your friends and ask yourself whether you are happy with how they represent who you are as a person. Most likely, you will have one or two questionable individuals in your circle. It's essential to evaluate whether these relationships are contributing positively to your growth or holding you back. Surrounding yourself with people who uplift and inspire you is key to becoming the best version of yourself. If some of your current relationships don't align with you, it might be time to reconsider their place in your life. By consciously choosing to spend time with those who encourage and support you, you can foster an environment that promotes personal and professional development.
Sophie Chung
Final Words
As a recent member of the 25 club, this advice felt incredibly helpful as I navigate this pivotal stage of my life. Apparently this is where the prefrontal cortex of my brain is fully mature, which I find both exciting and concerning. It's a reminder that I'm entering a phase where decision-making and responsibilities take on new dimensions. So, I will definitely be taking these mantras to heart because I need all the guidance I can get. If anyone else can relate, I hope these words of wisdom can also help you steer through the complexities of adulthood with a bit more confidence and clarity.
Follow @chattychums on instagram for the latest updates because rumour has it that we may be hosting another special event soon. You won’t want to miss this one!
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