'Life isn't about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.' - George Bernard Shaw

The past decade has been a transformational journey of change and growth. As I celebrate entering the second half of my thirties, I'm taking time to reflect on the shifts that have reshaped my perspective and priorities.

The gradual fading of high school friendships as people moved and life took us in different directions has been bitter sweet. The car community I was once active in also dissipated as my interests evolved. These experiences highlighted how external factors can reshape our social connections over time.

Letting go of the powerlifting and coffee competitions that previously occupied my time was necessary self-reflection. It allowed me to focus more intentionally on exploring new interests, developing my business and becoming aware of what genuinely resonates with me.

With each opening location within Sydney brought a fresh start. From Glebe, Darlinghurst, St Leonards and coming this year, Chatswood. Each space I've formed new community ties and appreciated the gifts each area offers. These moves have been catalysts for adaptation and growth. While establishing local connections in St Leonards has had unforeseen challenges, it's been a thought-provoking learning curve. I'm studying how to create inclusive spaces and trying new approaches to building community. Though difficult at times, these experiences create growth opportunities.

On a different level, building my online and in-person breathwork and meditation community over the past few years has been incredibly rewarding. Launching two newsletters and podcasts has allowed me to build new communities while engaging in meaningful work.

Now on a personal level, getting married and reconnecting with family have nurtured my appreciation for intimate relationships. My roles within my family continue to evolve as we support each other's growth. Cultivating quality time together is now a priority in how I spend my energy.

As I turn 36, I feel equipped with these lessons and ready to welcome the surprises and unknowns ahead. I envision deepening ties both locally and online, expanding my reach and evolving my business naturally in alignment with my values. I'm open to revisiting past interests like travel, powerlifting or cars in new ways. My social circles will continue to shift emphasising quality over quantity and meaningful shared interests.

Above all, I plan to embrace life's changes with optimism and an open heart. I look forward to each moment as an opportunity for personal growth and positive contribution to my community. There are sure to be challenges that catalyse growth, new perspectives that shift my priorities and surprises that bring pain and joy. I'm grateful you're here with me on this never-ending adventure of life.

Weekly Audio Journal by Kevin Ly Social is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

2024 will not be a year of mere survival; it will be our canvas for creating abundance and prosperity.

As the calendar turns to 2024, I find myself reflecting on the tumultuous journey of the past year. 2023 was, for lack of a better word, challenging. It tested the resilience and adaptability of many, myself included. The business landscape was rugged, marked by uncertainty and a constant sense of struggle. We found ourselves caught in a narrative of negativity, each of us battling to keep our heads above water. It was a year where survival seemed like the only goal and a scarcity mindset became the default.

However, a new year comes the opportunity for renewal and change. I've made a conscious decision to change my internal dialogue in 2024. This year, I am choosing to shift from a mindset of scarcity to one of abundance. Instead of contracting, I am preparing to step out, to play on both defense and offense with equal strength.

The crux of this transformation lies in thinking beyond the immediate. It's about seeing the larger picture, understanding the value of systems and processes over solitary moves. For too long, the attempt to juggle every aspect by myself has been the norm. But this year, I am embracing collaboration, delegation and strategic planning. It's about building a framework that not only supports growth but also fosters innovation and opportunity.

This blog post serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it is a public declaration of my intentions for the year ahead. It is an announcement to my peers, colleagues and competitors that I am re-entering the arena with a refreshed perspective and renewed energy. Secondly, and perhaps more importantly, it is a personal reminder. A note to my future self, to revisit whenever I feel doubt or pessimism creeping in. It's my guiding light back to a path of growth and positivity.

The transition from a mindset of scarcity to one of abundance is not just about changing a few thought patterns. It's about a fundamental shift in how I perceive challenges and opportunities. It involves reprogramming the instinct to contract under pressure and replacing it with the impulse to expand and explore new possibilities. It's about understanding that growth often comes from the most unexpected places and that opportunity can be found even in the midst of adversity.

As I set on this journey of transformation, I invite you, my readers, to join me. Let's make 2024 a year of abundant thinking, of seizing opportunities and of collective growth. Let's move forward with the understanding that our mindset shapes our reality and a shift towards positivity and abundance can open opportunities we never knew existed.

To everyone stepping into 2024 with hopes and aspirations, remember: the new year is more than just a change in the calendar. It's a chance to redefine our priorities, to shift our perspectives, and to embrace the abundance that life has to offer. Let's make this year count!

Weekly Audio Journal by Kevin Ly Social is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

"Just like carefully assembling a puzzle, my journey from a 9-year-old tech enthusiast to a café owner demonstrates how life's pieces can fit together in the most unexpected ways."

My obsession with technology began as a 9-year-old, when a cousin like figure introduced me to the world of computers. I was immediately obsessed! Our trips to the computer market started a fire in me - carefully selecting parts and assembling them perfectly like pieces of a puzzle. I dived deep into understanding how each component – the motherboard, RAM, hard drives – clicked into place.

This curiosity sparked a lifelong passion for computers. I experimented endlessly at home alongside friends who shared my enthusiasm. We dove into programming and troubleshooting, propelling each other further with every new discovery. I soon began devouring computer magazines, yearning to build my own customised machine. When I finally assembled my very own computer, the end result was fleeting but the process would always keep me up at night in excitement.

My thirst for knowledge expanded beyond just computers. I became interested in Japanese performance cars - absorbing everything about their engineering and mechanics. I dreamed of one day not just appreciating cars, but tuning and modifying them to perfection.

Years later, this journey led me to open my first café with childhood friends. On the surface, running a café appears completely unrelated to computers or cars. Yet now in hindsight, I noticed striking parallels. The meticulous attention to equipment in the café mirrored my approach in working with computer hardware and auto parts. Optimising each piece of coffee gear brought back memories of assembling computers and tuning cars.

I realised then that the underlying passion driving all my interests lay in processes - the intricate dance of combining parts and elements to create an ideal system. Whether with computers, cars or cafés, I thrived on learning, experimenting and refining. Over the last decade, I expanded my business to three coffee shops, constantly honing the operational processes integral to success.

This journey has shown me that dedication to continuous improvement is what I truly love. My motivation does not stem from any single result, but from falling in love with the process itself - finding joy in each step of the learning and growth.

As I move forward, I hope to apply this mindset more widely while also guiding others in appreciating process over outcomes. I want to highlight the beauty in personal progress, problem-solving and lifelong learning across all pursuits. There is fulfilment to be found in passionately chasing small improvements day after day.

This is my final audio journal post of 2023 and I wish you all a safe and happy holiday. Catch you in 2024 for more reflections and insights.

"The professional loves her work. She is invested in it wholeheartedly. But she does not forget that the work is not her." - Steven Pressfield

In the relentless pursuit of our careers, it's easy to blur the lines between our work and our identity. Yes, passion is vital. It drives us, fuels our creativity, and pushes us to achieve the extraordinary. But, there's a subtle art in loving what we do without letting it consume who we are.

Reflecting on this, I think about the journey I've been on. From the intense days of university work life to the entrepreneurial hustle, my work has always been a significant part of my life. But, it is not my entire life. The distinction is crucial.

Here are a few thoughts on balancing professional passion with personal identity:

1. Your Value Beyond Work: Remember, your worth isn't solely tied to your professional achievements. You're valuable because of who you are, not just what you do.

2. Diverse Interests: Cultivate interests outside of work. Whether it's a hobby, volunteering or simply spending time with loved ones, these activities enrich your life and offer a fresh perspective.

3. Self-Reflection: Regularly take time to reflect. Ask yourself: "Am I working on something I love or am I defining myself solely by my work?" This can be a revealing exercise.

4. Setting Boundaries: It's essential to set boundaries between work and personal life. This helps in maintaining a healthy balance and avoiding burnout.

5. Growth Mindset: Embrace a growth mindset. See your career as a part of your life where you grow, learn, and contribute, but not the entirety of your existence.

So love what you do, give it your all, but remember - you are much more than your work. Your identity is a combination of your passions, experiences, relationships and beliefs. Cherish it.

How do you maintain a balance between your professional passion and personal identity? Would love to hear your thoughts!

Weekly Audio Journal by Kevin Ly Social is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

"You must cultivate activities that you love. You must discover work that you do, not for its utility, but for itself..." - Anthony de Mello

In our achievement-driven world, it's easy to lose touch with activities that ignite our souls. Anthony de Mello wisely reminds us to discover work we do for its own sake, not just its outcome. This journey unlocks the gateway to freedom and love.

Finding Your Soul's Calling

The first step is tuning out societal noise and expectations. Experiment with new hobbies, recall moments when you lost track of time, and reflect on what activities align with your true passions. Don't rush this discovery process.

Cultivating Passion for its Own Sake

Go beyond surface enjoyment. Find work that grips your soul, not for recognition or results, but for the pure experience. Garden, write, paint or code for the joy of creating. Cherish the creative process over the end product.

Freedom Through Soulful Work

In activities that resonate deeply, external validation becomes irrelevant. Your sense of worth stems from the work itself. This liberates you to make authentic choices, guided by internal fulfilment rather than external pressures.

Love Blossoms from Freedom

Freedom unlocks self-love. As you follow your soul's calling, you nurture compassion for yourself. This radiates outwards, influencing how you see others. Aligning with your true passions illuminates the pathway to love.

Taking the First Step

Reflect on what activities absorb you completely. Cooking, teaching, writing - find these soul sparks and give them space to grow. Discovering your soul's true calling is the passport to freedom and love.

Weekly Audio Journal by Kevin Ly Social is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

George Shinn highlighted an important truth: "There is no such thing as a self-made man. You will reach your goals only with the help of others." This shatters the illusion of the 'self-made' individual, revealing that success is always a joint effort.

Our culture often celebrates individual triumphs, leading us to believe in the myth of the lone wolf. This narrative of solitary struggle against all odds is misleading. Did the most influential leaders and innovators really achieve greatness alone? A deeper inspection shows a consistent theme of teamwork and mutual support.

Leaders need teams. A solitary leader is like a captain without a crew. A leader's real power lies in their ability to rally, motivate and steer others toward shared goals.

Admitting the need for assistance is a courageous act of humility and a willingness to learn. Success involves knowing when to lean on others, not a display of weakness, but an understanding of success's complex nature.

Collaborative efforts unleash potential far beyond individual capabilities. The combined energy of a group often exceeds the sum of separate efforts, fostering innovation, transformative ideas and lasting change.

Building a supportive network isn't about gathering a group of yes people or seeking constant approval. It's about connecting with a variety of individuals who provide unique insights, challenge your ideas and offer diverse skills. This group becomes your counsel, your mentors and at times, your challengers.

Reflect on George Shinn's wisdom as you journey through life and career. Resist the allure of the self-made myth. Lean into collaboration, ask for help when necessary, and form a team that amplifies your strengths. True success is a collective journey, not a solitary one.

Weekly Audio Journal by Kevin Ly Social is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Just like a domino effect, completing 'The One Thing' sets a chain reaction in motion, making every subsequent task easier or even unnecessary. It's about honing in on that pivotal task that will create a ripple effect of progress.

Amidst the endless pinging, ringing and buzzing of tasks vying for our attention, it's easy to lose focus. We've all had days where we jumped from one task to the next, accomplishing bits and pieces but nothing meaningful. 

To break out of this draining cycle, try out… "The One Thing." This concept emphasises identifying the single most important task and prioritising it above all else. 

Stop trying to multitask and be everything to everyone. Instead, pause and ask yourself, "What is the one thing that, if completed today, would make everything else easier or even unnecessary?"

As Stephen Covey put it, "Schedule your priorities, don't just prioritise your schedule." Look beyond the bustling schedule and distractions taking up your time. Reflect on what truly aligns with your core values and long-term goals.

Pinpointing this One Thing requires self-awareness and conscious effort. Reflect on your bigger objectives and consider: What is the one action I could take today that would significantly advance my priorities? This could be having a crucial conversation, making progress on a key project or any singular task that creates momentum.

Once you've identified your One Thing, protect and schedule time for it. Set firm boundaries and minimise distractions to focus on this top priority task. Completing your One Thing will boost your productivity and progress.

Of course, singular focus takes practice. But by zeroing in on your daily One Thing, you'll find greater clarity and alignment. Try keeping a daily log of your One Thing to help keep you on track and accountable.

I hope this helps if you’re new to this and if you’re already doing this I hope this serves a reminder to stay on course.

Weekly Audio Journal by Kevin Ly Social is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

I used to believe in the phrase "I'll be happy when…” until I realised that “when” never comes. It's our choice to be happy here and now, even amidst life's challenges.

Life is filled with ups and downs. One day we feel joyful and content. The next, we're saddened or stressed. Our moods fluctuate constantly in response to life's circumstances.

But what if we didn't let external factors control how we feel? What if we made a conscious choice to be happy, regardless of what's happening around us?

This may sound difficult. But it all comes down to perspective - how we choose to see the world and our place in it.

Let's try a little experiment. On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate your happiness right now? Be honest. Now, here's the twist: you can't pick 7.

Interesting, isn't it? We often gravitate towards the middle, not wanting to commit to being truly happy or unhappy. 7 feels like a safe, comfortable choice. But is this serving us?

Choosing 7 means we're letting outside forces determine our inner state. It means we're reluctant to take responsibility for our own happiness.

What if, instead, we made the courageous choice to pick 8, 9 or 10? This simple shift in perspective could transform our daily lives.

Suddenly, rather than focusing on problems, we'd notice all there is to appreciate. Instead of dwelling on what's lacking, we'd find fulfilment in the here and now.

Henry Ford once said, "Whether you think you can or you can't, you're right." This profound statement isn't just about our abilities or inabilities but extends to our emotions and state of mind. I believe the same goes for happiness. If you think you're happy, you are. If you think you're not, well, you're right again.

This is the power of choosing happiness. It allows us to shape our reality, to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary.

Yes, there will still be difficult times. But by choosing happiness as our baseline, we give ourselves the gift of a more joyful, meaningful life.

So today, challenge yourself. Choose a number higher than 7. Then watch the world transform around you.

Happiness is a choice we must make again and again. But it's a choice that can change everything.

Weekly Audio Journal by Kevin Ly Social is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Think managing a big company is harder than a small one? You might want to rethink your assumptions. Let's dive into the realities of business management, regardless of scale.

"Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out." - Robert Collier

When we talk about business, our minds often jump to the extremes: the local mom-and-pop shop down the street and the multinational corporation with its large skyscrapers. The assumption? That the larger the company, the greater the effort required to manage it. However, the truth is more nuanced.

Big Dreams, Big Responsibilities

Running a large corporation comes with its fair share of responsibilities. From managing numerous employees, navigating complex supply chains, to maintaining a global brand image - it's no small feat. It demands strategic planning, a robust team, and a vision that spans continents.

However, with size comes resources. Large companies have departments dedicated to specific functions, from HR to marketing, and can hire top talent to lead initiatives.

Small Dreams, Equally Big Responsibilities

On the flip side, while a small business might have a smaller team and perhaps a local footprint, the challenges are just as significant. With limited resources, the owner often wears multiple hats - from being the CEO to the janitor. Decisions need to be made quickly, and the margin for error is thin. In essence, while the scale is different, the intensity of effort remains high.

Adding to that, small businesses often grapple with challenges like limited capital, intense competition from both local and big players and the need for fast adaptability.

The Common Denominator: Time

Whether you're steering a startup or a corporation, there are only 24 hours in a day. Time is the great equaliser. It's not about how many hours you put in, but how you utilise those hours. Efficiency, strategy, and prioritisation become key, irrespective of the company's size.

In the end, whether you dream big or small, the effort required to turn those dreams into reality is huge. It's not the size of the company but the passion, commitment and strategy that determine success. As Robert Collier said, success is built upon consistent, small efforts. So, whether you're at the helm of a local café or a global enterprise, remember: the journey, challenges, and rewards are more similar than they might seem at first glance.

If you are feeling generous (and inspired) feel free to share it with others who might find it valuable. Thank you for reading.

Did you know that the act of smiling can trigger the release of neurotransmitters that promote happiness? You can learn the magic of the Buddha's Smile, a practice transcending the meditation cushion into everyday life.

Our days are often filled with endless tasks, buzzing phones and overflowing inboxes. It can seem impossible to find peace amidst the daily chaos. But I rediscovered a simple yet profound practice that creates a state of calm: the Buddha's Smile. 

I first learned this practice during meditation at a temple when I was in primary school. The master would say sit cross legged, sit up straight, look down 45 degrees, don’t completely shut your eyes, breath in with your nose deeply into your belly and relax your face into a soft grin. This smile would melt away any stress or tension. It became a soothing companion to my practice. 

That was many many years ago and it wasn’t until recently I discovered that I can actually bring it into my daily life. I didn’t have to be sitting down cross legged… I could do it while walking, driving, waiting in line, basically almost any other time! As I went about my routine with a gentle smile, my usual tension faded. Chores seemed lighter, the world less hostile. Amidst the daily chaos, the smile created a sense of peace. 

Thich Nhat Hanh wisely said "Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy." This proved true for me. The simple act of smiling became a bridge, connecting my meditative calm to my busy day.

The Buddha's Smile is accessible anytime, anywhere. In the middle of errands or emails, I relax my jaw and allow a grin to emerge. This immediately shifts my state - shoulders soften, breath deepens, and perspective widens. The facade of urgency melts away.

Each morning, I step into the world with a Buddha's Smile, carrying tranquility into my day. The boundaries between formal practice and daily life blur.

I invite you to try this simple practice. Let the Buddha's Smile soften your day and open your heart. May it reveal peace within daily life and spread serenity to the world around you. Your smile can be an anchor in the present moment.

If you are feeling generous (and inspired) feel free to share it with others who might find it valuable. Thank you for reading.