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Some of us may view sustainability as a buzzword. In the US, environmental risks have become a more legitimate concern than ever. Business leaders cannot afford to sideline them. It doesn’t matter whether your firm is a well-regarded organization or a fledgling startup.

Besides worsening the veritable reality of climate change, not focusing on sustainability can also dampen the spirit of your employees. Many modern organizations dabble in hazardous substances that can directly impact employee health unless due caution is in place.

Let us discuss how you can sync your organization’s sustainability and employee wellness efforts.

Protecting Employee Health Through Non-Toxic Office Supplies 

Several companies in the US have rolled out back-to-office policies, much to the disdain of many employees. Returning to office after years of working from home can be unsettling. A workplace that does not value their health can worsen employee sentiments. 

Many modern workplaces don’t examine furniture and personal care products closely. The US Environmental Protection Agency observes that everyday items may contain harmful PFAS. In offices, such items may include water-resistant furniture, plastic utensils, stain-resistant carpets, and food packaging.

Why Are PFAS a Concern for Business Owners?

Did you know that many Americans are still oblivious to the presence of PFAS? In a survey published in the National Library of Medicine, 31.6% of respondents agreed that they had heard of PFAS but had no clue what they were. 

Well, disregarding per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances can land you in hot soup. Sectors like firefighting use them directly in Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF). Decades of use have exposed many firefighters to ill health, prompting them to take legal action. According to TruLaw, several firefighters have developed cancer in the kidneys and bladder. 

PFAS-rich by-products have also landed in municipal water supplies. The latest AFFF lawsuit update states that the authorities will consider water contamination and personal injury cases against manufacturers.

No matter which industry you operate in, it’s highly likely that your company uses PFAS in some form or another. The risk is higher for aerospace, automotive, and electronics businesses. Over time, exposure to these chemicals can make your workforce susceptible to hormonal imbalance, high blood pressure, and increased cholesterol. 

Action Plan

The best plan is to go completely non-toxic by eliminating any office supplies that have PFAS. You can start by prohibiting takeout from food chains that use grease-resistant packaging. It is not too difficult to achieve as the FDA has banned grease-proofing agents with PFAS.

Eventually, you can replace furniture, upholstery, and cubicle walls that don’t meet safety standards. Does your business require long hours in the office – think customer service or data science? Your employees face a higher risk of exposure to toxic chemicals. Concrete efforts in building a green workspace will show commitment to employee safety and sustainability. 

Integrating Safer Alternatives Throughout the Supply Chain

A recent McKinsey report found that many Gen Z employees are open to taking on roles in manufacturing. However, many leave within a few months. They perceive an unfriendly environment for humans (as opposed to machines).

Indeed, many businesses focus mainly on the end products and areas like marketing. Manufacturing and allied processes get sidelined. Knowing the operational process inside out will help you see the risk areas for your workforce. 

For example, you may have eliminated toxic chemicals from your final products. However, what if your vendors and suppliers use unsafe products, exposing your workers to health hazards? 

Action Plan

Business owners must choose safer alternatives throughout the supply chain to safeguard employee interests. In turn, you will also make a lasting impact on minimizing the firm’s carbon footprint.

Responsible business owners can run a thorough supply chain analysis. Industry insights can help you discover where toxins may linger in your sector. Accordingly, your team can evaluate the chemical composition of these products and explore safer replacements.

Unilever is a stunning example of how leaders sync occupational factors with employee wellness. The company uses a specific metric called Occupational Illness Frequency Rate (OIFR) to understand why workers may get ill at work. OIFR ties in with the firm’s workplace health promotion and education.

Many global firms now consult accredited laboratories to test raw materials and wastewater samples. The Guardian reports the curious case of Anglian Water, a British firm. It passed many pollution tests during the no-flow of sewage. Strict compliance tracking and monitoring can protect your business from false sustainability assumptions. 

Protecting Communities Through Superior Waste Management 

In many businesses, the raw materials or the final products don’t have toxins. Instead, harmful chemicals may manifest as by-products of manufacturing. 

Consequently, inadequate waste management can risk the health of the staff and the nearby communities. No wonder more companies are considering options like Microsoft Cloud for Sustainability. This suite lets firms track emissions and waste management efficiently.

Action Plan

Global organizations have started to partner with companies specializing in effective waste collection and treatment. In 2010, the UN launched a Global Partnership on Waste Management to conserve resources and fill information gaps. International partnerships can be an excellent way to synergize efforts for waste management.

Further, does your business release by-products into water bodies? If so, you must incorporate relevant treatment measures. For example, you can use granular activated carbon, a reliable approach for drinking water treatment. 

As a business leader, you must optimize the company’s waste collection and treatment practices. Some companies have moved to alternatives like high-temperature incineration and ion exchange. These strategies are environmentally friendly and necessary for hazardous or clinical substances. They ensure the community is safe from pharmaceutical and cytotoxic waste.

Final Word

So, are you prepared to take the sustainable route for your business? 

The bottom line is that your business practices must conform to strict regulatory guidelines for minimizing environmental impact. At the same time, sustainable operations also help keep your employees and the larger community safe from hazardous substances. It can be a brilliant way to achieve a low environmental footprint and high employee satisfaction – two essentials for business success. 

That said, you cannot change everything overnight. But start with small, consistent steps that add up over time. Before long, you would have transformed your business into a compassionate and growing entity for its workforce and the environment. 

The post How Workplace Toxins Are Quietly Hurting Employee Performance appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

Throughout my career, I’ve seen firsthand how big tech companies prioritize hiring the best talent and how this focus drives business success

At IBM, Yahoo, Google, and Microsoft, top executives are personally involved in recruiting, recognizing that exceptional individuals elevate the entire organization.

But hiring great people is only part of the equation. Developing talent and structuring careers strategically is just as crucial. High-performing engineering teams thrive when individuals are placed in roles that both inspire them and align with their strengths. I often joke that leading an engineering team full of exceptional professionals is easy, the real challenge lies in building and sustaining such a team.

Hiring the best

The presence of inspiring professionals is a catalyst for innovation. These individuals may create groundbreaking solutions that transform a business, drive massive cost savings, or unlock entirely new markets. While such breakthroughs are rare, they happen and companies must create the right conditions for them to emerge.

Beyond innovation, inspiring professionals shape company culture. They act as mentors, developing future leaders, and serve as magnets for talent — either because they attract followers or because they have a keen eye for identifying the right hires.

A great analogy comes from the world of art. Candido Portinari, one of Brazil’s most celebrated painters, was commissioned in 1952 to create the War and Peace panels for the United Nations headquarters in New York. The Brazilian government didn’t micromanage his work, dictate colors, or designate placement. They trusted his talent.

The same principle applies to engineering. Exceptional professionals are artists in their craft, and they need the freedom and conditions to excel. Hiring great talent isn’t enough, they must also have the autonomy and the right environment to do their best work. When people are motivated and aligned with the company’s mission, exceptional results follow naturally.

Distinguishing multipliers vs. diminishers

In their book “Multipliers,” Liz Wiseman and Greg McKeown describe two types of leaders:

Multipliers create conditions for their teams to thrive. These leaders empower employees, allow them to learn from mistakes, and intervene only when necessary to prevent disasters. Multipliers think about the company’s big picture, foster collaboration, and build sustainable processes. They bring in new talent and get the best out of those around them.

Diminishers, on the other hand, are micromanagers focused on control and self-promotion. The tech industry has many professionals who, after years of being treated as the smartest person in the room, become centralizing, controlling leaders. I’ve encountered countless “prima donnas” with these traits throughout my career.

The truth is, at different moments in our careers, we can all act as either multipliers or diminishers. The key is self-awareness, continuously assessing our behavior, understanding our motivations, and making conscious efforts to be more effective motivational leaders.

Microsoft’s CEO Satya Nadella often says that he sees three essential characteristics in leaders

The first is that the leader can see their way out of complex situations and describe in a few words what’s essential and what needs to be done. The second characteristic is that those who lead must generate good energy not in the esoteric sense, but in extracting from the team the potential it must produce, very much in the spirit of the multiplier leaders described by Wiseman and McKeown. The third characteristic is that good leaders deliver results. They make things happen, promote innovation, balance short and long-term projects, and inspire.

Building a high-performing team requires more than hiring top talent

It involves creating an environment where individuals can thrive. Inspired professionals not only drive innovation but also shape company culture and attract other high performers. Leaders that play a crucial role in enabling success are multipliers who empower and uplift teams. Diminishers, however, micromanage and stifle potential.

The best leaders, as exemplified by Satya Nadella’s principles, clarify complex situations, generate positive energy, and deliver results. Self-awareness and intentional leadership are key to sustaining high-performing teams.

The post How to Hire Top Talent and Create a Culture They’ll Never Want to Leave appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

Imposter syndrome is “the persistent inability to believe that one’s success is deserved or has been legitimately achieved as a result of one’s own efforts or skills.”

Practically speaking, for me this tends to manifest as a feeling of inadequacy when faced with new challenges or opportunities. For others, it can show up as attributing their success to luck, which causes them to feel like a fraud for being so highly respected or sought after (despite how hard they’ve worked to get there).

If you’re familiar with the research on this topic, you’ll already know that imposter syndrome is most prevalent in highly successful women. This is due to “everyday interactions, systemic inequities, and societal biases which create environments that make people feel they don’t belong, especially women and minorities” (Caitlin Bell, psychologist and copywriter).

A finding that is often overlooked, though, is the fact that highly critical and pressurising family dynamics can also “lay the groundwork” for imposter syndrome even before these systemic issues are encountered.

With this in mind, here are a list of ways that women can leverage inner child work to both heal from and overcome imposter syndrome:

1. Heed your inner child’s voice

According to Amma Acheampong (counsellor and psychotherapist), “It’s the younger self that is at the core of your imposter syndrome and reacting in the here and now.”

This awareness is a crucial first step in escaping the influence of the highly critical parental figures that you may have encountered as a child.

2. Validate your experiences

Since the seeds of imposter syndrome are typically established in childhood, an important next step is to “link your inner child’s negative voice to your early experiences thereby validating them” (Amanda Bakare, Cognitive Behaviour Therapist).

Another key step in the validation process, according to Bakare, is “looking at your current limiting beliefs and trying to understand the impact that they have on you.”

This is essential for discovering the root cause of your imposter syndrome so that you can take the next steps necessary to heal from it.

3. Commit to breaking the cycle

Once you’ve validated your experience, it’s time to commit to breaking the negative cycles that you identified.

In line with Ms. Bakare’s advice, this requires you to ask yourself questions like: “What areas do I want to change in terms of how I experience imposter syndrome? Can I change it? What might that change look like?”

4. Draw a distinction between your past and present

Since imposter syndrome is the younger self reacting in the here and now, according to Bakare, an important step to breaking the cycle is making “a distinction between the then and the now.”

That reaction, she says, “is like a faulty alarm.”

This can be achieved by realising that, although your current situation may bear some similarities to your past, they are not exactly the same. In this way, “the work is in finding a way to retune and recalibrate your alarm.”

5. Flip the script

According to Ms. Acheampong, the process of retuning and recalibrating the alarm sounded by your inner child can be as simple as asking questions like: “What do you feel you needed as your younger self?”

In order to answer this question, Bakare suggests rescripting strategies such as visualising yourself as “that child in that room crying because you felt like mummy wouldn’t be proud unless you succeeded, for example. Then, going in as your older self and telling yourself all the things that you know now that can comfort your younger self.”

This can also be achieved in written form: “You can write a letter to your younger self, again as your older self, describing what you’ve been through, how things have maybe turned out better on the other side, and that they’re not as bad as you thought they would be as a child.”

Acheampong adds that some people may find it easier to do this by thinking instead of advice that they’d give the children currently in their life (e.g. a goddaughter, niece or biological children).

“Then, once they’ve thought about what they could say to that child, they can think about how they can extend that advice and compassion to themselves.”

By taking these steps, you can heal from and ultimately overcome the “self-doubt and perfectionist tendencies…linked to imposter syndrome” (Caitlin Bell) so that you can navigate your life with freedom and confidence.

Imposter syndrome is most prevalent in highly successful women, especially those with intersectional identities that further marginalise them.

Coming from a highly critical or pressurising family dynamic can also contribute to the development of imposter syndrome.

With this in mind, women can leverage inner child work to both heal from and overcome it by heeding their inner child’s voice, validating their experiences, committing to breaking the cycle and more, as detailed above.

The post Imposter Syndrome Is Rooted in Your Past But Here’s How You Can Rewire It appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

In two particularly difficult times in my adult life, my journaling practice is helping me heal emotionally. It has been a vital tool for helping me see the bigger picture and land in a place of gratitude.

In 2013, I started to develop troubling physical symptoms. I quickly realized that I was losing control of my muscles. The medical community was ready to label me with a diagnosis, but I wanted to talk to those that thought outside the box. I sought out and began studying wise people and created the Wisdom Research Project.

From my study, I uncovered eight elements that characterize wisdom: Resilience, kindness, positivity, spirituality, humility, tolerance, creativity, and curiosity.

Throughout this time my body continued to deteriorate and, thankfully, journaling helped me address my frustrations. It gave me an outlet for expressing my thoughts and feelings. It was like an objective ear that let me say what I wanted to say. Through journaling, I arrived at a more balanced perspective. It reinstated my sense of gratitude and led me to accept my disability.

And then recently, when my home, my community, and my place of belonging were all torched in the Palisades fire, journaling has helped me take stock of what pieces of my life and identity remain. The qualities I uncovered in my Wisdom Research Project provided me with some perspective and a way to continue forward.

The wise people I interviewed had overcome great obstacles yet weren’t bitter or angry. They were at peace. I journal about how I can learn from their examples and how to integrate their qualities of resilience, positivity, and curiosity.

For example, even in the midst of hardship, they embraced the idea that things don’t happen to you, they happen for you. They see their challenges as a gift for discovering more about themselves and the world through an empathetic lens.

If you are ready to explore starting your own journaling practice, here are some benefits that you can expect to gain as you go along:

1. Offers devoted time to yourself

Journaling is an opportunity to devote time to yourself. The act itself is calming. You will begin to cherish these quiet moments.

2. Allows you time to sort your thoughts

Journaling allows you to be more introspective and to investigate a concern that’s been weighing on you. You’re better able to uncover your true perspectives.

3. Leads to self-improvement

Your examination of situations and what choices you can make when navigating them enables you to understand how to take the high road and break from thoughts of negativity.

4. Shows you a thoughtful path forward

By working through the issues that crop up as you write, you’re able to pursue more well-thought-out and deliberate action.

5. Promotes mindfulness

Journaling focuses your “monkey mind” that so often tends to jump from one thought to the next. You’re better able to fully explore your thoughts back to their source. You will feel more centered.

6. Encourages acceptance

Through the activity of writing about any challenging circumstances, you begin to see them in the context of the larger picture. You become better able to accept the hand you’ve been dealt.

I also can suggest starting with my Common Wisdom Journal that offers prompts based on ways you can integrate the eight elements I uncovered in my Wisdom Research Project. The questions posed offer a way to bring more awareness and meaning to your personal life.

The post The Surprising Mental Health Tool You Probably Haven’t Tried appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

Managing a team often feels like a constant battle. You’re buried in meetings, overwhelmed by emails, and always fighting fires. Just when you think you’ve got a grip on things, new demands, shifting priorities, and AI-driven changes throw everything into disarray. Finding time to think strategically seems impossible, let alone feeling in control of your work.

It’s exhausting. And you’re not alone.

Many leaders are stretched too thin. They’re expected to deliver results while navigating constant requests and unforeseen challenges. The pressure continues to build, making it easy to wonder: Am I keeping up, or am I falling behind?

The good news? You can break free from the chaos. 

The answer isn’t about working harder or adding more to your already-full plate. It’s about changing how you lead. Instead of drowning in the demands, you can harness the power of connection to create clarity, resilience, and forward momentum.

Why Traditional Leadership Isn’t Enough

We live in a fast-moving, unpredictable world — what experts call a VUCA world: Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous. Leadership strategies that worked in the past, such as tight control, rigid hierarchies, and top-down decision-making, are no longer effective. Rather than creating stability, they often lead to burnout, micromanagement, and slow responses to change.

Here’s the reality: No one can do it all alone. 

Trying to control every decision, meeting, and issue only leads to burn out. The modern workplace demands a new kind of leadership — one rooted in trust, adaptability, and the power of networks.

That’s where Network Leadership comes in.

Why Network Leadership Is the Future

The shift toward Network Leadership isn’t just the latest trend. It’s a perspective rooted in network science. Organizations aren’t rigid hierarchies. Instead, they’re living networks of people, ideas, and collaborations.

Network science shows that high-performing organizations thrive on well-connected individuals and adaptive structures. Influence no longer comes from positional authority alone. It’s the result of a leader’s ability to connect people, foster relationships, and enable knowledge flow.

This is why traditional leadership models that were built for stable, predictable environments are breaking down. The future belongs to leaders who understand how to activate and nurture networks. These leaders ensure that information, trust, and innovation move at the speed of change.

By embracing Network Leadership, you stop fighting complexity and start leveraging it. The result? You’ll be able to turn chaos into clarity, silos into synergy, and pressure into performance.

From Stretched Thin and Overwhelmed to Confident and Clear

Network Leadership isn’t about adding more to your to-do list. It’s about leading more intelligently. Rather than trying to manage everything on your own, you focus on connecting the right people, streamlining communication, and supporting collaboration that actually works.

Here’s what that looks like in practice:

1. Remove the bottleneck. You don’t have to be the one who solves every problem. Empower the natural connectors in your team. These are the individuals who bring people together and share information effectively. When you enable them, the team runs more smoothly. There’s no need for you to micromanage every detail.

2. Reduce collaboration overload. Not all meetings, emails, and group work are productive. Too much collaboration drains your time and energy. Be intentional. Cut unnecessary meetings, encourage quick peer-to-peer problem-solving, and save full-team gatherings for crucial discussions and decision-making.

3. Leverage the meaningful use of AI to your advantage. AI isn’t here to replace you. To the contrary, when used intentionally AI is here to simplify your life. Automate repetitive tasks. Use AI-driven insights for better decisions. Let technology handle the busy work so you can focus on strategy and leadership.

4. Measure the right things. Success isn’t about checking off tasks. It’s about making a meaningful impact. Rather than obsessing over outputs (like response times, hours worked, reports generated), focus on outcomes: innovation, learning, and long-term growth.

5. Cultivate a learning culture. You don’t need all the answers. Create an environment where team members learn from each other, share insights, and experiment with new ideas. This reduces the pressure on you while making the team stronger, more adaptable, and more self-sufficient.

Mastering the Art of Connection: Small vs. Large Networks

To make Network Leadership effective, you must balance the deep trust which characterizes successful small teams with cultivating broader connections across the organization.

For example, small teams of 4-5 members make up tight-knit groups where meaningful, high-impact work takes place. They provide an environment of psychological safety which is needed for deep collaboration. Meanwhile, engaging large networks with effective cross-functional relationships drive innovation and ensure alignment with the organization’s larger goals. By connecting people throughout the organization, you prevent silos from developing and ideas can flow freely.

Strengthen both kinds of connections. Build high-performing small teams while maintaining a pulse on the larger network to keep alignment and progress on track.

The future of leadership isn’t about doing more. It’s about leading differently. And it starts with connection. By embracing Network Leadership, you can break free from burnout and reclaim your time, energy, and effectiveness. Transition from a reactive problem-solver to a strategic enabler while at the same time empowering your team, driving meaningful impact, and positioning your organization to thrive in an ever-changing world.

The post Is Leading Exhausting? This Strategy Will Change Your Business appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

I’ve always been drawn to spirituality. In high school, while my friends leaned toward fine arts and sciences, I gravitated toward religion and philosophy, always searching for meaning, purpose, and a deeper understanding of life.

But somewhere along the way, as I shaped my values, I had absorbed some seriously flawed beliefs. I saw the pursuit of money as a necessary evil and equated financial ambition with greed. Business, in my mind, belonged to those chasing wealth, and that didn’t feel like me at all.

I couldn’t have been more wrong.

Looking back, I cringe at how little I had understood about the creativity, connection, and self-actualization that are at the heart of entrepreneurship. And like all of life’s best lessons, I didn’t learn this through theory. I learned it by diving in headfirst, stumbling through challenges, and experiencing it firsthand.

The Collision of Purpose and Practicality

Years ago, when I pivoted to running a business offering embodiment work, I quickly realized something uncomfortable: I couldn’t just be of service, I had to understand business, too. No matter how much I resisted, the truth was clear. If I wanted to keep doing this work, I had to learn how to sustain it.

Cue a storm of internal struggles. Imposter syndrome. Guilt around charging for my work. Anxiety over pricing. And when money finally did start coming in? A fresh wave of emotions around whether I truly “deserved” it.

Old conditioning whispered that work had to be hard, painful, or draining to be worth anything. Since I loved what I was doing, I struggled to accept that I should be paid for it. Wild, right?

So, I had to do some deep internal work to dismantle these falsehoods. And what I have discovered in the process didn’t just change my business. It transformed my relationship with money, my sense of purpose, and the way I move through life.

Money is Energy

The first breakthrough came when I redefined my relationship with money. I began to see it not as a corrupting force, but as energy: neutral, flowing, and reflective of intention.

Yes, some people accumulate wealth through greed and exploitation. But money isn’t inherently evil. It’s a tool, a current that moves through us. And if I am a person of integrity, someone who values connection, generosity, and impact, then money in my hands can be a force for good. It allows me to support projects, uplift others, and contribute to meaningful change. For example, because I donate a percentage of my revenue to Indigenous services in my area, the more I earn, the more I can give.

This shift in perspective was liberating. It allowed me to receive money without shame, to price my work fairly, and to trust that financial flow does not have to compromise my values. It can amplify them.

Business is Built on Relationships

Entrepreneurship also shattered my illusion of independence. I used to think success was about individual effort, what I could create, what I could offer. But I quickly learned that business, especially in the service world, is about community.

It’s a paradox: You need community to build a thriving business, but a thriving business also creates community. I’ve experienced a profound deepening in my relationships. Entrepreneurship has expanded my world, pushing me beyond my small circle and introducing me to brilliant and captivating people. I am no longer engaging on a surface level. I am building real, heart-centered connections.

And while collaborating with fellow entrepreneurs has been deeply meaningful, the most profound connections have been with the people I serve: my clients, dance participants, and workshop/retreat attendees. The humans who seek my offerings and services have enriched my life in ways I never could have imagined.

Every session, every class, every moment of shared vulnerability has reinforced that business isn’t just about transactions. It’s about human connection.

Creativity, Evolution, and Abundance

I used to associate creativity with artists, musicians, and writers, not business owners. But running my own business has been one of the most creatively expansive experiences of my life.

Entrepreneurship constantly calls for fresh ideas, innovation, and vision. Seeing an idea transform from a spark in my mind to something tangible in the world is deeply satisfying. It’s a process of co-creation with something beyond myself and keeps me centred in my spiritual growth.

It also requires continuous evolution. I’ve had to step outside my comfort zone again and again, stretching into new levels of confidence, skill, and self-trust. And the abundance that flows from this, the steady stream of ideas, opportunities, and inspiration, has been a daily reminder of the limitless potential available to us when we align with our purpose and that which is greater than us.

Self-Care as a Business Strategy

One of the most unexpected and beautiful lessons entrepreneurship taught me? That my own well-being is a business priority.

In the past, I compartmentalized my life: work in one category, self-care in another, relationships and “fun time” in yet another, constantly struggling to balance it all. But building a business that revolves around service forced me to integrate these aspects into one cohesive whole.

If I’m burned out, depleted, or disconnected from myself, I can’t hold space for others in a meaningful way. My ability to serve is directly linked to my ability to stay grounded, rested, and present. So now, self-care isn’t something I squeeze in around work. It’s part of my work, literally scheduled into my work hours. Prioritizing my own well-being isn’t just beneficial for me; it allows me to show up fully for the people I serve.

My friend and I often talk about living life with blurred lines, where work and play, contribution and compensation, self-care and service all weave together seamlessly, creating a life that feels whole, nourishing, and beautifully integrated.

A Spiritual Journey in Disguise

At its core, entrepreneurship has been one of the most profound spiritual journeys of my life full of incredible shifts that I never imagined before beginning.

It has challenged me to unlearn limiting beliefs, to step into my full creative power, and to trust in the flow of abundance. It has deepened my relationships, expanded my sense of purpose, and required me to continuously align with my highest Self.

And perhaps most importantly, it has reinforced a truth I now hold close: The success of my business is a reflection of my own inner growth. The more I stay rooted in integrity, trust, and alignment, the more everything else falls into place.

I set out to create a business, but what I really found was an unexpectedly beautiful path to deeper self-knowing.

The post Starting a Business Was the Most Spiritual Thing I’ve Ever Done appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

The Law of Attraction recently captured my attention again when I watched The Secret on Netflix on July 19, 2020.

Although I’ve written about it before in various formats across my award-winning books, I felt inspired to explore it more deeply here for the benefit of new readers and those curious about how this principle works in everyday life.

Interestingly, many high-profile figures such as Larry King, Oprah Winfrey, Will Smith, Jim Carrey, and Arnold Schwarzenegger have credited the Law of Attraction with helping them achieve extraordinary success. So what exactly is it, and how can you make it work for you?

What Is the Law of Attraction?

“Be careful the environment you choose, for it will shape you; be careful the friends you choose, for you will become like them.” – W. Clement Stone

We’ve all heard the saying, “Birds of a feather flock together.” The principle is simple: like attracts like. Good people attract good people. Success attracts success. Conversely, negativity tends to pull in more negativity. This is the Law of Attraction in action.

At its core, the Law of Attraction is the idea that your thoughts, beliefs, and emotions have the power to shape your reality. What you focus on intentionally or not has a way of manifesting in your life. If you focus on positivity, abundance, and opportunity, you’re more likely to experience those things. On the other hand, if you dwell on scarcity, fear, or negativity, you may find more of the same coming your way.

The 7 Laws of Attraction

To dive a little deeper, here are the seven key components often associated with the Law of Attraction:

1. Unwavering Desire – Clearly knowing what you want.

2. Conceptualization and Imagination – Visualizing your desired outcome in detail.

3. Affirmation – Reinforcing your goals with positive statements and beliefs.

4. Focused Confidence – Maintaining a steady focus with trust in yourself and your vision.

5. Profound Belief – Truly believing it’s possible and that you’re worthy of it.

6. Gratitude – Practicing thankfulness for what you have and what’s to come.

7. Manifestation – Taking inspired action and allowing the results to unfold.

The Law of Attraction follows a three-step approach: Ask. Believe. Receive.

This simple framework has ancient roots and has been echoed by sages, saints, and spiritual leaders throughout history.

Making the Law of Attraction Work for You

Here are some tools and mindset shifts to help the Law of Attraction work in your favor:

• Improve Your Attitude. A positive outlook lays the foundation for positive outcomes.

• Believe in Yourself. Confidence is key. If you don’t believe, it won’t happen.

• Avoid Negative Influences. Limit time with people and places that drain your energy.

• Surround Yourself With Positivity. Seek out uplifting company and environments.

• Strengthen Your Internal Locus of Control. Take ownership of your thoughts and actions.

• Sharpen Your Focus and Concentration. Stay clear on what you want and avoid distractions.

• Declutter Your Mind. Let go of toxic thoughts and create space for growth.

• Celebrate Others. Compliment and praise those around you to cultivate positive energy.

• Practice Daily Gratitude. A grateful heart is a magnet for abundance.

Remember: Energy flows where attention goes. What you focus on expands.

How to Achieve Your Goals

“Whatever the mind can conceive and believe, it can achieve.” – Napoleon Hill

To truly harness the Law of Attraction in achieving your goals:

1. Get Clear on What You Want. Write your goals down with intention and clarity.

2. Visualize Daily. Picture yourself already living your goal.

3. Take Consistent Action. Dreaming is important, but doing is essential.

4. Stay Committed. Success rarely happens overnight. Keep showing up.

5. Believe Wholeheartedly. Align your beliefs with the outcome you desire.

Whether your goal is to improve your health, attract meaningful relationships, or achieve career milestones—even something as ambitious as winning a Nobel Prize—it all begins with clarity, belief, and aligned action. The universe responds to the energy you put out.

A Take-Home Message

The Law of Attraction isn’t just a mystical concept. It’s a mindset. When you combine imagination, gratitude, and belief with consistent action, amazing things can unfold.

So stay mindful of your thoughts, speak your desires aloud, and embrace the infinite possibilities life offers. You are the creator of your destiny.

The post The Real Secret Behind the Law of Attraction And How to Use It Effectively appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

Owning a house is one of everyone’s dreams. However, it comes with a major financial commitment as well. This financial commitment can make you feel more stressed than happy at times.

With the right approach, you can make your home an excellent investment to secure a financial future. Once you do that, the house will not just be another expense. This is where you need to look at the concept of “house hacking.” 

The objective of house hacking is to turn home ownership into a wealth-building tool. You can do it through strategic decisions about where you live and who you live with. Read on to learn more about it.

Identifying Profitable Rental Markets

The key to successful house hacking is choosing the right rental market. You want to buy in an area where there is strong demand for rentals, ensuring your unit(s) will be occupied. How do you identify the best areas to target? Here are some tips:

Crunch the Numbers

Start by examining rental vacancy rates. They vary based on urban and rural properties. Look for cities and neighborhoods with rates around 5% or less, indicating high demand and limited housing inventory. Also, research average rents. Focus on areas where you can charge monthly rents that will sufficiently cover your mortgage and expenses. Use rental listing sites to estimate potential income.

Follow Employment Trends

Renters need jobs to pay the rent. Seek out cities and towns with diverse industry bases and expanding employment opportunities. Growth industries like tech, healthcare, and renewable energy are particularly appealing when considering rental demand.

Take Stock of Development

New housing construction and gentrification can help increase rental rates, especially in other neighborhoods. Pay attention to news about student housing projects, hotel construction, corporate relocations, and more to spot areas poised for growth.

Talk to Locals

Online research will only get you so far. Set aside some time to visit target areas in person. Chat with residents and area landlords to gauge rental demand. They can provide boots-on-the-ground intel that outside data may miss. 

While finding the perfect market takes effort, the research is well worth it. Identifying the intersection of high rents, low vacancies, job growth, and market trends is fundamental to house hacking effectively. Avoid real estate investment risks by taking your time to do due diligence before committing to a property investment. Do it right, and you’ll be poised for a profitable venture.

Strategies for Effective Property Management

You bought a multi-family property, moved into one unit, and even found great tenants for the other rental. But your house hacking work isn’t done yet. Follow these key strategies to maximize your returns when managing your investment property.

Screen Tenants Thoroughly

Finding good tenants makes all the difference. Take time to market your unit, advertise widely, and vet applicants carefully before signing a lease. To mitigate risks, check credit history, employment, references, and criminal records. Consider requiring co-signers and larger security deposits for risky tenants. Say no if red flags appear – one bad tenant can undermine the viability of your entire house hack.

Create (and Enforce) Clear Policies

Establish clear, written rules about things like security deposits, rent increases, repair requests, late payments, and lease termination policies. Detail policies and expectations in your lease documentation and discuss them verbally too. Applying rules consistently shows you are running a professional business, not just a casual side gig. Enforcing late fees and eviction processes immediately, if needed, also keeps the tenants incentivized.

Use Property Management Software

Specialized software makes managing your investment property much easier, especially if you work a regular day job. Applications like Avail and Buildium help you organize maintenance requests, schedule repairs, collect rent electronically, market units, screen applicants, track expenses, and more – often for much less than hiring someone. High-tech management saves a lot of time and hassle.

Inspect Regularly

Make a habit of regularly inspecting your rental units in addition to handling maintenance issues as they arise—say, once a quarter or biannually. Thorough inspections allow you to catch minor problems before they become major repairs and identify potential ways tenants are violating lease terms. Nobody likes surprise inspections, but they are essential for protecting your investment.

Effective property management is work initially but pays major dividends over your long-term investment timeline. Put these pro tips into action for house hacking success!

Protecting the Property With Appropriate Insurance Coverage

Congrats, your house hack property is up and running! Before diving fully into landlord life, there’s one crucially important task – getting the right insurance. The best professional property management understands that investing in rentals comes with risks that can be minimized with the right insurance coverage. Having sufficient coverage protects your investment if issues like damage, lawsuits, or disasters happen. Don’t skip this step!

Start with a landlord policy to cover liability risks tenants can create. It protects you if they are injured on the property. Landlord insurance also covers loss of rent income if the unit becomes uninhabitable. It also provides protection if tenants file claims against you. Shop around for quotes, as premiums can vary widely.

Next up is property insurance. A landlord policy does not cover damage to the actual building or units. For that, you need dwelling coverage for the structure itself and personal property coverage for appliances, systems, fixtures, and more. These policies reimburse repair and replacement costs for covered losses. Again, get several quotes as home insurance rates differ across providers.

For a duplex or multi-family, getting a business owner’s policy (BOP) is smart. BOPs bundle property insurance with liability coverage and tend to provide higher liability limits. Costco, State Farm, and Travelers all offer competitively priced BOPs worth considering.

Don’t forget flood and earthquake policies either depending on your location’s risks. Federal disaster assistance is quite limited – you need private backup.

Set aside some time to understand policy options, limits, and exclusions. Working with an insurance agent can also be helpful. The bottom line? Don’t house hack without sufficient protection for your property and finances.

Final Words 

House hacking takes strategy, effort, and commitment. But implemented thoughtfully, it puts homeownership to work, building your personal wealth and future financial freedom.

With the right property selection, tenant management, and insurance coverage, you can transform your residence into a powerful investment vehicle. Turn sweat equity into real equity gains by converting your home into a house hack success story.

The post How Savvy Entrepreneurs Use Their Homes to Build Wealth appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

Everyone should have goals in life. Goals give us direction. They motivate us to take action, stay focused, and keep moving forward even when things get tough. When you have something to aim for, each day feels more purposeful.

But here’s the big question: How do you actually set effective goals?

Why Goals Matter

Goals aren’t just about achievement. They’re about growth. They help us structure our time, develop discipline, and build momentum toward the kind of life we truly want to live. Without goals, it’s easy to drift. With them, we gain clarity and purpose.

As Abraham Lincoln once said, “A goal properly set is halfway reached.”

What Makes a Goal Effective?

To set yourself up for success, you need to set SMART goals. This widely known acronym stands for:

Specific – Be clear about what you want. Vague goals lead to vague results.

Measurable – Define how you’ll track progress. When can you say it’s done?

Achievable – Aim high, but stay grounded. Goals should stretch you, not break you.

Realistic – Your goals should be within reach. For instance, you might realistically aim to be a successful entrepreneur, but becoming the President of a foreign country is probably not a reasonable goal.

Time-bound – Set deadlines. Without them, goals lose urgency and importance.

Set Goals for Yourself

Too often, people set goals based on what others expect. These could come from parents, friends, or societal pressure. This kind of thinking can lead to frustration and unfulfilled potential. Your goals should reflect your personal dreams, strengths, and interests.

Goals that are truly your own tend to stick. They energize you. They give you confidence and eliminate negative thoughts by replacing doubt with determination.

The Power of Vision: A Lesson from Viktor Frankl

Holocaust survivor and psychiatrist Viktor Frankl, in his powerful book Man’s Search for Meaning, wrote about how people managed to survive the horrors of concentration camps. His conclusion was that those who had something to live for, a purpose or a goal, were more likely to endure.

This is the true power of goals. They give life meaning, even in the most difficult circumstances.

A Simple Goal-Setting Exercise

Here’s a practical activity to help you clarify your goals:

1. Find a quiet space. Close your eyes for five minutes.

2. Visualize your future. Where do you want to be in 5 or 10 years? Think about your:

   • Personal life

   • Professional life

   • Social life

3. Fuel your goals with KASH:

   • Knowledge: What do you need to learn?

   • Attitude: What mindset will help you grow?

   • Skills: What abilities must you develop?

   • Habits: What daily practices will move you forward?

Write everything down. Once you’ve identified what you need, you’ll have a clearer roadmap to help you get there.

The Power of Written Goals

Writing your goals down transforms them from vague ideas into actionable plans. Here’s a simple technique that can help. Read your goals twice a day, once before bed and once when you wake up. This repetition helps program your subconscious mind and keeps your vision alive throughout the day.

Eventually, your goals will become deeply embedded. They will constantly remind you to stay on track, even when distractions come your way.

What Gets in the Way?

There are two types of challenges that can derail your goals: external and internal factors.

External factors, such as the economy, illness, or the actions of others, are often beyond your control. Worrying about them doesn’t help.

Internal factors, however, are within your control. This is where KASH becomes your greatest asset.

When you face failure (and you will at some point), it won’t be money that gets you through. It will be your Knowledge, Attitude, Skills, and Habits.

Real-World Inspiration: Honda’s Founder

Soichiro Honda, the founder of Honda Motor Company, experienced major setbacks during World War II. His business was in ruins. But he didn’t give up. He relied on his knowledge, his mindset, and his skills. Over time, he rebuilt from nothing and created one of the most respected automotive brands in the world.

He succeeded not because he had money but because he had purpose and resilience. He had KASH.

KASH Over Cash

In business, people often say that cash is king. But in the game of life, KASH is the real king.

Many of the world’s most successful people didn’t start with money. They started with a vision, a plan, and the dedication to make it happen. That’s the power of goal-setting backed by KASH.

Final Thoughts

Set goals that truly matter to you. Anchor them with Knowledge, Attitude, Skills, and Habits. Write them down. Revisit them daily. And when life gets tough, remember that it’s not money that will pull you through, it’s your mindset and your drive.

The future you want is within reach. It starts with a vision and the decision to take the first step.

The post Want to Set Goals and Achieve Them Like Never Before? Try the KASH Method appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.

Growing up in a family of educators isn’t easy.

My dad is a history teacher, and my mom is a high school principal. From the outside, it sounds like the perfect environment to grow up in but there’s pressure. People assume that the children of teachers are naturally well-behaved, intelligent, and driven. And while those things can be true, there’s also a quiet struggle that comes with trying to meet expectations that aren’t your own.

One of the most important things I’ve learned is this: you have to create your own identity. You can’t live your life trying to impress others or chasing validation. Instead, you have to focus on self-education and build a life based on who you want to become.

Here are seven life lessons I learned from my mom that helped shape the person I am today.

1. Teach Your Future Children How to Read and Write

Before I even started formal education, I already knew how to read and write and that’s thanks to my mom.

Reading is the foundation of all learning. If you can read well, you have access to a world of knowledge from experts in any field. It also saves you time by helping you understand new ideas more quickly.

Writing, despite what many believe, is a skill you can develop at any age. Charles Bukowski didn’t start writing poetry until he was 35. So, it’s never too late to begin.

Why good writing matters:

• It sharpens your communication skills.

• It helps you clarify and organize your thoughts.

• It allows you to tell compelling stories.

• It opens doors to better career opportunities.

The best opportunities will always go to the best communicators.

2. Pursue Mastery, Not Just Short-Term Wins

My mom started as a math teacher and eventually became a high school principal. She completed her master’s degree in her 40s and has over 20 years of experience in education. Her growth wasn’t fast but it was deep and lasting.

Mastery takes time. It’s not about shortcuts or chasing instant success. It’s about building a solid foundation that lasts.

Steps toward mastery:

• Find a mentor who can guide you and challenge your weaknesses.

• Read deeply in your area of interest to gain specialized knowledge.

• Apply what you’ve learned by starting real-world projects.

Mastery is a long game. It’s built through years of learning, failing, improving, and showing up with a great attitude.

3. Lead Your Family with Both Authority and Kindness

My mom leads with strength and compassion. She believes in teamwork in marriage and in raising children with intention. She’s firm, but fair. Disciplined, but loving.

She taught us that real education isn’t just what you learn in books, it’s learning through your own mistakes and experiences.

What I learned about parenting from her:

• Always give honest answers when your children ask questions.

• Encourage your kids to try new things, it’s how they discover what they love.

• Reinforce positive behavior with meaningful rewards.

• Teach strong values, because values shape success.

Perfection is not the goal, growth is.

4. Master Public Speaking, Even If You’re an Introvert

My mom once told me, “I had my own world when I was still a student.” She’s a natural introvert and was an academic scholar in college but you’d never know it by the way she speaks in public.

She commands attention. She inspires. And most importantly, she connects with people.

How to become a better speaker:

• Slow down! Speaking calmly conveys confidence.

• Know your audience and speak to their needs.

• Practice your talk so it feels natural and professional.

Introversion isn’t a barrier. It’s a superpower if you know how to use it.

5. Be On Time. Always.

My mom has zero tolerance for being late. If we were late for school, my dad would definitely hear about it.

She believes that punctuality is a reflection of your character. You can have expensive clothes, fancy gadgets, and impressive credentials but if you can’t manage your time, none of it matters.

How to stay ahead of the game:

• Master writing and communication it’s an edge most people ignore.

• Create systems to eliminate distractions and streamline your workflow.

• Invest in personal development; buy courses, learn new skills, and level up.

Time is the one thing you can’t buy back. Spend it wisely.

6. Make Time for Your Family

Even after a long day, my mom would come home and check on us, ask about our assignments, our day, our friends.

As a teenager, I was obsessed with video games. She didn’t love that. But even though I spent hours gaming, I still graduated with an English degree. And funny enough, the same strategic thinking I used in video games taught me how to approach life like a challenge worth mastering.

Here’s the truth:
If you don’t make time for your kids, they’ll look for attention elsewhere and it won’t always come from the right places.

7. Surround Yourself with People Who Push You to Grow

My mom has a wide circle of successful friends: politicians, entrepreneurs, fellow educators. She goes to training events, workshops, and conferences not to show off, but to keep learning.

Networking isn’t about popularity, it’s about growth. It’s about finding people who challenge your thinking and share your values.

Want to grow faster?

• Spend time with people who are smarter than you.

• Ask questions that spark meaningful conversations.

• Be willing to listen, not just speak.

Skills are earned through repetition, curiosity, and surrounding yourself with people who raise your standards.

Final Thoughts

Having an educated family doesn’t guarantee success, it gives you tools, but you still have to do the work. You have to decide what kind of life you want to build.

My mom never pushed me to be perfect. She pushed me to be curious, consistent, and kind. And that made all the difference.

Let these lessons guide you whether you’re a parent, student, or just someone trying to build a life of purpose.

The post 7 Lessons My Mom Taught Me That Every Young Man Needs to Hear appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.