Create your odds

Too often, we look at success as something dictated by luck or circumstance—things beyond our control. But what if we could shift the narrative and create our own odds? The more intentional we are about our lives, the more we embrace the idea that we aren’t simply given a hand to play. Our journey is shaped by how we choose to show up, how we invest our time and energy, and how we respond to the challenges that arise. Acting on opportunities when they present themselves, leading with "yes," and avoiding the temptation to say "no" tips the scales in our favor. Creating our own odds means taking control, making purposeful decisions, and showing up with intention. The truth is, the more we align our actions with our values and vision, the less life feels like something that happens to us. Our life unfolds as we envision it, when we take charge and create our own odds—and that is fully within our control.

Loving life, when I create my odds

Joe

Love that smile

There are some parts of life that are self-evident. A smile is an expression that we can all feel. It makes the person smiling happy, and it makes us happy. It is one of the most powerful ways that we can feel positive. It doesn’t matter what kind of day we’re having; a smile will shift our energy, lighten our load, and create a ripple effect that spreads to others. It’s a reminder that no matter the challenges we face, we always have a choice in how we show up. It’s an act of grace, a signal to ourselves and the world that we are present and feeling good. A smile is contagious—it has the power to uplift everyone around us, making the world a little brighter, one smile at a time.

Loving life, every time I see a smile

Joe

Thread it together

For the longer we go on our journey the more we realize that an integrated life is the goal.  It is not about some myth of balance nor is it about having all the answers at once—it’s about knowing how to thread it together. Life, work, social, learning, and community can feel fragmented at times, with pieces scattered across our journey. But when we learn to connect the dots—taking the lessons from our experiences, from listening, the wisdom gained from our successes, from the partnership with our friends, and the strength from our challenges—we create something cohesive. Threading it together is about patience, persistence, and vision. It’s the ability to see how our actions fit into our bigger picture and trusting that, even when things feel disjointed, there’s purpose in every step. When we thread it together, we align who we are with our experiences and intentions, creating a path forward that is purposeful full of meaning and very satisfying.

Loving life, when I thread it together

Joe

The right tone

It seems more obvious than ever that the right tone can make all the difference. It’s the subtle yet powerful force behind how we communicate, shaping not just what we say but how we’re heard and understood. Whether we’re leading a team, sharing our thoughts in writing, or having a conversation, the tone we choose can either invite connection or create distance. It’s about balance—striking the right chord between authority and empathy, confidence and humility. The right tone isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being authentic, intentional, and aware of the impact our words can have. In the hustle of daily life, or in a relationship, or a role that we have, it’s easy to lose track of tone, but when we reflect on the situation and our tone, we open the door to more meaningful interactions. The right tone helps us connect, inspire, and lead with integrity, reminding us that how we say something is just as important as what we say.

Loving life, when I have the right tone

Joe

Sweeten up our day

Sometimes, all it takes is a small shift to sweeten up our day. It’s easy to let the demands of the day pull us into a space of stress or fatigue. But even in the busiest moments, there are simple opportunities to bring a little sweetness back. It could be as simple as pausing for a few minutes to enjoy a cup of coffee, sending a message to someone we appreciate, or taking a deep breath to reset. Sweetening up our day is all about adding moments of joy, even in the smallest form, that remind us life isn’t just about what we accomplish but how we experience it. It’s in these small, intentional acts of positivity that we can shift our perspective, boost our energy, and carry a lighter heart throughout the day. So, why not add a little sweetness to today? It might just be the ingredient we need to make the whole day better.

Loving life, when I sweeten up my day

Joe

Tranquility

In the midst of the chaos, the constant noise, and the relentless pace of today’s world, we all need to create space for tranquility. Tranquil isn’t just the absence of stress—it’s the active pursuit of peace, of calm amidst the storm. It’s the quiet moments we carve out for ourselves, where we can reconnect with what truly matters, free from distractions and expectations. In times when everything feels urgent and a bit rough, tranquility becomes a vital practice. It’s the breath we take before making a decision, the stillness that grounds us when we’re overwhelmed, and the clarity we find when we pause long enough to listen to our thoughts. Bringing tranquility into our lives isn’t about escaping reality; it’s about embracing it with a sense of calm so that we can move through the world with intention, strength, and the ability to get us back on track. In these times, tranquility isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.

Loving life, because we all need a feeling of tranquility

Joe

Integrity

Integrity isn’t just a word; it’s the foundation of everything we do. It’s what keeps us grounded when the world around us starts to sway, what ensures our actions match our values, even when no one is watching, and yes, we still have values. Integrity is about doing the right thing, not because it’s easy or because it will bring recognition, but because it aligns with who we truly are: a respectful, ethical community that believes in the rule of law and equality for all. In a world that can devolve into rewarding shortcuts and compromises, integrity is the quiet strength that pulls us back up. It’s the bedrock upon which trust is built, and trust is the currency that makes lasting success possible. Integrity doesn’t just shape our reputation—it shapes our character, and in the end, it’s our character that defines the life we live.

Loving life, because I believe we should lead with integrity

Joe

A little bit of hustle

It is a simple lesson to learn, put in a little bit of hustle with some focus, and drive and we are moving forward and making progress. A little bit of hustle gets us that extra step further, helping us break through inertia and reach into the possibilities. It’s the difference between thinking about our goals and taking action toward them. When we bring just a bit of hustle to the table, we create momentum, and in that momentum, we become more present, more engaged, and more committed to the process. The beauty of this simple formula is that it works—it doesn’t require perfection or “superhuman” effort, just consistency. It is fun to know and easy to act on that a little bit of hustle, plus a bit of work, equals great results. It’s that simple.

Loving life, when I put in a little bit of hustle

Joe

A thin line

A thin line. It’s something we walk every day, often without realizing it—between risk and reward, confidence and arrogance, action and hesitation. The thin line is where the magic can happen, but it’s also where the challenge lies. It’s where growth lives, because it’s in those moments that we truly test our limits. It’s easy to fall off, to stray too far in one direction, but the key is not to avoid the thin line; it’s to embrace it. To know that it’s okay to falter as long as we keep moving forward with intention and purpose. The thin line keeps us sharp, aware, and connected to what matters most. It forces us to stay present, to make deliberate choices, and to push ourselves just enough to grow without losing sight of who we are. In the end, it’s not about walking the line perfectly; it’s about staying in motion, finding a path forward, and continuing our journey with mission and purpose.

Loving life, because we all navigate a thin line

Joe

We are live

“We are live!” It is that retort that tells the camera people they are on. The moment is here, the stage is set, and the world is watching. And if we carry the metaphor to our life, then before we get caught up in the excitement of simply being “live,” it’s worth asking—are we ready? It’s easy to think that going live is just a matter of showing up, pressing the button, and letting everything unfold. But true readiness goes beyond the surface. It’s about being aligned with our purpose, fully prepared to show up with intention and confident in the value we have to offer. Yes, the spotlight is on, but the question isn’t whether we’re live—it’s whether we’re truly present and prepared to give everything we’ve got. Going live isn’t just about being seen; it’s about showing up as our best selves, ready to engage, contribute, and make an impact. It’s the ultimate test of our commitment to the journey, and the reminder that we are always evolving, always learning, and always ready to step into the next moment.

Loving life, because we are live!

Joe

Oh the randomness

Oh, the randomness. Life has a way of throwing things at us that we couldn’t possibly predict—unexpected twists, surprises, and moments that seem to defy all logic or planning. And yet, it’s in these random events where some of the most profound lessons are hidden. We spend so much time trying to control everything, to strategize and plan for the perfect outcomes, but sometimes the best things come from what we least expect. Embracing the randomness isn’t just about accepting it; it’s about finding joy in it. It keeps us on our toes, keeps us interested, and reminds us that life doesn’t need to follow a straight line to be meaningful. It’s in the randomness that we learn to adapt, to trust the process, and to open ourselves to possibilities that we might have otherwise missed. While we can’t always control the randomness of life, we can control how we respond to it. By welcoming it with curiosity and grace, we allow ourselves to stay engaged and continue moving forward, knowing that not everything has to make sense to be valuable.

Loving life, because of the randomness

Joe

Chill

Chill isn’t about being cold or disconnected; it’s the feeling that arises when we find a moment of peace amidst the chaos. It’s the calm that settles in when we take a deep breath and give ourselves permission to just be. The noise around us quiets, and while the world urges us to do more and push harder, embracing the chill is a powerful act of self-care. It’s about finding stillness in the present moment when we let go. When we’re in that space, no longer rushing toward an outcome or striving for perfection, we are simply aligned with the rhythm of life. The beauty of chill is that we reconnect with ourselves, recharge our energy, and remember that our journey isn’t always about constant motion, but knowing when to pause and find tranquility along the way.

Loving life, because I am chill

Joe

We are the stewards

We are the stewards—not just of our own lives, but the future and the opportunities, relationships, and resources we’ve been entrusted with. Stewardship isn’t just about managing what we have now; it’s about safeguarding the future by making choices today that will ensure a better tomorrow. We have the power to shape the world, to cultivate understanding, and to prioritize the common good.  It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that our success or progress is purely the result of our efforts, but in reality, we are caretakers of something much larger. The choices we make ripple out, affecting not only our growth but the lives of those we influence along the way. Being a steward means being mindful of how we use our gifts—using them to uplift others, to leave a positive legacy, and to contribute to our community. The future is not a distant place—it’s being shaped by every decision we make, and we are the ones who hold the responsibility to guide it toward a more unified and sustainable path

Loving life, because I am a steward

Joe

Remarkable, yes!

Remarkable, yes! It’s not a term reserved for the extraordinary few; it’s something we all have the potential to embody. Too often, we think that to be remarkable, we need to achieve grand feats or hit milestones that the world will recognize. But the truth is, remarkable moments are often found in the small, intentional actions we take every day. It’s in the way we show up, the effort we put into our growth and the impact we make in the lives of those around us. Remarkable doesn’t always mean flashy or loud—it’s about living with purpose, authenticity, and passion. When we bring our best selves to every moment, we become remarkable in our own right. So, let’s ask ourselves: what’s one small thing I can do today that will make me feel proud, make a difference, and push me closer to the person I’m meant to be? Remarkable starts with that one decision.

Loving life, making it remarkable!

Joe

Just one hour

We know that time is the currency that we trade every day.  The goal is to leverage our time as best we can. One hour can feel like a small block of time. Yet, in just one hour, we can make significant strides in our personal growth through reading, reflecting, or focusing on a goal that matters to us. That hour can be the difference between staying stuck and moving forward. It’s enough time to shift our mindset, tackle a challenge, or take a meaningful step toward our bigger vision. The beauty of just one hour is that it’s within our control, every day, and when used intentionally, it can create momentum that carries us further than we might expect. In the end, it’s not about waiting for the perfect moment—it’s about taking that one hour, using it wisely, and letting it ripple out into everything else we do.

Loving life, with just one hour

Joe

How about a hug

Sometimes, the best way to reset, reconnect, and recharge is as simple as asking, “How about a hug?” In a world that often pushes us to be self-sufficient and to move forward with a sense of independence, we underestimate the power of human connection. A hug isn’t just a physical embrace; it’s a reminder that we don’t have to navigate life alone. It’s the silent strength we give each other, a transfer of comfort, warmth, and understanding. In those moments, when words fall short, a hug can speak volumes. It reminds us that no matter how high we climb or how much we accomplish, the emotional support we offer and receive is what truly sustains us. So, how about a hug? Not just when we’re feeling blah but as a simple expression of appreciation for the journey we’re on together.

Loving life, when I get a hug

Joe

Shake it up

Life has a way of getting just a bit too predictable. We can get stuck in the same old rhythm.  We forget that growth often comes from disruption. To truly move forward, we need to shake it up—challenge the status quo and break free.   Not everything needs to be so rigid and structured. Sometimes, it’s the spontaneous decisions, the unexpected twists, and the bold changes that bring the most excitement and growth. Shaking things up isn’t about making a mess—it’s about stirring up energy, breaking through the mundane, and shaking loose new opportunities that we never saw coming. Whether it’s a change in perspective or a complete overhaul, shaking things up forces us out of autopilot and into a place where transformation can happen. It’s the jolt we need to remind ourselves that we’re capable of more than just the status quo.

Loving life, when I shake it up

Joe

Middle of the pack

Truth be told, no one ever wants to be in the middle of the pack. It’s that place where progress feels slow, where momentum stalls, and where it’s easy to get comfortable and complacent. While it’s true that the middle can teach us resilience, patience, and the grit needed to persevere, we must avoid settling there. The middle of the pack isn’t where we were meant to stay—it’s merely a passage, a temporary holding space between where we are and where we want to be. If we’re not careful, it can become a trap, convincing us that mediocrity is acceptable. Instead, we must see it for what it is: a challenge to push through, to reignite our drive, and to keep moving forward with intention and purpose until we break free and move beyond the middle.

Loving life, when I am not in the middle of the pack

Joe

Crazy little thing

Yes, it is true and experienced and immutable.  The most profound moments in life are wrapped in what may seem like a crazy little thing—a fleeting idea, an unexpected connection, or a seemingly small decision that sets everything in motion. We run the risk of thinking they don’t hold the power to shape our futures. But in reality, it's often the crazy little things that bring us closer to who we are meant to be. It’s in the risk of stepping into our power, in the spontaneity of a bold choice, that we uncover the hidden opportunities for growth. These "little things" are the catalysts of change, and it's through embracing them that we create the space for transformation to unfold in ways we could never have predicted. The secret is in trusting our feelings and our instincts, even when it feels like a leap into the unknown. It is how we find meaning and purpose!

Loving life, and that crazy little thing

Joe

The good stuff

We know the feeling: we get busy, we lose sight of what truly matters, and we pay more attention to the noise and distractions that don’t serve our greater purpose. But when we slow down and take a breath, we are reminded that the good stuff is rarely found in the material or the fleeting. It’s in the moments of connection, in the laughter shared with loved ones, in the quiet satisfaction of progress made toward something meaningful. The longer we go on our journey, the more we recognize that the good stuff is about the intangible: the growth, the experiences, and the values we cultivate and live by. It’s what keeps us grounded when the world around us feels chaotic, what fuels our resilience and sparks our passion. Pursuing the good stuff doesn’t mean compromising or playing to the middle.  It means recognizing that we have the opportunity for something far more rewarding with meaning and purpose, which is the invitation to the life we’re meant to live.

Loving life, with the good stuff

Joe