In our fast-paced world, productivity and happiness can feel like elusive goals. However, achieving both can be simpler than we think—it often comes down to small but impactful daily habits. Here are five actionable steps you can take to increase both your productivity and happiness. Let’s dive in!
1. Get More Sleep
It sounds basic, but the truth is, many of us aren’t getting enough quality sleep. The benefits of a good night’s rest go far beyond just feeling alert. Sleep plays a crucial role in our ability to process information, manage stress, and make sound decisions. Studies have shown that sleep-deprived individuals are less productive and more likely to make errors at work.
Action Tip: Aim for at least 7–8 hours of sleep per night. To improve sleep quality, establish a wind-down routine, keep your room cool, and avoid screens for at least an hour before bed.
2. Get Consistent Exercise
Physical activity isn’t just about staying fit—it’s about keeping your mind sharp and resilient, too. Regular exercise has been shown to improve mood, boost energy, and increase productivity. When you get moving, your brain releases endorphins, which help you feel happier and more focused.
Action Tip: If the thought of hitting the gym is daunting, start small. A daily 20-minute walk, some stretching, or a short yoga session can make a big difference in how you feel and perform each day.
3. Set Goals
Setting clear, achievable goals gives direction to your day. With a goal in mind, you’re more likely to stay on track and avoid distractions. Not only does achieving goals help you feel accomplished, but it also boosts confidence, which can lead to even more productivity and happiness.
Action Tip: Start by writing down one or two goals each morning. They don’t have to be monumental; even small wins can lead to big feelings of progress and satisfaction. Review your goals at the end of the day to see what you’ve accomplished and celebrate each step forward.
4. Be Mindful (Or Set Time for Meditation)
Mindfulness and meditation help us slow down, focus, and reduce stress—three things that greatly improve productivity. When you’re mindful, you’re more in tune with your thoughts and emotions, which makes it easier to handle stress, stay focused, and avoid burnout.
Action Tip: Start with just five minutes a day. Find a quiet spot, close your eyes, and take slow, deep breaths. You could also try guided meditation apps if that helps you stay focused. Over time, this simple practice can transform your mental clarity and emotional resilience.
5. Create an Intentional Morning Routine
A consistent morning routine can set the tone for a productive and joyful day. When you start your day with intention, you’re less likely to feel rushed or overwhelmed, which gives you a sense of calm and control. A morning routine doesn’t have to be complicated; it’s about choosing habits that set you up for success.
Action Tip: Your morning routine might include something as simple as a few minutes of stretching, writing down a couple of goals for the day, or having a quiet cup of coffee while planning your schedule. Experiment to find what works best for you, and make it a daily ritual.
Improving productivity and happiness isn’t about drastic changes—it’s about small, consistent actions that build up over time. By getting enough sleep, staying active, setting goals, being mindful, and establishing a morning routine, you’re creating a solid foundation for both productivity and happiness. So, take one step today, and keep building from there. You might be surprised by how quickly you notice the difference!
Like so many of us, I have been blessed to be surrounded by wise and patient mentors. These folks had faith in me long before I had earned it. And some of my best (and earliest) business lessons came from my parents. They were my OG mentors! So, while there were many more, here are 5 business lessons I learned from my parents.
5 Business Lessons I Learned From My Parents
Lift The Heavy Stuff First
This simple lesson came from my Dad when I was young. I was probably 8 or 9 years old and my parents decided it was time to re-arrange the furniture. My dad asked me to help him and I was excited. I was young and felt like it was my chance to prove what “a big boy” I was. My dad went straight to the big couch in the room. He said “Always lift the heavy stuff first. After that, everything else will seem lighter.” This is great advice for moving furniture. And it turns out it is true in almost every area of our lives!
Control Your Responses
There are so many things that come at us on a daily basis…and much of it is out of our control. We just can’t control everything that happens to us or around us. We can, however, control how we respond to it. And in that space between the action and the reaction lies our power. The people I find to be most successful (and most thoughtful) seem to be the ones who can control their emotions and gain power over the space between the action and their own reaction.
What Do You Win By Winning?
When I was a very young salesperson I had a client that made a mistake on their own order. It was their fault. And I did not want to be responsible or take the blame for their mistake. But my mom pointed out that, while the mistake was their fault, I needed to maintain the relationship…and that was more important than being right. So I need to ask myself “What do I win by winning this argument?” Most of the time, the answer is “a broken relationship.”
When In Doubt, See the People
Yes…technology is great. We have the ability to reach out to clients via text, email, Snapchat, messenger, etc. There are so many ways to connect with customers and prospects. And yet, most of us feel less connected to each other. An old adage that I find to not only still be true, but more true, is we need to get in front of people. That is how real relationships are formed. Most communication is non-verbal. Now I will say that zoom (and those other video platforms) are great. They bridge some of that gap. But I find that the best meetings I have are still in person. When in doubt, see the people.
Be The Bright Spot
And when you are out and about working to “see the people,” make sure you bring some joy with you. Most of what we see in the world today is negative. Studies will tell you that 89% of what we see is a negative message. And with this year being an election year, I think that is probably low. So if you want to stand out in this crowded space, be the bright spot in people’s day. Push out positivity and joy. Make people smile. Give kindness. It’s free. This is a simple piece of advice that I find I am never upset that I follow.
So there you have it! Those are 5 Business Lessons I learned from my parents. I hope they provided you with some value as well. As always, we want to provide you with value. So if you want to create marketing campaigns (and appreciation gifts) that hit the TARGET, check out our TARGET marketing playbook here.
Our latest episode of Lessons from DMJ features an insightful interview with Mark Graham, the co-founder and chief brand officer at commonsku. Mark’s entrepreneurial journey is a testament to the power of customer care and team collaboration in building a successful business. From the humble beginnings of a startup to a stable business in the promotional products industry, commonsku’s growth story is nothing short of inspirational. In this article, we delve into Mark’s reflections on his journey, his emphasis on customer and colleague care, his advice on creating memorable events, and his thoughts on team growth and inspiration.
Mark’s entrepreneurial wisdom is a beacon for anyone navigating the tumultuous waters of business. His insights on the importance of not trying to control everything and finding a balance between focusing on details and letting go of unnecessary stress are particularly enlightening. As we explore Mark’s journey and wisdom, we hope to inspire you to take a customer-centric approach in your business, create memorable experiences, and build a team that’s rooted in respect and trust.
Reflection on the Growth of commonsku
Mark’s reflections on the growth of commonsku are a testament to the power of perseverance and adaptability. He recalls the journey from a startup to a stable business in the promotional products industry with a sense of pride and gratitude. The journey, as he puts it, was not without its challenges. One of the key lessons he learned was the importance of not trying to control everything as an entrepreneur.
Mark emphasizes that finding a balance between focusing on details and letting go of unnecessary stress is crucial for entrepreneurial success. It’s about understanding that perfection is not always attainable and that sometimes, good enough is indeed good enough. This balance, he believes, is what has allowed common skew to grow and thrive in a competitive industry.
The Importance of Taking Care of Customers and Colleagues
Mark’s philosophy on building a successful business is centered around taking care of customers and colleagues. He believes that the success of a business is directly tied to the happiness of its customers and employees. This means going above and beyond to ensure that customers are satisfied and that employees feel valued and respected.
He emphasizes the importance of creating a great business by taking care of customers and colleagues. This involves not only providing excellent products and services but also creating a work environment where employees feel valued and appreciated. According to Mark, a happy team leads to happy customers, and happy customers lead to a successful business.
Advice on Creating Great Events
Mark is not only a successful entrepreneur but also a seasoned event planner. He shares his advice on creating great events, emphasizing the importance of being a great host, focusing on guest experiences, and connecting attendees. According to him, a successful event is one where guests feel welcomed, engaged, and connected.
Being a great host, he says, involves anticipating guests’ needs and going above and beyond to meet them. Focusing on guest experiences means creating memorable moments that guests will remember long after the event is over. And connecting attendees involves facilitating meaningful interactions between guests, which can lead to lasting relationships and collaborations.
Growth of the Team at commonsku
Mark discusses the growth of his team at commonsku and the challenges that come with transitioning from a small team to a larger organization. He emphasizes the importance of respecting and trusting team members and giving them guidance without micromanaging. According to him, a successful team is one where members feel trusted and empowered to do their best work.
He believes that as a leader, it’s important to provide guidance and support without stifling creativity and initiative. This involves trusting team members to make decisions and take ownership of their work. It’s this trust and respect, he says, that has allowed the team at commonsku to grow and thrive.
Inspiring People
Mark draws inspiration from several people in his life. His business partner and wife, his parents, Denise Taschereau from Fairware, and Rena Nelson from Brandid are just a few of the people who inspire him. He credits these individuals for their resilience, creativity, and dedication, and for inspiring him to be a better leader and entrepreneur.
He encourages others to find their own sources of inspiration, whether it’s from family, friends, or industry leaders. According to him, inspiration can come from anywhere, and it’s important to stay open and receptive to it.
Conclusion
Mark’s journey and insights offer valuable lessons for entrepreneurs and business leaders. His emphasis on customer care, team collaboration, and balance is particularly enlightening. He encourages people to connect with him and commonsku on social media platforms and LinkedIn to continue the conversation and learn more about his journey and insights.
As we conclude, we hope that Mark’s wisdom inspires you to take a customer-centric approach in your business, create memorable experiences, and build a team that’s rooted in respect and trust. Remember, success in business is not just about making profits, but also about making a positive impact on customers and employees.
In the latest episode of DMJ, we had the pleasure of hosting Josef Schinwald, the CEO of Guest Experts on Air. Schinwald, a seasoned expert in the podcasting industry, shared his insights on the art of getting booked on podcasts. He delved into the intricacies of overcoming initial nervousness, the methodology of securing a spot on a podcast, and the importance of standing out as a guest. Furthermore, he discussed the role of social media in promoting podcast appearances and the future of the podcasting industry.
Notably, Schinwald also mentioned his book on podcast guesting, offering a wealth of practical advice for those interested in this field. This article aims to encapsulate the key points from this enlightening interview, providing a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to make their mark in the podcasting world.
Overcoming Nervousness and Anxiety
Josef Schinwald kicked off the interview by addressing a common concern among many aspiring podcast guests – nervousness and anxiety. He stressed that speaking on podcasts is akin to public speaking, and it’s natural to feel a bit jittery at first. However, he assured that with practice, this nervousness can transform into a sense of joy and fulfillment.
He further emphasized that podcasting can be a fun and enjoyable experience. The key is to embrace the nervousness and use it as a stepping stone to improve and refine your public speaking skills. Over time, you’ll find that the anxiety fades away, replaced by the thrill of sharing your knowledge and insights with a wider audience.
Methodology for Getting Booked on Podcasts
Next, Schinwald shared his tried-and-tested methodology for getting booked on podcasts. The first step, he said, is to research and identify experts in your field. This helps you understand the landscape and identify where you can add value. The next step is to find podcasts where you would be a good fit based on your unique value proposition.
He also recommended using tools like Listen Notes to find podcast hosts’ email addresses and reach out to them. This proactive approach can significantly increase your chances of getting booked. Remember, the goal is to position yourself as a unique and valuable guest who can bring fresh perspectives to the table.
Standing Out as a Guest
Standing out as a guest is crucial in the competitive world of podcasting. Schinwald suggests that one of the best ways to do this is by actively contributing to discussions and focusing on your niche expertise. By sharing your unique insights and experiences, you can add value to the podcast and engage the audience in a meaningful way.
He also pointed out that being a specialist in a specific area can be more powerful than being a generalist. This is because a specialist can delve deeper into a topic, offering nuanced insights that a generalist might not be able to provide. So, identify your niche and own it!
Using Social Media to Promote Podcast Appearances
Schinwald also discussed the importance of using social media to promote podcast appearances. He suggested repurposing podcast content into video clips and sharing them on platforms like YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. This not only increases your visibility but also helps you reach a wider audience.
He further recommended utilizing AI tools to format and optimize the content for each platform. Consistent promotion of your podcast appearances on social media can significantly boost your reach and engagement, helping you build a strong online presence.
The Future of Podcasting
Looking ahead, Schinwald predicted that podcasting will continue to grow, with AI playing a significant role in expanding the industry. He cited a projection that podcasting could be a $130 billion industry by 2030, with currently five million podcast listeners.
He also highlighted how AI technology could enhance the podcasting experience, enabling content in different languages and making podcasts more accessible to a global audience. This underscores the immense potential of podcasting and the exciting opportunities it holds for the future.
Book on Podcast Guesting
Finally, Schinwald mentioned his book on podcast guesting, which is available for free on the Guest Experts on Air website. The book provides practical advice on how to get booked on high-end podcasts, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in this field.
From identifying the right podcasts to crafting compelling pitches, the book covers all the essential aspects of podcast guesting. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to make their mark in the podcasting world.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the interview with Josef Schinwald provided a wealth of insights and strategies for getting booked on podcasts, standing out as a guest, and leveraging social media for promotion. It also sheds light on the future of podcasting and offered a sneak peek into Schinwald’s book on podcast guesting. Whether you’re a seasoned podcast guest or just starting out, these tips and strategies can help you navigate the podcasting world with confidence and ease.
It’s hard to believe it’s already June. But here we are! And in honor of the 6th month of the year, we want to show you 6 promotional products you need to know about. So if you are in the market for a cool (or hot) piece of branded merch that is sure to move the needle this summer…this is for you. Oh…and if you want to just skip all of “the words,” you can head to our shop here.
6 Promotional Products You Need To Know About In June
Our goal is to show you some timely, and hopefully trendy, promotional products that will hit many different price points. In addition, we will tell you what we love about the products…but also some drawbacks as well. Let’s dig in!
The Coolie Cappy Combo
The Coolie Cappy Combo is a unique and practical solution for promoting your message and keeping your drinks at the perfect temperature. This combo includes a full-color beverage insulator and a handy Cappy can cover gadget that transforms any can into a spill-proof container. The insulator is made from high-density foam to reduce condensation and keep drinks cold, making it great for outdoor events and picnics. The Cappy clips onto the tab of a can, and can be opened and closed to prevent unwanted things from getting in, spills, retains carbonation, and has a key ring hole for easy portability.
Positive: This is a super cool piece for outdoor events with the team or your customers. What we love about this product (or product combo) is that it is a conversation starter. When you give this away it will give you the chance to explain the product and show the audience how much you care. No one wants to have a bee (or anything else unwanted) to surprise them in their drink. This helps protect from that!
Negative: It’s a conversation starter because it needs an explanation. The product DOES come with instructions, but how many of your team (or customers) actually even read an email?
Overall, we really like this because it’s timely (especially for summer events), it’s unique, and it really is useful, once you explain it!
Lightweight Loop Terry Beach Towel
Enjoy spa-level treatment from the pool to the beach with this super absorbent towel! Measuring 30″ x 60″ this, promo weight hemmed 100% ring spun cotton loop terry towel is perfect for budget-friendly promotions and summertime giveaways.
Positive: We are a big fan of Beach Towels. They have a high perceived value, a HUGE imprint area, and they are kept for a long time. Studies will tell you that the average beach towel is kept for at least 7 years. That means that most are kept longer than that. We certainly never seem to throw them out!
Negative: Since the imprint area (and the item) is so big, the setup charge is larger too. It takes a lot to cover that much area!
Overall, we are big fans of the beach towel. They show appreciation and are used for years!
Fabric Clip Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker
Enjoy your favorite music from anywhere. The Fabric Clip Waterproof Bluetooth® Speaker easily clips to your favorite bag, letting you bring it to the pool, the park, or to your next house party. Enjoy hands-free operation with built-in microphone and music controls. The 5W output fills any room with quality sound. It has an IP67 waterproof rating, which means it can submerged under water without damaging.
Positive: We have always said, if you can give an item that enhances your customer’s life AND ties to their phone, it’s a home run. This can be both. In addition, we are getting more and more requests for WATERPROOF speakers. Apparently everyone thinks they are going to be near a pool or lake this summer!
Negative: You need to know your audience. If you are spending money on an item in this budget, you want to make sure it’s an audience that will appreciate it!
Overall, we love it! This item speaks to quality, function, and summer fun.
Mini Beachcomber Bag / Tote
The made-for-one personal beach bag to hold your essentials for a day of relaxation. The 15” x 13” size easily holds sunscreen, sunglasses, lotion, flip-flops, a book, and more. It’s waterproof and lightweight, plus it has a comfortable strap which makes for easy carrying. A bold full-color imprint option commands attention.
Positive: These totes are all the rage. Not only are they functional, but they show that your brand is on trend this summer.
Negative: These take some time to get in. They are done overseas, so if you need them in a hurry, they are not for you. There is a BIG difference in the timeline from air freight and ocean…so make sure you discuss your in hands date. But if you are interested, now is the time to order!
If your brand is one that is on the cutting edge of trends, this would be a great and functional piece. Just make sure you order soon!
Pinnacle Recycled Travel Tumbler with Straw 40oz
Meet the Pinnacle, a budget-friendly 40 oz travel tumbler that doesn’t compromise on style or performance – all while being made from recycled materials. Constructed using 91% post-consumer recycled 18/8 stainless steel – the 40 oz Pinnacle Travel Tumbler features high-performance copper vacuum insulation that will keep drinks cold 24+ hours for all-day hydration, and a durable power coating with a sleek matte finish that matches the handle, straw and lid slider for a premium, retail look and feel. The 100% recycled plastic, press-on swivel lid securely holds the Tritan straw in place, is easily rotated to expose the drink opening, and features a proprietary lid slider to prevent spills. A sturdy ergonomic handle makes carrying this tumbler effortless, and the slim base fits in most car cup holders
Positive: Everyone loves drinkware. The latest trends show it. And summer is often vacation season. So drinkware is perfect for road trips and to makes sure you are hydrated on the beach. In addition, this product is more eco-friendly than many of its competitors.
Negative: We are big fans of drinkware, so this is tough. The one negative might be that there are lots of competitors out there.
Overall, we feel like this one stands up. It’s great for this (or any) time of year…and it’s got a great price point considering the eco-friendly components. This makes us want to hit the road!
NBN Recycled Outdoor 15 Can Cooler
The NBN Recycled Outdoor 15-Can Cooler has a sleek design featuring an easy-access front pocket and one side pocket. The cooler is fully insulated, and its body material is made with recycled material. Through a partnership with 1% For The Planet, one percent of sales of all EcoSmart® products will be donated to nonprofits dedicated to protecting the planet.
Positive: Everyone can use a cooler…especially this time of year. And with a giveback component, you can feel great about giving a really nice item that will last.
Negative: Hmmm…maybe that it ONLY holds 15 cans?
Overall, we love a cooler for this time of year. Even if you are not going on vacation, you can still use this at home, on the golf course, or on a family picnic in the park. You can’t go wrong with this one!
So there you have it! These are 6 Promotional Products You Need To Know About In June! Want to see more? Check out our Summer Shop here!
As always, we want to provide you with value. So if you want to create marketing campaigns (and appreciation gifts) that hit the TARGET, check out our TARGET marketing playbook here.
Personal development is a lifelong journey that requires continuous learning and growth. In this DMJ 1 on 1, we will explore five books that offer invaluable insights and practical strategies to help you on your path to self-improvement. These books, which Kirby recommends, cover a range of topics from effective habits to mental resilience, and from goal setting to overcoming self-doubt. Each book has had a profound impact on Kirby’s life and can potentially transform yours too.
5 Great Books If You Want To Grow
Whether you are a seasoned self-help book reader or a beginner looking for a good place to start, these books offer a wealth of knowledge and practical advice. They are not just theoretical but provide actionable steps that you can incorporate into your daily life. So, let’s delve into these five great books if you want to grow.
Seven Habits of Highly Effective People
“Seven Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey is a classic in the personal development genre. Kirby credits this book for having a significant impact on his life. It emphasizes the importance of internal dialogue and introspection in shaping our actions and reactions. The book makes you realize that the pursuit of growth is not just about achieving success but also about finding happiness.
Kirby shares his personal experience with the exercises provided in the book. These exercises, when practiced diligently, can lead to a profound shift in perspective and behavior. The book encourages readers to take responsibility for their lives and to proactively work towards their goals.
The 5-Second Rule
“The 5-Second Rule” by Mel Robbins is another powerful book that encourages readers to take immediate action to overcome self-doubt. The book underscores the power of setting goals and writing them down. It explains how our brain has a tendency to talk us out of taking action, especially when it involves stepping out of our comfort zone.
The 5-Second Rule is a simple yet effective strategy to overcome this inertia. By counting backward and taking immediate action, we can bypass our brain’s natural resistance and make progress toward our goals.
The Power of One More
“The Power of One More” by Ed Mylett is a motivational book that encourages readers to push their limits. The book introduces the concept of doing ‘one more’ in various areas of life, whether it’s one more rep in the gym, one more hour of study, or one more act of kindness. This approach can lead to a compounding effect, resulting in significant progress over time.
The book also emphasizes the importance of keeping promises to oneself as a way to build self-confidence.
Soundtracks
“Soundtracks” by Jon Acuff is a book that focuses on changing negative thought patterns and creating positive soundtracks in the mind. Kirby discusses the prevalence of negative soundtracks in our minds, which often hold us back from achieving our full potential.
The book provides practical strategies to redirect and rework these negative soundtracks into positive affirmations.
The Dip
“The Dip” by Seth Godin is a book that discusses the concept of perseverance and pushing through challenges to achieve success. The book introduces the concept of ‘the dip’ – a period of hardship that one must endure in any new project or endeavor.
Godin argues that most people quit when faced with ‘the dip’, but those who persevere through it are the ones who achieve true success. The book emphasizes the importance of intentional decision-making when considering quitting.
Conclusion
In conclusion, personal development and continuous growth are crucial for a fulfilling life. The five books discussed in this article provide practical strategies and insights to help you on your journey. Whether it’s developing effective habits, overcoming self-doubt, pushing your limits, changing your thought patterns, or persevering through challenges, these books offer invaluable guidance. So, pick up one of these books and start your journey toward personal growth today.
So there you have it! These are the 5 books that every person should read if they want to grow personally and professionally! As always, we want to provide you with value. So if you want to create marketing campaigns (and appreciation gifts) that hit the TARGET, check out our TARGET marketing playbook here.
