As we celebrate Thanksgiving, we are reminded of all the things for which we are thankful. Something as simple as the air we freely breathe or waking up this morning is already a massive thing to be grateful for.
For today’s interview, Michael Godard, a friend of mine, shared some valuable insights about the importance of being grateful for everything. He also offered tips on how he manages to remind himself of those things.
Michael Godard is known as the explosive “Rockstar of the Art World” and a global top-selling artist! In 2006, his 16-year-old daughter passed away after her battle with brain cancer, the reason he has dedicated himself to philanthropic causes through his art, supporting different cancer foundations. He said that if you’re seeking to make a difference, start by helping other people make a difference.
Many times, people find themselves waiting for tomorrow to be happy, often overlooking numerous joys in the present moment. Michael suggests that we learn to be present, pay attention, and, in this way, we will appreciate what we’re doing and what’s happening around us. Gifts are sometimes distilled to the essence of time—simply listening to someone who needs our ears.
Michael is very disciplined. Whenever he has new ideas that pop up, he will stop whatever he’s doing and write them down, then, taking a thought afterward, he puts it into action. Also, every morning he writes a gratitude list and next week’s plan.
If you can change the way you look at things, the things you look at will change. So, start looking at life as the miracle it is.
The following important points were discussed:
- Understand what your gift is and share it with others.
- Giving without expectation in return.
- Don’t dwell in “soon as” happiness (as soon as I can get this I’ll be happy, etc.).
- The more we are aware of what we want in life, the more opportunities for it.
- Multi-tasking doesn’t get as much done. But people that make a list do their best.
- There’s no such thing as luck. Luck is simply being prepared for the moment that opportunity presents itself.
Connect with Michael Godard:
Episode Timestamp:
4:07 – 6:24 Michael shared that everybody is waiting for tomorrow before they’ll feel happy.
11:40 – 12:30 Michael experienced holidays alone because family is a thousand miles away.
14:37 – 17:48 Michael emphasizes taking care of oneself; it is one way of being able to feel grateful.
22:14 – 24:08 Michael shared his tips on doing the impossible.
25:09 – 26:45 Michael tackles multi-tasking and how it is not going to get things done.
40:05 – 41:30 Michael did not believe in luck and shared his meaning of “luck”.