by Gene Crawford | Nov 12, 2024 | Podcast
In this episode, we explore diverse topics, from Madrid subway pickpocketing to crisis management in programs for adults with intellectual disabilities. Ley Linder, a seasoned behavior analyst and gerontologist, shares insights on how empathy and observational skills enhance leadership, self-defense, and even dog training. We also dig into a story about one of Ley’s employees who exemplifies quick thinking during a sensory overload crisis, highlighting the importance of patience in challenging environments. The episode wraps up with a heartfelt discussion on the emotional weight carried by caregivers, offering humor and practical advice on adapting to challenges in fitness and daily life.
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by Gene Crawford | Aug 20, 2024 | Podcast
What does it take to truly command respect without coming off as arrogant? Uncover the secrets behind this delicate balance in our latest episode. We dive into the essence of respect in communication, sharing personal stories and valuable insights on empathy, active listening, and politeness. From meeting new people to professional interactions, find out how these foundational elements can shape and elevate your connections.
We also touch on the balance between expecting respectful interactions and avoiding an entitled attitude. Authenticity and respect in interactions are more than just concepts—they are practices we can master. We share insights from various settings, including concerts and gyms, emphasizing the power of genuine actions over fear-based respect. Reflecting on the importance of self-awareness and adaptability, especially in professional and martial arts contexts, we highlight how these principles can help maintain positive relationships.
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by Gene Crawford | Jul 30, 2023 | Podcast
Are we really doing justice to social justice? In this episode Dr. Scott and I find ourselves treading the tricky terrain of political correctness and social justice warriors, trying to strike a balance and sow understanding. We’re deciphering the evolving rulebook of political correctness, while also reflecting on how empathy can shape more inclusive societies. In this dance of respect and sensitivity, we find ourselves contemplating the trials of raising a new generation in a world that doesn’t always encourage introspective thought.
As we all find ourselves grappling with feelings of anxiety and the role of government in economic health. It’s an exploration of how these challenges touch our lives daily and the reality of personal responsibility in a world where rescue often doesn’t arrive. It’s a tough pill to swallow, but we dive into it, exploring the intricacies and the disappointments, and learning how to navigate this new reality.
Finally, we’re turning the mirror on ourselves, discussing the power of self-love and its role in our relationships. We all hold the keys to our own happiness, and we explore how acceptance can lead to transformative change. We’re pulling back the curtain on the marriages of friends and family, sharing our insights and delving into the challenges that come with balancing relationships. Remember, self-love is an action, not a belief. So join us, let’s journey through these topics together.
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by Gene Crawford | Jul 3, 2023 | Podcast
Have you ever found yourself taking things too personally, or struggling to handle difficult situations in your daily life? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! In our latest episode, we discuss how to stop personalizing interactions, handle emotions and empathy, and maintain grace under pressure when faced with challenging circumstances. By understanding the importance of empathy and self-worth, we can learn to think objectively and better cope with the inevitable bumps in the road.
We take a deep look at how to handle rude behavior, remain civil in the face of confrontation, and balance introversion with shyness. Our conversation also touches on the importance of not making everything about us, prioritizing ourselves first, and finding ways to improve after making mistakes. By accepting our limitations and leaning into detachment, we can separate ourselves from our ego and make more mindful decisions in both business and personal situations.
As we wrap up, we explore the value of self-worth and personal responsibility, and discuss how to handle criticism without letting it define our identity. We even delve into the potential impact of AI on our future careers and how to be prepared for change. Join us in this eye-opening discussion, and learn how to harness the power of empathy, detachment, and personal responsibility to create a more balanced and fulfilling life.
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by Gene Crawford | May 23, 2023 | Blog
Mastering Yourself
Continuous Learning and Improvement
The journey of mastering yourself begins with a commitment to continuous learning and improvement. It’s about expanding your knowledge, honing your skills, and developing your character. Whether it’s in your professional life, personal interests, or relationships, the pursuit of mastery requires dedication and perseverance.
To excel in your chosen field, embrace opportunities for growth and invest in your education. Stay updated with the latest industry trends, attend workshops and conferences, and seek out mentors who can guide you along the way. By consistently acquiring new knowledge and refining your skills, you become an expert in your domain, enabling you to provide exceptional value to others.
Setting Goals and Taking Action
Mastering yourself also involves setting clear goals and taking deliberate action to achieve them. Define your vision and break it down into actionable steps. By setting specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals, you create a roadmap for success.
Take consistent action towards your goals, pushing past obstacles and staying focused on your desired outcomes. Embrace discipline, develop effective habits, and maintain a growth mindset. Remember, it’s the small daily actions that accumulate over time and lead to significant personal growth and success.
Embracing Challenges and Learning from Mistakes
True mastery requires embracing challenges and seeing them as opportunities for growth. Challenges stretch your abilities, force you out of your comfort zone, and reveal your true potential. Embrace them with open arms and a resilient mindset.
Mistakes and failures are inevitable on the path to mastery. Instead of viewing them as setbacks, perceive them as valuable learning experiences. Analyze what went wrong, extract the lessons, and make adjustments accordingly. By adopting a growth-oriented perspective, you can turn setbacks into stepping stones towards excellence.
Serving Others
Volunteering and Making a Difference
Serving others is a natural extension of mastering yourself. It involves using your skills, knowledge, and resources to make a positive impact in the lives of others. One powerful way to serve is through volunteering your time and expertise to support causes you care about.
Find organizations or initiatives aligned with your values and contribute your time and energy. Whether it’s helping the less fortunate, supporting environmental conservation, or advocating for social justice, your efforts can create tangible change in the world. By selflessly giving back, you not only uplift others but also experience a sense of fullfilment.
Sharing Knowledge and Helping Others Grow
Another significant way to serve others is by sharing your knowledge and expertise. As you master yourself in a particular field, you accumulate valuable insights and skills that can benefit others. Take the initiative to share what you’ve learned and help others grow.
You can mentor aspiring individuals, offer workshops or webinars, or even create educational content such as blog posts or videos. By empowering others with knowledge and skills, you become a catalyst for their personal and professional development. Remember, true leaders uplift those around them.
Kindness and Support
Serving others doesn’t always require grand gestures or specific expertise. Sometimes, the simplest acts of kindness and support can make a tremendous impact. A compassionate word, a helping hand, or a listening ear can brighten someone’s day and provide them with the strength to overcome their challenges.
Practice empathy and kindness in your everyday interactions. Show genuine interest in others’ well-being, offer support when needed, and celebrate their successes. By creating a supportive environment, you inspire and motivate those around you to become their best selves.
The mantra “Master Yourself; Serve Others” encapsulates the essence of personal growth and making a positive impact in the world. By focusing on mastering ourselves through continuous learning, setting goals, and embracing challenges, we become better equipped to serve others.
Serving others can take various forms, from volunteering for causes we care about to sharing knowledge and providing support. By leveraging our skills, knowledge, and character, we can make a significant difference in the lives of others and contribute to the betterment of society.
Mark Divine
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention this powerful mantra that was taught to me years ago by retired Navy SEAL Commander Mark Divine:
The phrase “master yourself; serve others” means to first focus on developing your own skills, knowledge, and character, and then use those qualities to help and serve others. The idea is that by mastering yourself, you can become more confident, capable, and effective in serving others, and that serving others is a natural and rewarding extension of mastering yourself.
Mastering yourself involves taking the time and effort to learn and improve in various areas of your life, such as your work, your hobbies, or your relationships. It involves setting goals and working towards them, learning from your mistakes and experiences, and developing the qualities and skills that are necessary for personal growth and success.
Serving others, on the other hand, involves using your skills, knowledge, and character to help and support others. This can include volunteering your time and resources to support a cause that you care about, or using your expertise to help others learn and grow. It can also include simply being kind and supportive to those around you, and making a positive difference in the lives of others.
