I’m obsessed with the weekend reset videos popping up everywhere. But here’s the interesting part: Getting your house in order is only half the job. You’re not done until you’ve also refreshed your mindset. So, since we’re approaching the end of the year, it’s the perfect time to clear mental and emotional clutter and overwhelm. In short, it’s time to take out the trash!
Here’s the plot twist: Resetting can also include unlearning. Think of optimizing your outlook like cleaning out your refrigerator. Instead of hanging on to something about to go stale, sort what is salvageable and put everything else in the category of, “it made sense at the time.” In the November series, Mindset Reset, you’ll discover how to shift discouraging dead-ends to empowering set-ups for future success.
First, let’s talk through resetting your approach to opportunities that may have gone sideways.
A funny Tweet made me bust up laughing. It read, “To the ppl constantly telling me: I wanna take you on a date. I like you. Let’s hang out. Been trying to get with you. ENOUGH! Do something or shut up.” Sound familiar?
Comedian Ali Wong feels your pain. In her latest Netflix special, “Single Lady,” she talks about the ups and downs of dating after divorce. Part of her act is goofing on her male comedian friends who endlessly chase Instagram models and then complain that things never work out.
By only pursuing perfect tens (primarily interested in fame), her friends miss what’s truly valuable. They overlook the “kind 6″—the loyal, generous, kindhearted options—all around them.
Now, let’s apply Ali’s observation to work. Did you have an opportunity that seemed like a perfect ten come your way this year? But did it dead-end, kind of like a “Hey, girl” text?
You’re not alone. Many people have been told to apply for roles that keep getting reposted. Or they’ve been confused by someone’s hot and cold behavior that left them second-guessing what’s next. They’re so frustrated that they’re ready to take on the old-school “make it happen” mindset but are unsure whether they’ll look enthusiastic or pushy.
But consider this: Maybe what happened or didn’t is no reflection on you. For instance, perhaps the situation changed, and someone didn’t know how to break disappointing news. Or maybe they got ahead of themselves and told you about an opportunity that didn’t exist yet.
However, hold up before you break down all the possibilities like a murder board for a true crime cold case. Your inner skeptic might think, But this opportunity is so cool. What if I miss it? The bigger question is where you’ll be if you keep postponing your future.
So, what happens next is easy if you’re ready for a mindset reset. No more waiting around. Instead, keep your heart open and your feet moving. Intentionally open your eyes for “kind 6” people rather than taking questionable dependencies. The “kind 6” chances may not be as flashy as a supposed perfect ten, but they’ll help you build skills and relationships on the daily. And a flourishing network is what you need if you’re going to be in the driver’s seat next year and beyond.
Here are five ways to cut the cord to projects that never panned out. Kickstart your mindset reset by declaring:
The most rewarding opportunities don’t always start with a flashy “Hell, yes.” Sometimes, they begin with a kind invitation of, “Let’s get coffee.” So, make room for future successes and start turning the page on “Hey, girl” projects.