It's fascinating to me how much time and effort we spend agonising over having the right answer, when in fact there is no way of knowing what the right answer is.

If you don't know what the right answer is, remember that the only answer you can really give is...

...the answer you feel comfortable with.

Some would say the right answer in this situation is the truth.

Whilst I'd agree with that to a certain extent, there is the Truth...and then there is the Whole Truth.

Just because I have given you an honest answer does not necessarily mean it's the whole truth.

So reconcile yourself with the knowledge that the only answer to give when you don't know what the right answer is...is the one you feel comfortable with.

The Only Answer When You Don’t Know The Right Answer #1204

Heineken has a great ad campaign called 'Cheers to all.'

The key tag line in the campaign is 'Men drink cocktails too'.

Of course, Heineken don't really care about men drinking cocktails. They sell beer.

What they care about, is the opposite.

If men can drink cocktails...then women can drink beer.

It's a clever way to deliver their message without actually saying it.

It almost challenges the consumer of the ad to engage and to think beyond what is being said to discover the hidden message.

Maybe you should think about how you could do the same with your messaging?

Here’s How You Can Deliver Your Message By Saying The Opposite #1289

Many people who have lost their job over the past 18 months or so as a result of this pandemic have turn their hand to consulting to generate an income.

One of the biggest concerns they have is finding enough clients.

But that's the wrong way to approach it.

You actually only need ONE client...if they will pay you enough.

If you're good enough. If you can bring them enough value.

So, instead of worrying about how can find enough clients, focus on adding more value, charging more and then ultimately you'll find you don't ned so many clients at all.

You Only Need One Client…If You’re Worth It #1298

When it comes to change, the story we often tell ourselves is that we're not quite ready to make a decision yet, so we'll just stay the same.

But, as Prof. Laurie Buchanan suggests, if you don't change, that is in fact the choice you have made.

Don't kid yourself.

Deciding to do nothing is actually deciding to accept things the way they are.

To accept the status quo.

NB: Thanks to Jenn Simms for sharing!

What You Aren't Changing, You’re Choosing #1306

We tend to think that it's the things we did wrong that cause us the most grief.

But chances are, it's the shots that you didn't take, the mistakes that you didn't make, that end up costing you more.

It's the Errors of Omission, or of not doing, rather than the Errors of Commission, or doing.

So go on! Have a go!

NB: Thanks Seth!

It’s Your Errors Of Omission That Hurt You Most #1333

If you have a tendency to overthink things, to overcomplicate things...write it down.

By writing down your thoughts, it helps you to clarify them, rather than having those thoughts just running around in your head.

BTW - if you don't like to write, just saying your thoughts out loud can work the same way. Maybe record a short video of you speaking your thoughts.

And conversely, if you oversimplify things, or underthink them...read.

Do some research. Google it. 

The more you learn about your topic, chances are, you'll realise how much you don't know.

NB: Credit to @AlexandBooks on Twitter for the inspiration.

If You're Overthinking, Write. If You're Underthinking, Read. #1411

So many people are just so short-term in their thinking these days.

I get it. I understand why.

It's basically programmed into us to expect instant likes, instant gratification, instant rewards, instant profits.

And these days there are so many legitimate ways to get your instant return. So why wait? Get it now.

The problem is, not everyone is wired for the instant return game.

And when they see everyone else jumping in while they don't, they feel like they've missed the boat.

But not so long ago, we were happy to wait a couple of years for a return. That WAS quick.

So if you're wired that way, don't worry...

In a couple of years, it won't matter how long it took.

NB: credit to the Twitterverse for the quote

In A Couple Of Years, It Won’t Even Matter How Long It Took #1456

Sometimes in life and in business...poo poo happens.

And when it does, people who have invested their time and money into new ventures can lose it all. And that hurts.

But that's ok.

As long as the intent and effort behind the new venture was pure, then that's just the cost of doing business.

However, if the intent was never pure, then it's really just a scam.

And there's a grey area where the intent was pure, but not enough effort was put in and as a result, it failed.

Some would say this too is just the price of doing business, of trying something new.

But I disagree.

If you are savvy enough to have a vision, to sell that vision to others, to convince them to invest their time and money...then you should be savvy enough to have a pretty good idea of how much work will be involved.

And if you're not prepared to put in that work, then for me, it comes back to the purity of your intent.

We will only forgive your failure if the intent AND effort is pure.

If The Intent Is Pure, Forgive The Failure…Up To A Point #1467

NFTs are all about establishing ownership of digital assets.

And as with the ownership of any type of asset, there will always be an element of social signalling involved.

Why do we want a Rolex watch?

Certainly not to help tell the time.

A Rolex on the wrist say we're rich and successful.

Same goes for the girls at the Birkin handbag.

Same reason we want to drive around in a Ferrari.

It's all about the signal it sends about our social status.

Once you view NFTs through a lens of Social Signalling, it all makes sense.

Yesterday's Rolex is today's Bored Ape Yacht Club (yes, it's a thing! Google it)

NFTs Are Social Signalling For The Digital World #1473

A great quote from @steph_feels over on Twitter...

"Stop taking responsibility for things people do to you. Start taking responsibility for what you do to you ; that is where your power is."

We spend so much time worrying about what other people think about us, say about us, what they do to us.

We can't control that. 

We can influence it. Absolutely. But we can't control it. So there's not much point worrying about it.

Instead, focus on the things that you do to you.

A nice sentiment to end the year on...and maybe a good resolution to take with you into 2022.

Happy New Year!

Only Take Responsibility For What You Do To You #1492

Well known tech investor Chris Dixon has a great explanation of Web3 in the context of Web1 and Web2.

web 1 = read

web 2 = read & write

web 3 = read & write & own

To expand a bit...

Web 1 was the early days of the internet. It was really just a place to go and read information online.

Web 2 saw the arrival of social media platforms - blogs, YouTube, Facebook, etc. And with that, we were now able to write and post our own content.

Now, in Web 3, thanks to blockchain technologies and NFTs, we have digital ownership.

Exciting Times.

Enjoy!

Consider The Evolution From Web 1...Web 2...Web 3 #1493

I think that statement is super relevant and highly applicable to most of us today, perhaps more than any other time in the past.

The sort of questions employers really need answered today are, What are you capable of? What can you do? Can you show me examples of your work?

Where you have been before matters much less than what you can do today.

And for those of us with access to technology such as the internet, laptops, smart phones, etc, we can build, create, network our way to whatever future our skills and hard work will take us.

Of course, it's worth mentioning that there are still many countries around the world where this kind of access does not exist. 

For them, it is much harder.

But for the rest of the world, more than ever, it's about where you're at.

It's Not Where You're From...It's Where You're At #1494

In a world where there is so much focus on political correctness and being aware of everyone's sensitivities, sometimes we can lose sight of the need for a critical review.

If you are not just a little embarrassed about some of the work you have put out there...

If you are not just a little ashamed of the way you handled some of your personal interactions...

then maybe you're just not being critical enough.

Don't beat yourself up too much.

Don't over-judge yourself.

But don't give yourself a free pass either.

Maybe You Should Be Just A Little Embarrassed #1495

Those who don't really spend much time in the Crypto / Web3 / NFT space, often take the view that it's all just one big scam.

It's a dangerous place. Full of scammers.

And with NFTs appearing to go on a bit of a bull run right now, we are again seeing a number of big scams being run on the community.

But let's get real for a second.

NFT projects themselves aren't bad. The people using them to run scams are bad.

Sure, it's often easier to run a big scam in this space, for various reasons.

Ultimately, however, always remember...

NFTs don't scam people. People scam people.

NB: As always...Do Your Own Research

Crypto Doesn't Scam People. People Scam People. #1496

Focussed Missions are great. 

That's how we get stuff done.

They're not always the most insightful journeys....but...

They're not designed to be.

However, when you choose a meandering path, you have time explore, engage, unravel, etc.

And it is precisely in those meanderings, that powerful insights can be found.

The key to success in life is to ensure that you have a nice balance of Focussed Missions and Insightful Meanderings.

Consider Insightful Meanderings Vs Focussed Missions #1497

We are constantly being pressured to...

ACT NOW!

BUY NOW!

DON'T MISS OUT!

Whether we're buying something online or just making a decision of any sort, the sense of urgency is often overwhelming.

So, next time you feel the pressure...Stop. Take a Breath. And ask yourself...

What's the Last Responsible Moment at which I really need to make a decision?

Because if you can actually wait a little longer, in that time, you may be able to get some more data, some better information or even come up with a better plan.

FOMO is real. Don't let it get you!

Leave It Until The Last Responsible Moment #1498

"I don't care who is doing better than me. I am doing better than I was last year. It's me Vs me."

Michael B Jordan (actor)

Great perspective.

Of course, it's probably an attitude that won't help you much if you're trying to climb the corporate ladder.

Because there, it is very much about You vs The Other Girl.

But if you can get to a place where you're genuinely satisfied with being a bit better than you were yesterday, last week, last year, then you're going to be happy.

And after all, isn't that what it's really all about?

Ultimately It’s Just You Vs You #1499

WOW! 1,500 Episodes. That's a lot.

This whole show started with the idea to publish one piece of content every day...for one year. That's it.

And here we are now...1,500 consecutive days later.

I'd like to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you who has tuned in over the years to listen, or watch or read any of these episodes.

As I say at the end of every episode, 'I do thank you for your time...'

And I genuinely do. Thanks.

NOW...to the big announcement I promised...

Tomorrow's episode...Episode 1,501...

Will be the LAST episode of the show!

Yep. I've decided to hang up the mic.

Why? 

Well, the answer is the same as it was for why I started the show in the first place...no reason.

I just feel like it's run its course. That's all.

So why not just end today...on 1,500?

Two reasons...

1. I wanted to end on a real show, consistent with the theme of the show. Which has always been about a daily thought, idea, insight. I didn't want to just finish on an anniversary type show.

2. When people ask me in the future, 'How many episodes of that show did you do?', I can now honestly answer them...

'OVER 1,500 episodes!'

:-)

So, I do thank you for your time.

And I will be again (one last time) tomorrow...

Celebrating The 1500th Episode Of Trent365! #1500

Yep. This is it. The last episode of Trent365!

And the message I want to leave you with, as I depart is...

Just Start!

So often we talk ourselves out of starting something because we worry that it won't be any good, or that nobody will like it, or that you won't be able to keep it up.

It doesn't matter. Just Start.

If it sucks, make it better. If that's too hard, then stop. 

It's ok to stop too.

Whether you stick with it for a day, a week, or OVER 1,500 episodes...you will learn from it.

You will learn about the process. And you will learn about yourself.

The one thing we are not getting any more of is time.

And one of the most toxic emotions you can have is regret.

You don't want to wake up one day and realise that you've run out of time and you regret not trying.

So...Just Start.

Thanks for the ride!

This Is The End. So Start. #1501

In Episode #11 - Lessons from a Spa Manager Meeting - we start our series of real life, practical examples, lessons learned, etc. See what happens when I challenged them to answer - WHY? - HOW? - WHAT? If you prefer to read the full post, you'll find it HERE &nbsp; Useful Links Spa Sounds&nbsp;our Music Sponsor for the show. Subscribe to the show HERE Subscribe on ANDROID HERE Leave a Rating and Review THERE too! Love to hear what you have to say. Looking forward to your comments.

Lessons from a Spa Manager Meeting | Ep. #11

In Episode #22 we consider what role entertainment could play in the Spa of Tomorrow. While everyone else is focussed on spas as a place of peace &amp; quiet, maybe we should think about spas as a more active place?

Spas as Entertainment | Ep. #22

In Episode 24 I sit down with the founder of YeloSpa in New York City - Nicolas Ronco. Nico opens up and shares his journey from being a successful marketing exec for Fortune 500 company to being happily unemployed and creating his vision - Yelo.

The Story of YeloSpa with Nicolas Ronco _Part I | Ep. #24

In Episode 25, I continue my chat with Nicolas Ronco - Founder &amp; CEO of YeloSpa in New York City. This week Nico shares the story of how he went from concept to reality. You'll hear the lessons he learned, the successes &amp; the challenges.

The Story of YeloSpa with Nicolas Ronco _Part II | Ep. #25

Episode 26, is the final part of my chat with Nicolas Ronco - Founder &amp; CEO of YeloSpa in New York City. We talk the Business of Sleep, USPs of the YeloSpa brand, learn about the franchise plans and some hints at future developments.

The Story of YeloSpa with Nicolas Ronco _Part III | Ep. #26

Daily thoughts, ideas and insights on spa, wellness, business and beyond. From the hotel spa guy compelled to ask Why and who refuses to accept the Status Quo

Ep - 219 - Brand - Sense - By - Martin - L-71dc0f0c8d7f9

Ep - 120 - Silly - Sports - 1ca918dc75949

Ep - 107 - Toys - R-Us - Homeless - Oppo - Ad67157270205

That’s a little quote from Tyler Babin and I’m now adding it to my list of 2019 Operating Principles.

PS: Note the irony of today’s subject & the new title clip. 😉

 #instagram #bereal #authenticity  #captions

Ep. 401 - Trent365! - Match Your Actions To Your Instagram Captions

In Ep. 448 I discussed how hotel spas do NOT have to offer wellness. And in the reverse, as mentioned by Arkadiusz Dawidowski...hotels do not need a spa to offer Wellnesss.

#wellness #spa #hotelspa #wellnessopportunity

Ep. 450 - Trent365! - Where Does Wellness Belong

In a follow up from Ep. #671 - where I shared my thesis that the Spa of Tomorrow will be only 20% of what we know a Spa to be today, with the other 80% being something completely different - today's question was...

If you’re 20% massages and manicures and 80% business center, are you still a spa?

The answer...Sure! Why not?

We have very different definitions today of what a taxi service should be - thanks to Uber.

We have very different definitions of the best form of management, of inclusion, of sustainability, etc.

Is the Spa Industry really arrogant enough to believe that it shouldn't need to redefine itself?

#reinventingorganizations #innovation #tomorrowspa #continuousdevelopment 

Here's a link to Ep. #672 where I expanded on my 20/80 Tomorrow Spa Thesis - https://www.linkedin.com/posts/trentmunday_hotelspa-tomorrowspa-spatrends-activity-6585168208528019456-DLqN

Can A 20/80 Tomorrow Spa Model Still Be Called A Spa? #672

TEMPO is being called 'the Peleton of dumbells'.

It's another of what I call the Mirror-Led Home Fitness Solutions.

There's a 42 inch high mirror built into a free standing cabinet that contains the rest of the tech - and a set of dumbells of course.

The AI and 3D body mapping technology enables your TEMPO to provide instant feedback on your weightlifting form.

And you'll also be able to join in virtual classes and individual tuition.

The company has just received $17 million in funding from some very well known VCs, so they have a good shot at success.

The TEMPO unit sells for just under $2,000 and then you pay $39 per month to access all the content and classes.

Here's a link to the story..

https://www.cnet.com/news/tempo-fitness-system-judges-your-workout-form-to-help-you-get-better/

And to the TEMPO website...

https://tempo.fit/

TEMPO Home Weightlifting Solution Launches #819

During a turndown in business, like many of us are experiencing right now, it's the Fixed Costs that can ultimately kill the business.

But what if they could convert some of those Fixed Costs into Variable Costs?

Rent, is a great example.

What if you could convince your landlord to accept a Variable Rent structure?

Pre-COVID-19, this might have a been a dream.

But as we come out of this crisis, all bets are off. Anything might be possible.

In preparation for the Brave New World that awaits you, take a look at your P&L and start thinking about how you might be able to change some of your Fixed Costs into Variable Costs.

Turning Your Fixed Costs Into Variable Costs #860

I have a brilliant strategy for your hotel to build brand loyalty even whilst your guests can't travel to stay with you...

Send them a bar of soap!

Seriously!

As someone who, until COVID-19 clipped my wings, travelled 6 mths a year, I would always take the nice hotel soaps home with me.

Now that I can't travel anymore, I've run out of soap at home. 

And I really miss my nice little hotel soaps.

So, if you're in the hotel business, why not send a bar or two of your soap to your regular, loyal guests, with a nice little note from the Housekeeper.

Soap - The Key To Building Hotel Brand Loyalty? #1002

With the right perspective, this can be a very empowering statement.

It's not your fault that things are this way. It's not my fault either. And so with that, all you can do is go ahead and make the most of the situation. Just do your best.

And you're now accountable. 

There's no point complaining about how unfair it all is. It is what it is. So just get on with it.

You don't have to change the world. You can try to if you really want to.

But regardless...The World Is As It Is.

To me, that's kinda nice to know.

The World Is As You Find It #1138

Controversial Tibetan Buddhist, Chogyam Trungpa, once said...

"It's easier to put on a pair of shoes than to wrap the earth in leather"

It's a quote that does, I feel, have a few different levels to it.

But to me, the simple essence of the statement is the same as the one I shared with you in Ep. 1138 of this show - The World Is As You Find It , which is quote from the movie Vice.

And the reason I think it's worth exploring is that we always seem to talking about changing the world. Making big impacts. 

It feels like we almost have an obligation to do so.

But maybe we don't have to.

Sometimes, maybe we're just better off putting on a pair of shoes instead of trying to wrap the world in leather.

Trent Munday

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