In this enlightening episode of Open Your Eyes, McKay guides listeners through a gripping real-life incident involving a truck driver, a catastrophic accident, and the heroic efforts of bridge builder C.C. Myers. This narrative serves as a powerful exploration of the vital question: "When people look at you, what do they see?" highlighting the importance of perception and the signs of success we project.

McKay recounts the dramatic fuel tanker accident in Benicia, California, and how C.C. Myers' exceptional skills and confidence transformed a potential disaster into a remarkable success. The episode delves into Myers' strategic approach to winning the project bid, the importance of projecting confidence, as well as Christian Laettner's legendary basketball moment as an illustration of knowing you can succeed. It further examines how inspiring visions and focused goals, as demonstrated by Howard Schultz's turnaround of Starbucks, can lead to significant achievements. Practical advice on eliminating distractions, embracing a second brain for better productivity, and the importance of being coachable and learning from mistakes rounds out the discussion. Through his reflections on a variety of narratives, McKay unearths profound insights into presenting ourselves as reliable and successful individuals in both personal and professional realms.

Episode Highlights:

• The dramatic account of a fuel tanker accident in Benicia, California
• The heroic and efficient bridge rebuilding efforts led by CC Myers
• Analysis of Myers' confident and strategic approach to winning the project bid
• The significance of projecting confidence and knowing you can succeed, illustrated by Christian Laettner's legendary basketball moment
• The role of inspiring visions and focused goals in achieving success
• Lessons from Howard Schultz's turnaround of Starbucks by eliminating friction and streamlining operations
• Practical advice on eliminating distractions and embracing a second brain for better memory and productivity
• The importance of being coachable, learning from mistakes, and projecting humility and confidence

Key Takeaways:

"A frog in a well cannot conceive of the ocean."

"We can't be what we can't see. Our view is critical to our well-being, happiness, and success."

"People are attracted to people who show the signs of success."

"In order to succeed, you must first believe you can."

"Ubuntu: A person can only be a person through others."

"An inspiring vision will shape the path you travel."

"Eliminate resistance that could hinder your progress."

"Get a second brain. Always carry a notebook."

"Celebrate small victories often, mourn failures quickly."

"Think purposefully about what you're saying to the world."

Links:

https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

On today’s episode of Open Your Eyes, McKay sheds light on the concept of excellence, revealing it to be a personal philosophy rather than an external prize. Taking inspiration from the legendary Michael Phelps among others, our host dives deep into the secrets of achieving greatness, demonstrating how it is, indeed, an inside job.

McKay peels back the layers of Michael Phelps' record-breaking journey, exploring his rigorous training routines, unwavering commitment, and the invaluable guidance of his coach, Bob Bowman. Transcending the realm of physical prowess, today’s episode emphasizes the critical role of mental fortitude and a relentless pursuit of improvement. By weaving in inspiring stories of excellence in everyday life, from education to personal growth, McKay demonstrates how exceeding expectations leads not only to success but also to profound fulfillment. Listen in today and you are guaranteed to walk away with actionable strategies to foster a culture of excellence, transforming both your personal and professional spheres.

Episode Highlights:

• Seeing excellence as an internal commitment rather than an external achievement
• Insights into Michael Phelps' intense training schedule and dietary habits that contributed to his success
• The critical role of Phelps' coach, Bob Bowman, in instilling a relentless pursuit of perfection
• Stories of how excellence manifests in different areas of life, including education and personal growth
• The significance of mental focus and overcoming distractions to achieve extraordinary results
• How a mindset of doing more than what is required leads to greater fulfillment and success
• Practical advice on fostering a culture of excellence in both professional and personal settings.

Key Takeaways:

"Excellence is an inside job; it starts with a decision and a commitment to be your best."

"Michael Phelps' success was not just about his physical attributes but his mental toughness and dedication."

"In life, doing the least becomes a habit, but so does striving for excellence."

"The pursuit of excellence fills people with energy and positivity."

"Excellence is not about stress or extra hours; it's an attitude and an intention."

"When you decide to be excellent, amazing things happen."

"Teaching children to strive for excellence begins with instilling the right beliefs and attitudes."

"Creating a culture of excellence involves modeling the behaviors and attitudes you want to see."

Links:

https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

Shining his spotlight onto the power of quotes, today, McKay explores how seemingly simple phrases can crystallize complex lessons, offer powerful guidance, and transform our lives. The key, he argues, lies not just in the words themselves, but in how we personalize them and integrate them into our own journeys.

Among the many examples McKay shares that illustrate the impact of quotes are the way in which his own father used quotes to impart wisdom, and the story of Church Leader, David O. McKay (after whom our host is named), who, as a young missionary, found purpose through an inscription he encountered. He also highlights the story of Clay Dyer, a professional bass fisherman with formidable physical limitations who overcame them through sheer determination, inspired by a powerful quote. By weaving together stories, personal anecdotes, and timeless proverbs, McKay reminds listeners that quotes aren't just motivational soundbites – they can be the starting point for taking responsibility for our lives and achieving our goals, as long as we don't let fear hold us back.

Episode Highlights:

• How inspiring quotes offer powerful life lessons in simple sentences

• The impact of integrating quotes into your life

• Finding quotes that resonate deeply and become your personal mantras

• The power of proverbs

• Quotes that shape purpose

• Unleashing the power of quotes to inspire taking charge of your life and attitude

• Overcoming obstacles

• Conquering fear and pursuing goals

Key Takeaways:

"The rewards are great if one succeeds, but the rewards are so great because so few succeed. Too many succumb to despair and fail along the way without realizing they already possess all the tools necessary for success." - Og Mandino

"Whate'er thou art, act well thy part." - Inscription seen by David O. McKay

"Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God." - Corrie ten Boom

"If the whole world was blind, how many people would you impress?" - Boonaa Mohammed

"Perfection is achieved, not when there is nothing more to add, but when there is nothing left to take away." - Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

"The greatest day in your life and mine is when we take total responsibility for our attitudes. That's the day we truly grow up." - John C. Maxwell

"Don't let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game." - Babe Ruth

"We suffer more often in imagination than in reality." - Seneca the Younger

Links:

https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

McKay throws open the door on the often-misunderstood concept of charm in this latest installment of the Open Your Eyes podcast. Forget the social butterflies - McKay argues that charm is a powerful tool anyone can learn and put into practice to make a positive difference for themselves and for all those they encounter.

The episode dives deep, exploring the surprising influence of charm with real-world examples. From the unlikely success of the Hoover Dam, spearheaded by a charming leader who united a team of unskilled workers, to the life-saving power of a smile and a kind word offered by a stranger, our host weaves a compelling narrative. Research backs it up too, with studies revealing the contagious nature of smiles and the persuasive power auditors wield when armed with charm. McKay empowers us all to cultivate our own charm with actionable tips – a sprinkle of genuine compliments, the magic of active listening, and the importance of remembering names. As our learned host notes, charm is more than just charisma, it's about creating genuine connections and making others feel valued. By incorporating the information and tips he offers here today, you can cultivate your charm and use it to create a more positive and impactful life.

Episode Highlights:

• The Hoover Dam's historical significance
• How Frank Crow, the Hoover Dam project leader, united a team of unskilled workers through his charm
• The science of charm, showing it can be learned and its impact on social interactions
• Stanford University studies highlighting the power of smiling for both the smiler's mood and those around them
• Real-world examples demonstrating the influence of charm, such as Don Ritchie saving lives with kindness and charm, and charming auditors' success
• Practical tips for cultivating charm

Key Takeaways:

"Frank Crow was a genius for organized thinking and for imparting organized thinking to other people. He was not only an engineering genius, he was a people genius."

"A smile can save someone's life, so add it to your charm."

"Olivia Fox, author of The Charisma Myth, defines charm as how delightful it is to interact with someone. I love that definition."

"Charming people smile. They just smile and it gives them influence."

"Smiling, even a forced smile, elevates your mood and smiles are contagious."

"Fred Rogers used his charm and genuine kindness to leave a lasting impression on generations of viewers."

"Charming people remember names, even small details, often to a surprising degree."

"If you want to endear people to you, be charming."

"Taking care of yourself can make all the difference when you're trying to land a job or influence someone."

"Charm goes much further than talent, than popularity, or anything else."

Links:

https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

In this week’s episode, McKay undertakes an examination of the power of gathering knowledge and ‘know-how’ by exploring the captivating journeys of several extraordinary individuals. Reviewing their unique approaches to problem-solving and relentless pursuit of knowledge, he brings to vivid life the fact that acquiring understanding of the ‘how’ can lead to remarkable achievements and innovations.

McKay highlights Tu Youyou’s research on Chinese herbal medicine that led to artemisinin, a key malaria treatment with a global impact, as well as John Snow's work during the 19th-century cholera outbreak, emphasizing meticulous data collection. The episode also covers Joshua Bell's metro station experiment, illustrating that recognizing excellence requires understanding the craft. Additionally, McKay reflects on Russell M. Nelson's heart surgery contributions, Bob Mankoff's journey to becoming a celebrated cartoonist, and Hedy Lamarr's frequency-hopping technology. Through these stories and his own sage observations, McKay demonstrates that greatness truly is rooted in know-how, inspiring us all to pursue mastery within our own lives.

Episode Highlights:

• The importance of "know-how"
• Tu Youyou’s discovery
• John Snow's cholera investigation
• Bob Mankoff and Joshua Bell’s examples of mastery and persistence
• Hedy Lamarr's example of interdisciplinary innovation
• Malcolm Gladwell's 10,000-hour rule, The Beatles, and the role of practice
• Examples from real life of choosing an area to master and seeking knowledge
• Being inspired by others’ achievements

Quotes:

"Youyou's discovery of artemisinin has saved millions of lives around the world."

"Great things are done by people who know how."

"Snow's intervention in removing the Broad Street pump handle effectively stopped the outbreak."

"In the middle of gaining more know-how, inspiration often comes."

"President Nelson's work in heart surgery was groundbreaking and life-saving."

“Remember, what you do duplicates.”

"Hedy Lamarr's frequency-hopping technology laid the groundwork for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth."

“Decide what you will dive into, find your topic for getting more know-how, follow the masters, ask questions, and stay patient and learning.”

Links:

https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

McKay shines his spotlight this week on the remarkable interplay between faith and perseverance in achieving the seemingly impossible. By weaving together historical sports achievements and biblical narratives, he illuminates how a minuscule chance, when bolstered by steadfast belief and tenacity, can culminate in profound success.

Our host delves into the awe-inspiring stories of racehorses Secretariat and Rich Strike, whose unexpected and historic victories in the world of horse racing underscore the significant impact of genetic legacy and relentless determination. Alongside these tales, McKay reflects on the biblical “Parable of the Unjust Judge”, reinforcing the theme that persistence can indeed influence outcomes and bring about justice. Through discussions on the essential role of psychological resilience and the application of these timeless lessons to personal and professional challenges, he offers listeners actionable insights into transforming slim odds into substantial successes. Be sure to join McKay here today as he draws poignant connections between legendary sports achievements and enduring spiritual teachings, motivating us all to keep pushing forward, no matter the odds.

Episode Highlights:

• Exploring Secretariat’s legacy
• Rich Strike’s unforeseen triumph
• The role of pedigree in determining potential in sports
• Lessons from the parable of the unjust judge
• Strategies for converting minimal odds into significant successes
• Insights into the mental toughness required in high-stakes environments
• Applying lessons from the world of sport and scripture

Key Takeaways:

“We're talking about turning a 1% chance into a significant outcome.”

“The unexpected victory of Rich Strike shows that underdogs can emerge victorious.”

“Fully understanding the 99% can make a 1% chance sufficient.”

“Belief is crucial, especially when facing great odds.”

“True ‘impossibility’ is nothing when approached with conviction.”

“Our deepest desires can become reality if pursued with relentless determination.”

“Give more, love more, and live more, and watch what returns to you as a result.”

“You'll turn your 1% chance with 99% belief into 100% certainty, I am certain of it.”

Links:

https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

In today’s episode of Open Your Eyes, McKay guides listeners through a thought-provoking exploration of the criteria by which we measure our lives. Combining an analysis of lives spectacularly well-lived with his own learnings and sage observations, our host demonstrates the critical importance of ensuring these criteria are firmly founded upon those aspects in life that truly matter.

The episode traverses various inspiring narratives, from Dr. Sanduk Ruit’s revolutionary work in making cataract surgery affordable for millions in Nepal to Dashrath Manjhi's 22-year mission to carve a safer path through the mountains for his village. McKay also reflects on his battle with cancer, his children’s perseverance and relentless determination, and the poignant story of a colleague and his son who was born with severe physical challenges. The episode concludes by drawing on the biblical story of Peter walking on water, underscoring the importance of maintaining faith amidst adversity. Collectively, these stories challenge listeners to consider the legacies they wish to create, ultimately posing the essential question: "How will you measure your life?"

Episode Highlights:

• Global listener reach
• Dr. Sanduk Ruit’s journey
• Dashrath Manjhi's dedication
• Clayton Christensen on life’s measures
• Personal growth through service
• Stories highlighting the power of love and perseverance
• Faith and overcoming doubts
• Measuring your life by what really matters most

Quotes:

"I committed myself to a mission of making eye surgery affordable and accessible to every person in Nepal."

"One can measure the surgeries provided to the impoverished in Nepal and the miles of travel saved by Dashrath’s new mountain path."

"Consider if, ultimately, we are measured against the things that truly matter."

"I realized my life would be measured by how I aided people in similar circumstances to mine."

"Each day presents a choice on where to place your focus."

"Love empowers you to focus, care, and exert more effort."

"Keep going until you achieve your goals."

"Faith means to believe without seeing, and the reward of faith is to see what you have believed."

Links:

https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

This week, McKay delves into the powerful theme of ‘letting go’, exploring how releasing past traumas and burdens can lead to personal growth and transformation. Drawing upon his wealth of inspiring stories and intricate knowledge of scripture, he identifies 3 tools listeners can implement now to make letting go a positive habit within their own lives.

Sharing Bethany Hamilton's extraordinary journey after losing her arm in a shark attack, Viktor Frankl's insights from surviving concentration camps, and Peter's biblical story of denial and restoration, McKay addresses such concepts as emotional baggage, finding meaning in suffering, and the power of forgiveness and renewal. He tops things off with an examination of the incredible determination demonstrated by amputee Arunima Sinha’s legendary ascent of Everest. Distilling lessons from all of these formidable tales and mixing them with his own extensive wisdom, our host provides us all today with the practical tools and knowledge to successfully embrace letting go and achieving our full potential.

Episode Highlights:

• Bethany Hamilton's story of losing her arm in a shark attack and her return to surfing
• Phantom pain and its metaphorical relation to carrying emotional baggage
• Peter's denial and restoration in the Bible
• Viktor Frankl's insights on finding meaning in suffering and letting go of control
• Personal anecdotes and scriptural teachings regarding the power of letting go of negativity
• Arunima Sinha's journey from a tragic accident to becoming the first female amputee to climb Everest
• Practical tools and lessons on how to let go and embrace a more fulfilling life

Key Takeaways:

"You can't be what you can't see. Open your eyes to the possibilities around you."

"Phantom pain: the nerves signal to your brain the sensation of pain, even in a missing limb."

"Peter's three denials were met with three affirmations of love, restoring his faith and purpose."

"Viktor Frankl found meaning in suffering, focusing on helping others despite his dire circumstances."

"Negativity attracts more negativity; let go of it to invite positivity into your life."

"Arunima Sinha turned her mess into greatness by climbing Everest after losing her leg."

"Letting go frees up space in your mind for new, fulfilling pursuits."

"Focus on the next right thing, and trust the outcome to unfold in its time."

"When we let go, we find amazing things and unlock immense potential."

Links:

https://www.mckaychristensen.org/