Meaningful Mondays

“The first job of a leader—at work or at home—is to inspire trust. You don't manage people—you model trust, extend it, and grow together." - Stephen M. R. Covey “Trust is the one trait that consistently boosts happiness at every age.” — Research by Utrecht University, 2025 “Trust doesn't follow leadership. Trust is leadership.” - Lee Brower In Th'River, we believe in flow—in letting trust move through us, not just to us.

“You cannot overestimate the unimportance of practically everything.” - John C. Maxwell "Did my choices today reveal what I say matters most?" - Lee Brower “The key is not to prioritize what's on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities.” - Stephen R. Covey "We don't drift into meaning. We don't stumble into legacy. We choose our way there--one moment, one choice at a time." - Lee Brower

But here's the thing—character doesn't just show up in heroic moments. It shows up in keeping your word… even when it's inconvenient and even when it is only to you. Character is the ability to carry out a worthwhile decision once the emotion of making that decision has passed.

"A new identity doesn't erase the past. It reclaims the future." - Lee Brower "I am not what I used to be, not what I ought to be, and not what I am going to be, but I am thankful I am not what I used to be." - Coach John Wooden

The image was fake. The "bias" was real. The truth was different. "Bias is like a weed. It starts out small. But left to its own, it grows deep, spreads wide, and quietly chokes out better thoughts." — Lee Brower "We do not see things as they are, we see them as we are." — Anaïs Nin (our perspective is often colored by internal bias- unless we pause and we pivot.) "The greatest enemy of knowledge is not ignorance, it is the illusion of knowledge." — Stephen Hawking "Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate." — Carl Jung ( e.g. biPas™-- pausing to recognize and redirect unconscious bias.) "What is not named cannot be transformed." — Dr. Edith Eger, Holocaust survivor and psychologist. (Supports making 'Standby Moment' an asset, not just an anecdote.)

"Small choices make big ripples." "What would your future self say about that choice?" "Just this once" leads to convenience. "No matter what" leads to conviction. Conviction leads to character. “It's easier to hold to your principles 100% of the time than it is to hold to them 98%.” — Clayton Christensen

Mothers are the nurturers of the world. “Motherhood isn't just about biology. It's a calling to nurture, to comfort, to notice someone else's need and do something about it.” The Ripple of a "mother-hearted" life doesn't ask, “Are you mine?” It simply says, “You matter.”

“When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.” – Viktor E. Frankl “Comparison is the thief of joy.” – Theodore Roosevelt "Joy begins where comparison ends." – Lee Brower

"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you." --John Wooden "Things turn out for the people who make the best of the way things turn out." --John Wooden "The meaning of life is to give life meaning." -- Viktor Frankl

"Respect isn't earned from self-sacrifice. It is learned through self-respect." Genuine respect - both from yourself and others - begins with honoring your own worth first. Respect yourself first; everything else is attracted to that strength. CHALLENGE: "What is one small choice I can make today -- when no one else is watching -- that strengthens the evidence of my self-respect?"

“The crowds on earth, they soon forget, the heroes of the past, they cheer like mad until you fall. And that's how long you last.” "Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are." - Coach John Wooden The world praises performance. God celebrates presence. The world gives you a spotlight. God invites you to serve in the shadows. - Lee Brower Let's stack the moments that really count. So, here's the challenge this week: What am I honoring above the chair rail of my life? What small act of character, compassion, or connection could I do today, even if no one else sees it?

Potential is the seed, motion is what makes it grow. "Just" helps us get into motion. It turns resistance into willingness. It brings you into the "NOW". It is how "Arrows Out" begins: Just notice. Just ask; Just give. What is "just" one thing you can do today that will create ripples of impact?" Just...!

"You don't become great in spite of failure. You become great through it." ... just ask Larry's little brother.” “I can accept failure. Everyone fails at something. But I can't accept not trying.” - Michael Jordan “Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened.” - Helen Keller “Trials are an evidence of God's trust in you. He gives you experiences that stimulate growth, understanding, and compassion, which polish you for your everlasting benefit.” - Elder Richard G. Scott

"WHAT YOU THINK ABOUT, YOU BRING ABOUT. WHAT YOU BROUGHT ABOUT, YOU THOUGHT ABOUT." “Acts of kindness create a ripple effect of neurochemical uplift—benefiting the giver, receiver, and even the silent witness.” RECEIVING kindness can: Increase oxytocin, which helps regulate serotonin and dopamine. Reduce cortisol (the stress hormone), which helps rebalance neurotransmitters like serotonin. Lead to feelings of social connection, safety, and worth, which are correlated with serotonin boosts and immune function. GIVING kindness releases: Dopamine (pleasure/reward) Oxytocin (connection/love hormone) Serotonin (well-being, mood) These positive neurochemicals reduce inflammation and boost immune cell production. WITNESSING kindness can cause a release of oxytocin, leading to downstream effects on serotonin and immune function. The observer experiences what's called 'moral elevation'--which includes a sense of warmth and inspiration. This is associated with Heart rate variability improvements, cortisol reductions, and positive neurochemistry shifts (dopamine, serotonin).

"...everybody is a genius, but if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid." Even though he said it - he proved it wrong-- because he didn't believe it. "Struggles are stop signs -- they are stepping stones." - Lee Brower "Our response to struggle determines our future." This week's Empowering Question: How can I see today's struggles as stepping stones rather than roadblocks?

Too many people live their lives hoping Einstein is in the room when the tough questions come. “The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.” — Socrates “Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other.” — John F. Kennedy “Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.” — Mahatma Gandhi “Once you stop learning, you start dying.” — Albert Einstein

“You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” — Jim Rohn “Show me your friends, and I'll show you your future.” "We tend to become like those whom we admire." — Thomas S. Monson

How do you measure your success? By chasing the next achievement? "If you are paddling only for yourself, don't be surprised when no one else wants to get in your boat." "You don't see rivers measuring themselves by the size of their banks. They measure themselves by the lives they nourish." "Your horizon should move as you move. That's how you know you are growing." “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” — Winston Churchill

"Every man has a defining point in his character where success or failure begins. It is the moment he makes a firm choice and never looks back." - William George Jordan. Don't let your ESSENTIAL be at the mercy of the important. Knowing your 'ESSENTIAL' gives you the power to say "no" to even the very important.

Desires dictate Priorities. Priorities structure our Choices. Choices determine the course of our lives. "The key is not to prioritize what's on your schedule but to schedule your priorities." – Stephen R. Covey Step 1: Review your list of desires. Step 2: Choose ONE thing from each of these four quadrants. Select the one thing that, when accomplished, will have the greatest effect on your other listed desires: - Core (Faith, Family, Health, Well-being) – If prioritized, what one desire would strengthen everything else in this area? - Experience (Learning, Competencies, Alliances) – What experience, learning, or association will create the most significant long-term impact? - Contribution (Arrows Out, Compassion, Impact on Others) – What act of service or generosity will amplify your influence? - Financial (Dynamic Value, Nurturing Connections) – What financial priority, when accomplished, will support everything else? Step 3: Reflect on these four priorities. When you achieve your top 4 priorities, what is the likelihood that almost everything on your list will also be achieved?

We all have an “Obituary Moment” waiting for us. A moment when we suddenly see clearly the ripples of our choices. But do we have to wait for an accident, tragedy, or mistake to have it? What if we created our own Obituary Moment—right now? The 'What do I Really Want" exercise to expand your authentic desires and creativity. Use paper and a pen - set timer for 10 min.- write without judgment, let it flow... everything you really want. Look at it through the lenses of: Core Assets: Faith, Family, Health, Character Experience Assets: Moments, Growth, Learning, Alliances, Competencies Contribution Assets: Arrows Out™ (about others), Impact, Compassion, Giving Financial Assets: Value Creation, Resources, Stability, Security - Enduring Wealth™ not only the wealth you accumulate - but the wealth you circulate. Do this exercise several times. Start over each time and see what your mind does. It only takes 10 minutes.

“Clarity isn't about having all the answers; it's about knowing what we value and what we're working toward." "Clarity of vision drives the courage to make bold choices." "When we're clear about our priorities, decisions become simpler. Without clarity, even small choices can feel overwhelming."

"Desires dictate our priorities; priorities shape our choices; choices determine our actions." - Dallin H. Oaks Would you agree that everything we do influences future generations? Many decisions are aspirational: "I want to be in good shape, spend more time with family, or grow my business." But choice happens in the NOW. The simple choice of hitting snooze or staying up late can conflict with our worthy desires or aspirations. Let's go Upward, Onward, Outward, one choice at a time.

"The enemy of thriving is arriving." - Lee Brower "Vision without motion is frustration. Don't let the finish line rob you of the joy in the journey."

"What does how I feel have to do with it? I was focused on what I did and how I could correct it." - Kobe Bryant Always make your future bigger than your past - Dan Sullivan Knowing what I know now, if I had the opportunity to re-live this moment, what could I do to make it even better? "Failures and victories alike are tools for shaping us. Let's make 2025 a year where we embrace growth, create ripples of impact, and make our future bigger than our past." - Lee Brower

"Do you want to be articulate and dangerous or vague and useless? - Jordan Petersen The ESSENTIAL tool for Th'rive in '25 is the VOCA Framework or mindset. Make it a daily practice! VUCA = Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous vs. VOCA = Visionary, Ownership, Creates, Action Articulation is no longer optional -- it is essential! It is the bridge from VUCA to VOCA. Articulation bridges a leader's intent with their audience's understanding.

The Christmas Day soccer game in No Man's Land. The Spirit of Christmas triumphed over conflict and fear, reminding us that light, hope, and love can unite even the most divided. "Christmas reminds us to think of one another. We appreciate our families more. We renew contacts with old friends. We rise above the barriers that separate us at other times of the year. Strangers exchange greetings without embarrassment. Kindliness and consideration make a comeback. The spirit of Christmas brings out the best in us." - Dallin H. Oaks

“Things which matter most must never be at the mercy of things which matter least.” – Johann Wolfgang von Goeth “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” – Winston Churchill “The past is behind; learn from it. The future is ahead; prepare for it. The present is here; live in it." – Thomas S. Monson

"Character is the quiet discipline to stay true to the worthwhile commitments we've made long after the initial emotion fades." - Lee Brower An inspired purpose gives us the resolve to make decisions once and stick to them. Challenge: This week, take one commitment you've made and bring it to life with small, consistent choices. Let your character define you, and watch the ripples of your actions inspire others. "Character doesn't need emotion to thrive; it needs an inspiring purpose. An inspiring purpose will get you through most anything." - Lee Brower

Have you ever stopped to ask yourself: Does how I spend my time restrict or enlarge my capacity to live, learn, love, and serve in meaningful ways? Adversity? It's either just left, it's here, or it's coming. Warren Buffet reminds us that those who make it happen in life focus on three simple habits: Go to bed smarter each day. Surround yourself with people who inspire and challenge you. Invest in yourself—because YOU are your greatest asset.

"When you create a tradition rooted in gratitude, you're not just celebrating the present—you're choosing to invest in the future." - Lee Brower "By choosing gratitude and making it part of your family's story, you create ripples of love and connection that will endure for years to come." - Lee Brower "What you don't change, you choose." - Unknown

"Choices determine destiny." — Lee Brower "It is our choices, Harry, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities." — J.K. Rowling "Life is the sum of all your choices. So what are you doing today?" — Albert Camus My "I CHOOSE STATEMENT: "I choose to live with purpose, not by chance; to be inspired, not influenced; to serve others, not be served; to create ripples of change, not excuses; to thrive through milestones, not just to compete. I choose self-respect, not self-pity. I choose to honor my true self, guided by enduring principles, not the fleeting opinions of others. I choose to be an Arrows Out™ beacon of Positive Generational Impact." — Lee Brower

The viral effect of one pilot's behavior illustrates how a single person's actions can set the tone for everyone else. This experience reminded me that true leaders stay transparent, express genuine gratitude, and model calm under pressure. In doing so, they create a ripple effect of grace and positivity, even in the most challenging circumstances. "Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge." – Simon Sinek "Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference." – Winston Churchill

“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” — Martin Luther King Jr. In the context of agency, this reminds us of the responsibility we carry to act with courage, to speak and do good in the face of challenges, and to show untiring love. “We are not isolated beings. The power of one choice can ripple outward, touching countless lives.” — Viktor Frankl “Your beliefs don't make you a better person; your behavior does.” — Lee Brower

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“The bee is more honored than other animals, not because she labors, but because she labors for others.” – St. John Chrysostom “No creature, not even bees, was made by God as unselfish as a human, yet bees teach us about giving more than we receive.” - Unknown “Like bees pollinating flowers, our small acts of kindness can spread life, gratitude, and growth.” - Lee Brower

“Discipline is choosing between what you want now and what you want most.” — Abraham Lincoln “Discipline is the riverbank that channels our focus and energy, allowing us to flow toward Enduring Impact. Without it, distractions flood our path and dilute our purpose.” — Lee Brower “We must all suffer one of two things: the pain of discipline or the pain of regret.” — Jim Rohn “True freedom is impossible without a mind made free by discipline.” — Mortimer J. Adler

The next generation is willing to learn and eager to make a positive impact. What is one thing you can do this week to be more interestED rather than interestING - especially with younger people? "The future is bright because those who are interested in others, instead of just themselves, are the ones who create the lasting change." “Being curious is better than being interesting. When you are interested, people feel it—and they'll remember you for it.”

"What we do repeatedly defines who we are. Small actions, taken consistently, create great impact."  - Lee Brower

Life isn't just about recognition of whether we win or lose in the traditional sense. It's about how much we learn from our experiences that we can use. If we aren't learning, our experiences are empty. "Turn your wounds in wisdom." - Oprah Winfrey "Always make your learning greater than your experience." - Dan Sullivan "Every experience God gives us, every person He puts in our lives, is the perfect preparation for the future that only He can see." - Corrie ten Boom

We're building the kind of Enduring Wealth™ that strengthens relationships, deepens trust, and makes people feel seen. That's the kind of wealth that lasts far beyond likes on social media. "The roots of all goodness lie in the soil of appreciation for goodness." - Dalai Lama "We often overlook the immense power of a small Arrows Out™ gesture—a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, or a heartfelt compliment. These simple acts of care and gratitude can potentially transform lives."

Having a vision is not enough! "Vision without motion is perpetual frustration. The first lift of the anchor may not set you free, but it sets you in motion. And once you're in motion, the horizon is yours.”

In today's environment, where negative news often dominates, it's important to remind ourselves that while we can't always control what happens in the world, we can control how we choose to see it. As a leader, here's a way to inspire yourself and others to take control and "turn the spoon around". When you feel overwhelmed by negative news, pause and "turn the spoon around." Find one thing, however small, that you can be grateful for or take positive action on. Note how this shift affects your mindset and actions throughout the week.

"The true power of a question lies not in the answer it seeks, but in the connection it creates." — Lee Brower "In the right moment, a single question can be more powerful than a thousand answers." — Lee Brower "Great questions make great answers." — Oscar Wilde "Questions can be like a lever you use to pry open the stuck lid on a paint can." — Fran Peavey

"...We have been the recipients of the choicest bounties of Heaven. We have been preserved, these many years, in peace and prosperity. We have grown in numbers, wealth and power, as no other nation has ever grown. But we have forgotten God. We have forgotten the gracious hand which preserved us in peace, and multiplied and enriched and strengthened us; and we have vainly imagined, in the deceitfulness of our hearts, that all these blessings were produced by some superior wisdom and virtue of our own. Intoxicated with unbroken success, we have become too self-sufficient to feel the necessity of redeeming and preserving grace, too proud to pray to the God that made us! It behooves us then, to humble ourselves before the offended Power, to confess our national sins, and to pray for clemency and forgiveness."

One reason time seems to speed up as we age is that we experience fewer novel events. Journaling helps create more vivid and accessible memories, making time feel like it's passing more slowly. By recording daily experiences, thoughts, and events, we: Create "memory anchors" that distinguish one day from another Become more mindful and attentive to our daily lives Reflect on and process our experiences more deeply Make your days feel fuller, more meaningful, and less rushed?

"Life will always be full of the unexpected. It's how we respond that defines our experience." ASK: How can I shift from reacting to responding in challenging situations? What three things can I be grateful for right now, despite my/our challenges? In my life, who can I reach out to for support or to offer support? "We don't have to wait for the rainbow to find joy in the rain." - Dieter F. Uchtdorf By cultivating gratitude and consciously choosing our responses, we can find joy and meaning even in life's most unexpected moments. Let's embrace the journey!

If your "aware" of the nudge, you just might follow it.

Empowered Wealth Perspective Entertaining new perspectives is a critical step in personal growth. By embracing new and diverse ways of thinking, we broaden our outlook and uncover innovative solutions to problems. You will see a new horizon, which generates deep appreciation for where you have been, where you are now and where you have the potential of going. This leads to new thoughts, new vision and new motion, as you continue to balance your approach and capture your progress as you go. - Lee Brower, The Brower Quadrant *DyVal Video from Feb 22, 2019, for Meaningful Monday

“Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people.” – Eleanor Roosevelt * We are reposting this MM Video due to our Team's schedule.    This Meaningful Monday video is a repost from July 2, 2018

“We must suffer from one of two pains: the pain of discipline or the pain of regret. Discipline weighs ounces—regret ways tons."  - Jim Rohn You are what you say "yes" to. By saying "yes" to the right things, it will be easier to say no to the less important.  - Lee Brower * We are reposting this MM Video due to our Team's schedule.  This Meaningful Monday video is a repost from July 5, 2021