The Awesome Gnome Letter

I'm sitting here twirling my hair in my hands as I write this. It's not growing as fast I'd want. I want the long flowing locks of hair going down to my butt, being able to have a ponytail or drape it over my shoulders. Growth takes time, even with a supplement like Biotin.What areas in our lives do we need to sit and wait for growth? I want to see my podcasts, YouTube channel and Twitch streams grow further. I see others' hair, Twitch streams, etc and I muse “One day I want to resemble that!”My bestie Amanda helped me to see that I need to rest in the now. Enjoying what I have. Pursuing happiness in growth means I forgo the happiness of the journey. My hair is down to my shoulders, my stream isn't at “partner status”, but I ALREADY enjoy what I have. I need to wait. Keep loving my hair, keep loving my stream, YouTube channel and podcasts. The same I know is true of stuff in your life right now.To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com  ★ Support this podcast ★

I was playing a horror game recently where you get chased by a monster and—YOU NEED TO RUN WITH ALL YOUR MIGHT! Looking back can slow you down. It can cause you to get even more terrified. It might even allow the monster a chance to kill you. Keep going forward until you reach your goal.In life, it can be important to revisit our past, but it can also cause us to not go forward. Looking back at past relationships that are no longer in our life. Looking back at our past mistakes. Even being stuck in something because it is tradition.This week I'd like to encourage us to move forward. Don't look back, unless it's necessary. I'm fighting my urges to look back at things right now. But let's press on towards the door that will move us to our goal!To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com  ★ Support this podcast ★

Some weeks it feels like we are living in The Ughs of Life. Sometimes life and its burdens just create a feeling of Meh to do anything. I'm sitting here working on a newsletter I should've finished MUCH earlier in the day.Remember that it's OK to be living in The Ughs of Life. Events going on in our world, situations in our personal lives and even just the day-to-day can wear us down. Don't be too hard on yourself if you are struggling. I'm struggling along with you. It's OK to NOT be OK!To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com  ★ Support this podcast ★

Halloween is starting soon. You might be reading scary stories, watching scary movies, or playing scary games. I am playing a bunch of scary games this year for Halloween. One of the scariest things though in life is what scares us that isn't from a book, movie or a game.What scares you right now in your life? Is it a rational fear or something you should be planning on? I had to make changes to my schedule to allow for some balance. It was something that scared people I know who brought it to my attention. We need to sometimes face those fears—so they don't jump out at us in the middle of the night.To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com  ★ Support this podcast ★

I don't like change—I prefer bills or credit cards. Though, I dislike change. I like things the way they are. With no disturbance to the existing state of affairs. The last year though I've been making many changes. Some of these changes include realizing I'm non-binary and not male. Deciding to step back from some podcasts. Starting back up on my college courses. Changing up my streaming schedule. Most recently I changed FrazlCast to now being every other week. These changes come with consequences. Having to put boundaries on things that mean a lot to me. Not being able to “do it all!”Change is an inevitable part of life. We can stay with what we know, but in reality it is important to make changes. If we don't make changes when it's necessary, we may burn out and not be at our top quality for what we do. When I come back after my scheduled off-days, I'm much more on my game. What changes do you need to make in your life? It won't be easy, but it'll be good.To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com  ★ Support this podcast ★

I have had to set some boundaries recently. Some of these are due to external factors, like family and such. This has meant I now have two nights a week I take off from streaming. I streamed for the first time last night after also taking Friday off this week to hang out with my niece and nephew. It's tough to make these changes, as I love to stream, but I know it'll be good for my sanity and it'll make my family happier. Plus, I'm starting back up at college to work on finishing my degree! What is your life looking like right now? Are there boundaries you need to set for yourself? It will upset what you've been doing, but it might be a good thing to consider building some new boundaries. We don't want to burn out. LET THE FIRE BURN FOREVER—with Wednesdays and Saturdays off, though… To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com  ★ Support this podcast ★

I'm currently sipping some pumpkin spice coffee. This prior statement will either excite or revolt you. There is a season to pumpkin spice, and we are in that season. The same way that life brings seasons. Each season of life brings change that can be both exciting and painful. Whatever season you are in right now, know that it won't last forever. There will be a day you put away that pumpkin spice—as then peppermint coffee is here! No season lasts forever—thank god! So embrace the season you are in and smell that sweet, sweet pumpkin spice. To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com  ★ Support this podcast ★

Each day tempts us to think of the future, of what is to come next. Hopes and dreams of what will eventually be for our projects or ideas. One trap I find myself falling into is not living in the now. The now isn't always perfect, in fact it can be shit sometimes. Geek Herring has a channel on their Discord called Everyday Gratitude. This channel has helped me to appreciate the now so much more. This week, are you living in the future? Chasing something that will eventually come? I know Ali always says look up, but Frazley says look down and appreciate that flower that is sprouting right next to you on the cracked sidewalk. There's joy to be had now. To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com  ★ Support this podcast ★

Life is way too short to not be able to dress how you like. You may have noticed my recent wardrobe changes. I'm finally embracing what feels good to me. The act of feeling pretty is giving me a confidence I haven't known before. I feel at home finally. What in your life makes you feel at home? Are you acting or dressing in a certain way that is contrary to how you feel? This week let's evaluate ourselves and do an introspection. You may just find by a change of behavior or wardrobe that you unlock a hidden confidence in yourself. To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com  ★ Support this podcast ★

I was lying awake a few nights ago with an irrational fear. I kept trying to move it out of my head—but it kept nagging at me. The fear had no basis at all, but my mind just couldn't keep it away. Finally, I thankfully fell asleep. The next morning I realized how ridiculous the fears were that gripped me and kept me from falling asleep. I don't know what fears are running through your head right now. Whatever fear it is, I am going to bet it's irrational. There's nothing I can say to stop it, other than to say you are loved, you are valid and you matter! Sending my love to you today and every day! To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com  ★ Support this podcast ★

Who are you focused on getting validation from? My good friend Monika has been encouraging me to be more inward-focused in terms of validation than outward-focused. Do I like who I am? Am I secure in who I am? Honestly, most of the time now I do like who I am and I'm secure in who I am—but I need to keep reminding myself of that. I am again trying to not focus on whether I have outward validation. I need to inwardly validate myself and make that the source of joy and peace. Who is validating you? It helps to get external validation, but let me also tell you that it can be so fleeting. To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com  ★ Support this podcast ★

I am unlearning many things about my past. Habits, ideas, stereotypes about others & me, etc. It is challenging changing what you've known for so long. It is ingrained into who you are. Stuff you consciously learned, and some of it was learned subconsciously without even realizing it. In any of the changes, know that it will be difficult. You will make mistakes. However, I can say that from where I am on my journey—it is WONDERFUL! I see the person I wish to become every new day. Who do you want to be tomorrow? Let's take the first step together today! To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com  ★ Support this podcast ★

I've been going through a lot of realizations into my true identity. Understanding that I'm Aroace and now agender/non-binary has been a huge relief for me. Realizing that I'm the one who defines who I truly am. Getting to say what clothes I wear (FRILLY HATS AND SHAWLS!!!!!! YES!!!!

Who do you give priority to in your life? Do they respect you and your choices? Are they giving you positive/encouraging energy? Those we give our time to are very important. It needs to be mutual respect. I don't mean that they need to kiss your shoes, but they need to care about you and your choices.These past few weeks, I have made some pivotal choices in my life. I've been lucky that so many of my friends have supported my decisions. Who do you let influence you? Make sure it is people who will stand by you.To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

I was playing the video game Horace yesterday. I was stuck on one puzzle for what seemed like a half-hour. I had already spent a lengthy amount of time the prior week trying to get past this one level. Finally, after what felt like 85 attempts at this level, I try something else and instantly get to the next level.Sometimes the answer to our solution is simple. We try every other solution. We overcomplicate what's going on. Then at the last second, we seek a new avenue, and we get to our goal. What problem are you running up against this week that needs a simple solution?To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

An individual with the word Disrespect in their name is now banned from a streaming service. We need to follow their lead AND ban Disrespect in our lives and instead start using Respect.Many brave people have come forward with stories of abuse and harassment they've experienced. Things need to change! We Stand With You and Believe You!Systemic racism is part of our culture. It's been there for a long time, and it needs to be abolished! Black Lives Matter!People are discovering and embracing their identities every day, from orientation to gender/non-binary and more!. You Are Valid!We need Respect. Each of us has something to work on to improve how we Respect others. Let's begin RIGHT NOW!To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

It's essential always to be raising the bar. Don't settle with the status quo. My friends Pete & Andy raised over £3,000 for the Special Effect charity---way past what they've done in their past two charity events.I was watching them while working on improving my streaming setup. My setup worked fine, but I didn't want to settle for good enough. I'm always working to raise the bar in what I do.This week, what is something you can do to raise the bar? What can you do to go to the next level of what you've been doing? Don't settle for less than the best for yourself!To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

You're working on your creative project with a deadline.... but you also want to watch the latest season of a series that just launched on a streaming service. You know you only have a bit more work to do to get your project done... BUT you need to finally know what happened in that pizza buffet where the main character's missing brother showed up disguised as the buffet's mascot only to reveal they stole the ingredients to the most magnificent TV dinner. OK, I watch weird shows....don't judge me! Then you get an email from someone who listened to an episode of your podcast. It connected with them on a deep level and they HAD to tell you. NOW you know why you need to get this project done--your show can wait!We all need That Email to arrive. These kind words showed up in my inbox this weekend - completely out of the blue. Those reminders that what we do matters MATTER. Hopefully, today is the day you get That Email. Until it does, I want to remind you that you DO matter. You're pouring your soul into what you are doing. That Email is coming for you---I know it! OK, I'm going back now to find out more about the pizza buffet scene from that show.To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

Last week many people spoke out in support of Black Lives Matter. Speaking out had the unfortunate side-effect of many people losing numbers in their subscribers, followers, listeners, etc. How important are numbers compared to the truth?Throughout history, we've seen people stay silent just because they were afraid of losing popularity. Some speculate our governments don't act in fear of losing their standing in their official roles. I'm asking a very personal question and one that only you can answer for yourself. How important are numbers compared to the truth?To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

We influence those around us. Through our words and actions, people look to us to see how they may want to act. When we see an unjust murder of a civilian by an authority that should've protected them---we need to speak out.Each of us has a platform. By itself, it may not enact massive change, but together with the world we can make a difference. My friend scOtt shared a quote from the late Howard Zinn "We don't have to engage in grand, heroic actions to participate in the process of change. Small acts, when multiplied by millions of people, can transform the world."To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

One thing I've aimed to do in my podcasts and streams is to be vulnerable. Sharing what's going on in my life, and sharing what my past and current struggles are. I feel this has helped people connect with me much better. It creates a relationship---even if you've never met me.Being vulnerable is scary as it reveals very raw parts of yourself. I've found it has helped as my mind no longer can run free. Others see my thoughts, respond if they have something to help, and can follow me on the journey. This week I encourage us all to be vulnerable. It might just be the healing we need.To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

Right now, everyone is doing new creative projects. It is fantastic that people are trying out new artistic endeavors during this time. People who never took the opportunity before now get a chance to start pursuing an unfamiliar outlet. With the advent of new and innovative talent, it can seem as if there is now a saturation in various places like YouTube, Twitch, podcasts, etc.I want to encourage us all to wait it out. Whether starting a new project or continuing an already established project---don't stop! We need to wait it out, as it is tempting to look at the plethora of people working in our same venues, and maybe we might want to give up. Don't give up!To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

There is value in 1. Sometimes a video only gets one view, a stream only gets one viewer, a podcast gets only one listen, a book only sells one copy, a song gets listened to by one person. That's more people than if you hadn't shared that with anyone.Sometimes we can chase numbers but forget the value in 1. I want to encourage us this week to place extreme importance on that one person. Maybe only one person listens to this, but that's more than if I keep it in my head.To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

Sometimes it can be easy and tempting to want to indulge in those sweets. I hate to admit in March and April I indulged in regular milkshakes, root beer, fries, and more. The unfortunate side-effect is that my clothes started to feel constrained on me. Almost like The Hulk ready to burst forth! I have a family history of health problems, so I need to be careful. Since Thursday, I've been cutting back on the sweet treats.Sometimes too much of a good thing can be a bad thing. I've had to cut back on certain hobbies to make room for work or other hobbies. Sometimes we can take on whatever project(s) we think we want to consume. What does your life scale say? Are you starting to tip it in a direction that isn't good for yourself?To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

You might be familiar with The Butterfly Effect, where one change has a huge impact later on. I feel that in my own life. Looking back to how I got here, I see many little wing flaps in my life that have cascaded to get to this point. I found a WoW podcast to listen to while working. Getting to know the hosts through their show then led me to join a group gaming session that the podcast hosts led. That led me to join a guild that a friend joined, which led me to learn about podcasting.I could go on, but the result is me being here now. This week I want you to look back on what led you to the moment you are now. Being grateful for all that transpired for you to be here. Then let's look at what might be small moments coming up and see where those can lead us! Who knows what winging it might do?To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

Has anyone ever shared what they like about you? Getting reinforcement like that is very encouraging. Now, what about people sharing what they don't like about you? It can bring you to a halting stop after you've been cruising at 88 mph (or 140 kph for the metric system)!Luckily, YOU are the one who decides who you are. People will give feedback, but sometimes that feedback is more subjective than objective. I routinely think through what people tell me, and then I check that feedback against who I want to be. Sometimes the information helps me, and sometimes the feedback shows I don't align with their tastes. Ultimately, we are the decider of our personality. So this week, continue to cruise along, with the occasional pit-stop. Grab me some Funyuns---those are delicious!!This is the blog portion of The Awesome Gnome Letter. To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

Watching a YouTuber, Podcaster, Twitch Streamer, or a celebrity can be demotivating. You may be trying to do what they do. Not copying them, but you want to produce content in a similar genre to them. I hate to say it, but you do not compare in any way to them. They aren't better than you---you both are different.Comparison is a thief of joy. I have seen it rob myself of enjoying moments simply because I got caught up in what someone else is experiencing. We are each unique, and we all are walking down different paths. Be careful not to let comparison rob you of what you are doing today.To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

"To boldly go where no one has gone before" is a phrase I've heard quite often recently. I've been watching Star Trek for the first time on Twitch using their new Watch Party feature. I am starting my Trek using The Original Series. (The 1960s series used the word man, but I instead went for the 2009 film's genderless version of no one. I know someone might point this out.) This series is fascinating as you follow a crew of people making decisions in scenarios that are unknown to them.Are we boldly going in our lives to places that will stretch us? Are we: running into killer robots, a group of kids in a deserted planet, a murderous Charlie X who wanted nothing but not to feel hungry? Let us endeavor this week to go where no one has gone before. There is so much more to do. The beauty is we can do it right from our own home, right here, right now, right here, right now. Sorry, I was listening to Fatboy Slim.To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

I'm writing this as I look beyond my monitor into the studio where my cat Chocolate is sleeping soundly. There is a fantastic beauty to this scene as he feels safe being near me. I find myself also comforted by him whenever he's around. I've got friends online who make me feel safe in this regard, and I am glad whenever they show up on Twitter, Discord, or in a stream chat.Who in your life makes you feel safe? And even more importantly, who feels safe when you are around? I can't give Chocolate advice on how to live his life, but just the simple act of my presence is soothing to him. I will propose that we underestimate the comfort of our lives to someone else.To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

About a month ago, I got a haircut. The stylist wasn't having a great day and ended up giving me a buzz-cut. I didn't like how short my hair was--even though it grew on me after a while. Today, I realize the gift they've given me as salons have closed, and I don't know when I'll get my next professional hair cut.What are unexpected gifts that have happened to you recently? Something you or someone else did that was frustrating at the moment. Then you realize that it gave you an opportunity/gift later on? This perspective-shift can help us to appreciate even those moments people didn't meet our expectations.To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

I feel so out of control right now. I don't know what is going on in our world from day-to-day. Things some days tend to spiral. What do I do? How do I appropriately respond? I'm struggling some days to know what to do in response to current events such as politics or COVID-19. I don't want to make the wrong choice. Every day, I am continually learning new information that contradicts what I knew! I've given up my outdoor walking activity after my state's Governor banned dining out at restaurants last night. It's freaking me out!!!I think what we can do is keep ourselves tuned into what's going on. However, we can also look at what projects we are working on and those things we know how to do correctly. Invest that fear we are feeling into making that project the best it can be. Maybe that project I'm working on right now is JUST the thing someone needs to be distracted for 30-40 minutes during an otherwise anxious day.To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

Have you had to say no to an event or a project idea? Having someone tell you, "Oh, but we want you to do this!" It is painful not to be able to please someone. The disappointment in their voice because of saying no. Sometimes, we have to prioritize commitments for our health, our budget, and our future goals.Is there something holding you back? People you don't want to let down? Maybe there is something you need to say no to this week. It won't be easy, but once the dust settles, I know you'll be happier.To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

I have been listening to a few podcasts that mention that podcasts and streams tend to take 3-5 years of consistency to grow momentum. That time allows you to develop the craft. You are building trust in your audience that you will stay around. I can relate that I've seen growth in just the 1-3 years for my stream and my podcasts, respectively.What would your current life look like if you keep going today on your current project(s)? Don't give up just because it might be difficult. Don't give up just because of your present numbers. The next few years may very well change that.To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

I went to my nephew's basketball game yesterday. Both teams did GREAT---but I'm glad his team won! During the game, I watched how both coaches would give calls to help the players. You could see how the kids reacted once given the proper information to improve their gameplay.Who is your coach in your life? It might be a friend, a therapist, or a coach of some sort. Somebody who is objective, but wants you to be your best. One of my coaches is reading this right now to help improve the final product AND to help me improve my writing. Who is the coach in your life at the moment---and are you listening to their advice?To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

I have been looking at ways to improve my streams to make them more fun. Recently I added the ability for the chat to use points to have me eat jellybeans flavored like peach, barf, or Carolina Reaper peppers (THOSE ARE HOT!)The response to these has been astounding. I had a regular remark on being "broke" from the loyalty point redemptions to make me eat these beans. What is something this week you can do to spice up your project? You never know if buying a box of jellybeans might do the trick!To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

My nephew yesterday was acting like a typical 13-year-old. I had a moment where I wondered, "Did I act like this?" I started to remember all the times I did the same things as a kid. We were all kids once. The same goes for learning new skills and abilities.Everyone grows up, and each of us needs that time to learn. Not patting myself on my back, but I remember when even making a weekly podcast like this was difficult. Don't forget where you've been, and don't forget where others are heading.To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

I changed my streaming work area this past week as I found that I was sitting too long. This change has increased my energy while podcasting and streaming. It has allowed me to become more active as chat can make me dance, do squats, jumping jacks, and more! It also makes me want to be at my desk now.Sometimes we need to change our workspace. You can completely revamp everything as I did, maybe you can change-up the monitor configuration or tidy up your space to make it enjoyable. This week, look at your work area and think about how you can make sure you enjoy working here.To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

So we are having some electrical work done at our house this morning. Our doorbell rings, and who is at the door? One of the leaders of my youth group! That moment of relief when you see a friendly face. We didn't know it was them when we booked the appointment.They set up a LAN party for us once during a lock-in. They've been someone I've gone to for advice in my youth. It is surprises like those that are great to get. Sometimes you never realize the impact someone had on you. You might grow apart from them for a season, but when they show up at your door, it is a pleasant surprise!To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

The chair at my desk where I edit has a nasty habit of lowering over time. I routinely have to pump the lever to bring the chair back up. Life is a lot like this chair! We need a lift up, or we may find ourselves in a shallow spot in life.Who in your life is there to raise your chair? Have you reached out to them and shared how they've helped? Maybe they are in a low moment, and just sending them a message today will lift their spirits---and their chair!To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

I'm listening to Rush while I write this podcast. We lost Neil Peart last week, and it feels like I lost a part of myself. As I groove to the greatness of this unique Canadian band---it hits me that Neil is going to live on in his music. Each time someone plays the song, it is almost like Neil is performing a private concert for them.What is your legacy? This thought has made me strive to make sure that what I produce is something that can live on past me. I want someone to listen to this podcast years later, and they will feel an impact past my death. I am going to play Rush for my kids and grandchildren, and Neil will be there playing just like he was when he was alive. Play on Neil, play that music!!!To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

I feel the future is scary--especially when I begin to worry about the "What If?" questions. Looking at the news and hearing about the potential of World War 3 is incredibly frightening. If I think about all the implications long enough, I can begin to spiral down a rabbit-hole of branching outcomes. This same level of worry can happen even with small things.As I get older, I have found that I need to have a bigger picture in my view, but I also need to appreciate the everyday moments. If I worry about what could happen, I will get myself into a horrible mental spot--which I have been in many times before. I don't know what will happen after I send this email, but I can appreciate that I have the chance to write this while sipping coffee and listening to The Mandalorian soundtrack.One final thought, sometimes that future we worry about doesn't turn out how we thought it would.To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

I will be turning 30 next year---that thought causes me to stop in my tracks. As we enter a new decade, I begin the 3rd decade of my life. The most prominent feeling that comes to me is how many friends I have had in those years.I don't have the same friends as I did entering the last decade. Even the ones who have continued, we are at different places in our friendship. That is not something to be afraid of at all. I am not who I was ten or even twenty years ago. If you've been one of the friendships I've had, you've shaped me in some way. You may come and go, but for a season, you were just what I needed.To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

I was talking with someone last week, and their response convicted me about complaining. I'm paraphrasing here; their journey had been awful because this individual did not get the room she wanted. I typically would not be surprised---except this was the second half of a 15-day voyage!!!This event had been in my head, and you will see a future podcast episode on it. I thought I couldn't possibly be like that individual. Except I found myself complaining about going to lunch because my mom wanted to go to a place that is typically very slow. I almost let my complaining ruin a moment that I get to spend with my parents every week.How many times do I still complain about something? Am I still stewing about it way after the fact? Letting something mundane ruin an experience? Life is a cruise, and whatever room we occupy---let's enjoy where the voyage takes us.To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

I'm sitting in Dublin, OH thinking about how my best friends don't physically live near me. They aren't down the street---yet I feel like they are close to me. We chat regularly, we share jokes (or maybe I share a pun and make them groan), and we share deep feelings about what is going on in our lives.Technology can isolate and make us feel alone. I'm working to change that. I know that technology has helped me feel even closer to my friends. It's A Small World (Michael, please don't punch me), and if we work on meaningful and open relationships--that world will get even smaller. I'll be your friend, be warned that you WILL facepalm a lot.To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

Thursday is Thanksgiving in the United States. It is a time to reflect on what makes us thankful. This year I'm grateful for the experiences I've encountered. I wouldn't be who I am without all that has happened to me. Part of what makes my inspirational messages have meaning is what I've gone through.I'm also thankful for those who have gone through experiences and share that with me. I learn from them. I've avoided certain situations because I listened to wise counsel. I've also had experiences after people told me to try what they did.Your story makes you. Relish it all, no matter what. I know that it opens up a wide range of good and bad memories. However, you wouldn't be you without that history. Maybe someone needs the empathy you can share because you've walked a similar path.To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

I'm going to get on my soapbox for a second. Recently two streamers came under fire for doing some terrible things in video games. One used an aimbot in a competition to instantly kill other players without any extra skill needed. The other individual stole an item drop from a group of players that they were grouped with while adventuring in a dungeon in a video game.These actions were not without consequences. One got banned from the game, and the other removed from an organization of which they were a member. In the aftermath, to paraphrase, both spoke about how they are better than other players, because of their fame. These two incidents made me extremely mad.I say to anyone, don't ever forget those around you. No one should ever be above another one. You may be better skilled than others, but it gives you no excuse to treat others like garbage. You may be more famous than others, but your viewers got you there. I never want to be in a position where I think of myself better than anyone else. We are all humans that are rotating on this planet we call Earth.To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

I was talking with a dear friend recently who is afraid of showing how they are feeling. They don't want to lose their friends, yet they feel alone by not being free to ask for help. I can relate as I've worried about losing friends, listeners, subscribers, etc. This past year has been me letting go of that fear.When this friend of mine shared their fear of losing their friends, I realized I have very few friends from my youth. Most of my close friends now are those who I have come into contact with through the podcasts. I also like the person I can finally be thanks to not being afraid of losing friends.To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

I am back from BlizzCon 2019! I had a great time meeting so many fascinating people that I talked with online. One thing I heard from Thyst was that you need to embrace every opportunity.  During the event, my Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) was on high alert. I was always calculating every decision to gauge what I would be giving up. One thing I had heard, and my friend Siilverbolt kept saying, was "People over Panels."By following the PoP Method, I wound up in so many cool places. I had meals with friends that I won't forget. Hugged people I almost missed. I could go on and on recounting the experiences. What I learned was FOMO is an ugly beast, and sometimes it is best just letting life take you through each moment. I missed opportunities, but looking back, I did what I needed to this year.To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

Being creative is like pickles. Not everyone is going to like it, but pickles don't care if people want them. Pickles just exists to be pickles. Someone comes along, suddenly screams, "OH YES!!! I LOVE PICKLES" and then begin to consume it with delight. The joy to that person when they are eating the pickle and enjoying all that comes out of each juicy delicious bite.Being creative means being you. Not everyone is going to like what you do. There will be one person who wants what you do. Don't try to be anything other than a pickle.To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

Facebook brought up one of my podcast episodes of Be Great TODAY from a year ago. I pressed Play, and it sent me back to an earlier time. The message was one that still resonated with me, but I marveled at how I sounded different in the year since. I feel like I'm getting to be more commanding with my presence behind a mic. It got me thinking as well to the differences that have happened in just one year.What is something that has changed about you this year? It's hard to see while in the moment, but I know you are a different person than you were last October.To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★

Last week we migrated multiple systems at work. This caused me to worry out of my mind. Thinking of everything that would go wrong. It didn't go how I feared, instead it was a reasonably smooth migration. It was definitely a long process, but I lost sleep and gained migraines over nothing.I need to not overthink things. It'll all turn out OK in the end. Hey Siri, remind me to look at this email in about two weeks. Don't know why I have to worry---going across the country by myself to a new environment. Nothing to worry about there...To get these by email, as well as the latest content from Dragon Powered Studio, signup at TheAwesomeGnomeLetter.com ★ Support this podcast ★