Brendon Lemon’s Post

"He who laughs at himself never runs out of things to laugh at." - Epictetus

Ever thought doing nothing could be the key to your success? Today, I’m embracing rest, not as a recharge for more work, but for its own sake. Feeling the weight of the work week? In a world that glorifies constant productivity, it's vital to remember the importance of rest for its own sake, not just as a means to recharge for more work. As Oliver Burkeman highlights, perpetual busyness isn’t the key to a fulfilling life. We often get caught up in the hustle, thinking that more work equals more success. But true fulfillment comes from balance, and sometimes, that balance means doing absolutely nothing. Alex Soojung-Kim Pang emphasizes in his writings that rest is a skill, not a luxury. It’s essential for creativity and long-term success. By taking time to rest, we’re actually investing in our future productivity and well-being. It’s about finding that sweet spot where rest and work complement each other, rather than one overpowering the other. Jenny Odell, in her book "How to Do Nothing," reminds us that stepping away from the grind allows us to reconnect with ourselves and the world around us. It’s not just about recharging for the next round of work; it’s about enjoying the act of resting itself. Today, I'm embracing that philosophy wholeheartedly. Whether it’s a walk in the park, getting lost in a good book, or simply lounging around doing nothing, let's honor our need for rest and revel in the rejuvenation it brings. Taking this time isn’t a sign of laziness but a testament to understanding the true value of balance in our lives. So, join me in embracing this pause. How are you taking time to rest today? Let's celebrate the power of doing nothing and the incredible benefits it brings to our minds and bodies.

The hustle and bustle of our professional lives, it's easy to forget that work isn't the only thing that defines us. Sometimes, we need to step back and remember the real point of life: to enjoy it. Sure, career achievements and professional milestones are important, but they shouldn't overshadow the joy of living. Life is meant to be experienced, savored, and enjoyed. Take a moment today to disconnect from your email, set aside your to-do list, and immerse yourself in what brings you joy. Whether it's spending time with loved ones, pursuing a hobby, exploring nature, or simply relaxing, these moments are the true highlights of our existence. Remember, our work is just one part of who we are. Balance is key. By prioritizing joy and fulfillment, we become better professionals, more creative, more resilient, and more connected to what truly matters. So, let's commit to enjoying life more. Embrace the present, cherish your experiences, and find happiness in the small things. After all, isn't that the point of it all? PS: here's a pic of me playing the bagpipes in France on the 4th, get weird!

Happy 4th of July! Go have fun, do something ridiculous. Celebrate what might be our last one??? WHO KNOWS!

Ever wonder why some people always get a call back? It's not about fancy tactics – it's about character. Becoming someone people want to call back is the real secret. Developing good character is challenging, but it's what truly counts. How do you do it? By consistently stepping outside your comfort zone, taking risks, and experimenting in pursuit of your goals. This isn't the sexy stuff of "Top 5 Tips" or "Three Strategies." It's about perseverance, authenticity, and resilience. When you push yourself to do uncomfortable things and take genuine risks, you not only discover the right tactics and strategies, but you also become a person others respect and trust. People call back those they believe in. So, how can you start building this kind of character? Begin by setting small, uncomfortable goals that push your boundaries. Whether it's reaching out to a mentor, speaking up in meetings, or tackling a project outside your expertise, these actions build resilience and confidence. Next, embrace failure as a learning opportunity. Every risk you take won't always result in success, but each one will teach you valuable lessons and sharpen your instincts. Reflect on these experiences, adjust your approach, and keep moving forward. Finally, prioritize authenticity in all your interactions. Be genuine, be transparent, and show empathy. People are drawn to those who are real and relatable. By focusing on these principles, you'll not only develop a strong character but also foster lasting, meaningful connections. Character building isn't a quick fix; it's a continuous journey. Commit to it, and watch as the callbacks, opportunities, and respect naturally follow.

Ever felt that magic moment when you and your prospect are perfectly in sync? That's "complicité" – a game-changer taught in clown school but crucial for sales. At Ecole Philippe Gaulier, "complicité" is the art of being present and connected, creating a shared experience with your partner or audience. This concept translates seamlessly to sales, especially in cold outreach. When you achieve complicité with a prospect, you invite them into your world, aligning your agendas and fostering genuine engagement. It’s not just about the pitch; it’s about creating a flow, being present, and compellingly being "in" something together. Developing complicité with your prospect can turn a cold call into a warm conversation, making both of you insiders in a shared journey. So, how do you cultivate complicité in your sales approach? Be present, be genuine, and focus on creating a shared experience. It's amazing how a lesson from clown school can transform your sales game.

What does learning to be a clown have to do with becoming a millionaire? Turns out, a lot... Attending Ecole Philippe Gaulier in France has been an exhilarating challenge, pushing me beyond my comfort zone at every turn. The intensity is almost by design; mastering the art of clown is no small feat. It’s a constant dance with discomfort, but there’s a valuable lesson here. Clown is effectively almost ONLY about living inside of your discomfort zone. But why is it important to regularly step outside your comfort zone? Because the path to success is paved with uncomfortable tasks. If you're not accustomed to embracing discomfort, you might shy away from crucial opportunities. How comfortable are you with getting uncomfortable? The more you practice, the more resilient you become. Embrace the challenge and watch your potential unfold.

"You have power over your mind—not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.” - Marcus Aurelius

Feeling a bit too comfortable? It’s time to shake things up! Today, I challenge you to sign up for something that scares you – just a little. Maybe it's skydiving, or perhaps a race. I ran the Paris marathon in April 2023, something that really scared me. But, wow, what a journey! Don’t choose something that terrifies you to the core. Pick something that makes you think, "Oh man, I might not be able to do this." That’s where the magic happens. It’s in these moments of uncertainty and challenge that we discover our true potential. Imagine what you can learn about yourself. Make a commitment, do something scary. I have a rule in my life: If it scares me, I have to do it.

Fun Friday Tip #23 - Hire someone on Cameo to do your pitch for you Ever thought about having a celebrity deliver your sales pitch? Head over to Cameo and make it happen! Here’s the idea: Use Cameo to get a celebrity to do your pitch for you. Create a video specifically for your prospect and share it. Post it on LinkedIn, email it, or send it directly. It might cost a few shekels, but it’s sure to grab attention. Imagine your prospect receiving a pitch from their favorite TV star or sports legend. Not only does it make for a memorable introduction, but it also brings a ton of fun to their office. The goal is to stand out, make an impression, and get them to call you back. So, have a little fun with it! And who knows, the celebrity might enjoy it as much as your prospect.