Energy.  Vibration.  Manifestation.  Surrender.  Feelings.  Consciousness.  Meaning.  Purpose.  Connection.  Well-being.  Abundance.

Recently, I was asked what I believed would be of greatest benefit to the business world right now.  At that moment, “abstract thought models” came to me, some of which are listed above.

The verticals I coach (finance, technology, fintech, venture capital) are accustomed to more linear, concrete models.  These models include concepts that can be measured, quantified, and calculated.  ROI.  KPIs.  Returns.

Let me first just say, I get it.  I spent a decade doing actuarial work for Fortune 100 companies, largely based in math and statistics.  You can’t get any more linear than that.

Abstract thinking involves a different way of thinking, a different side of the brain.  In fact, it can be quite the shift to blend abstract with concrete ways.

I’ve been thinking a lot about how to bridge the gap to create a more concrete presentation for these abstract concepts.

Designing your dream life in and out of the office really comes down to choices, and these choices fall into one of two categories:

• Choices that move you forward
• Choices that don’t (they either keep you stuck or regress you)

Think about it in terms of deposits and withdrawals.  Some financial transactions add to your bank account, and others deplete it.

Every single choice you make either moves you forward, or doesn’t.  The food you eat, the thoughts you think, the activities you do in your free time, the books you read—everything you consume physically, spiritually, mentally, and emotionally.

Generally speaking, the choice that moves you forward is the choice that requires more effort.  It takes more effort to get off the couch and go to the gym than lying on the couch.  It takes more effort to disengage from a toxic interaction than to have the last word.  It takes more effort to save money than it does to spend it on whatever temptation is in front of you.

So as you go through your day, start running the “Does this move me forward?” program.  Categorize your choices accordingly, but resist the urge to judge yourself.  This isn’t about shaming yourself; it’s about bringing awareness to your choices and informing future decisions so that you’re better equipped to make the choices that move you forward.

If you’re having difficulty latching onto abstract thinking, keep reminding yourself that some of the best things in life can’t be measured.  Sometimes you just have to take a leap of faith to unleash yourself into a whole new world.

As always, I’m here to support and guide you.  I am ready to chat whenever you are.