Introduction
Welcome back to the blog! Today, we’re going to discuss some valuable insights from the book “The Greatness Mindset” by Lewis House. While I am a doctor turned entrepreneur and author, I found this book to be incredibly insightful and wanted to share some key takeaways with you. This book offers a refreshing perspective on success, allowing you to define it on your own terms. Let’s dive in and explore six key ideas that can potentially change your life!
Defining Your Own Success
One of the things I appreciate most about this book is that it encourages you to define your own version of success. Rather than adhering to someone else’s standards, Lewis House defines greatness as “discovering your unique gifts and talents to pursue your meaningful mission and make a positive impact on those around you.” This definition empowers you to look inward and determine what success means to you personally.
Unlike many personal development books that prescribe a specific formula for success, “The Greatness Mindset” allows you to craft your own path. It provides a solid framework for approaching success based on your individual definition of it.
Discovering Your GPA - Greatness Performance Assessment
One practical exercise that Lewis House suggests is the Greatness Performance Assessment, or GPA. This assessment divides life into three categories: business and career, relationships, and wellness. By rating yourself on a scale of 1 to 10 for specific statements in each category, you can gain insight into your current level of satisfaction and achievement.
For example, in the business and career category, you might rate yourself on statements like “I am doing what I love and want to do professionally” or “I make steady measurable progress towards achieving my business goals.” After tallying your scores, you can calculate your GPA for each category and assess where you stand.
Business and Career GPA
- I am doing what I love and want to do professionally: 8
- I am earning the revenue or income I want based on my ability: 7
- My business or professional efforts make a positive impact on others: 9
- I make steady measurable progress towards achieving my business goals: 8
- I have an intentional plan to grow professionally and financially for the next 3 years: 7
Business and Career GPA: 7.8 (Playoff Bound)
Relationship GPA
- My family and/or partner relationships are healthy and fulfilling: 8
- I regularly engage in social connection meetups and events: 7
- I invest time and energy in relationships with family, friends, and colleagues: 8
- I practice honest communication even when it’s uncomfortable: 7
- I have an intentional plan to grow in my relationships for the next 3 years: 4
Relationship GPA: 6.8 (Winning)
Wellness GPA
- I am physically healthy and exercise regularly: 6
- I make mindful nutrition choices regularly: 5
- I am a great sleeper and make it a priority: 4
- I frequently practice self-care and strategies for mental health: 5
- I have an intentional plan to better my health for the next 3 years: 2
Wellness GPA: 4.0 (Rebuilding)
By understanding your GPA scores, you can identify areas for improvement and set goals accordingly. It’s important to note that your GPA can change over time as you actively work towards your desired level of greatness in each category.
Discovering Your Meaningful Mission
According to Lewis House, the biggest barrier to greatness is not having a meaningful mission. He suggests that defining and pursuing a mission that resonates with you is key to success. While it may take time to figure out your meaningful mission, asking yourself questions such as “What would I do if money were no longer an issue?” and “What excites me and makes me want to jump out of bed?” can help guide you towards your purpose.
Your meaningful mission should align with your passions, strengths, and the problems you want to solve in the world. It provides a direction and serves as your North Star, guiding your decisions and actions. It’s essential to remember that your mission can evolve over time, so it’s okay to refine it as you grow and learn.
Crafting Your Perfect Day
Another valuable exercise from the book is the Perfect Day Inventory (PDI). This exercise allows you to map out your ideal day, considering how you want to feel, what you want to create, and who you want to be with.
Imagine waking up in the morning and following a detailed itinerary that aligns with your meaningful mission. Consider your daily routine, including work, physical activity, meditation, and quality time with loved ones. By visualizing and planning your perfect day, you can actively work towards creating a life that reflects your desired level of greatness.
Overcoming the Fear of Judgment
Fear of judgment can paralyze us and prevent us from pursuing our goals. However, Lewis House offers a powerful perspective on this fear. He suggests focusing on serving others rather than worrying about what they think of us. By shifting our attention away from ourselves and towards helping others, we can move past the fear of judgment and make a positive impact.
Additionally, asking ourselves better questions can help us reframe our mindset. Instead of dwelling on negative questions like “Why am I not as good as others?” or “Why does this bad thing keep happening to me?” we can ask more empowering questions. For example, “What can I do to improve?” or “What opportunities does this challenge present?” By asking better questions, we can change our perspective and unlock our potential.
Writing Your Own Obituary
In an interesting exercise, Lewis House encourages readers to write their own obituary. While this might sound morbid, it serves as a powerful tool for reflection and goal-setting. By envisioning how you want to be remembered and what you want to achieve in your lifetime, you can gain clarity on your purpose and align your actions accordingly.
Conclusion
The book “The Greatness Mindset” offers valuable insights on success, personal growth, and living a meaningful life. By defining success on your own terms, discovering your meaningful mission, and taking action towards your goals, you can unlock your true potential and create a life of greatness.
Remember, greatness is not a one-size-fits-all concept. It is unique to each individual. By applying the principles and exercises outlined in this book, you can embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth.
