Welcome to Mindful Monday!

This week, we focus on earning a big leadership role, the opening of applications for our Learning Leader Circle, why the standard pace is for chumps, life/career advice, and wise words about risk.

#653: Sukhinder Singh Cassidy - CEO of Xero

Sukhinder Singh Cassidy is the CEO of Xero. Xero is a cloud-based accounting software designed for small businesses. They did $2.1 billion in revenue last year. Over the past 25 years, Sukhinder has had leadership roles at Google, Amazon, and StubHub. We discuss Becoming a CEO, Transforming a Company, Earning the Promotion, Knowing Your Non-Negotiables, & Hiring Excellent Leaders. You can also WATCH our conversation on YouTube.

The Learning Leader Circle - NOW Accepting Applications

We open applications for our Learning Leader Circle once per year. That time is now. If you want to surround yourself with growth-focused, ambitious leaders who want to put a positive dent in the world, then apply now. If you're curious to hear from a current member, here is what Founder/CEO of Brightwork, Amanda Wilson, said about her last 4 years in our Learning Leader Circle: “When I stop and consider the key decisions that have been directly additive to the growth of Brightwork, pursuing The Learning Leader Circle stands out front and center. Since joining, I’ve become a better leader, more in-tune with my team and clients, and more conscious of what that means for our future. I’ve experienced 20% growth in my business and gained lifelong friendships. Spending time amidst inspirational leaders, who you learn are facing similar problems, what perspective it has brought. Leadership can be lonely, and this group makes leading a journey with companionship along the way. Ryan is a tremendous facilitator of the group discussions, but goes above and beyond by providing so many resources. He has been instrumental in helping me stay curious and obtain professional and financial goals.” CLICK HERE to apply.

The Standard Pace is for Chumps

This is a story I learned from a recent conversation with Derek Sivers... When he was 17, Derek called a recording studio with a random question about a music notation. The studio owner, Kimo Williams, heard Derek was heading to Berklee College of Music and made an odd proposition: "I can teach you two years of theory in a few lessons. You could graduate in two years if you understand there's no speed limit. Show up at 9 AM tomorrow if you're serious." CLICK HERE to see what happened next.

The Days Are Long, But The Decades Are Short

At the end of a lot of my podcast episodes, I like to ask my guests for some useful life/career advice... Here is a short essay from Sam Altman answering that question.