We move through life so quickly, often focused on what’s next, what’s missing, or what still needs to be fixed. But what if the real shift begins when we simply pause… and become present?
In this episode, we take a moment to revisit where you are right now — not where you thought you’d be, not where you’re trying to get to, but here. It’s an invitation to gently re-evaluate your life, your direction, and the habits you’re carrying, with awareness instead of judgment. Because when you become present, you create the space to choose differently, to realign, and to move forward with intention.
As a teenager, Michael was fortunate to receive guidance from positive adult role models who helped him overcome adversities and set high expectations for his future. Grateful for the role these mentors played in his own development, Michael decided to dedicate his professional life to helping people navigate the difficulties of life and launch their future into motion. For more than 25 years, he has been helping teens and adults to use what they have gone through as a catalyst for success rather than an obstacle for failure.
Michael received the 2010 USA Network’s Characters Unite Award for exceptional commitment to combating prejudice and discrimination while increasing tolerance and acceptance within the community. He is also the recipient of the 2014 100 Men of Color Award for leadership in education, government, mentorship, entrepreneurial success and community service.
In 2008, Michael founded Youth Voices Center, Inc. a non-profit with the mission of helping young people to become active, productive members of society by overcoming their obstacles, their history, stereotypes and even their own self-image and limiting beliefs.
It’s always easier to live in Black and White. I was raised that way but life is a myriad of grey scale and of course colour. During this time, it is important to show grace towards our Leaders, ourselves and each other. There is even room for a lot of forgiveness. It’s a lesson I am continuously learning.
Although for many it’s a great time to learn, enjoy free content and connect virtually….that doesn’t mean you have to do it all! You can easily overwhelm yourself during this time of isolation as well. Make a plan of what’s important to you, focus on that.
Despite all that is going on in the world today, and in your own backyard, remember to be the person you want to be. Stay safe, help others if you can, build your business plan, learn something new or REST! Whatever it is….do it or keep doing it.
How do you tend to naturally react to situations around you? Our need to often “make someone pay” is probably holding you back from resolving a situation and avoid escalation.
Life is a challenge, but it can be even more of a challenge if you don’t have a Why, a Reason or a Goal. It can seem like you are just coasting along with no purpose. And that can breed discouragement.
There is someone out there for almost anything you can think of. Are doing things and wasting time on tasks you don’t know how to do? Or NOT doing something and using it as an excuse to not move forward?
