mastery

Astronaut Chris Hadfield on negative thinking

By Dave English

“Self-help gurus are always advising us to think positively and envisage success, but it’s about as helpful as thinking about cupcakes. Just thinking about them isn’t going to help. It’s more important to think what could go wrong with a mission. Visualize failings, not success. That’s what’s essential to survival as an astronaut. I was an astronaut for 21 years, but I only spent six months in space. The rest of the time, I was looking into every detail that might have gone wrong during a mission. Once you’ve understood all the potential risks and you’re forewarned against them, fear no longer … Continue reading Astronaut Chris Hadfield on negative thinking

In love with the work

By Dave English

“I fell in love with the work. And the work was joyful and difficult and interesting. And that was my focus.” ~ Jerry Seinfeld, talking to President Obama, on keeping perspective and finding meaning in life after making millions. It works even if you aren’t a billionaire or a president. On the web show www.comediansincarsgettingcoffee.com

Milking a mouse

By Dave English

“Milking a mouse” Bob Hoover, describing his mindset on being gentle with early jets. Flying The Feathered Edge is a great documentary that’s now on iTunes. It lets us spend 90 minutes with maybe the world’s greatest pilot. That’s a pretty good way to relax over the holidays.