My ‘One Word’ this week is: GRATEFUL

I recently told my therapist that I do not feel I’m grateful enough.

Yes, I’m an almost 30-year cancer survivor, have a rock star wife who is a 12-year survivor, have two healthy and motivated kids, and have a ‘One Word’ platform that is helping people step into who they are.

BUT

I’ve had my moments throughout my five years as an entrepreneur where I’ve complained that:

😓 Life sucks because_____

😒 I wish I had more _______

😠 My kids are on my nerves because_____

😡 My wife pissed me off today because___

Following one of these outbursts, I try to slow down and remind myself that after all the obstacles I’ve overcome, I’ve managed to cultivate four simple things that make my life feel complete:

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family (A Deeply Connected One)

🏋️ Fitness (Both Physical & Mental)

🤝 Friends (A Supportive Network)

💰 Financial stability (Food / Shelter)

However, I also know that in the snap of a finger, any one of these things could be taken away from me. Sometimes I’m so focused on my fear of losing these beautiful things that gratitude falls to the wayside.

I know that I’m NOT alone in feeling this way.

That’s why I evolved my podcast – The CATALYST Effect – to spend time listening to (and sharing) the stories of others whose struggles require true bravery and strength. Their grace and resilience under pressure reminds me (and others) to focus on what’s really important in this world.

You only get one shot at this life, and, fair or not, you don’t always have as much time as you’d think. So milk every beautiful, difficult, hilarious, terrible moment for what it’s worth!

My most recent guest, Brooke Eby, is doing exactly that. Brooke was diagnosed with ALS in her early 30s. Now, she’s determined to show the world what it is really like to live with an incurable disease by sharing her journey on social media with grace and laughter. Raising awareness for ALS has become Brooke’s purpose and she hopes to encourage others to speak out too.

I shared with Brooke the ONE key lesson she taught me in the short time I’ve known her – and it’s simply:

TO FULLY EMBRACE THE PRESENT

For me, when it comes to my family that means:

👨‍👧Intentionally savoring my time with my daughter Samantha, who is home for the year before going to Medical School.

🤗 Hugging my son Zach a little tighter when I see him now that he’s on his own.

🥰 Planning more dates with my wife as we navigate empty-nesting together!

I promise after you listen, you’ll want to send Brooke a virtual hug, and you’ll be inspired by her strength and gratitude in handling a truly tough hand. Her incredible story is a reminder to be grateful and present for every second—while you still have the time to spare.

To follow along with Brooke’s journey, connect on instagram/TikTok/Twitter at @limpbroozkit

What are you grateful for today?