Don’t major in minor things.

Originally sent exclusively to The Letter subscribers on March 16th. Want to be the first to get my personal newsletter in your inbox every Monday at 7am? Subscribe for free here.

Remember last week?  I shared the story of David, who sadly passed away surrounded by his family.

I wrote a few words about his wonderful outlook on life.

It made me think: why are so many people miserable and dissatisfied with where they’re at? 

The answer to that conundrum….

They major in the minor things.

Another sterling piece of advice I was given by a dear friend is the two-week rule. This chaps name is Mike Boyle.

Mike said that most problems are resolved within two weeks, so don’t let them get you down. Stressing about it is not worth it. 

Anxiety, anger, sadness and frustration can wrap us up in knots and disrupt a positive state of mind and behaviour.

A calm man is a wise man.

A person who keeps their composure usually achieves a better outcome.

Pause for thought before you act; if a challenging conversation is about to be had read the poem IF and journal a win-win outcome for both of you .

Remaining calm in stressful moments is a skill that must be practised, even if inside you feel like a scene from the second half of Jurassic Park. (the original - not the 67 sequels) 

The truth is that most people really do major in minor things. Give yourself over to petty gossip and you will be rewarded with plenty more of it. Not a good news story Captain. 

Bad news and negativity love nothing more than feeding on more of the same. 

Mood hoovers must be avoided if you want real success, a wonderful family and a life full of meaning. We must repel negativity and bad moods rather than absorb them.

That is why I was in such awe of David.

I could not believe his outlook knowing that death was just hours away. That was truly a major situation, yet he remained stoic.

Seek out stoic people. Your life will be better for it.

In other news…

This Saturday we raised £72,000 for the charity we started on my 30th birthday, Magic Makers.

The generosity of the people in that room was breathtaking.

Magic Makers raises money for children who are dying, living with life-debilitating illnesses, or facing immense challenges.

We put smiles on faces and make wishes come true.

Listening to the stories behind the children we were raising money for was truly unbelievable.

Trust me I doubt you have any challanges that are worth moaning about. 

I wrote this week’s letter to manage my own insecurities and emotions, to keep them in check. I must stay stoic and remember that in two weeks most things that irritate or upset me will be ironed out.

That is my secret to getting more done. Stoicism is the secret.

Remember, never major in the minor things.

Don’t be bitter. Be better.

To your continued success,

James

P.S. There is less than a week until I am back on stage sharing everything I know about property and how to use it to build your wealth. No fluff, just straight talking and real examples. Fancy it? Take a look here.