More. Better. Faster. Success Strategies for Creative Professionals: Recent Episodes
Gordon P. Firemark
Success Strategies for Show Business Professionals Helping Actors, Writers, Directors, Producers and other Show Business Professionals to set and achieve powerful goals and realize their dreams.
in this episode, I'm exploring some strategies for keeping your mind sharp and mental status on track. NOTE: This is NOT intended as psychological or medical advice. If you are in mental distress, SEEK HELP from qualified professionals. We're talking about tools like: ✔︎ Gratitude Practice ✔︎ Meditation Practice ✔︎ Forgiveness ✔︎ Activity - keeping the brain active and engaged with puzzles, games, exercises, and creative activity. ✔︎ Nutrition - "Brain Food" and avoiding toxic foods, beverages and drugs.
This is the first episode in a a mini-series on health and self-care. This time, we're exploring exercise, along with some of (my) limiting beliefs and how I'm reframing them as I commit to exercising more.
Life is like a symphony, with ups and downs, many surprises, triumphal marches, and instruments in sync with each other. In music, harmony refers to the combination of complimentary notes. In our daily lives, we seek harmony in our relationships, in our activities, the people and things around us. This episode explores the nature of harmony, some misconceptions about it, and strategies you can implement to achieve and maintain greater harmony in all aspects of life.
Focus and Distraction Intro I’m Gordon Firemark, and I’ve got a problem. I have a really hard time getting focused. Staying focused. I’m easily distracted. I’ve never been diagnosed, but I’ve probably got a minor form of ADHD. I love to have lots and lots of things going on. Variety, as they say, is the spice of life. But it can also be a detriment. Getting things done can be a real challenge... a test of willpower Staying focused when we need to is hugely important. Fortunately, I’ve been able to learn some skills for getting and staying focused when I need to... and you can do that too. Start with goals - know what you really want/need to accomplish Be specific Write them down Prioritize Be clear about WHY Break own the goals into action steps. - a plan Map the path to completion of each task. Once you’ve settled on your plan, WORK IT. Be methodical and systematic Allocate the time for “deep work” Minimizing interruptions The power of ritual - getting into the Zone Create an environment conducive to focus Quiet? Hubbub? Too much quiet can also be distracting One Thing! Eliminate the common distractions Mobile Inernet Phone, etc. Quiet your mind Meditation Breathing exercises Visualize being in “the Zone” Tools Try some music - http://www.focusatwill.com has specially designed music tracks with specific tempos and beats to get the brainwaves optimized for focus. To Do lists Set a tomato timer. (Pomodoro method). https://francescocirillo.com/pages/pomodoro-technique Stay on task for 50 minutes, then take a short break. Switch tasks from time to time. If you’re feeling the pull. When you know you’re only tied to one task for a short time, it’s easier to stay in the zone.
In this episode, we explore the masks we wear, and how to be more authentic about who we are, what we believe, stand for, and care about.
Let's explore where you're living and how it impacts your success, happiness and achievement. Listen for more details.. it's not how you're thinking.
In this episode, I reveal the power of a carefully assembled plan in achieving your goals. With this system in place, you are three times more likely to complete your tasks and move toward your goals.
This episode explores why we procrastinate, how we can stop and prevent it, and how living from a clarity of purpose can help. Get our free Vision Worksheet at https://www.gordonfiremark.com/worksheet And sign up for a coaching discovery call at https://gordonfiremark.com/coaching
In this episode, Lawyer/Coach/Entrepreneur Gordon Firemark explains why IMPATIENCE is the true virtue for creatives, leaders and business owners.
A recent personal experiment got me thinking about the real meaning behind “You are what you eat”, so in this episode we’re going to talk about the ways that diet and nutrition interact with our succeeding in achieving our goals and fulfilling our purpose in life, and some strategies for improving our intake, and thus our output!
"You are what you Eat, read, watch, focus on, etc." In this episode, I'm recommending books, podcasts, blogs and more to help you on your journey to success and happiness. Drop your favorite motivational and self help material recommendations in the comments!
In this episode, we're talking about that noisy, nosy, obnoxious inner critic we all have, and how to turn it into a positive, useful source fo feedback and empowerment.
What is accountability? Why does it work? How does it help you achieve More, better, faster? How do you hold yourself accountable? How do you build an accountability partnership or team? You'll find answers to these questions and more in this episode of More Better Faster!
Ever hit creative block? This can happen no matter what field you’re in, but when creative work is your lifeblood, ya gotta find a way out, to stay motivated and push through to the other side. Sometimes, it just takes stepping back and taking a break fro your work, but sometimes changing perspective, and adjusting the way you look at things is the answer... for that, I often rely on mind-mapping In this episode, I explain what they are, how to do them, and a bit about the science behind why they're great tools. Oh, and here are some examples:
Digital Tool Created
In this episode, I examine the power of Routines, Systems and Processes in our daily lives, business, and creative expression.
In this episode, I explain why perfection (or perfectionism) is really the enemy that prevents you from achieving success!
In this episode, I explain why sometimes it's necessary to slow down, take stock, adjust, implement systems, automations, delegations, before you can accelerate your pace toward your goals.
In this episode, I reflect back on the year 2020 and what's happened in my life and business, and how I've let optimism, positivity, and gratitude lead me to a pretty good year, despite a pandemic and all the troubles the year has seen. And, I share some strategies and thought experiments that help you do the same.
In this episode, I explain how Imposter Syndrome can cause even the highest achievers to experience doubts and fear, and share some ideas on overcoming the issue.
After a short hiatus, I'm excited to be back! In this episode, we examine our barriers and limitations, and how to break through. And I review and recommend a book that's changed things for me... "The Big Leap" by Gay Hendricks
Welcome to More Better Faster!, the business success podcast for creative professionals. In this episode, we explore the power of the 3-point plan as way to get and stay focused and motivated to succeed. Within this episode, we mentioned our exclusive "It Starts With Vision" worksheet, available for free at http://yourvisionworksheet.com
In this episode, I'm joined by my friend, Nick Demos for a fun discussion of why storytelling is powerful for your brand, what the biggest misconceptions are around using stories, and how you can start using stories immediately for more powerful connection with your audience.
Nick Demos is a Tony and Olivier Award winning producer, filmmaker and writer. who now coaches soul- centered entrepreneurs business strategies and how to authentically utilize stories to leverage their personal brands.
Learn more about Nick at www.thenickdemos.com and on IG, Facebook and YouTube find him @thenickdemos
Get in on his upcoming programs at www.creatingstoriesthatconvert.com
In this episode, I implore you to define success according to your vision and values, rather than someone else's idea of what you "should" do or accomplish.
Success is a team sport. If you're wearing all the hats, and doing all the things, chances are you're not doing anything in a really exceptional way. If you want to go fast, sure, go alone... but, the saying goes, if you want to go far, go together! Listen as I share my own experiences and challenges with outsourcing, staffing, and building a team, and how things leapt forward for me once I did! Mentioned in this episode: http://upwork.com for outsourcing one-off and special-expertise tasks. http://onlinejobs.ph for finding and hiring qualified virtual assistants and team members from the Philippines.
More Better Faster Podcast is participating in the #podcastblackout Listen. Learn. Do More, Better, Faster! And here are some additional resources 75 things white people can do to for racial justice Anti-racism resources for white people: http://bit.ly/ANTIRACISMRESOURCES Rachel Rodgers on why white allies need to do better Trevor Noah on why looting is a symbol of a breakdown in society and not just a free for all: https://youtu.be/v4amCfVbA_c The She Podcasts Team invested in Trudi Lebron’s masterclass called Show Up and Serve. It is brilliant. So You Wanna Talk About Race (get the audiobook or kindle, it seems to be sold out) White Fragility: Why It’s So Hard for White People to Talk About Racism
It’s easy to conflate the concept of intentions with goal, so in this short episode, we'll explore the differences between the two...
For nearly 30 years, I've been helping creative professionals to realize their dreams and achieve more, better, faster. One of the big mistakes I've seen countless talented people make is failing to set up accountability systems to keep themselves on track. In this episode of More, Better, Faster!, I share a few ideas on how to implement accountability, periodic check-ins, and other systems to dramatically increase successful outcomes. Join the conversation by becoming a member of the More, Better, Faster! Facebook group, at http://facebook.com/groups/morebetterfaster Get clarity of your personal vision for yourself. Visit http://gordonfiremark.com/visionworksheet to download your vision worksheet.
In today's episode, I explore the problem of insomnia, its causes, effects, and some possible solutions to those sleepless nights. Because sleeping poorly leads to poor performance, poor outlook, and poor results.
In this week's episode we're exploring the trait/skill/ability to be resilient. To bounce back quickly and easily from setbacks is a key to achieving your goals. Join in as we look at the idea of reslience, it's importance, and some strategies to exercise and strengthen your resilience "muscle"
In this episode, I talk about how Woody Allen's famous quote "Showing up is 80% of Success" is WRONG. Join me as I explain, and share the truth about what it takes to really succeed! Please also join the More, Better, Faster group on Facebook (http://facebook.com/groups/morebetterfaster) where we share lots of strategies, tips, insights and celebrate our wins! Thanks for listening!
Author and business consultant Alain Hunkins shares leadership strategies and insights.
His new book is "Cracking the Leadership Code".
http://crackingtheleadershipcode.com
Now isn't the time to shrink back in "cocoon mode", it's the time to Keep Going. (or Get Started) and even to ramp things up to play a bigger, better game! Your audience... your TRIBE... they need you. Now, More than ever! Better than ever! Faster than ever!
Talking this week about choosing to lead from optimism and positivity in the face of troubling times. #coronavirus #covid10
Quitting sometimes makes sense, but be sure it’s for the right reasons. Here’s how to know.
Today, I'm talking about how simple shifts in perspective can change your entire experience, and that of the people around you.
In this episode, I relate a recent loss, what I've learned, and how to take important lessons from every interaction we have.
In this episode, I talk about integrity, and why it's so crucial to your success.
Mentioned in this episode: Starting With Vision Worksheet
In this episode, I talk about strategies for limiting your inputs to those best suited to helping you have a good life and achieving your goals.
In this episode, I explore the three R's of making connections in the industry, or in any aspect of life. Hint: It's about growing relationships, not exploiting them!
- Worrying: Causing anxiety about actual or potential problems
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- NOTE: I’m talking not about chronic, pathological, psychiatric level Anxiety Disorder...
- I’m talking about the kind of worrying we all do from time to time, and sometimes get into a cycle of worry that can be hard to break free from...
- How worrying manifests itself:
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- Sleeplessness
- Agitation
- Bursts of emotion -- anger, sadness, etc.
- Mind racing
- Panic
- Stress Response
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- Fight or flight
- Hormonse like cortisol - boosts blood sugar and triglycerides
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- Can cause a number of physical reactions including
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- dizzinesss
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Muscle aches/tension
- Nausea/indigestion
- Respiratory distress
- Sweats
- IMMUNE Disorders
- Memory loss
- Coronary Artery disease
- Heart attack
- De3pression
- Suicidal thoughts
- Worrying is a waste of your time and energy
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- Most of the time we’re worrying from fear of things that won’t really come to pass or be as bad as we think.
- We tend to blow up the feared consequences into worst-case scenarios
- It’s better to view challenges and problems as opportunities for:
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- Solutions
- Growth
- Change/Pivot
- How to break the worry cycle
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- Reframe
- Ask what positive things could happen, instead of focus on the negatives.
- Insist one actual evidence before you make conclusions
- Don’t discount or dismiss positive thoughts
- Accept the uncertainty of things you can’t control or solve
- Exercise
- Meditation
- Relaxation exercises
- Deep breathing
- Talk it out
- Mindfulness -
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- Get quiet and comfortable
- Close your eyes
- Breathe/focus
- acknowledge
- Release
- Stay focused on the present
- DON’T WORRY... TROUBLESHOOT!
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- Ask yourself the questions:
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- What is the real problem?
- Is it real?
- Is it something I have control over?
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- No - accept and dismiss.
- How can it be solved, handled, or delegated?
- What are the opportunities here?
- What action can I take right now that will move this toward a positive outcome?
When you set your goals, ask yourself, "are you serious about achieving this, or just kicking the tires?" The symptoms of tire-kicking are many, and easier to see with hindsight, but asking the right questions will get you focused on the goals about which you are truly serious. They are aligned and consistent with your core values, purpose, and mission. And, achieving them feels easier because you're in "flow" when working toward them. In this episode, we explore these questions, and how to achieve important, meaningful goals. (Even if I couldn't recall what all the letters in SMART Goals stand for! ;-) And, If you are truly serious about making 2020 YOUR BREAKTHROUGH YEAR, the year you achieve MORE, BETTER, FASTER, then we should talk. Head over tohttp://gordonfiremark.com/kickstart . Our Kickstart2020 program is only days away, and if you’re truly serious, you won’t want to miss out on this opportunity.
In this episode, I share a few tips on keeping a positive attitude and remaining optimistic
In this episode, we talk to financial expert Cortlon Cofield, Owner & Lead Advisor of Cofield Advisors, LLC. He is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Personal Financial Specialist (PFS) who has dedicated his career to helping creative entrepreneurs thrive. Cortlon started "Cofield Advisors" because he believes in entrepreneurship and wanted to give creative entrepreneurs access a one stop shop for financial and tax services.
Three actionable tips Cofield recommends for every creative:
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Set up systems to save and take human nature out of financial decision making.
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Automate your savings and financial management as much as possible
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Invest and Plan for the future. Sacrifice today, so you don't have to later.
More about Cofield Advisers at http://cofieldadvisors.com
Instagram: @cofield_advisor Get Cofield's Financial Success
Toolkit at https://www.cofieldadvisors.com/instagram
In this episode, I explore some strategies for managing time – prioritizing our tasks for maximum productivity and achievement. And, I offered my Free, "It Starts With Vision" worksheet, to help you get clarity on your personal vision, and draft a vision statement that will guide you as you set your priorities. Download the worksheet at http://www.gordonfiremark.com/visionworksheet
In this episode, I relate some ideas about our own self-imposed obstacles and self sabotage when working toward our goals, and present a strategy for discovering what you really want and why.
In this episode, I talk with transformational relationship coach John Kenney, author of “The P.E.O.P.L.E. Programme” How to overcome your blocks to success.
John helps people identify, address and overcome the things that they let get in their way, so they can build strong, healthy relationships, and achieve the kinds of successes they dream of.
This time, I'm sharing some thoughts on integrity, honesty, and keeping promises... and why it's important to your success path.
In this short episode I explain why creative work should be viewed as a business, and how to do just that.
In this episode, we're talking about how doing everything right is holding you back from your success. And, I invite you to download my free "It Starts With Vision" worksheet to craft your personal vision statement. Get it at http://gordonfiremark.com/visionworksheet
In this episode, I'm sharing an approach to gratitude practice that will up your game, enhance your experience, and help you achieve More, Better, Faster! on your journey to success as a showbiz professional, whether it's in Hollywood, on Broadway, in Nashville, London, or anywhere at all.
In this episode, I introduce the show, who it's for and why it exists, a bit about my own background and experience, and what to expect from future episodes.