Time to Inspire

I’ve been sitting with this article: Why Most People Stay Average (Backed by Science).

It’s not new advice. But it's the truth we forget. Most people don’t stay average because they’re lazy or untalented. They stay average because average is safe. Familiar. Socially rewarded.

And the truth is, average is a byproduct of the systems we’re in—education, work, culture—that tell us to follow the rules, do the “right” thing, keep it steady. Don’t rock the boat.

But real growth? Real impact? Real joy?

It lives on the edges.

Of the 25 people I’m currently coaching, 23 of them are making massively bold moves right now. We can blame the planets:

[Response summarized by Gemini from the prompt: “What the f is up with the planets this year?”]

2025 is being described as a highly transformative and potentially turbulent astrological year due to significant shifts in the outer planets. Several planets will change signs, including Neptune, Saturn, Jupiter, and Uranus, within a relatively short period, marking a major shift in collective energy. Additionally, several retrograde periods, including those of Mars and Venus, will overlap, adding another layer of complexity. 

For my fellow astrology nerds, here's a more detailed look:

• Outer Planet Shifts

• Retrogrades:
  Overlapping retrograde periods of Mars and Venus, along with Mercury's retrogrades, will add to the intensity. 

• Rare Astrological Event:
  The outer planets changing signs all at once is a rare event, making 2025 a significant year astrologically. 

• Potential for Transformation and Chaos:
  The astrological shifts suggest a period of both significant change and potential chaos, requiring adaptation and strategic thinking, according to a YouTube video analysis. 

• Year of the Snake (Chinese Astrology):
  2025 is also the Year of the Wood Snake, known for its enigmatic and introspective nature according to AstroSage. 

• Perfect Square Year:
  Interestingly, 2025 is also a "perfect square year" (45 x 45), which is a rare mathematical phenomenon. 

So if you’re looking for a reason to kick it into high gear, trust your gut. This may just be the year to do it!

Jump, and the ledge will appear.

Time to Learn

We’re taught to believe in the bell curve—that most things in life are evenly distributed. But the world doesn’t actually work like that.

The article points to a more accurate model: the power law (a.k.a. Pareto Principle):

• 80% of your results come from 20% of your efforts
  

• A handful of clients or teammates drive the most value
  

• A few habits shape the way you lead

So if you want a life that’s anything but average, stop optimizing for balance. Start optimizing for leverage.

Try this:

• Focus deeper on the 1-2 projects that matter most; F.O.C.U.S. Follow One Course Until Success
  

• Double down on the relationships that bring the most energy
  

• Stop trying to be good at everything
  

• Stop making things to please the masses
  

More isn’t the goal. Meaning is.

Time to Connect

You don’t need a total reinvention but perhaps you need to stop defaulting to the middle.

Ask yourself:

• Where am I playing it safe when I could be going deep?
  

• What 20% of my energy is producing 80% of my joy, growth, or results?
  

• What “normal” am I ready to opt out of?

• Do I have the right inner circle to support this transformation?

Last year, when Alli and I founded Wendy Road, we focused on curation not quantity, and now 80% of my business comes from Wendys! It’s a real life example of building what feels true to you, focusing on impact, and seeing Pareto come to life.

Our third Wendy Road cohort launches in September and we have 1 spot remaining! Message me if you’re a CPO or VC Talent Partner interested in learning more or share your info here!

Travels are taking me to the following great cities soon - let me know if you want to grab a coffee and gab IRL:

August: DC x 2 & NYC

September: LA, Seattle, & NYC

Help expand my inner circle!

My company, ScaleJOY, has grown solely through word of mouth and by delivering quality experiences to the hundreds of clients we have supported. Spread the word by sharing this newsletter or connecting them directly to me for leadership development, coaching or offsite facilitation. Thank you for your continued support!