And. Action...

5 Ideas in 5 Minutes or less.

?1.This Week’s Encouragement:

Only 14 days in, and 2025 has already left me speechless.

Insurmountable loss, heartache, outrage, devastation from the LA wildfires. The devaluing of diversity, equity, and inclusion. CEO statements dripping with archaic ideology. Looming leadership changes. Expensive eggs. Spending freezes. A potential quad-demic. And, to top it all off, a delayed Beyoncé announcement.

WHAT IS HAPPENING RIGHT NOW?

STOP RIGHT THERE… Let’s all take a deep cleansing breath. In through the nose and out through the mouth.

It’s a lot. A whole lot. And if you’re feeling the weight of it all, you’re not alone. We’re navigating global crises while juggling our own personal struggles. And while I don’t have a magic solution, I remain rooted in hope and steadfast with determination.

One of the most beautiful parts of our shared human condition is our resilience. We will get through these unprecedented times with unprecedented love, commitment and community.

When everything feels overwhelming, it’s easy to feel powerless. How and where can you make a difference? The mountain may seem insurmountable, but I came across a quote this week that shifted my perspective:

“If something feels too hard to do, it just means that the first step isn’t small enough.” Special thanks to Mary Snauffer for sharing this Dr. Becky Kennedy quote on LinkedIn this week.

Here are some small first steps:

Take action: Skip the “thoughts and prayers” comments and do something tangible. Donate to the American Red Cross or local relief efforts. Check in on your people. And remember, every conversation and connection can benefit from a little extra kindness

Take breaks: Step away from the screen. Go for a walk. Write in your journal. Take a news and social media detox—even for an hour. Let your mind reset.

Take time to create: Creativity is radical self-care. It rewires your brain and builds resilience. Doodle, bake, dance, or finally write that poem you’ve been thinking about. Whatever fuels your spirit, lean into it.

2. Action Challenge: Your Mission This Week

I think it's worth repeating...

Care & Kindness: Move beyond “thoughts and prayers” and take action. Severe winter weather and wildfires have forced thousands of blood donations to go uncollected. There is an emergency shortage of platelets, as well as types O negative and B negative blood. Donors are needed TODAY! Schedule a time with the American Red Cross or support local relief efforts like LA Foodbank . Check in on your people. And remember: a little extra kindness in your conversations and connections goes a long way.

Go Screenless: Take a breather from the digital world. Step outside for a walk, crack open that journal, or simply enjoy the silence. Even a one-hour detox from news and social media can work wonders for your mind.

Create Something: Creativity isn’t just an outlet—it’s radical self-care. Doodle, bake, dance like nobody’s watching, or finally put that poem on paper. Whatever sparks joy in your soul, make time for it.

3. Listening Recommendation: Negotiate Anything Podcast with Kwame Christian, Esq., M.A.

Looking for an immediate pick-me-up? Tune in to my guest episode on Negotiate Anything Podcast with the brilliant Kwame Christian.

Our spirited conversation included insights on mindset shifts, communication strategies, and stepping out of self-sabotage into self-empowerment.

We recorded this back in November, but the takeaways feel more relevant than ever. Here are three highlights:

1. Pay attention to your inner dialogue — The stories you tell yourself shape your reality.
2. Recommit to foundational communication skills while embracing tech tools — Connection and clarity still matter.
3. Stop outsourcing your power — You are in control of your thoughts, actions, and emotions. No one can trigger you, upset you, or invalidate you without your permission.

This conversation was a powerful reminder that the right coaching and mindset shifts can transform not just your business, but your life.

?? Listen to the episode here:

4. Quote:

“My second-grade teacher, Ms. Edson, told us: If something feels too hard to do, it just means that?the first step isn’t small enough.?So often when we’re struggling, we tell ourselves that it’s a sign that we’re broken or that something is our fault, and then we freeze. But when something is too hard in the moment, tell yourself Ms. Edson’s advice. -- Dr. Becky Kennedy

5. Ask Keita ?

Q. Dear Keita,

I’m feeling overwhelmed by everything happening in the world right now. I want to stay hopeful, but it feels like every time I get a grip on things, something new gets thrown at me. How can I balance staying grounded while making an impact in my community without burning out? – Worn Out Warrior

A. Dear Worn Out Warrior,

First of all, let’s acknowledge something huge: You’re trying. That’s a big deal in a time when the world feels heavy and unpredictable. Balancing hope and action is no easy feat, but here’s my advice:

1. Start Small: Make small, intentional actions to make a difference—whether it’s making a donation to the American Red Cross, checking in on someone or volunteering a few hours. Small steps lead to bigger impacts.
2. Set Boundaries for Self-Care: This isn't selfish—it's necessary. Take time to nurture your body and mind, whether that's taking a walk, journaling, or even diving into a favorite hobby. The more you take care of you, the better equipped you'll be to show up for others.
3. Lead with Empathy, Not Perfection: You don’t have to have all the answers or “fix” everything Show up with kindness. Hold space and take deliberate and intentional actions.

As always, thank you for taking the time to read this week’s Take 5 Tuesday! Your presence in the Success Bully community is a testament to your own resilience—and I’m deeply grateful for that.

If today’s reflections hit home, consider sharing them with someone who might need a reminder that even in the midst of crisis, every small step toward action, kindness, or rest counts. We’re all in this together. I also love hearing from you—whether it’s a comment, a like, or a quick note—so don’t hesitate to reach out.

In a world that often feels like it’s falling apart, resilience isn’t about ignoring the chaos—it’s about leaning into it with intention, staying grounded, and taking action where you can. It’s about remembering that even when everything seems overwhelming, you still have the power to choose your next step.

I want to offer a final bit of encouragement. My heart goes out to those who are hurting. Sympathy and empathy matter, but they need to be backed by action. I won’t ask for anything here—except that we all take action, however small, and do so with kindness. Whether it’s reaching out to someone who needs support or donating to a cause, your actions count. Let’s show up for each other in real ways—one step at a time.

With love & action,

Keita – Your Favorite Success Bully