I have an exciting interview to share with you today. Alex Blackwell, the founder of The Bridgemaker and change-maker extraordinaire, has stopped by to answer a few questions about his new book, Saying Yes to Change: 10 Timeless Life Lessons for Creating Positive Change, and other fun tidbits.
Who is Saying Yes to Change for?
Saying Yes to Change: 10 Timeless Life Lessons for Creating Positive Change is for anyone who feels the nudge to change; and it’s for people who are already walking the paths to positive change. If you feel stuck, alone or scared, the book will inspire you to acknowledge what you need to heal or change so you can begin living a happier, more meaningful life – right now.
Your vulnerability and willingness to share deeply personal events are awe-inspiring. Do you find it scary to be so open? Did you ever fear being too open in your book?
Yes to both Carolyn.
The purpose behind my transparent approach is to provide a properly-sized window into my life so others can see their lives in the reflection of the window’s glass. Often we feel like we are alone with our thoughts, feelings or fears. But being honest with how I feel may give someone the encouragement to be honest with their feelings, too.
Now, about being too open, before I publish a piece of writing it must pass the Emily test. Emily is my 13-year-old daughter. I consider how she would react to my writing; if it would make her feel uncomfortable, embarrassed, etc. I’m mindful that my book, and blog, is mine and although my family is incredibly supportive, I respect their privacy.
My favorite lesson is number eight, Find the Brighter Side of Failure. In this lesson, you discuss the importance of asking for help when you fail. Personally, I struggle the most with this advice due to the shame associated with failure. Do you have any suggestions for people who find it difficult to ask for help, particularly when they need it the most?
Often what keeps us from asking for help is we’re afraid we are not worthy to receive it. I’m a caregiver and fixer at heart. My first instinct is to help everyone else before I seek help.
Because of the journey I’ve been on the past several years, I’m finding there are people in my life that would love to help me, but because of my sometimes “I have it all together” exterior, they feel like it’s not necessary. So, I’m learning to become more vulnerable and authentic.
Asking for help can begin with the small things: a ride to work, help with an assignment, or moving a piece of furniture. Once you begin to see folks are truly glad to help, this will pave the way to asking for help with larger things: a difficult relationship, addressing an old emotional wound, or providing a shoulder to lean on when you feel unsteady.
Complete the prompts below.
I know…my life’s training isn’t over yet. Each day there will be new lessons to learn – and I can’t wait.
This week, I want to…enjoy the release of my book, and find some time to rest.
This month, I want to…go to at least two Kansas City Royals baseball games!
In this lifetime, I want to…continue living on purpose and share my heart with anyone who wants to receive it.
I don’t know…where all this is going, but I have faith there’s a plan for me greater than I can imagine.
I am… a secure, confident, self-loving man. And on the days I don’t feel confident, I ask, “What would a confident man do,” and then I have a clearer path to follow.
What’s an inspiring tip you would like to share with readers?
Look over the fence and know your grass is greener.
What question do you wish more people asked?
How can I love myself a little more today? The answer, I believe, is by seeing our remarkable beauty and worth.
How often do we forget, or neglect, to acknowledge the things we do or the gifts we offer? Lost in the busyness of our day is a part of us that needs some attention, too. We are worthy of the same amount of effort we put into everything else. We are worthy beyond what we sometimes give ourselves.
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Thank you Alex for answering my questions and CONGRATULATIONS on your incredible first book!! You can purchase Alex’s book directly through Amazon.
