Oh, hi friends!
Is it true?
The story you’re sharing with others.
The story you’re telling yourself.
The story you want others to buy.
Humans have excellent radar for what doesn’t feel true.
It’s like when you experience a work of art — a painting, play, song — and it’s technically good, but doesn’t move you. You feel nothing.
Something at its core isn’t true.
Or when you’re hoping to convince someone else — maybe through a story, course, or cover letter — and you don’t really believe what you’re saying.
Usually, the words come slower. Something is off. There’s an inauthenticity, a misalignment.
We can’t convince someone else if we don’t believe it first.
Whether you’re making or offering, first ask:
Is it true?
And if the answer is “no,” keep searching or revising until it becomes true.
That’s where the discoveries are.
A Small Collection of Things That Delighted Me This Week
This teacup pig who hangs out in a Brooklyn firehouse. (h/t Colin)
Still, the new documentary about Michael J. Fox. Extraordinarily inventive and moving. I already want to watch it again.
Primary Trust, a new play by Eboni Booth in New York. The rare play laced with gentle optimism. About who we trust and why and how to move forward with grace. Brilliant!
And in case you missed it, here’s my latest podcast episode with actor and singer Samantha Massell, where we talk about how to say no to what doesn’t serve you.
Also, I had my first two Launch the Plane sessions this week and — wow. This is already my favorite project of the year! Off-the-charts energy. Hope you press “go” on your own big projects this summer. Now is the time.