Hey friends

Welcome to the new format for the weekly newsletter. I want to make it more focused on you getting one or two actionable insights per week. I want you to learn everything you need to know in the newsletter and then read the longer article if you want to go deeper. I hope you enjoy it.

Oh, before I forget, I am writing the most comprehensive guide I can create on the topic of how to get into project management as a new project manager or if you are transitioning from another career. Why? Because I get the same question in the majority of my coaching calls. I would love your input so feel free to comment.

The Big Idea

What if people aren’t judging you; but you just think they are? I found a particularly interesting experiment where people were told they would have scars painted on their faces using special effects makeup. The scars were fake and removed without them knowing. But when they went out into the world, they still felt others were staring or treating them differently. Why? Because they believed something was wrong with how they looked. Their self-perception caused them to see others reactions in a way that just wasn't true.

Takeaways

• The way you think about yourself changes how you see others.
• Sometimes you feel judged even when no one is judging you.
• Your thoughts can trick you into feeling bad.
• Pay attention to the stories you tell yourself.
• What you believe about yourself can change your whole day.

Try This:

• Write down a thought you have about yourself and ask, “Is this really true?”
• When you feel judged, pause and ask yourself if the other person really did anything unkind or if it’s just how you feel inside.
• Think of a time someone smiled or was kind to you. Remember that not everyone is judging you.

Deep Dive

That Empty Feeling at 9am. And What I Did About It. Dreading work isn't necessary... ​Read full story →​

From my Toolkit

I recently found out (how embarrassing) that you can use a Canvas feature in ChatGPT. In the chat box, type /canvas and the output of your conversation will be opened up in a sidebar. Super convenient because you can select specific parts to edit (or ask the AI to edit) without losing the entire output. So useful for longer writing such as emails and reports.

Let me know what you thought of this email. I read every reply.

Have a great week ahead.

Jonathan