Monday Mash-Up ~ Vol. 2, Ep. 5

Tips for Producing Better Content

I thought this article from Marketing Insider Group had some great tips about how to create better content: Is It Really Possible to Create 10x Content Anymore? How? 

One of the tips: Write content that creates an “emotional response.” 

I agree. That’s where storytelling comes in. Stories create an emotional response in readers.  

Valentine’s Song List 

I teamed up with my friend Dr. Pele to create a Valentine’s Day playlist for your listening pleasure.  

Spotify version | Apple Music Version 

Dr. Pele is all about “Combining Your Business And Passion To Create Profitable Happiness™” And he has a deep background in music — as a performer and producer. 

I’ve enjoyed his songs (I chose one for my contributions to the list). And he and I have bonded over our love of music (I play the piano, occasionally write songs, and produce a concert series in St. Louis called wareHOUSE Concerts.) 

When he sent to me his choices for the list, he included a few songs that are not “happy” songs. He explained: “I seek music that makes me smile, makes me cry, and makes me whole…..and sometimes even songs of pain bring the perspective that allows me to have joy and happiness.” 

That is so true. Even when we’re celebrating joy and love and happiness, we can use a sad song from time to time to make us reflect. That reflection can lift us, too. 

So…Happy (Belated) Valentines Day and Happy Listening.

Dr. Pele and I hope these songs inspire you, lift you up, make you reflect, and — perhaps — give you an excuse to dance with a loved one and hold them tight. 

Recommened Reading
Books and Emails by James Clear

My friends Cheryl Lauer and Les Landes swear by the book  Atomic Habits by James Clear which promises “An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones.” I began reading it this week. Promise kept.  

I also subscribed to (and read archives from) James Clears weekly 3-2-1 (Email) Newsletter. Sent every Thursday to more than 1 million people (!), each newsletter includes 3 short ideas from Clear, 2 quotes from others, and 1 question for readers to ponder.  

The newsletter is quick and easy to read. The impact is profound.

Recommened Viewing
A Movie about the Great Quincy Jones 

The actress Rashida Jones produced and directed the documentary Quincy about her father Quincy Jones.  

You may not have any Quincy Jones albums, but you’ve heard his music. He arranged and produced some of the most important recordings of the past 60 years — from Frank Sinatra and Aretha Franklin to Celine Dion and Michael Jackson.  

If there’s a Mt. Rushmore for music, Quincy Jones would belong there. 

He’s not a perfect man. But he’s a good, kind-hearted, and deep one.  

Many life (and business lessons) in this movie. 

Think Like You’re Lazy, Work Like You’re Dumb 

Wise words from James Clear: 

“Before you begin, think as if you are a lazy person. Imagine the competition will work harder. Your only chance is a better strategy.

After you begin, work as if you are a dumb person. Imagine the competition is smarter and more talented. Your only chance is to outwork them.”