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It’s our choice whether we stay “lost”. There is hope.

Josh Shipp is a motivational speaker, teen expert, all around cool guy who is up to some pretty awesome stuff. He has a DVD out today that helps teens deal with being labeled and finding their identity. It goes on sale today. Check out the trailer here.

If you live in the Greater Toronto Area and are interested in finding out more about a career in the trades industry, check out this free skilled trades fair:

Apprenticeship Career Connections
International Centre, 6900 Airport Road, Mississauga
Oct. 28th, 10:00am – 7:30pm

Grant Lingel recently sent me a copy of his new book, Imagine: A Vagabond Story. Here is an excerpt:

“We all felt the walls and barriers of our lives crushing us and knew change was necessary. Not out of fear of the ‘real world’ but out of curiosity for a new world. I never thought about my trip as an escape, just a passage through new doorways that I had never crossed in the past.”

Imagine: A Vagabond Story is a first hand account of Grant’s travel adventure throughout Mexico and Central America. The book reads like a travel journal, as Grant honestly describes his thoughts on the places he visits, the people he encounters, and the personal lessons he gleaned during his journey.

Grant’s story continually reminded me that amazing events can unfold when you open yourself up to new experiences.

When I was on the road during One-Week Job, typically I had no idea where I was working only days before my next job began. I’d receive an email, phone call, or meet a stranger on the street and it would completely alter my path.

Likewise, Grant’s incredible experience wouldn’t have been possible if he wasn’t willing to leave his comfort zone, embrace uncertainty, try new things, meet different people, and take risks. A conscious decision to make it happen. Reflecting back on it, he’s glad that he did:

“{The trip} taught me how small the world really is, how similar we all really are and how it is the people you meet along the way that shape who you are and who you become.”

To read the first few chapter’s of Grant’s adventure and order a copy, visit his website.

I just posted something from Seth Godin a couple days ago, but he’s just that good. This was his latest post. Have a read and see why you matter.

During my week as a Yoga Instructor in Week 7, I met Henri. I remember he said to me:

“When my students come into the class, it is my opportunity to impact the outer world through my inner studio. If I can change their mindsets, so that when they leave here, they are feeling calm and relaxed, that will alter how they experience the rest of their day and the other people they encounter. In doing so, I am creating a ripple effect far beyond I know the implications of.”

Every day we have the power to impact those around us – a kind word, a genuine smile, an inspiring blog post – whether that impact is positive or negative is up to us to decide. The important thing to remember is that either way, our ripples will be felt.

If you don’t know who Seth Godin is, get to know him. In every blog post, he provides value.

Just graduated, and can’t find a job? Read this recent post by Seth, Graduate school for unemployed college students.

Reading Seth’s post reminded of a conversation I had when I was a Radio DJ in Week 22. One afternoon, a Radio DJ I was working with said to me, “The most important message I take away from what you’re doing is to be pro-active about figuring out what you want to do. If you don’t know what to do, well don’t just sit around and wonder what to do. Do something.”

When I first graduated, I wasted a lot of time and energy worrying that I didn’t know what I wanted to do. Of course, it didn’t help my situation. I was so concerned with making the right choice that it prevented me from making any choice at all. Thankfully, I eventually recognized this.

What is your “something” going to be?

I’ve been asked to speak at The Health & Wealth Annex in Fort Lauderdale, Florida on May 8th, 2009. There are still spaces available – register on the website if you wish to attend. The event last three full days and costs $149.

From the website, here some benefits that past attendees said they took away:

See you there!

-Sean

Ray Kurzweil is an author/inventor famous for predicting the future. He says, since knowledge is rapidly becoming obsolete, the best way to prepare yourself for the future is to learn how to learn. And the best way to learn is by pursuing what your passionate about.

In this great segment from Eric Chester, they discuss the One Week Job project, how to find your passion, and few other surprises. Enjoy!

A classic cartoon from the creators of South Park, set to a short lecture by Alan Watts, the renowned Zen philosopher.

What do you think of the ideas in the film? Share your thoughts in the comments!

I imagine many graduates are wondering what they’re going to do this summer – whether any companies will be hiring for new positions in this economic downturn.

If you’re having difficulty finding a full time position, an internship can be a great way to get some experience in the meantime and make you more marketable to future employers. Here’s one for this summer that was passed on to me.

Sosauce (a travel website based in New York City) is offering an eight week Summer 2009 marketing internship followed by a two week socially conscious travel experience.

From the website:
“For anyone who has ever dreamed of changing the world, this is your chance! You will gain incredible experience with a young company at a very exciting stage and have the opportunity to travel abroad, chronicle a socio-environmental issue, and have fun – all at the same time.”

Here is the link to find out more information and apply for the spot.

Good luck!

In Dec 2008, Mike Rowe of Dirty Jobs gave a provocative talk on castrating lambs, ancient philosophy, and why “following your passion” was the worst advice he ever received.

Watch the film and leave your comments!

Who would have thought: writing a book and editing a doc are extremely challenging endeavours. Luckily, Sean’s already polishing his second draft of the One Week Job book.

Myself, I’ve completed almost 60 minutes of the initial documentary rough edit, and am very pleased (so far). I believe the final result will be an inspiring story, captured in such a way as to remain topical and timeless.

Of course, thanks to all our generous producers who have donated towards the film.

I have extended the deadline for contributions until May 1, which is when the first cut of the doc should be completed.

Believe it or not, this 1985 animation is one of my most memorable artifacts from childhood. It combines classic animation with great motown tunes. Enjoy!