Open Your Eyes with McKay Christensen

McKay Christensen
  • 4.7 (119)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Weekly

What you can’t see, you can’t be. That’s why we all need a clear vision of who we are and what we can become. On Open Your Eyes join author and business leader McKay Christensen to discover the steps to lasting change on your path to personal and business growth. From personal improvement to team leadership, get the insights and tools you need to open your eyes to a happier life.

  1. 5d ago

    S6E2 - See the Good in Everyone (New Episode)

    McKay explores Dolly Parton’s philosophy of ‘finding the God-light in everyone’ as a transformative leadership discipline. He argues that choosing to see potential rather than faults is a practical way to inspire growth and redirect lives. Our host highlights how belief in others alters history through the stories of Louis Armstrong, Walt Disney, and Abraham Lincoln. Detailing Nelson Mandela’s healing of South Africa and John Wooden’s UCLA coaching, McKay demonstrates that by applying the Pygmalion effect and defending the absent, listeners can foster trust and move beyond automatic negative thinking. Main Themes: Dolly Parton’s "God light" philosophy The Pygmalion Effect on performance Lincoln’s "Team of Rivals" strategy Louis Armstrong’s reform school start Walt Disney and the power of affirmation Defending the absent to build character Mandela’s use of rugby to unite a nation Overcoming self-centered "default settings" John Wooden’s shame-free coaching Belief as a practical leadership strategy Top 10 Quotes: "I try to find the God-light in everybody." "If you see someone without a smile, give them yours." "Human nature tends to notice faults first." "When people are seen as capable, they often become more capable." "If you humiliate people, they resist; if you honor people, they change." "When you defend those who are absent, you retain the trust of those present." "Seeing the good in others is a discipline, not a feeling." "Remembering everyone is good makes a meaningful life possible." "Correct what can be improved, not what is wrong with you." "Seeing good in someone can redirect an entire life." Show Links: Open Your Eyes with McKay Christensen

    23 min

  2. Jun 1

    S6E1 - You Can Decide Again (New Episode)

    McKay investigates the concept that the defining factor of success isn't staying perfectly motivated, but rather the courage to "begin again" every time life knocks you down. He explains that meaningful breakthroughs are often the result of quiet, repeated decisions made long before the world notices the "home run." Drawing on powerful narratives of late bloomers and resilient leaders, McKay shows how waiting is never wasted time. He shares the story of Bryan Torres, who spent 11 years in the minor leagues before a spectacular MLB debut, and Tara Westover, who overcame a survivalist upbringing to earn a PhD from Cambridge. By examining the lives of such icons as Grandma Moses, Sylvester Stallone, and Abraham Lincoln, McKay illustrates that our personal timelines are unique and that setbacks are often necessary preparation for a greater destiny. This episode provides listeners with a framework for letting go of past disappointments, utilizing the "I don't understand it" file for unexplained pain, and finding the resolve to go one more round. Main Themes: The Bryan Torres Story: Lessons from 11 years in the minor leaguesWhy the "waiting" period is actually a season of essential preparation"Nana korobi ya oki": The Japanese philosophy of falling seven times and rising eightTara Westover and the power of starting from scratch to achieve the impossibleThe "I Don’t Understand It" file: A strategy for emotional release and moving forwardGrandma Moses and the myth of the "missed window" for successSylvester Stallone’s "Rocky" moment: The conviction to bet on yourselfAbraham Lincoln: How a lifetime of political defeat built a national saviorShifting the focus from "Am I there yet?" to "Am I better than I was?"How tiny, consistent improvements compound into extraordinary character Top 10 Quotes: "What if the waiting is not wasted? What if the years nobody notices are actually the years building the person capable of handling the moment?" "Every time you decide again, you get a little better." "Disappointment can do one of two things: it can harden you or it can sharpen you." "The world only sees the harvest, but God sees the planting." "Fall seven times, rise eight." "Success is often built through tiny improvements repeated consistently." "Nobody becomes extraordinary instantly. People become extraordinary by repeatedly improving ordinary things." "Some flowers bloom early, some bloom late, but both are still flowers." "Goals eventually end, but character, the character you develop, remains." "When Lincoln lost, he did not restart from zero. He restarted from the experience that he gained." Show Links: Open Your Eyes with McKay Christensen

    25 min

  3. May 25

    S5E52 - What is a Leader?

    McKay continues his “What is a Leader” series this week by delving into even more critical leadership questions and drawing further inspiration from history and notable figures. In this installment he reviews the challenges faced by leaders and teams, and explores such themes as igniting change, fostering explosive growth, bending reality, and turning the tide. Throughout this thought-provoking episode, listeners gain insights into the power of focus, the significance of nurturing capable leaders, and the remarkable impact leaders can achieve by challenging established norms. Historical anecdotes and real-world examples illustrate how such leaders as Steve Jobs and George Washington motivated their teams to accomplish extraordinary feats by reshaping accepted realities and reigniting dedication. Join McKay as he continues this enlightening journey of leadership, change, and growth, and unveils valuable insights to elevate your leadership skills. Episode Highlights: The significance of igniting change in organizationsThe normalization of deviance and its impact on team performance and leadershipThe three progressive steps to regain your team's trust and commitment as a leaderLeading during challenging timesThe power of focusing your team on the most critical activities for exponential growthThe Reality Distortion Field and its role in bending reality to achieve the seemingly impossibleLeadership lessons from history emphasizing the importance of persistence and inspiration Quotes: "To change your team's reality, you must first change what they think of themselves." "Deciding what not to do is as important as deciding what to do." "Your reality is malleable in the presence of a new view and immense persistence." "Often, leaders must ignite change, and organizations and culture are hard to change." “Your job is to constantly help the team see True North." "People don't at first follow worthy causes. They follow worthy leaders." "As leaders, we have to give people reasons to buy into us." "Add ten followers to your organization, and you have the power of ten people. Add ten leaders to your organization, and you have the power of ten leaders times all the followers and leaders they influence." Links: https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

    31 min

  4. May 18

    S5E51 - How Will You Measure Your Life?

    In today’s episode of Open Your Eyes, McKay guides listeners through a thought-provoking exploration of the criteria by which we measure our lives. Combining an analysis of lives spectacularly well-lived with his own learnings and sage observations, our host demonstrates the critical importance of ensuring these criteria are firmly founded upon those aspects in life that truly matter. The episode traverses various inspiring narratives, from Dr. Sanduk Ruit’s revolutionary work in making cataract surgery affordable for millions in Nepal to Dashrath Manjhi's 22-year mission to carve a safer path through the mountains for his village. McKay also reflects on his battle with cancer, his children’s perseverance and relentless determination, and the poignant story of a colleague and his son who was born with severe physical challenges. The episode concludes by drawing on the biblical story of Peter walking on water, underscoring the importance of maintaining faith amidst adversity. Collectively, these stories challenge listeners to consider the legacies they wish to create, ultimately posing the essential question: "How will you measure your life?" Episode Highlights: Global listener reachDr. Sanduk Ruit’s journeyDashrath Manjhi's dedicationClayton Christensen on life’s measuresPersonal growth through serviceStories highlighting the power of love and perseveranceFaith and overcoming doubtsMeasuring your life by what really matters most Quotes: "I committed myself to a mission of making eye surgery affordable and accessible to every person in Nepal." "One can measure the surgeries provided to the impoverished in Nepal and the miles of travel saved by Dashrath’s new mountain path." "Consider if, ultimately, we are measured against the things that truly matter." "I realized my life would be measured by how I aided people in similar circumstances to mine." "Each day presents a choice on where to place your focus." "Love empowers you to focus, care, and exert more effort." "Keep going until you achieve your goals." "Faith means to believe without seeing, and the reward of faith is to see what you have believed." Links: https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

    29 min

  5. May 11

    S5E50 - Do It Anyway

    This week, McKay takes a look at that all too familiar feeling of not really wanting to do something, and then proceeds to highlight the potential benefits of actually going ahead and doing that thing anyway. Filled with his trademark stories, reflections, and insights, our host’s investigation here today offers enlightening lessons on motivation, discipline, and purpose that promise to transform listeners' perspective on life. During this thought-provoking episode, McKay explores the concept of taking action even when motivation seems elusive. Drawing inspiration from diverse sources, he uncovers the secrets to happiness and success while discussing how discipline plays a pivotal role in achieving these life goals. Throughout the episode, our host navigates various themes, including the significance of commitment, the legendary tale of Jonah, and the impact of creating a culture of excellence. Challenging the myth that motivation is the sole driver of action, McKay takes the opportunity today to pave the way for a more profound understanding of how dedication, discipline, and a “do it anyway” mindset can lead to fulfillment in our lives. Episode Highlights: An awe-inspiring encounter with humpback whalesThe significance of facing fears and taking action even when unwillingDrawing inspiration from the legendary tale of JonahThe power of discipline in achieving lasting success and happinessThe misconception about motivation and the importance of commitmentHow creating a culture of excellence can lead to remarkable resultsExploring the concept of the "abundant approach" How helping others adds motivationEmbracing discipline, finding integrity, and seeking happiness in life Quotes: "We can't be what we can't see. At the core of our behavior is how we see the world and our place in it." "For some time now, I've been nudged and inspired and given opportunities to go in a direction that God wants me to go. And for whatever reason, I've been a bit slow to respond." "Don't give in to the immediate gratification of the thing. Give in instead to your true motive." "Motivation is for amateurs. The rest of us just show up and get to work." "The winners didn't need motivation. They put a system in place in their life or business and established small habits of discipline." "Life takes the shape of an iceberg…90% of the time, the things that drive results are the work without motivation below the surface." "The definition of integrity is doing something you've decided to do long after the emotion of making the decision to do it has passed." "Happiness and success often come from doing things even when you don't feel like it." "Embrace your potential and fulfill your purpose, even if it means doing things you don't want to do." "Creating a culture of excellence and discipline can lead to outstanding results, even when the task is repetitive and not initially exciting." Links: https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

    31 min

  6. May 4

    S5E49 - Nothing Great is Easy

    In this captivating episode of Open Your Eyes, McKay takes listeners on a profound journey into the heart of success, anchored by the fundamental principle that "nothing great is easy." As he navigates through history's remarkable achievements, from conquering the English Channel to surviving the tumultuous descent over Niagara Falls, he spotlights the unyielding spirit of individuals who embraced challenges as stepping stones to greatness. The episode masterfully underscores the value of consistent, incremental improvements and the pivotal role of effective systems in turning aspirations into reality. Whether in the realms of sport, fitness, spirituality, entrepreneurship, or any other facet of life, our host illuminates the transformative potential of choosing the sunnier side, committing wholeheartedly, and prioritizing self-care as the key to unlocking one's path to success. Offering actionable insights to approach life's challenges with resilience and intention, McKay makes it crystal clear here today that greatness is not an unattainable summit but a series of milestones which, while difficult, are, indeed, ultimately achievable. Episode Highlights: Wholehearted commitmentHow centering can enhance focus and overall successAttention as a precious resourceSelf-care and self-investmentSmall improvements, big impactPrioritizing the development of effective systemsEmbracing challengesPersistence and dedication Quotes: "Nothing great is ever easy. It's the hard that makes it great." "Sometimes it's the 101st blow that does the trick, not the last blow." "Goals are about the results you want to achieve; systems are about the processes that lead to those results." "Success often lies in embracing challenges and viewing them as opportunities for growth." "The hard work and dedication are what make greatness worth it." "Centering enables us to avoid distraction. It will change your life." "You must treat yourself with great care." "Focus on the systems you employ rather than the goals you have. Give all you have to whatever is at hand." Links: https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

    31 min

  7. Apr 27

    S5E48 - What Lies Within You?

    McKay’s focus today is on the power of discovering what lies within ourselves, and he begins by introducing the story of Aaron Sorkin. Armed with a passion for drama and theater from an early age, it wasn't until Aaron dared to fail that he found success. His story serves as a testament to the power of daring to fail and discovering what lies within us. McKay also shares the stories of Eric and Laura, individuals who both faced adversity and overcame it to find success. Their stories, along with Sorkin’s, inspire us all to embrace our own journeys and discover our potential. They also teach us that, to find what lies within us, we must be resilient, determined, and willing to let go of what we cannot do, while remembering who we are and where we came from. Mckay’s words of wisdom here today, combined with these powerful narratives, empower us all to discover the very best that lies within us. Episode Highlights: Open Your Eyes’ two-year anniversary Aaron Sorkin's storyHow the best that lies within us can lead to remarkable successEric and Laura’s stories of overcoming adversity and finding success Embracing our journeys and discovering our potentialThe power of resilience and determinationLetting go of what we cannot doRemembering who we are and where we came fromDiscovering the best that lies within you Quotes: "The best that lies within you is waiting to be discovered.” "Success is not the absence of failure; it's the persistence through failure." "Daring to fail is not about wanting to fail. It's about recognizing that failure is a possibility, and deciding to take the risk anyway." "Believe in yourself, and the rest will fall into place." "The most important thing to do is to get started, even if it's a small step." "The things I cannot do, I will let go. But the things I can do, I will learn to do well." "She continued to write, and she became a successful author, living out her passion for writing about horses and racing." "To find what lies within you, you may need to remember who you are and where you came from." Links: https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

    32 min

  8. Apr 20

    S5E47 - The Road Ahead

    In this week’s episode, McKay explores the road that lays ahead of you in your life. He begins this exploration by sharing two stories from Tom Watson's experiences at the Masters Tournament which highlight the importance of embracing both the highs and lows in life. These stories serve as powerful reminders for us to reflect on our own journey, to navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead with grace and resilience, and to stay committed and focused on our goals, regardless of the obstacles that may come our way. The podcast episode also discusses the topic of failure and how to handle it. By focusing on the road ahead and fixing our vision on our end goal, we can learn to see failure as an opportunity for growth and learning. It's important to have a clear understanding of where we're headed, as this helps us navigate our journey with purpose and intention. Difficult roads may lead to beautiful destinations, and by persevering through the challenges, we become the person we are destined to be. Join McKay here today and you will be inspired to approach life with a growth mindset and to embrace the journey, no matter what it brings. Episode Highlights: Tom Watson's stories and their significanceEmbracing both the highs and lows of life with grace and resilienceThe importance of commitments and promises in our livesThe power of love and supportFailure as an opportunity to learn and growFocusing on the road aheadHaving a clear end goal in mindDifficult roads and beautiful destinationsThe importance of not giving upLearning how to react to future mistakesDefining yourself and your mistakes Quotes: "Life is full of highs and lows, and we need to learn to navigate both with grace and resilience." "Tom Watson's stories remind us that life is full of surprises and opportunities, and we need to be ready to seize the moment." "Commitments and promises are powerful drivers of our actions and choices, even in the face of adversity." "Love and support from our family and friends can help us overcome the toughest challenges in life." "The road ahead in life may be uncertain, but we can choose to embrace it with courage and determination." "Failure can be good. It's fertilizer." "Looking ahead is a huge help in life." "We each have the ability to make meaning from our actions and the actions of our children." "It is a simple fact that difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations." "Your difficult road will help you rise and you will find the strength to travel the road and make a better you along the way." Links: https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

    30 min
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4.7
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What you can’t see, you can’t be. That’s why we all need a clear vision of who we are and what we can become. On Open Your Eyes join author and business leader McKay Christensen to discover the steps to lasting change on your path to personal and business growth. From personal improvement to team leadership, get the insights and tools you need to open your eyes to a happier life.

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