Open Your Eyes with McKay Christensen McKay Christensen

This week, McKay explores the beauty, joy, and value to be found in second place, highlighting the fact that it can catalyze profound personal growth and societal impact. He illuminates the often-overlooked virtues of being second, suggesting that true success is not necessarily found at the pinnacle of individual achievement, but in the influence and change we can effect when we accept a seemingly more humble role.
McKay recounts the powerful stories of such Olympic athletes as silver medalist Mack Robinson, who used his platform and later life to foster community improvements and youth engagement, exemplifying how second place can lead to first-rate contributions to society. In addition to revealing the truth that embracing second place means putting God and faith first, our host shares personal accounts of the ways in which adopting a secondary role in conversations and leadership opens up opportunities for deeper understanding and more effective teamwork. Today’s inspiring episode invites listeners to reconsider their ambitions and perspectives on success, advocating for a shift towards valuing the quiet yet impactful victories that come from putting others first.
Episode Highlights:
The legacy of Mack RobinsonThe power of second placeHistorical Olympic momentsLeadership through listeningCommunity impactThe role of humility in leadershipPutting God and faith in first placeCelebrating unsung heroes
Quotes:
"Most of us, probably all of us, come in second or third a lot more than we win."
"Listening does put you in second place, and there you learn more than you could in first."
"You'd be surprised how much joy there is in being second in a conversation."
"Putting second first has intrigued me for a while. How do we put our seconds, our second tendency, first?"
"When you put being second first, the influence you start to gain can transform your personal and professional life."
"We work and lead and parent and live, often coming in second, but we do so quietly, setting records and reaching our goals in the background."
"Mack Robinson wore his Olympic uniform while sweeping streets, demonstrating the dignity and pride he maintained despite not coming in first."
"The beauty and grace in life often aren't found in the headlines but in quieter stories and moments that we experience every day."
"Good listeners come in second in conversations, but they learn more than they would have otherwise." 
"By putting God or faith first, you inherently place yourself second, which reshapes your priorities and impacts."
Links:
https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

Acknowledging that adopting new perspectives can significantly enhance personal and professional growth for everyone, this week McKay focuses on the many benefits this process offers men in particular. Exploring the power of choices and mentorship through a variety of instructive stories and insights, he introduces and illuminates the "seven ways to be a better man."
Throughout the episode, impactful narratives such as Frank Sinatra's transformative journey with a vocal coach illustrate the profound influence of guidance and persistence. McKay uses this and other stories to drive home the importance of self-improvement methods, including listening skills, resilience, education, and redefining personal narratives. By interlacing these tales with practical advice and actionable steps, he not only highlights challenges but also motivates listeners to foster meaningful relationships and commit to continuous personal growth. Tune in today and immerse yourself in this compelling blend of historical biography and modern analysis filled with practical lessons on navigating the complexities of life and achieving personal greatness.
Episode Highlights:
Daily choices and how the small decisions shape our overall life trajectoryThe impact of mentorshipThe "seven ways to be a better man," including practical tips for personal growthCurrent trends affecting men's roles in society, education, and professional environmentsInspiring stories from various individuals who have overcome significant challengesInsights from educators, psychologists, and other professionals on improving one’s lifeMcKay’s call to action
Quotes:
"Each day we live, we have a series of choices of where we spend our time and what to think."
"The foundation of our behavior and beliefs is the way we see the world and ourselves in it."
"We've all been given gifts that can, in turn, give these gifts to the world and to the men in our lives."
"When Frank Sinatra started learning, the whole world opened up to him."
"Each time I find myself flat on my face, I pick myself up and get back in the race. That’s life."
"Just because it's routine doesn't mean it has to be mundane. Spice it up, romanticize it, make every moment count."
"Listening isn’t just about hearing what's said, it’s about understanding and responding with action."
"We need to be the coaches in the lives of others, offering guidance and support when they need it most."
Links:
https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

McKay navigates the significant impact of daily choices, portrayed through both literal and metaphorical bridges, in this week’s installment of Open Your Eyes. Connecting personal decisions to navigating major waterways, he highlights how these choices construct the pathways of our lives and the consequences they carry across various sectors, from individual life changes to broad economic impacts.
Along the way, McKay reflects upon the vital role of Baltimore's key bridges in local and national commerce and unpacks the recent maritime crisis involving the cargo ship Dali to illustrate the importance of quick decision-making in emergency situations. He also delves into the transformative power of creativity during historical moments, as seen in Francis Scott Key's spontaneous composition of what would become a national anthem, and explores personal stories of resilience and legacy—how habitual reading influenced Lin Manuel Miranda to create "Hamilton," the cherished quilts made by his grandmother, and the resourcefulness of missionaries in Africa. These narratives underscore the profound impact of resilience and creativity, reminding listeners that the bridges we build through our everyday actions not only define our personal journeys but also leave enduring legacies that span generations.
Episode Highlights:
How strategic choices, akin to selecting navigational routes, influence broader life and economic outcomesThe significant roles of the Francis Scott Key and Memorial Bay bridges in supporting Baltimore's economy and national infrastructureHow the cargo ship Dali's crisis highlights the crucial aspects of crisis management and decisive action under pressureFrancis Scott Key's spontaneous creation of a national anthem during wartime serves as a poignant example of how creativity can forge lasting legaciesLin Manuel Miranda's journey from reading to creating the acclaimed musical "Hamilton"The heartfelt legacy of McKay’s grandmother’s quiltsThe resilience of missionaries in Africa who reinforced bridges to transport essential suppliesHow choices, whether in crisis or calm, build the metaphorical bridges that guide and shape our lives
Quotes:
"Each choice leads us down a different path, much like choosing a route from the sea into the heart of a bustling city."
"The bridges we cross are not just made of steel and concrete, but also of the decisions we make every day."
"When the Dali faced disaster, it wasn't just a ship in peril— it mirrored our own moments of crisis, where quick, decisive action can avert greater disasters."
"Francis Scott Key's impromptu words on that historic night echo the unforeseen impact of our spontaneous decisions."
"Every day, we write the poem of our lives, not on paper, but through the actions we take and the decisions we make."
"Like the sturdy girders of a bridge, our habits and decisions support the weight of our lives’ ambitions and challenges."
"Let us embrace the ‘tugs’ of inspiration as guides to steer us through life's turbulent waters.”
Links:
https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

McKay unveils the powerful theme of tuning into our authentic inner voice amidst the multitude of life's decisions and challenges in this latest installment of the Open Your Eyes podcast. Highlighting a variety of narratives involving such figures as Vincent van Gogh, Oprah, and Moses, the episode underscores the significance of listening to the voices that truly guide and shape our destinies.
Delving into the essence of recognizing and following the voices that genuinely matter, McKay reflects on these narratives and insights, urging listeners to reevaluate their life's priorities and the impact of their choices. The episode also goes on to offer practical advice on how to sift through life's distractions to uncover clarity, purpose, and joy. McKay’s wisdom shared here today acts as a reminder that, by listening to those good voices and focusing on what truly enriches us, we can find our own voices, reach our full potential, and lead lives of profound fulfillment.
Episode Highlights:
Prioritizing what truly matters as a means to amplify the guiding voices towards living a purposeful lifeFocusing on what we cherishPractical guidance on navigating life's challenges by granting 'lifetime passes' to those who hinder us, enabling us to concentrate on the voices that truly matterA goal-setting strategy emphasizing dedication and a period of undivided effort to achieve aspirations without succumbing to doubtsEmbracing our present circumstances as a foundation for advancementInstructive narratives involving Oprah, Vincent van Gogh, Moses and others
Quotes:
"The truth is, there are true and correct voices that if we learn to listen to them, we can improve our life, our actions, and become more of who we're supposed to become."
"You are extraordinary. You are not made or put here by your Creator just to get by, or to wait until it is convenient."
"Decide what matters most... When you decide what matters most, it becomes a louder voice in your life."
"Focus on what you love, completely abandon your focus on what you don't. Let it go."
"You never will know if something works until you give it everything."
"You are exactly where you're supposed to be."
"You have within you the DNA to make your life fabulous and remarkable."
"Whenever we begin something worthwhile, there's a part that is not fun. It seems tedious and is difficult."
"We act as if achieving the goal will make us happy. And you might be a little happier, but you can be happy today."
"Give your whole heart for a period of time to whatever you're doing... Accept where you're starting and follow the good voices that come to you and watch. You will find your voice."
Links:
https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

The very essence of the human soul and its quest for purpose comes under McKay’s learned scrutiny this week as he weaves a tapestry of his own experiences with those of others to illustrate this journey towards self-discovery and profound personal growth. Through captivating narratives, he sheds light on how deeply connecting with one's passions can transform mere existence into a life imbued with soulful intentionality and fulfillment.
Beginning with his own adventures in skiing, McKay sets the stage for a deeper exploration of living with this soulful intention. He recounts the exhilarating yet tragic story of Craig Kelly, whose life and death underscore the profound connection between risk, passion, and soul purpose. The episode also features the inspiring journey of Anthony, an individual who transcended the challenges of autism to touch the lives of others, highlighting the power of empathy and understanding. McKay's encouragement to listen to our soul's whispers for guidance towards small but significant life changes resonates as a call to action for listeners. He concludes this fascinating episode with a powerful message: by nurturing our souls with patience and care, akin to tending a garden, we can discover and fulfill our true destiny, ensuring our lives are not just lived, but richly experienced.
Episode Highlights:
How Warren Miller's ski movies inspired McKay and his friends to find a soulful connection with skiingThe life and tragic avalanche death of snowboarding legend Craig KellyThe soul's essence, its transcendental journey, and how they shape our identities and destiniesAnthony's story of overcoming the challenges of autism and bullyingListening to "soul whispers," the inner guidance that directs us towards fulfilling our soul's purpose and making meaningful life changesLessons from Ecclesiastes about life's seasonsThe necessity of patience, care, and attention in cultivating our soul, akin to tending a gardenSoulful intentionality, empathy, and the pursuit of one's true calling

Quotes:
"Each day we live, we have a series of choices of where we spend our time, what to think, and how to go about our day."
"Some people attach snowboards to their feet. Very few attach them to their soul."
"We talk of beautiful souls, lost souls, soul food, soul mates. And yet the more we talk, the more we risk falling into cliché."
"Your perceptions of what is around you consider your soul as a receptacle, and over the course of your lifetime, you are feeding it a certain diet so it grows in the direction of the nutrition that you give it."
"Listening is about learning to discern the quiet voice of the soul amidst the noise of everyday life and trying to follow its guidance."
"True life is lived when tiny changes occur."
"Your soul needs to dance from time to time. Feeding your soul is like tending to a garden."

Links:
https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

McKay examines the transformative power of words and how they forge our identities and destinies in today’s episode. Exploring the significance of the labels we adopt and the profound effect words have on our perception and actions, our host invites listeners to reconsider their self-perceptions and strive for excellence.
Expanding on this theme, McKay shares captivating stories, such as a rancher's encounter with a federal agent, an MIT classroom experiment, and Harper Lee's inspiring journey, each underscoring the influence of language on our lives. These anecdotes, coupled with scientific research, illustrate the dramatic shifts that positive affirmations and constructive self-talk can initiate, propelling us beyond mediocrity to embrace our exceptional selves. McKay's narrative here today is a compelling reminder that the words we choose to internalize and the labels we accept can either constrain us or catalyze our growth, highlighting the essential role of humility and faith throughout.
Episode Highlights:
The deep impact of labels and perceived authority on our sense of self and our actionsHow the labels we adopt can shape our identity and influence our life's trajectoryThe significant role a single word plays in altering our perceptions of others and ourselvesCelebrating the power of belief and encouragement in overcoming obstacles and achieving greatnessThe transformative effect of positive affirmations and self-talk on personal developmentHow words scientifically influence our mental and physical well-beingHow humility and faith in the words we internalize can lead to meaningful changes in our livesEncouraging a reevaluation of the words we hold onto as a path toward growth and escaping mediocrity

Quotes:
"Words do create worlds."
"Sometimes labels are nothing more than a meaningless badge in the arena of life."
"One word, one label can change our perception of ourselves."
"Every day and in every walk of life, ordinary people do extraordinary things."
"Words are a big deal. They can bring joy, answer prayers, give belief, and change perspectives."
"What you believe, the words you lay hold on, matter."
"Remember the power of words to change your life, to change your mind, to give you gifts meant for you."
"Mediocrity is pretty darn comfortable."
"The truth is we often place labels on ourselves, such as talented or unable, unworthy, fake, selfish, ugly."
"You are extraordinary. Sometimes we and you need a reminder of just how precious you are in the eyes of your Maker."

Links:
https://www.mckaychristensen.org/