Open Your Eyes with McKay Christensen McKay Christensen

In this enlightening episode of Open Your Eyes, McKay guides listeners through a gripping real-life incident involving a truck driver, a catastrophic accident, and the heroic efforts of bridge builder C.C. Myers. This narrative serves as a powerful exploration of the vital question: "When people look at you, what do they see?" highlighting the importance of perception and the signs of success we project.
McKay recounts the dramatic fuel tanker accident in Benicia, California, and how C.C. Myers' exceptional skills and confidence transformed a potential disaster into a remarkable success. The episode delves into Myers' strategic approach to winning the project bid, the importance of projecting confidence, as well as Christian Laettner's legendary basketball moment as an illustration of knowing you can succeed. It further examines how inspiring visions and focused goals, as demonstrated by Howard Schultz's turnaround of Starbucks, can lead to significant achievements. Practical advice on eliminating distractions, embracing a second brain for better productivity, and the importance of being coachable and learning from mistakes rounds out the discussion. Through his reflections on a variety of narratives, McKay unearths profound insights into presenting ourselves as reliable and successful individuals in both personal and professional realms.
Episode Highlights:
The dramatic account of a fuel tanker accident in Benicia, CaliforniaThe heroic and efficient bridge rebuilding efforts led by CC MyersAnalysis of Myers' confident and strategic approach to winning the project bidThe significance of projecting confidence and knowing you can succeed, illustrated by Christian Laettner's legendary basketball momentThe role of inspiring visions and focused goals in achieving successLessons from Howard Schultz's turnaround of Starbucks by eliminating friction and streamlining operationsPractical advice on eliminating distractions and embracing a second brain for better memory and productivityThe importance of being coachable, learning from mistakes, and projecting humility and confidence
Key Takeaways:
"A frog in a well cannot conceive of the ocean."
"We can't be what we can't see. Our view is critical to our well-being, happiness, and success."
"People are attracted to people who show the signs of success."
"In order to succeed, you must first believe you can."
"Ubuntu: A person can only be a person through others."
"An inspiring vision will shape the path you travel."
"Eliminate resistance that could hinder your progress."
"Get a second brain. Always carry a notebook."
"Celebrate small victories often, mourn failures quickly."
"Think purposefully about what you're saying to the world."
Links:
https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

On today’s episode of Open Your Eyes, McKay sheds light on the concept of excellence, revealing it to be a personal philosophy rather than an external prize. Taking inspiration from the legendary Michael Phelps among others, our host dives deep into the secrets of achieving greatness, demonstrating how it is, indeed, an inside job.
McKay peels back the layers of Michael Phelps' record-breaking journey, exploring his rigorous training routines, unwavering commitment, and the invaluable guidance of his coach, Bob Bowman. Transcending the realm of physical prowess, today’s episode emphasizes the critical role of mental fortitude and a relentless pursuit of improvement. By weaving in inspiring stories of excellence in everyday life, from education to personal growth, McKay demonstrates how exceeding expectations leads not only to success but also to profound fulfillment. Listen in today and you are guaranteed to walk away with actionable strategies to foster a culture of excellence, transforming both your personal and professional spheres.
Episode Highlights:
Seeing excellence as an internal commitment rather than an external achievementInsights into Michael Phelps' intense training schedule and dietary habits that contributed to his successThe critical role of Phelps' coach, Bob Bowman, in instilling a relentless pursuit of perfectionStories of how excellence manifests in different areas of life, including education and personal growthThe significance of mental focus and overcoming distractions to achieve extraordinary resultsHow a mindset of doing more than what is required leads to greater fulfillment and successPractical advice on fostering a culture of excellence in both professional and personal settings.
Key Takeaways:
"Excellence is an inside job; it starts with a decision and a commitment to be your best."
"Michael Phelps' success was not just about his physical attributes but his mental toughness and dedication."
"In life, doing the least becomes a habit, but so does striving for excellence."
"The pursuit of excellence fills people with energy and positivity."
"Excellence is not about stress or extra hours; it's an attitude and an intention."
"When you decide to be excellent, amazing things happen."
"Teaching children to strive for excellence begins with instilling the right beliefs and attitudes."
"Creating a culture of excellence involves modeling the behaviors and attitudes you want to see."
Links:
https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

Shining his spotlight onto the power of quotes, today, McKay explores how seemingly simple phrases can crystallize complex lessons, offer powerful guidance, and transform our lives. The key, he argues, lies not just in the words themselves, but in how we personalize them and integrate them into our own journeys.
Among the many examples McKay shares that illustrate the impact of quotes are the way in which his own father used quotes to impart wisdom, and the story of Church Leader, David O. McKay (after whom our host is named), who, as a young missionary, found purpose through an inscription he encountered. He also highlights the story of Clay Dyer, a professional bass fisherman with formidable physical limitations who overcame them through sheer determination, inspired by a powerful quote. By weaving together stories, personal anecdotes, and timeless proverbs, McKay reminds listeners that quotes aren't just motivational soundbites – they can be the starting point for taking responsibility for our lives and achieving our goals, as long as we don't let fear hold us back.
Episode Highlights:
• How inspiring quotes offer powerful life lessons in simple sentences
• The impact of integrating quotes into your life 
• Finding quotes that resonate deeply and become your personal mantras
• The power of proverbs
• Quotes that shape purpose
• Unleashing the power of quotes to inspire taking charge of your life and attitude
• Overcoming obstacles
• Conquering fear and pursuing goals
Key Takeaways:
"The rewards are great if one succeeds, but the rewards are so great because so few succeed. Too many succumb to despair and fail along the way without realizing they already possess all the tools necessary for success." - Og Mandino
"Whate'er thou art, act well thy part." - Inscription seen by David O. McKay
"Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God." - Corrie ten Boom
"If the whole world was blind, how many people would you impress?" - Boonaa Mohammed 
"Perfection is achieved, not when there is nothing more to add, but when there is nothing left to take away." - Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
"The greatest day in your life and mine is when we take total responsibility for our attitudes. That's the day we truly grow up." - John C. Maxwell
"Don't let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game." - Babe Ruth
"We suffer more often in imagination than in reality." - Seneca the Younger
Links:
https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

McKay throws open the door on the often-misunderstood concept of charm in this latest installment of the Open Your Eyes podcast. Forget the social butterflies - McKay argues that charm is a powerful tool anyone can learn and put into practice to make a positive difference for themselves and for all those they encounter.
The episode dives deep, exploring the surprising influence of charm with real-world examples. From the unlikely success of the Hoover Dam, spearheaded by a charming leader who united a team of unskilled workers, to the life-saving power of a smile and a kind word offered by a stranger, our host weaves a compelling narrative. Research backs it up too, with studies revealing the contagious nature of smiles and the persuasive power auditors wield when armed with charm. McKay empowers us all to cultivate our own charm with actionable tips – a sprinkle of genuine compliments, the magic of active listening, and the importance of remembering names. As our learned host notes, charm is more than just charisma, it's about creating genuine connections and making others feel valued. By incorporating the information and tips he offers here today, you can cultivate your charm and use it to create a more positive and impactful life.
Episode Highlights:
The Hoover Dam's historical significanceHow Frank Crow, the Hoover Dam project leader, united a team of unskilled workers through his charmThe science of charm, showing it can be learned and its impact on social interactionsStanford University studies highlighting the power of smiling for both the smiler's mood and those around themReal-world examples demonstrating the influence of charm, such as Don Ritchie saving lives with kindness and charm, and charming auditors' successPractical tips for cultivating charm
Key Takeaways:
"Frank Crow was a genius for organized thinking and for imparting organized thinking to other people. He was not only an engineering genius, he was a people genius."
"A smile can save someone's life, so add it to your charm."
"Olivia Fox, author of The Charisma Myth, defines charm as how delightful it is to interact with someone. I love that definition."
"Charming people smile. They just smile and it gives them influence."
"Smiling, even a forced smile, elevates your mood and smiles are contagious."
"Fred Rogers used his charm and genuine kindness to leave a lasting impression on generations of viewers."
"Charming people remember names, even small details, often to a surprising degree."
"If you want to endear people to you, be charming."
"Taking care of yourself can make all the difference when you're trying to land a job or influence someone."
"Charm goes much further than talent, than popularity, or anything else."
Links:
https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

In this week’s episode, McKay undertakes an examination of the power of gathering knowledge and ‘know-how’ by exploring the captivating journeys of several extraordinary individuals. Reviewing their unique approaches to problem-solving and relentless pursuit of knowledge, he brings to vivid life the fact that acquiring understanding of the ‘how’ can lead to remarkable achievements and innovations.
McKay highlights Tu Youyou’s research on Chinese herbal medicine that led to artemisinin, a key malaria treatment with a global impact, as well as John Snow's work during the 19th-century cholera outbreak, emphasizing meticulous data collection. The episode also covers Joshua Bell's metro station experiment, illustrating that recognizing excellence requires understanding the craft. Additionally, McKay reflects on Russell M. Nelson's heart surgery contributions, Bob Mankoff's journey to becoming a celebrated cartoonist, and Hedy Lamarr's frequency-hopping technology. Through these stories and his own sage observations, McKay demonstrates that greatness truly is rooted in know-how, inspiring us all to pursue mastery within our own lives.
Episode Highlights:
The importance of "know-how"Tu Youyou’s discoveryJohn Snow's cholera investigationBob Mankoff and Joshua Bell’s examples of mastery and persistenceHedy Lamarr's example of interdisciplinary innovationMalcolm Gladwell's 10,000-hour rule, The Beatles, and the role of practiceExamples from real life of choosing an area to master and seeking knowledgeBeing inspired by others’ achievements
Quotes:
"Youyou's discovery of artemisinin has saved millions of lives around the world."
"Great things are done by people who know how."
"Snow's intervention in removing the Broad Street pump handle effectively stopped the outbreak."
"In the middle of gaining more know-how, inspiration often comes."
"President Nelson's work in heart surgery was groundbreaking and life-saving."
“Remember, what you do duplicates.”
"Hedy Lamarr's frequency-hopping technology laid the groundwork for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth."
“Decide what you will dive into, find your topic for getting more know-how, follow the masters, ask questions, and stay patient and learning.” 
Links:
https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

McKay shines his spotlight this week on the remarkable interplay between faith and perseverance in achieving the seemingly impossible. By weaving together historical sports achievements and biblical narratives, he illuminates how a minuscule chance, when bolstered by steadfast belief and tenacity, can culminate in profound success.
Our host delves into the awe-inspiring stories of racehorses Secretariat and Rich Strike, whose unexpected and historic victories in the world of horse racing underscore the significant impact of genetic legacy and relentless determination. Alongside these tales, McKay reflects on the biblical “Parable of the Unjust Judge”, reinforcing the theme that persistence can indeed influence outcomes and bring about justice. Through discussions on the essential role of psychological resilience and the application of these timeless lessons to personal and professional challenges, he offers listeners actionable insights into transforming slim odds into substantial successes. Be sure to join McKay here today as he draws poignant connections between legendary sports achievements and enduring spiritual teachings, motivating us all to keep pushing forward, no matter the odds.
Episode Highlights:
Exploring Secretariat’s legacyRich Strike’s unforeseen triumphThe role of pedigree in determining potential in sportsLessons from the parable of the unjust judgeStrategies for converting minimal odds into significant successesInsights into the mental toughness required in high-stakes environmentsApplying lessons from the world of sport and scripture
Key Takeaways:
“We're talking about turning a 1% chance into a significant outcome.”
“The unexpected victory of Rich Strike shows that underdogs can emerge victorious.”
“Fully understanding the 99% can make a 1% chance sufficient.”
“Belief is crucial, especially when facing great odds.”
“True ‘impossibility’ is nothing when approached with conviction.”
“Our deepest desires can become reality if pursued with relentless determination.”
“Give more, love more, and live more, and watch what returns to you as a result.”
“You'll turn your 1% chance with 99% belief into 100% certainty, I am certain of it.”
Links:
https://www.mckaychristensen.org/