How to kick ass

Your strategy

“If you don’t have a plan, you’ll always be part of someone else’s.” It’s a bold statement, but a powerful truth. Without your own clear goals, priorities, and dreams, your time will be spent advancing others’ agendas, leaving your own aspirations unfulfilled. How often do you end the day with tasks left undone because you’ve been sidetracked by what’s urgent to others? Without a plan, it’s easy to lose focus on what truly matters to you. This chapter in Kickass will help you craft a specific action plan, define your "why," and set motivating goals, but there are a variety of tools out there to assist you in this journey. The take-away: take control, dream big, and start living your life on your own terms.

Mindset and focus

Your mindset shapes how you see yourself and the world. It influences everything from how you handle challenges to the limits you set for yourself. If you don’t believe you’re capable of success, it becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. Your upbringing and life experiences contribute to your beliefs, but they don’t have to define your future. By developing a growth mindset, you can turn setbacks into opportunities and move past the limiting beliefs that hold you back.  In Kickass, I was very intentional about teaching others to master your mind, focus on the right things, and surround yourself with positivity. What sets your focus on a daily basis? The take-away: a strong mindset is your foundation for lasting success and happiness!

Work smarter, not harder

Many people believe that working harder guarantees recognition and success, but that’s often not the case. Hard work alone isn’t sustainable—eventually, you’ll hit a limit, risking burnout and stress. The real key to long-term success is working smart, not just hard. Boosting your productivity allows you to focus on what truly matters, reduce distractions, and bring structure to your work. It helps prevent procrastination and gives you better control over your time. I explore how to increase your productivity, create more balance, and improve the quality of your work in this chapter of Kickass, and I hope it will leave you inspired. The take-away: it is possible to increase your productivity while maintaining your energy and creativity.

Energy and health

Your health is the foundation of your energy, and energy is the fuel for productivity. The more energised and well-rested you are, the better you’ll handle stress, emotions, and the demands of your career. If you’re aiming to maximise your productivity, becoming the healthiest and fittest version of yourself is key. It’s about finding balance in four essential areas: exercise, nutrition, relaxation, and sleep. These elements are interconnected, and neglecting one can drain your energy. The take-away: through building routines that support your health and unlock your full potential, allowing you to thrive both personally and professionally.

Positioning yourself

In a world fixated on the highlights of others’ lives, it’s easy to forget that success is often built on hard work and perseverance. Social media amplifies this illusion, showcasing only the glamorous moments while hiding the struggles, setbacks, and tears behind the scenes. True success rarely comes overnight; it demands daily effort, continuous self-improvement, and a commitment to learning from failures. For me, it as important to emphasise the importance of personal branding, confidence-building, and networking in Kickass, and I hope others will consider this in their personal joruneys too. The take-away: to stand out, you must be willing to take risks, set boundaries, and handle criticism!

Master your skills

It's all too easy to get lost in the daily grind, neglecting your personal development amid the hustle and bustle. However, investing in yourself is essential for growth, not just in job-specific skills but also in vital soft skills that enhance your confidence and professionalism. These soft skills are what set you apart, defining how you communicate and the unique energy you bring to every interaction. The take-away: reflect on and consider the key skills that can enrich your professional toolbox.