The Blog

Tactics are so numerous in the digital age. Analytics, metrics, ads, boosts, 7-step systems, hacks, tricks, etc. abound. And they're soooo bloody seductive!

So are the many invitations to develop technique. Blogs, books, YouTube videos, online courses, and famous successful people promising to "sho...

I don't often dwell on the past. But I am reflecting on 2018 today and the inflection points that inform and inspire what's coming in 2019 for Creative On Purpose.

Here's a few highlights from 2018:

• The project formerly known as The Stoic Guitarist and The Stoic Creative was rebranded Creative O
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Many conversations in 2018 informed and inspired my journey to develop myself through enhancing the lives of others. Each helped me develop and deliver my greatest endeavor so far. 

These three had the biggest impact in helping me cultivate a greater sense of peace and prosperity, even when encount...

Fear of Missing Out (FOMO), is a relic of our prehistoric brain that has outlived its necessity and utility.

When we scuttled about the planet as just another species trying to get enough to eat without being eaten, FOMO was very real. Miss out on a meal when they come with dangerous infrequency co...

Generosity is the expression of kindness, understanding, and selflessness. It’s an inherent impulse born of our social nature. This primal quality explains why giving and helping makes you feel good and why being selfish and stingy feels terrible. As with gratitude, there is good science supporting ...

Are you a "just in case" learner, or a "just in time" doer?

You and I grew up in the age of "just in case" education. Learn your algebra, learn to diagram a sentence, learn the battles of the Civil War, and learn the rules of volleyball just in case you might need them later.

But you and I now liv...

In any endeavor worthy of your time and talents, you'll face challenges, obstacles, and problems. There's a time and place for educating yourself, preparing, and planning for these moments. There's also a time to dive in and thrash your way to clarity and resolution.

Thrashing is the process of lea...

The composer knows the rules. He's studied and done his homework. He writes well-crafted arrangements. Specific and carefully chosen instructions are included. The work of a composer reflects his character and purpose, especially when played by those who know how to do as instructed.

The improviser...

It's the day after Thanksgiving here in the States.

If you participated in this tradition built upon gratitude and family, you have a  choice to make today about how you want to begin the next holiday season.

Begin the season of generosity and goodwill with a frenzied foray into the belly of the b...

A 100-year-old Stayman Winesap apple tree in full bloom is a pretty majestic sight.

That's all my wife, and I remembered from a tour of the 38-acre farm in Check, Virginia, that we purchased soon afterward.

We raised our two sons there, in addition to dogs, cats, chickens, fruit trees, berry bushe...

• “I’m not good enough.” Or, “I’m a work in progress.”

• “I’m stuck.” Or, “I’m ready!”

• “I can’t catch a break.” Or, “There’s opportunity in every obstacle.”

• “I’m scared.” Or, “Isn’t that interesting...?”

• “No one ever helps me.” Or, “Let’s go!”

• “I don’t deserve more.” Or, “I

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