Mindfulness isn’t just about taking time each day to focus inward. To me, mindfulness can be getting lost in a good book and then acting based on the knowledge gained from that book.
I’ve read each of the books below. I list them here as they are a large part of how I was able to improve my mental health, be more successful at work, and to balance the “7 pillars” of my life. I hope they can do the same for you and submit to you that you include them in your action-based plan to improve a little every day.
Godspeed,
Kevin
The Apps
I’ve benefited from using headspace daily for a couple of years now. I take 10 minutes most days to practice mindfulness and I use the wind downs at night to help me fall asleep.
Faith is something I’ve left and come back to many times throughout my life. I’ve found the Hallow app educational and a valuable tool as I’ve re-entered my faith, “Pillar 7“.
You don’t have to believe what I do, but belief in something larger than yourself helps.
The Books
The most influential book I’ve ever read. Man’s Search for Meaning tells the harrowing tale of Viktor Frankl’s journey through four concentration camps during World War 2.
To me, this book has provided me perspective about true hardship when I’ve felt down and defeated.
Extreme Ownership awakened the leader in me that had been dormant across many areas in my life. I’ve applied the principles in this book in the gym, on the Jiu Jitsu mats, at home, and at the workplace. In each of these areas my life has gotten exponentially better as a result. Ownership is now “Pillar 1” in my life.
My wife gave me this book after a recent promotion. In the book, John Maxwell shares how instead of always, or often, providing answers for his team, he uses questions to help his team produce ways to work through solutions on their own. This book helps me toggle between whether I need to coach (ask) or consult (give) my team members.
As a former First Responder and U.S. Navy Veteran, I’ve found Kim Colegrove’s book a valuable resource on my self-healing journey. Mindfulness has become my “Pillar 2” of the seven pillars that I focus on to shore up the balance in my life.
For me, Lost Connections provided valuable perspective on how human connection vastly improves our mental health. Additionally, Johann Hari’s testimony about the power of taking control of his own mental health wellness helped drive me to follow suite and to include connection as my “Pillar 5” that helps me balance my life.
Kevin Pannell, Host of the Hope is NOT a Plan podcast is not part of an affiliate programfor any of the apps or books listed above.
I use each of the supplements and nutritional products listed below. I’ve done extensive research, yes much on the internet, via legit resources, and evaluated what works best for me. I propose each of you do the same. Determine your need. Try different brands. Once you start, stay consistent. Consistency if vital to keep our “Pillar 3” (movement) from crumbling.
Godspeed,
Kevin
Creatine Monohydrate is one of the most beneficial and medically researched supplements around. I credit creatine with helping me recover faster, maintain, or build muscle in my 40s and 50s, and helping me keep up with 20-somethings on the Jiu Jitsu mats. Creatine is proven beneficial for men and women.
Whey Protein is another of the most vital nutritional supplements. The overarching guidance on how much to take is one gram of protein per pound of bodyweight.
Chocolate Jocko MÖLK is my favorite flavor. It tastes great with some coffee like a healthy version of a Mocha Frappuccino.
I started taking Joint Warfare when it first came out in 2017. In a couple of weeks I felt the proven benefits of Glucosamine and Turmeric that are in Joint Warfare. I had less achy joints and seemed to recover faster. This is a staple of my daily wellness routine and I recommend you make it part of yours.
If you’ve taken a fish oil supplement you’ve probably experienced the “fish burps”. Yuck. Jocko Super Krill doesn’t cause those.
I take Super Krill primarily for its cardiovascular benefits. Krill oil is a great source of Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s provide benefit for our minds and joints. Combined with Joint Warfare, Super Krill keeps me moving on a daily basis.
Jocko GO is a tasty “energy drink”. I use quotes as this has about the same amount of caffeine as a cup of coffee. Comparable products from other manufacturers have double, and sometimes triple that amount of caffeine in them. Not good.
My preferred flavors are the Pineapple Coconut, Black Cherry Vanilla, and Pink Lemonade.
Kevin Pannell, Host of the Hope is NOT a Plan podcast is a participant in the Jocko Fuel GoAffPro Affiliate Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to the partner site.
