Discover more from 5 Minute Friday - by The Backpack CPA

Every Friday I share a short newsletter with tips & resources to help you with your professional & personal development & growth! Let's start "GROWING" through our human journey instead of just "GOING" through it!

#56 - “What's Your And?” ― John Garrett

When we define ourselves solely by our jobs, it can lead to burnout, dissatisfaction & a lack of authenticity.

Vimal {vee-mull}

Sep 8, 2023

Welcome to issue #56 of 5 Minute Friday! Get quick tips and insights for your professional & personal growth each week!

Let's start "GROWING" through our human journey instead of just "GOING" through it!

“I say always follow your passion, no matter what because even if it’s not the same financial success, it’ll lead you to the money that’ll make you the happiest.” ―Ellen DeGeneres

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This week’s topics:

5 Question Friday w/ Josh Youngblood, EA 📺 (weekly video segment)
“What's Your And?” ― John Garrett

Issue #56 sponsored by

5 Question Friday (Video Segment)

Guest: Josh Youngblood, EA (https://youngbloodgroupllc.com)

Tune in for this insightful chat with Josh as we delve deep into the significance of setting boundaries, especially in professional settings. Also, discover how therapy can be a game-changer, not just in personal growth but also in professional success. Josh gives us a sneak peek into his day planning techniques and shares invaluable advice on controlling one's schedule. And don’t miss out as he drops some profound wisdom on why "comparison is the thief of joy." Tune in for an episode packed with insights and actionable advice!

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Do you have a topic, question or even a person you’d like us to interview? Click HERE to let us know!

“What's Your And?” ― John Garrett

Last week I had the privilege of seeing John Garrett speak at the Bridging The Gap conference in Chicago. If you haven’t seen his work, he is a CPA turned comedian and podcaster, that came up with “What's Your And?” John believes that by discovering and defining "your and" – your non-work-related passion or interest – it can help you become more authentic and fulfilled in your personal and professional lives. In today’s newsletter, I’m going to share with you a little bit about the “What’s Your And?” concept & what it means for your professional & personal growth.

As a former accountant, John knows too well the pressures that come with a career in accounting, which is why he's on a mission to help professionals tap into their non-work-related passions and interests. John’s message is simple –you are more than just your job title, behind that job title is a human & inside the human is a soul. When we define ourselves solely by our jobs, it can lead to burnout, dissatisfaction, and a lack of authenticity.

By discovering your "and" – whatever it may be, from photography to cooking to skydiving – you can bring your full, authentic self to work. In turn, this can lead to a more fulfilling and enjoyable career. The importance of discovering your "and" extends beyond personal fulfillment. It can also have practical benefits for your career. When you bring your whole self to work, coworkers and clients can connect with you on a deeper level. It can also make you more relatable, approachable, and memorable. In the highly competitive world of work, making authentic connections can set you apart and help you succeed.

He emphasizes that your "and" doesn't have to be something impressive, trendy, or cool. It just has to be authentic to you. John mentioned “If you enjoy it, then that’s all that matters. You’re doing it for you.”

John Garrett's "What's Your And?" movement is all about encouraging humans to be their full, authentic selves, on and off the job. By exploring and defining your "and," you can enrich your personal life, enhance your professional connections, and bring more fulfillment to your career. Whether your "and" is gardening, playing guitar, or hiking, it's an essential part of who you are. So, the next time someone asks you, "what do you do?" Let them know your "and" and see how it helps you connect more authentically with others and yourself.

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