Guidance from your future self | Mark John Stewart | TEDxMcMasterU

[@denrygeorge8745]

I love the reminder - "you have to work on your business, and not just in your business" - it is so easy to get stuck in the day to day grind (I own a restaurant), and then forget to consistently put time aside to build the framework for the future of your organization

[@SMG338]

Essential pointers to think about. We may not be able to plot out all the steps in our lives but with Mark’s sage advice we can make wise decisions.

[@laycienega]

This man knows how to get what he wants. I've always envied those who have a clear view and ambition. This guy ticks all the boxes!

[@dangeraldporter]

thanks for sending this talk, yeah right time to hear it for sure.

[@lakylewashington]

And he's doing it for all the right reasons.

[@rebeccadcarl]

I think a lot of people get scared thinking too far in advance. Focusing on tiny steps, tiny changes can lead to such big successes! Reminds me of a song "When my head rolls, another will turn - while I'm alive, I'll make tiny changes to Earth"

[@dimoraphotographer]

I once heard someone say "yard by yard, life is hard, inch by inch, life is a cinch"

[@donald-hamilton]

This chap is quite remarkable. I wish more people with this ambition would go through this exact process. To re-prioritize and see that humility, contribution and service to humanity are where actual fulfillment come from.

[@desivaldez]

I love the term to re-prioritize, I think it's the only way forward!

[@konglum]

How true, we live in a society where we are used to instant gratification - but the real stuff is that which we work for!!!

[@natalidejesusgonzalez3703]

oh you beat me here, great talk isnt it KL?

[@vickycristena]

this is true!

[@leojlive]

Agreed Kong

[@suzyqsuzy]

serious truth in this

[@avagrutel]

sugar, its in all forms, it tastes or feels good because it happens so fast, but it kills us. The things good for us, take time, but work.

[@lakylewashington]

What a journey this man has been on, I am quite astounded that such a well presented young man could go along the path that he has and ended up wanting to help so much more outside himself. I applaud this man's journey, it's certainly an inspiration.

[@surasakwichairak]

ya i am thinking i need to stop making excuses. this guy has the will and knows the way, i want to be like that.

[@leojlive]

We are appreciative for all he does!

[@therealblackdynasty]

What a remarkable young man. I think a lot of us would be surprised by how much our morals and values change over time and through experience. Very pleased to see such an ambitious young man putting his intellect to good use

[@mariannemortimer7724]

I think people who had almost nothing in childhood could reach much more in life. Mark is a great example.

[@iamarchiestewart]

When you know what the bottom feels like....That definitely drives a person.

[@horriblenature]

An inspirational message from an inspirational leader. A 5-year outlook on life sets the foundation on the future of life and its successs. Well done Mark, not only from a Entrepreneurship Leadership and Inspirational perspective but also from family.

[@juniorjacksonjr]

he's an amazing speaker!

[@natalidejesusgonzalez3703]

So many truths, work and you shall receive.

[@noraandrews8215]

and he is a very handsome man.

[@kristianzlee]

@@noraandrews8215 oh Nora, really?

[@dimoraphotographer]

Yes agreed

[@tinatuvalle]

I really enjoyed this talk.

[@georgecox2933]

so true, good common sense talk.

[@brownr003]

Real life gems for everyday living. Thanks for sharing MJS.

[@averisalon]

The full circle that takes place in this talk is really quite beautiful. It takes a great sense of who you are to find this success and purpose.

[@ThisIsMyGalaxy]

Your talk gives me a hope that anyone and everyone can change their life, no matter the circumstances.

[@davidhanson8232]

Where there is a will there is a way

[@jencrane2087]

Amazing talk Mark! I love the idea of incorporating a 5 year outlook to decision making and will aim to do this moving forward. Thanks for the inspiration and for calling on all of us to take on a leadership role as well. We need more leaders like you, so the rest of us need to step up!

[@sandytlyon]

My future self reminds me every day to take each moment as it comes and to be mindful and appreciate the small things! Tiny changes are what pave the way for the future. As long as we act mindfully and with positive intentions, our future selves will be happy and fulfilled.

[@aaronereid]

really loved this comment!

[@arnoldcintron1621]

beautiful perspective!

[@chesterwatson2387]

And that's exactly what this guy did.

[@noahjerted]

Important stuff here! The impact we can have on our communities is limitless and with Mark's brilliant thinking, it's the sort of innovation that moves people forward.

[@jessyclaston]

Thanks for sending this, needed to see it right now.

[@ryandetorie]

When I was a little child, my parents struggled to give me food and a roof over my head. I promised myself I would have a better life than they had. I am even grateful for the difficult life I had then because it gives me the power to change everything in future.

[@stephZandrews]

It's interesting that those of us who come from next to nothing thrive to do the best we can for ourselves and our community.

[@cagneydd]

Imagine we lived in a society where material things were in no way a representation of our success or worth... Do you think an 8 year old would even care about such a thing? At 8 years old a brain will start understanding more complex ways of thinking, they will begin to see patterns and critical thinking will begin to shine... This is also the age where creativity begins to really show. I really like this man, he's a fabulous speaker and the intent of this talk is to help people - but I do believe we are at a cross roads where more now than ever we need to encourage people to see outside of the box, to see the importance of connection and community and the consumerism and material gain do nothing for the greater good. Fact is, none of us would struggle at the rate we do if we were actually living the life this planet intended for us.

[@laycienega]

this sounds pretty idealist to me, but it could happen!

[@brandawoodword]

That would be utopia Cagney!

[@markjohnstewart]

Thank you for your very thoughtful comment Cagney - I certainly agree with your sentiments - setting the right goals and visions for ourselves and for the world is critical and urgent - something that is often missed when people talk about success

[@cagneydd]

@@markjohnstewart Great talk Mark, thank you!

[@CarissaTilson]

I think it's much better if kids grow up without getting whatever they want. You are an awesome example of this.

[@markjohnstewart]

Thanks for the thoughtful comment Carissa!

[@geoffdeeprose9469]

I was looking for something motivational because I am changing my life dramatically and youtube suggested I watch this. Really clarified my perspective.

[@charlottewebbnotthebook]

This thing did not go where I anticipated, I thought I was being set up for another "SUCCESS IS WEALTH" talk but I was so very pleasantly surprised. I wish more young men where like this! What a beautiful human.

[@rooseveltmartens9918]

This guy is a triple threat! Speaks well, presents well and actually cares about doing good! Not often you come across a tedtalk that has all these elements.

[@hasnain-jeelani]

dude great send, thank you

[@chesterwatson2387]

Liberia has been devastated for so long thanks to America. It also has an incredibly high child trafficking rate. It's heartbreaking. It is encouraging to see a man like this wanting to make a difference. I feel the need to say though, that if a person wants to help, if they want to make a difference, they can do it today, there are so many ways to volunteer, do research, help fund raise. You don't need an MBA to make a difference, you just need to act.

[@tommyruk]

No but it certainly helps and makes the red tape easier to manage.

[@surasakwichairak]

@@tommyruk Yeah it would REALLY help

[@bajs1742]

Some very insightful words. The world needs more of this. Look forward to hearing more!

[@dennisdanilla]

Goals are good, values are better, they then guide better than just a goal.

[@markjohnstewart]

Wise words Dennis - values can help guide us no matter the circumstance

[@ShamilShamilovtoronto]

Excellent talk, little things, day in, day out ...awesome talk.

[@sherylrinkler]

What timing to see this right before new years and a time when I am thinking of resolutions! There is more than losing weight and quiting smoking!

[@leodancingsanders]

He's so young but has accomplished so much, seems like we could all take a page out of this man's book.

[@albinachatton4390]

Yeah I reckon! Wow..

[@daphnefish]

Mark you have such a lovely manner about you and a very nice speaker to listen to.

[@jus-t-s]

I figured this was another guide to success talk but it was surprisingly wholesome! Mark has clarity and knowledge, I would take a class about such things if he were teaching! What a lovely man.

[@sorinareina]

There was something about this story, perhaps the development from a young child after material gain to seeing the bigger purpose in life... Very wholesome.

[@jackstanger]

100% Wholesome

[@amaharris761]

Inspirational and practical advice from a diligent hardworking and compassionate mentor. Canada is blessed to have you as a citizen and Liberia is certainly better having you in our corner. For you this is the tip of the iceberg and the world is certainly your oyster. 👏👏👏👏

[@leojlive]

Congratulations on the important impact you are making in spite of difficult circumstances in Liberia Ama

[@dimoraphotographer]

I saw you in the video!

[@amaharris761]

Yes quite a surprise Mark pulled.

[@ulisseditaque]

I am very familiar with that feeling of every one having something and missing out. But I think it is very much a driver in life, Mark is a perfect example.

[@hirominakahara2285]

Same here, very much a driver.

[@michealdrozd]

What we earn is what we respect.

[@olanik2061]

how true, getting free stuff has no connection to owning it.

[@markjohnstewart]

Love this

[@tonirduran]

Yeah right... This guy has got it. At first I was like "Righto, here we go" but nah, Mark genuinely gets it. What a fantastic talk.

[@dannyturkin6229]

Good on this guy. I could never, more so - would never, want to live like this. There is far too much beauty in spontaneity and taking risks at the last moment. I see the worth in setting goals, but those goals should never be rigid and always open to change. Life isn't about creating a beautiful result, life is about learning from the process and always allowing that process to welcome change.

[@carlajaffe]

smart speaker, good link to send me.

[@dannyturkin6229]

@@carlajaffe thanks

[@marlenethomas53]

....There is Always a Way!

[@geraldsolley]

There is, but are we ever challenged right now.

[@brewsterdd]

Agree Marlene there always is!

[@leojlive]

Yes Auntie Marlene - only if we first assure ourselves that there is a way will we then be relentless in our pursuit of positive change

[@chinadiggs543]

I would like to live an intentional and more successful life! Thank you for your motivational talk

[@gizmeaux]

i really want to write notes to all the people who've impacted my life now... a much better way to spend my time

[@theoscarnunez]

Awesome idea isn't it..

[@alanpotsypotts]

Truly an intellect, a professional - with a heart and head in all the right places. Great watch. Incredible journey.

[@kamilanotthevip]

He would be a divine influence on high school children, this is exactly the kind of message our youth need to see when there is so much information being thrown at them.

[@maryyouson4404]

I couldn't agree more Kammy, thank you for sharing this with me

[@jamesbowie4540]

This is a really good one Kam, cheers.

[@jonathanvallers]

Searched the comments to see if any one had said it, definitely agree!

[@desivaldez]

It is a breath of fresh air to see a young man like this doing such a marvelous talk about contribution and just what it takes. Fantastic! I have hope for our youth after watching this

[@beitrissavinsky]

His change of perspective throughout this talk is really beautiful

[@ianrendle]

The best I heard: 'to create more impact'. Very true!

[@glennokoro8573]

Great job Mark! Really good wake up call to decision making

[@aravindsithamparapillai8374]

Great talk! Really loved the insight around real life examples like taking night class to kick your career up or the comparison of writing a thank you card. appreciated the quote on "every decision you make it a vote for the person you want to be". Awesome Ted Talk.

[@leojohnson8811]

The votes will be counted!

[@ssookdar]

Wow, what an exceptional and inspiring message, for anyone at any age. Hope it reaches the masses. 👍

[@davidhanson8232]

An A Type personality for sure. I've always admired folks like Mark who have this ambition and self-awareness, really helps me take stock and think of my own perspective and goals. Cheers.

[@alanpotsypotts]

For me it was when he realised how he wanted to help and contribute instead of measuring success by material gain.

[@daphnefish]

My sister is like this. Incredibly intelligent, motivated and the need to contribute in a positive way.

[@davidhanson8232]

@@daphnefish good family to have!

[@chrisstudio7619]

Great Advise, You did a great Work Here in Liberia, Hope to see you again

[@leojohnson8811]

Team Empowerment Squared is looking forward to your success as a young entrepreneur in Liberia

[@saneleterrancehlongwane1613]

Through the Wire 🙌🏿🙌🏿🙌🏿🙌🏿

[@arlinegeorge6967]

Great great talk . Destined for greatness . Thank you, bless you. All your dreams come true.

[@ann-marieanie8104]

Just watched the video. Good guidance paired with good examples. The 5 year question resonates with me. Bravo!

[@sarahmac8626]

Your mother n father must be so proud I pray my son becomes a man like you.

[@dimoraphotographer]

This is incredible. Puts into words something I have thought for a long time but not been able to express. We can only create an intentional life if we project into the future and work backwards

[@keithpotter7366]

well said

[@shawnrea1]

Great work Mark! Keep inspiring and motivating others. 🥂🔥💯💯

[@markjohnstewart]

Thank you Shawn glad you have been sharing your strategies with the world as well

[@Iamcarlosdanger]

Nobody should stay and work at the same place for their whole life anymore. Yes it can be stressful at first, moving and learning new skills. Life is a journey and its our attachments and the thought of losing them that causes our stress and exhaustion. We are stuck in the routine and flustered when things change.

[@Nasi2006]

A great talk which is necessary for this generation....

[@hollytrichards]

This was really eye opening - I hope all of us have such a hopeful purpose for our future selves.

[@76expressions]

Truly incredible keep spreading this message

[@emmashubert]

Definitely agree with this man! Just that, sometimes... It's a lot easier said than done to do something that's better for yourself rather than just going for instant gratification.

[@teddybearlemaire]

Well this was timely. I literally just wrote a letter to my future self today. So important to look at the big picture, especially when you're easily distracted. sometimes it's easier said than done though!

[@dimoraphotographer]

I love this idea, when in the future will you read it back to yourself?

[@teddybearlemaire]

@@dimoraphotographer yes of course! but not for 10 years.

[@juniorjacksonjr]

great idea!!

[@jorgvonfrundsberg9643]

You can"t always get what you want...but you can try!

[@vanVeenable]

Thank you for this Mark- great message and inspiring work!

[@artcornish3520]

I am lying on the couch and watching your video with the hope something will change soon :D I suppose action would do it... Rather than just thinking about it. I am in awe of your drive and ambition, very inspiring talk. Thank you

[@sorinareina]

Thx for sending to me Arty. Really appreciated this one.

[@chinadiggs543]

I am doing and feeling the exact same hahaha too funny

[@lifepsycleofficial24]

I loved this talk. I especially liked the line "live a more intentional life"

[@alionafrunza5838]

True sometimes the in between isnt clear, I have been stuck there a few times.

[@shanau9272]

Motivational - Really enjoyed it !

[@superduperthedoug]

To get more out of life. I truly believe its not about wanting more so called success. If this was the answer I don't think we'd have the health and well being crisis we have today.

[@aaronereid]

i think every one is different, some feed off of material gain, luxury and comfort - others just want simplicity.

[@cagneydd]

@@aaronereid Thank goodness this virus is killing off the rich!

[@leonardotlucas]

i'm so impulsive. doesn't matter that i have vision boards and constant reminders everywhere, it's so hard to see the big picture. i wish i had the drive this guy does!!

[@sarahmac8626]

Very inspiring I listened to every minute

[@jackstanger]

What can one person do to change the life of the whole country? Your story is so inspirational, but it seems it requires a good team to start such huge and significant changes.

[@aylamorris]

Change starts with one person at a time :)

[@earlbannicek5766]

I am a graduate and your advice is absolutely amazing!

[@ermacohen]

I get why we still ask the question, I'm interested in hearing what today's answers would be.

[@lanceabbott1994]

In listening to this, I must admit I am guilty of so many things that puts my future self on hold. What I'm really recognising is I'm stuck in my hard wired thinking.

[@yanzexu6912]

I think the greatest part is that using the time on KZbin for writing notes.

[@arnoldcintron1621]

How you measure success is up to you. The decisions you make every day are the ones that lead you to where you want to be. A big question to ask yourself is who's life dream are you living?

[@hubert-olszewski]

there are so many people doing exactly that right now. there's a definite shift happening now.

[@cagneydd]

Agreed! The veil is being lifted, gone are the days of societal conditioning!

[@arnoldcintron1621]

@@cagneydd yes true.

[@samarnan]

That's too much pressure for me. I can't imagine thinking that far ahead into the future but I am always amazed by those who can, and stick to their plan! I forget what I'm doing half the time and if it wasn't for my planner I don't think I would get much of anything done.

[@leojohnson8811]

These are very important insights. No matter where you are in the world or what your situation is, we all have to take one step at a time forward to make progress, and we have to regularly tap into the vision we have for our future and bring that wisdom back to our decisions today. Bravo on this talk and thank you for all you have done to support community in Canada and Liberia. I can personally attest to the impact you have had through living these philosophies out every day and sharing your guidance with other people and organizations.

[@salimmouloud949]

Incredible

[@nyinggypo3373]

Yes sir!!!

[@nigeltomlin]

Every time I wish to start something new, my inner voice whispers and asks so many what-if questions that I just give up

[@westondevelopment]

You do really great stuff Mark.

[@yogitasevak1600]

Truly inspirational messege

[@simplerecipe2904]

Very inspiring 🤩

[@hubert-olszewski]

Nice talk, love that shoe story and how it sparked your life's journey!

[@markjohnstewart]

It's incredible how much formative experiences when we are young shape who we are for the rest of our lives

[@aaronereid]

Excellent talk. I would really to know how this guy is getting on during the last year..

[@arnoldcintron1621]

same here!

[@markjohnstewart]

Good question Aaron - it's been hard to have a longer term outlook when we've all been experiencing so much disruption because of COVID-19. I've looked on the bright side - it's given me a lot of opportunities to serve by helping the people and businesses that our companies support to transition and adapt, and the world's new comfort with communicating via video has actually allowed us to expand our client base globally even further.

[@g8m8]

Perhaps the biggest lesson to our younger self should be forgiveness, our lives get filled with confusion, hurt, hate and revenge, and that is a silent poison we need to learn how to process.

[@leodancingsanders]

There's a lot of truth in this hey

[@jefersonmathias5457]

best speeches

[@maryatkin3243]

I wish many times I could go back and guide myself, and maybe sneak in some good lotto numbers too :)

[@therealblackdynasty]

Haha, don't we all!

[@markjohnstewart]

If you figure out the lotto numbers part let me know Mary!

[@haileypattern7666]

I wish I could go back too!

[@julestrescott]

Agree, who are you today would be far more insightful?

[@ReydiantReality]

A lot of this sounds really familiar 🤔

[@caroldendy851]

are you listening then?

[@aslanaslanzade3684]

me too

[@luisbrezer]

great ideas are shared widely!

[@paddywilson-humble3003]

Good advice!

[@jeffgoldygold]

What I wish I said to my future self, 'take time to live, not achieve'

[@TheCreativeintelligence]

Waveform update. ❤❤❤

[@dereksunder]

i wish i had switched it up like this, maybe i wouldn't be struggling like i do now. i wonder what sort of influence and experience other then what he talks of here, has made him into such a forward thinking individual... seems to me there is more to this story i think.

[@chaddydescil]

Is this really the answer for a full life? to be a success and have more stuff?

[@albinachatton4390]

I'm wondering why we see only young people among those who want to help and do a lot for a charity? I think that elder people can be also helpful and they have the experience to share. Isn't that they just don't want to or we just don't want them? Bringing generations together would benefit us more than we know.

[@artcornish3520]

Perhaps they're just not doing ted talks but just hands on work instead.

[@micdaskel3313]

I am not sure I know anymore now then when I was a teen. I have loads of experiences, but have I learned? Not sure.

[@regina-reda]

I think you're projecting what you want from life, we keep believing for financial gain believing net worth & wealth is the answer. This was created by advertising & industry not family households.

[@gavin-morris]

In or on my business, I have a real hard time understanding that on a daily basis.

[@markjohnstewart]

Hi Gavin - good question - this means making sure you spend some amount of your energy every day on the things that help put the pieces in place for a better future. For an individual, maybe that means putting aside 10% of your income for savings as opposed to spending it today, or taking an hour to work out even though you don't feel like it, to support your overall health. For a businessperson maybe it means reaching out to 5 of your connections to see if there is anything you can help them with to build relationships that are sincere and lasting. For an organization, it could mean taking time for strategic planning or sending staff for professional development, instead of only focusing on running daily business activities.

[@edingutenberg9797]

@@markjohnstewart Thanks Mark I had same question.