Key Topics & Timestamps

[00:29] Ed's work in confidence building and youth development

[01:16] The importance of curiosity before passion

[02:37] Connection between curiosity and empathy

[04:06] Teaching teenagers about taking risks and trying new things

[06:15] Common mistakes in goal setting

[13:19] The power of positive self-talk and its impact

[18:36] The importance of modeling behavior for children

[21:26] Parenting with authenticity and handling mistakes

[31:13] Key qualities of high-performing leaders

[34:19] Practicing gratitude and being present

[37:38] Discussion of Ed's book "Shine Your Light"

[39:42] The role of values in personal identity

Key Insights

1. **Curiosity Before Passion**

- Emphasis on encouraging exploration before focusing on passion

- The importance of trying new things and stepping outside comfort zones

- How curiosity leads to discovering authentic interests

2. **Building Confidence Through Effort**

- Focus on celebrating effort over results

- The importance of setting realistic, manageable goals

- How small achievements build momentum and confidence

3. **The Power of Modeling**

- Parents and leaders need to demonstrate the behaviors they want to see

- The impact of authentic responses to challenges

- Teaching through example rather than just instruction

4. **Gratitude and Present-Moment Awareness**

- The scientific benefits of practicing gratitude

- Techniques for staying present (breathing, journaling)

- How gratitude affects performance and mindset

Notable Quotes

- "It's not passion first, I think it's actually curiosity first." - Ed Gerety

- "The biggest mistake that you can ever make is to live someone else's goal, is to live someone else's dream." - Ed Gerety

- "Be gentle with yourself so that you can be gentle and kind to others." - Ed Gerety

Resources Mentioned

- Ed's Book: "Shine Your Light: Navigate Your Way to a Life You Love"

- Reference to Carol Dweck's work on growth mindset

- Strategic Coach program's positive focus exercise

About Ed Gerety

Ed Gerety is a speaker, author, and leadership development expert with 30 years of experience working with students, educators, and business leaders. His work focuses on building confidence, developing leadership skills, and helping people navigate their way to a life they love.

## Connect with Ed

Ed's website

Buy Ed's book, "Shine Your Light"

## Connect with Michael

Mike's website

The Freshman Foundation® YouTube Channel