Welcome…
I’m not supposed to be here. Statistically speaking anyway. I was born into poverty and have been fortunate enough to move up the proverbial ladder. While I’m so grateful for my success and everyone and everything that contributed to it, I still feel a little guilty and confused about it all.
How did I end up where I am while others who I grew up with had dramatically different lives?
This question has led me on a journey to learn what actually contributes to a successful life and understand the fascinating psychology that drives how we think about it. It’s been the inspiration for my TEDx talk, PBS podcast Attribution, magazine writing (for Esquire, Fast Company, Parents among others) and New York Times best-selling children’s book, Three Little Engines. I teach at both Parsons School of Design and the City College of New York on this topic among others and have worked with some of country’s leading social change organizations (such as Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, The International Olympic Committee, the Ford Foundation, The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, Sesame Workshop, and the Vera Institute of Justice – among many others ) to help millions overcome obstacles on their way to a healthier and happier life. Along the way, I’ve been on CBS Sunday Morning, interviewed Deepak Chopra, delivered the commencement address at my alma maters, and even danced with Oprah Winfrey.
If it sounds like I’m name dropping, I am. The result of my insecurity (“why else would you read me!), a heavy dose of imposter syndrome (“I don’t belong here.”) and the sheer improbability of having done any of those things (holy —-!).
Moving Up Mondays began as a desire to share what I was learning, the questions I’ve been asking and my observations about our culture - particularly as it relates to the American Dream - which I continue to both live and challenge.
Each Friday, I sit down and try to make sense of what’s happening in our world. Each note has a one word title. That simplicity provides focus and allows me to connect the dots between disparate things in my life and our culture. Topics range from the mundane to the existential.
I like to think I write with some mash up of wonder, humility and heart. I don’t have the answers but am trying each week to respectfully ask the right questions. The response from readers suggests I’m on the right track. The idea that someone reads what I wrote and feels something is both humbling and incredibly rewarding. That they sometimes send me a note of gratitude makes my day each and every time.
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about Moving Up Mondays and hopefully subscribing. Either way, good luck on your journey.
With gratitude,
Bob
