Self-reflection and food for thought on what truly matters in life, and looking toward 2021 according to Merrymen's editor-in-chief.

How do people get out of their own head, face their fears and go after what they want in life?

Some people seemingly had it easy, who knew from a young age what they wanted to do. For the rest of us that question can be much more challenging to answer, and we may have found ourselves in a place where it seems like there’s no spark of passion or direction. Answering the provided questions will guide you to refining and understanding what you should be doing with your life.

In all of my research I have found that there is an abundance of information about how successful people became successful. About how certain people feel fulfilled and a sense of self-worth when others do not. And how some people embrace their authenticity when others feel like vulnerability is a weakness.

An introduction to mindfulness. How to increase awareness and focus, and decrease stress. Reflecting on beliefs and understanding the origin of emotions. 

Sharing experiences and challenges you may face with starting a magazine or creative project. Touching on some tips and advice regarding Merrymen’s journey.

Interview with life-coach Bron Johnson and discussing realizations, realizations you have had or maybe others have had in their beliefs and the way they in which they think. Discovering how changes in beliefs have an effect on mood and happiness.

Producer and artist Alanna O'Brien shares her story and experiences as senior agency staff member, and we dive further into the pressures of measuring success based on societal beliefs. 

Chatting with artist and photographer Ali Mathiesen of Blondy Photography about great communication and connecting with people. 

In this episode I talk about taking risks and how scary that is for some people, and for those who a fearful about risks will often pass judgement or criticism. But like Jim Carrey said — 'You can fail at what you don't want, so you might as well take a chance on doing what you love.'

What do you want? Make sure you have a clear idea of that. And there needs to be that understanding that the only person who’s standing in your way is you. Don’t let others influence your wants and desires. If something doesn’t work out try another way. There are endless paths to getting what you want.

Tips and advice on how to make and self publish a magazine. Albeit, when I started Merrymen I had a hard time defining and explaining what it was. And I think because it was trying to be too much, i.e. an art magazine, a fashion magazine, and even featured food recipes in the first issue. I think it confused a lot of people, and because I couldn’t give them a direct and clear pitch, no matter how beautiful and high quality it was, no one knew if it was something they wanted. What Merrymen became was a magazine that shared articles and advice about choosing a non-conventional or creative career. And I’m grateful for the lessons and journey that this taught me not only about self-publishing a magazine, but also in business.

My guest on this episode is an accomplished fashion photographer hailing from Toronto Canada, and in just a few short years of pursuing her passion she has landed campaigns with Canadian fashion brands House of Dwir, Narces, and Ross Mayer. Ara Coutt’s quick rise to success is accompanied by her professionalism, along with her talents as an artist and visionary who understands that photography is more than just composition, but a form of creative expression to tell and captivate us with stories. In this episode we discuss how storytelling can make you a better artist, and that support and gratitude can be tremendously influential on your path to success in the creative industry.

Do you feel like you’re behind the 8-ball and playing catch-up, or just can’t seem to get anything accomplished? Most people want the best for their lives and to focus on what matters, but can't seem to pin-point why they can't get things accomplished; here's some tips on how we can be more productive.

Negative thoughts can block your success and happiness. You could be happy one minute and the next, your mind is running off in the opposite direction. Don’t let negativity ruin your day.

Simply put, the Law Of Attraction is one of the most powerful laws in the entire universe. It is always in motion. When you are looking to achieve success whether at work, in a relationship, if you want more money, more peace of mind, or anything else, you can do it with your own thoughts, either consciously or subconsciously.

If you’re feeling behind in life, there are two things you can do right now to stop torturing yourself and wasting more time living in regret. Let’s look at them now.

You can have all the money in the world and still be unhappy. On the other side of the coin, you can have no worldly possessions but still live a very happy life. In this episode, you’re going to learn that your happiness isn’t dependent on money, career, or status in life. It starts with you.

In my youth, growing up in a small community and having interest in the arts, set me apart as a black sheep. But it lead me to a realization in understanding my uniqueness and that being the black sheep is empowering. 

"If you actually want to build relationships, you build them without wanting anything in return" - Simon Sinek You build trust when you are kind to others and don't want anything in return. I can think of several instances where I’ve come across people in my life who I’m so grateful for because they’ve helped me without looking for anything in return.