Mindset Is a Muscle
Everything I read, watch, listen to, and learn is shaping my mindset—bit by bit, day by day. There’s this idea out there that successful people all share a certain mindset, right? That’s what I grew up believing. And honestly, I think it’s true… but it’s also something I’m still figuring out.
Mindset isn’t something you just “get” one day and then keep forever. It’s more like a muscle—a mind muscle, if you will. And like any muscle, it needs to be trained, stretched, fed, and sometimes given a good talking to. Reading one inspiring book, attending a single training, or watching a killer motivational video might give you a boost—but without consistent practice, the strength fades.
Life has a funny way of throwing unexpected twists and turns, sharp lefts, and a few potholes just to keep things interesting. Your mindset is your vehicle through it all, and if it’s not maintained, you’re going to feel every bump.
Acceptance… and Then Some
In an earlier blog, I talked about acceptance—and honestly, it’s foundational. For me, that means accepting my visual impairment. No amount of frustration, sadness, tears, or tantrums is going to change that reality.
But acceptance is just step one. Step two? Letting go.
That’s the one I’m still working on. I tend to get fired up when things don’t go as planned—when people don’t meet my expectations, or when life simply refuses to follow my script. For example, I get frustrated when drivers can’t find my drop-off location. In my mind, I’m thinking, “It’s right there! You have a GPS and two eyes—what’s the problem?” But then I remember: sometimes GPS is wonky, drop-off points are chaotic, and people are just doing their best. (I mean, I’ve never driven a car—I probably shouldn’t be too hard on those who do.)
What’s really happening in those moments is that I’m projecting my standards—my vision of perfection—onto others. And let’s be honest, that’s a one-way ticket to disappointment.
I even catch myself doing it with my son. I want him to focus, to get things right, to be just like me—but sometimes, kids just want to play in the moment, not hit every checkbox on a to-do list. And really, maybe they’ve got it right.
Let It Go (Yes, Just Like the Song)
So I remind myself: let it go. Don’t project. Don’t assume. Don’t expect perfection. Instead, think of others first. Be thankful.
Thankful that someone’s out there driving a paratransit van or working long hours to help people get where they need to go. Thankful that I have a support system, options, and chances to grow. Thankful that I even get to think about mindset and share it with you.
Final Thought: When the Mind Is Distracted, the Heart Is Weary
The real takeaway today? Gratitude clears the mind. When you’re angry, stressed, or annoyed, your mental space shrinks. You can’t focus, you can’t create, and you definitely can’t be your best.
But when you can let things go, shift your perspective, and stay grounded in gratitude—that’s when your mindset gets stronger. That’s when your mind muscle shows up and says, “I got this.”
So if today feels messy, chaotic, or not at all how you planned—take a breath. Maybe even laugh a little. Life isn’t perfect, but our attitude doesn’t have to be either. Just work that muscle.
Blind Can You Can 
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