The Seed & The Tree

 

THE SEED & THE TREE

All the nonfiction books that I love to read and sometimes write about through blogs or reviews do not have official genre.  The books that I love to read are not all self-help books.  They don’t promise to make you rich.  They don’t promise you some ridiculous stay healthy method.  And, they don’t promise to make you happy, or successful.  

I was recently at Barnes & Noble in Las Vegas, Nevada.  Of course, I was looking for a different type of book to add to the library of book for next year.  As I was gazing across the top of titles or sections of books.  I began to think… if I owned a bookstore, I’d put the books I love to read in the leadership section.  Why?  Because they are fitting for that area.  It would be filled with books that introduce the ideas, principles, methods, strategies, and understanding through rigorous research with engaging advantages of real and practical takeaways that are applicable in the 21st-century. 

“In individuals, insanity is rare; but in groups, parties, nations and epochs, it is the rule.” 

― Friedrich Nietzsche

The books that I love to read.  Just so happen to be on; leadership, positive psychology, general psychology neuroscience, business, philosophy, spirituality, and they’re about life, not just work.

As a voracious reader and collector of magnificent books.  I want to share my favorite books this year and a short review.  I will also share my favorite quotes of 2021.  And, no…it isn’t all my books, just some that really gave a bit more than the others.   

 

Mel Robbins books: The Five Second Rule and High Five Habit — I love these books, all of it — the plot, the characters, the dialogue she has with people around the world. The strategies, and much more.  Mel does it best by describing way to overcome our negative thoughts.  Mrs. Robbins uses her signature science-backed wisdom, and life experience to teach us how to make the notion of believing in yourselves a habit and practice daily.  It is easy to blow-up but those who control their emotions are conquers. 

Jon Gordon books: Energy Bus, Coffee Bean, The One Word, and Positive Leadership — I loved these books and shared them with my classroom and colleagues.  I truly believe with all my heart and mind that we can create change from the inside out. Mr. Gordon shares some novels on how to do that through the life of those characters.  

We don’t always have to be a victim of our circumstances or situations.  And, no one creates success, happiness, or purpose alone.  I believe we need more books like this in schools and homes today. 

Dr. Ernest Holmes book: The Science of Mind — is a fabulous or splendid book on the subject of mind, spirit, consciousness and life.  Dr. Holmes does a beautiful and rigorous exploration into the connection between science, religion, philosophy and life.  Dr. Holmes uses a precise scientific approach to uncover the mystery of the mind.  

I truly hope each of you pick this book up and finish it.  I am sure I’ll reread it again next year because of the extraordinary content/material. 

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Dr. Greg Lukianoff and Dr. Jonathan Haidt book:  The Coddling of the American Mind — This is a prolific book — something strange is happening within America’s colleges and universities.  Both gentlemen display why young people feel anxious, stressed, and college is making it worse.  In addition, they analyze the behavior in society which is not immune to the power of rational scientific analysis.  Please, prepare yourself for this book.  You won’t look at Americans next generation the same. 

Dr. Dave Ulrich, Professor, Kate Sweetman, and Professor, Norm Smallwood book: Leadership Code — is an absolutely extraordinary book.  That I must ask the question — What makes a great leader?  It's a question that has been tackled by thousands of researcher or scholars.  In fact, there are literally tens of thousands of leadership books, studies, theories, models, and recommendations on the shelves and online.  It is an avalanche of information that would fill ones whole life.  Nonetheless, this is a must read with interesting concepts that are applicable in the 21st-century.  This book was well-written, engaging, and pragmatic.  Our personal values and principles ought to align with the corporate strategy or mission to ensure long-term success in your career and organization.  I really hope you pick this book up next year. 

Jean Twenge books: iGeneration & Generation Z — We have to save the best for last.  I love these books because they opened the lens within my field of education and parenting.  Dr. Twenge explores the idea that modern technology has become the major problem in societies children and that much of their behavior stems from to much time wasted on devices.  She uses her signature findings to open up the paradigm shift and ideological takeover.  

I really hope each of you grab this book and see for yourselves the impacted it can make on your life’s journey.  

My favorite quotes 

“To educate a man in mind and not in morals is to educate a menace to society.” - Theodore Roosevelt 

“Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, vision cleared, ambition inspired, and success achieved” - Hellen Keller 

“The price of greatness is responsibility” 

- Winston Churchill 

“Our prayers should be for blessings in general, for God knows best what is good for us.” - Socrates

“He that has once done you a kindness will be more ready to do you another than he whom you yourself have obliged.”

• Benjamin Franklin

“It is not just about learning new things, it is applying them and also constantly use them or you will lose them.” - Coach Sagasta 

“The undisciplined life, is an insane life.” Socrates

“Our life is what our thoughts make it.” 

- Marcus Aurelius 

“A nail is driven out by another nail. Habit is overcome by habit.” - Desiderius Erasmus

“No man can become rich without himself enriching others.” - Andrew Carnegie 

“The last exam of a great leader is what he has left in others through convictions to persist beyond the limitations.” ~ Coach Frank Sagasta  

About the Author

Frank Sagasta, is distinguished for his role as the educational leader and social media influencer.  Today, he is more complimented for his role as a life coach, mentor, and leadership instructor at Desert Star Academy in Fort Mohave, Arizona.  Meet a former foster child, who’s inspired to make a difference in the world through real and practical principles and wisdom.  Frank Sagasta’s desire is to never to stop learning and share his wisdom.  

His purpose was introduced by the array of profound friends, teachers, coaches, and mentorship by none other than: Dr. Eric Thomas, John C. Maxwell, Grant Cardone, Jordan Thomas, Steven Hardison, Sarah Sagasta, and God O Mighty.  Coach Frank Sagasta is consider to be a passionate teacher, instructor, coach, and mentor. 

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Positive Culture

 Positive Culture 

Teaching, instructing, coaching os not for the faint of heart and mind.  Wether you teaching in a prosperous or property challenged environment.  The anxiety, stress, frustration of demands and expectations can take a mental, emotional, and physical toll on any person.  It doesn’t matter how many degrees a person possess.  It doesn’t matter on the level of age or the color of your skin. 

I have been in the field of education for twelve years.  And I have to say, this is the hardest year ever.  The challenges, demands, and expectations can be rather trying.  Of course, the experience of influencing, inspiring, and empowering our next generation of leaders, learners, and innovators is worth it.  

In my present position within a school in Fort Mohave, Arizona, we have recognized the need of change and culture.  I had a dream of a school that used the rules of the Energy Bus to help their students through the external environment (Covid-19).  I approached my principal with the awesome idea.  He went home and started reading the book and soon purchased books for the whole faculty.  I truly believe the principal saw how this book could make a difference in the lives of those on this campus.  We both agreed that we need to build a culture of positive learning that empowers students/teachers to overcome challenges, circumstances, or the pressures outside of our control.  We both knew how this book would support and encourage everyone. 

The Energy Bus has 10 Rules to Fuel Your Life, Work, Team, or Organization with Positive Energy!  The book was written by Jon Gordon.   

It was my goal for the 2020 - 2021 school year to fuel my classroom with positive attitudes, achievements, and education.  I believe it was the goal of our principal to assist with this fabulous experience.  We both agreed once the whole team sees the vision there’s no stoping us.

 

I came across this awesome book in 2015 and found it to be most helpful.  So, helpful in fact — it helped change my life, work, leadership, and education.  Of course, after finishing it.  I wanted to share it with my family, my friends, and the world.  You see, I was curious to know what would happen if other applied the teaching of this book.  If they applied the same ten principles they, too, would be on the bus going in the same direction.  

I soon found myself following Jon Gordon via (LinkedIn, and Twitter). 

Positivity and Culture… In the book — George, who happens to be the main character is faced with circumstances, or challenges personally and professionally.  From the morning moments, George, is faced with the unexpected results of not listening to his wife’s advice.  However, despite the circumstances and challenges throughout his journey, George still has to prepare and present a major project for his company.  And he still has to deal with negative people at the office and on his team.   

I know from my experience, that we all have our ups and downs during the school year and life in general.  In fact, some of us can read this story (The Energy Bus), and compare ourselves to the story.  The events that took place last year and some that spilled over into this year were lessons.  Lessons on how to love. Lessons on how to smile.  Lessons on how to be kind.  Lessons on how to improve yourself.  Lessons on how to improve our team.  No matter what is going on at home, community, or within the world, we are all expected to give our best.  I know it can be rather challenging, but that is the cost of greatness.  

George goes on to build a positive relationship both personally (family), and professionally (NRG).  That is right — He made the right choice to improve.  However, one thing is for sure… he didn’t do it alone.  In fact, the other character Joy the bus driver happens to assist him on the journey.  Of course, she gets help from Danny, Marty, and Jack whim are all passengers on The Energy Bus as well.  All these individuals help to promote positive energy and happiness. 

The simple key here — the more positivity you are around, the happier you’ll feel.  Of course, like George, you do this by associating yourself with positive people (Joy, Marty, Danny, Jack, and more). 

Have you ever noticed how happier positive people are and how much more energy they tend to have?  It all makes sense.  Having these type of people in your home or organization does make a difference.  In fact, having these kind of people around you can give you a better outlook on life and the circumstances or challenges life can throw at us.  Enjoy these tips – please feel free to comment, like, or share.

TIPS FOR POSITIVE ENERGY — 

1. Routine: Get a routine or get back into the routine to help your mood.   That’s right folks… your body, mind, and spirit work well.   If you read, eat, sleep, and exercise regularly.

2. Mindfulness: Mindfulness is the art of taking every moment and appreciating it. You look at every past, present, and future as a picture – rather than a small pieces.  You are able to focus more and you become less distracted.

3. Read: Books on strength, personal power, self-development, enlightenment, and self-help can be rather delicious and a great resource to assist you or the team at changing.

4. Consistency: It is unlikely you will ever achieve great things if you or the team isn’t consistent.  One thing unsuccessful people have in common is they lack consistency.

5. Love: Love happens to be a very powerful emotion, and it can be healing.  Of course, love cannot fix everything.  It does support good overall spiritual, physical, and mental health. 

 In the past five years, I have amassed thousands of new followers online because of the nature of positive mental attitudes and my unique leadership strategies.  I have had the wonderful opportunity of being invited on podcast around the world.  I am not trying to impress you by any means, but to press upon you.  The opportunity of reading this excellent book.  If you or someone you know is looking for a great read on self-development or team success.  The Energy Bus is a great fit for all.  It is a short read with impactful principles that are real and practical for the 21st century. 

Thank you, 

Love and many blessing Coach Frank Sagasta

                                                            

No Stink’n THINKIN

If I could find a time-machine, I’d go back in time to the spring of 2018-19 and give the best FREAKIN’ advice and/or recommendation to my sixth, seventh, and eighth-grade classes.  I would say: “If you want to be of value; “READ, REMEMBER, RETAIN, RECALL, & REFLECT”.  Oh…and I’d tell them never to forget that time and information are the greatest commodity of value.  So, don’t waste it, because doing those things in 2020 was about to get more complicated mentally, spiritually, and emotionally. 

Welcome… to the class of tomorrow.  

 

 

                                                                     

 

I highly recommend teaching yourself and your children about this beautiful soul — Dr. Albert  Schweitzer a Nobel Prize recipient. 

 

Not long ago, Dr. Albert Schweitzer, the great Doctor and Nobel Prize winner was being interviewed in London and a reporter (Sir Joshua Reynolds) asked him, “Doctor, what’s wrong with men today?”Dr. Albert Schweitzer echos Sir Reynold’s sentiments with an answer to a question posed to him within that hall in 1952.  He simply replied: “Men simply don’t think.”  That question was rather good, but the answer was absolutely extraordinary and so impactful even in the 21st Century. 

 

Over the course of six years I have read well over 350 books.  Some say; that’s dumb or why do you waste your time? and was it worth it?  Simple minded as my grandmother would say from time to time.  As I continue on the journey of self-education or professional development.  I have never seen nor heard words pierce the heart and brand the mind so deep like those of Doctor Albert Schweitzer.  And yet, those words still resonate within my mind today.

In fact, a student soon to be scholar asked me a question just this week.  And, it was similar to Sir Reynolds.  

 

Student: “Coach Sagasta…what deplete you?”

 

I thought for a moment…Wow!  Now that is a great question indeed.  In the short brevity, I wondered why she’d ask me that question.  Then I quickly answered my own question, well who else would she ask!  The answer flashed into my mind.  

Coach: “I am depleted, when I see the amount of individuals who don’t take time to think or read.” 

 

All twenty seven students were silent.  I can hear their breathing and the cool air blowing past my ear from the air condition.  I can only prematurely think that many didn’t quite understand.  So, I restated the answer or my thought.  I said: “It breaks my heart to see the effects of too much screen time today.  It breaks my heart that many students today aren’t passionate about their future.  And worse some teachers, parents and/or guardians aren’t either. 

 

I have been in this field of education for twelve years.  And yet, I have watched the culture change as well as the habits of learning change.  Empathy has been replaced for empty and courage has been replaced for cowardly.  Over the last thirty days of instructing and coaching there is no expedient to which aperson no matter the level of age or education will not resort, to avoid the real labour of thinking.  It is absolutely obvious even to the uneducated person that refuses to think for themselves and buries their head in the sand like the ostrich.  That today, in the 21st-century many adolescents and adults are cognitively absent.  As Dr. Schweitzer simply replied: “Men simply don’t think.” 

 

The aim of this short blog is in 2021 to regularly take time to reflect and think on the important matters in your personal and business life.  That’s right… to schedule time in your calendar — shit send an invitation to yourself to reflect and think on a specific matter.  With all the distractions in life today, we need this as adolescents and adults.  Even just 20 minutes of concentrated thinking or reflecting can be truly beneficial and of value to you NOW and for the FUTURE. 

 

Best, 

Coach Frank Sagasta 

Husband, Father, and Educational Leader

                                                                    

                                                       

                                                   Uncommon Leadership LLC,  ©️ 2021 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Daily Grind & Grit

 The Daily Grind & Grit

Strategies or tips for protecting our best interest today — our mental environment. 

It is the 21st century and America is trying to get back to normal.  But is it for teachers?  Here are some strategies or tips for protecting our best interest today, which is our mental health and the environment. 

America teachers, educators, instructors, or heroes aren’t strangers to circumstances or challenges.  Some of these hero’s had to overcome struggles of their own throughout the plan-demeic and after the ordeal.  These beautiful people had to creating online learning for their first-time.  They had to create online content/material for their Google Classes, Google Hangout, Zoom Classes, and more.  

	I know teaching means different things to different people but think about your own schooling experience.  Which teacher(s) stands out for you?  I am almost certain it was the once’s that displayed love, kindness, gratitude, and a sense of reciprocity.  Teachers, educators, instructors, and coach in America are the biggest impact on the future.

Yes, teaching or instructing is tough.

No one who has actually worked in a classroom would disagree with that short statement.  You need to have great to extraordinary   subject knowledge, wisdom, and skills needed to be prepared.  You need to be flexible and excited, enthusiastic, compassionate, passionate, open-minded but also tough.  These hero’s have felt more pressure than ever before as many juggle extra responsibilities, unexpected interruptions, educational gaps, and behaviors unlike before the pandemic.   

Teachers and Coaches are our everyday heroes.  I never forget Billy Graham saying: “A coach will impact more young people in a year than the average person does in a lifetime.”  Of course, it isn’t about teacher vs coach because teachers are coaches.  They help get students/scholars from point A - Z.  Again, think of at least one or more teachers that impacted us and maybe even inspired us to be and do the things that we are doing as our passion today.  Teachers, educators, instructors, or coaches do so much more than plan fun educational activities that keep our children occupied each day.  They do more than babysitting children each day.  They do more than parent their own kids.  They do more than care for their own homes.  They do more than teach them what they need to know to pass tests.  They actually have the God given power to inspire, empower, and change the course of the lives they impact for so much good!  So, you want to inspire the educators in your life or community?  Ask them if they need anything for their rooms.  Ask them if they need assistance in anything.  Buy them a cup of coffee.  Send them a thank you card.  Send them a gift card for lunch.  The list goes on, but what about their mental health? 

The Reality 

 One of the hardest things today is to talk about our mental health.  As I mentioned above.  These hero’s have had to juggle many competing demands from home life to the demands on campus.  As a result, it has affected some of our hero’s in Americas mental health and wellbeing. 

As a husband, father, and educational leaders.  It is important that ALL teachers take the time to prioritize their own mental health and wellbeing, for their benefit and the benefit of the whole school community. So, now what?  I have added my own strategies and tips.  Of course, I have also taken the liberty of adding some extra resources for you all because without you I wouldn’t be the person I am today. 

1)    Carve out time for Self-Care:  Carving out some time to prioritize exercise.  Carving out time for reading, journaling, meditation, or spending time doing a hobby.

2)    Be Unapologetic:  I am not sorry, but we live in an “I’m sorry” culture.  During this time, consider how often you apologize, or you see others apologies?  Of course, don’t take this out of context.  Be unapologetic about taking time for yourself is just as important as breathing.  Be unapologetic about setting boundaries, and being clear and transparent about what you are capable of and what you need.  I know this is one of the hardest things to do for many, but oh so important for maintaining mental health and wellness.

3)    Reaching OUT:  If you feel like you are having a tough time or day, and are struggling in anyway with enjoying things you love.  Reach out to a co-worker, friend, counselor.  All of the resources that we shared for students/scholars can also be utilized by teachers, educators, instructors, and coaches. 

4)   Mindful Teacher:  If you really want to overcome mental meltdown.  It isn’t about self-indulgence.  It is about staying healthy, grounded, or centered so we can keep helping others on the journey learning.  Practicing yoga, or taking walks is essential and truly important at improving your mental health.  

5)    Remove the Elephant:  Despite what most will tell you.  If you don’t remove the elephant in the room, nothing improves or gets better for anyone.  A wonderful book I totally recommend is “How To Train A Wild Elephant.”  I won’t give out details…just read it.  Most of the practices have a physical component. 

 

I truly hope what I have shared with you today.  Will resonates with you or someone you know in the field of education.  

Resources: 

https://www.gse.harvard.edu/news/uk/19/12/safeguarding-mental-health-teachers

 

https://teach.com/resources/mental-health-resources-teachers-school-staff/

 

Books:  

The Laws of Power by Robert Greene 

The Energy Bus by Jon Gordon 

Limitless by Jim Kwik 

10 - Minute Focus by Daniel Walter 

Positive Psychology by Dr. Carl Bene

 

 

 

 

Golden Confidence

Hi everyone…

It has been a minute since my last blog.  Even though I’ve been busy, I found the time today to share something that hopefully will resonate with many.  In fact, I thought I’d share something for everyone who’s dealing with low self-esteem or lack of confidence.  

Self-confidence is defined as a feeling of trust in one’s abilities, qualities, and judgment.  Self-confidence is important to your health and psychological well-being.  Having a healthy level of self-confidence can help you become successful or happier in your personal and professional life.  I have spent a great deal of time studying positive mental attitude which has helped me toward build confidence within myself.  

Nonetheless, here are five areas that I have practiced over the journey and some that I am still practicing today.  Again, I hope you find them useful. 

1, Meditation: More than just a relaxation practice, meditation can help boost self-confidence in several ways.  For one, it helps you to recognize and accept yourself.  Meditation also teaches you to stop negative self-talk and disconnect from any mental chatter interfering with your self-confidence.

2, Exercise: Studies consistently show physical activity boosts confidence.  A 2016 study published in Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment found that regular physical activity improved participants’ body image.  And yet, when your body image improved, they feel more confident.

3, Kindness: involves treating yourself with kindness when you make a mistake, fail, lesson, or experience a setback.  It is a way of relating to yourself that allows you to become more emotionally flexible and better able to navigate challenging emotions, or feelings and enhances your connection to self and others. Researchers have linked the ability to relate to ourselves in a compassionate way to self-confidence.

4, Healthy relationships: Having self-confidence not only impacts how you feel about yourself, but it helps you better understand and love others.  It also gives you the strength mentally, spiritually, and physically to walk away if you're not getting what you deserve from others.  

5, Openness: When you believe in yourself, you're more willing to try new things.  Whether you apply for a new job, promotion, signing up for the gym or sign up for a cooking class.  Putting yourself out there is a lot easier when you have confidence in yourself and your abilities.

Having self-confidence can bring many benefits—at home, at work, at gym, and within your relationships altogether.  Marcus Aurelius liked the metaphor of branches on a tree as did Christ Jesus.  A branch's potential is dependent on what it is connected to. Remember, if it is by itself, it is a dead stick.  Marcus Aurelius knew he couldn't achieve anything on his own. He knew he was nothing without his teachers, his mentors, his friends and his self-confidence.  So, he deliberately surrounded himself with the best.  As I hope you will too! 

Sincerely 

Coach Frank Sagasta 

Make everyday a masterpiece