When the Day Doesn't Go as Planned: Thriving as a Notary Anyway, Because Calm Is Part of the Toolkit.

The Obstacle Is the Way—Even in Notary Work

There's a well-known quote from the Stoic philosopher Marcus Aurelius that has gained renewed attention thanks to Ryan Holiday's book The Obstacle Is the Way:

"The impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way."

It's a powerful concept, but what many don't realize is that Marcus wasn't talking about mountain climbs or military campaigns. He was talking about people. Challenging, frustrating, thoughtless people.

That co-worker who undermines you. The rude customer. The friend who disappoints you. These aren't just challenges to endure; they are opportunities to practice excellence. To cultivate patience, forgiveness, courage, self-control, and even good humor.

However, this wisdom extends far beyond dealing with difficult people. Every situation we face, positive or negative, easy or frustrating, is an invi...

Are You Prepared?  What if...?

Life throws us curveballs. Whether it's a sudden change in plans, a new opportunity, or an unforeseen challenge, the question isn’t if it will happen—but when. The better question becomes: Are you prepared?

Preparation isn't just about supplies or skills—it’s a mindset. A mindset that says, “Whatever comes my way, I’ve already decided how I’ll handle it.” That may look like having a backup plan, a guiding philosophy, or a resilient attitude. Preparation minimizes the stress and struggle of decision fatigue when the unexpected hits.

Let’s explore how being prepared shows up in different areas of your work—and your life.

1. Creating the Day: Starting with Intention

The way we begin our day shapes how we interact with the world.

I like to begin my mornings with a reading from Marcus Aurelius’ Meditations. One passage stands out:

“You will meet people who are meddling, ungrateful, arrogant, dishonest, jealous, and surly… But I have seen the beauty ...

Everything is "figureoutable": A Notary’s Guide to Problem-Solving and Success

Marie Forleo’s famous phrase, “Everything is figureoutable,” is more than just a catchy mantra—it’s a mindset shift that unlocks creativity, resilience, and resourcefulness.

Notaries often face unexpected challenges: last-minute signings, complex documents, demanding clients, or logistical hurdles. But when you genuinely believe that a solution exists, you activate a robust set of problem-solving skills that can set you apart in your business.

Instead of saying, “This is too hard” or “I don’t know what to do,” try reframing the challenge: “How can I figure this out?” That simple shift puts your brain to work, finding solutions instead of dwelling on obstacles. Let’s explore how to adopt this mindset in your notary business today.

1. Question Your Limiting Beliefs

Marie reminds us: “Everything is figureoutable, but first you have to believe it.” That starts with identifying and challenging the beliefs th...

When we ask better questions, we get better answers. We develop an ability to anticipate and pivot. And it starts on the inside.  Instead of asking what do I need to do first, I ask who do I need to be?  My answer is be brave, be a risk taker, lean into what is hard and when I fall, get back up!

Some of you may have read my 2024 email on GRIT. I shared my story of going into the Moaning Caverns.

It was 165 feet down, 235 steps, and back up. Long story short my worst fear happened when I took a fall and had to move out of the way to let others pass.   The last 65 feet up were slow and painful, pulling myself up with the handrail each step, but I made it to the surface and celebrated; I did it!!! It was hard, and I just took one step at a time.

I read an email from Tony Robbins recently that strikes me as appropriate to my topic. He is talking about the Olympians who went to Paris. He said:

“The world’s greatest athletes prepared for their big moment—the chance to represent their cou...