Yoyo’s Top Five: The Weekly Nudge You Didn’t Know You Needed

For the doers, the Only-Live-Once crew, the manifestation weavers, and the ones who know that generous gifts come with commas and a lot of zeros.

1. It All Started on a Submarine…The Leadership Book That Actually Changed Lives

I recently finished Turn the Ship Around by L. David Marquet, and no, I’m not suddenly obsessed with naval strategy. But I am obsessed with how Marquet transformed one of the worst-performing submarine crews into one of the best—not by barking orders, but by flipping the script on leadership. Instead of the traditional “command and control” model, he gave his crew the tools and trust to make decisions. And surprise: they thrived.

Real life application: You don’t have to be a captain to lead like this. Think about your own life—say, your son’s messy room. Instead of just telling him to clean up, try: “How can I help you get your room tidy?” I know what you’re thinking. “This will never work.” But trust me, with a combo of weekly reminders, small incentives (hey, money talks), and showing him how much more enjoyable his room could be, it does work. Start small, and remember: perfection isn’t the goal, progress is.

2. Call That Retired Colleague

Here’s a simple one: reach out. Think of someone you haven’t spoken to in a while, maybe they retired, moved away, or just slipped out of your regular orbit. Send a quick voice note, text, or better yet, pick up the phone. You don’t need an agenda. Just: “Hey, I was thinking of you.”

Real-life example: I did this last week with a former coworker who always brightened every meeting. We talked for 15 minutes, laughed like no time had passed, and, wouldn’t you know it, he recommended the same book I just finished! Take five minutes to reach out. You might brighten their day, and who knows, you might learn something new too.

3. Meal Prep for the Woman Who Swore She Won’t Order Takeout This Week

Look, I love a freshly cooked meal. But I also love not cooking every single day. Yesterday, instead of just unloading my groceries into the fridge, I set everything out on the kitchen island and cooked six separate meals. Now, I have meals for the whole week, and it feels *so* good to know I can focus my energy on other things—like the fourth edit to my book (which I swear is nearly done).

Real-life strategy: Bags of salad and frozen vegetables are life-savers. Throw in a can of tuna or chicken breast, sprinkle chia or flax seeds (grab a bag on Amazon, thank me later), and you’ve got yourself a meal. Or throw a whole pan of chicken into the oven, broil it, then portion it out with a side of frozen veggies. Don’t overcomplicate things. The goal is efficiency, not culinary mastery.

4. Gratitude Journaling: No Crystals Required

This isn’t about being poetic or deep—it’s about being present. Each morning (or night), jot down three things you’re grateful for. You can use a fancy journal, a notes app, or even the back of a receipt. Just write it down.

Real-life strategy: You don’t need a fancy notebook to start this habit. A simple composition book will do. Start with five minutes in the morning and write down three things you’re grateful for. After a month of consistency, you’ll notice your outlook shifting in the most generous way. Your focus will naturally turn to the abundance in your life.

5. You Need to be Outside…Outside

Here’s your gentle nudge to go outside and touch grass, literally. When was the last time you went to a park just to be, not to run an errand or check off a to-do list? Pick a spot. Bring snacks, music, or a book. Leave your phone on mute and just enjoy the outdoors.

Real-life strategy: Check out your local park’s website for any events happening, or create your own adventure. Bring your essentials, but mute your phone for an hour or two and simply exist outside. Some recommendations: Central Park is iconic, and Bryant Park often hosts amazing events. But even if you’re just walking around the block, it counts.

Which One Will You Try This Week?

Tell me in the comments. I read every message. Or forward this to a friend who needs a reminder that the little things are the big things.

Until next Friday,

Yoyo