6 Brutal Life Lessons I Learned This Week That Changed Everything
Description
Welcome to a raw, real, and deeply personal episode of Shift with CJ. In this solo session, CJ opens up like never before — not to teach, not to inspire, but to document. To reflect. To process. This isn’t about pretending life is perfect — it’s about unpacking lessons as they happen in real time. In this episode, CJ reflects on six powerful lessons from a week filled with chaos, clarity, and deep internal growth.
Key Takeaways:
- Solomon’s Paradox & Self-Advice You’re brilliant at giving others advice… but often blind when it’s your own life. Learn to pause and ask, “If my friend were facing this, what would I tell them?”
- Confidence Is Contagious Confidence isn’t something you’re born with — it’s built over time, and it multiplies when you’re around people who believe in themselves. Who’s in your circle?
- Persistence Beats Talent Most people quit three feet from gold. The ones who win are the ones who simply don’t stop — even when it hurts, especially when it hurts.
- Storytelling Wins Whether you’re building a business, pitching a product, or trying to connect with others — facts inform, but stories move people. Start telling yours.
- Pain Is a Teacher, Not a Punishment Instead of asking “Why is this happening to me?”, ask “What is this trying to teach me?” This shift alone can turn pain into power.
- Life Is Short. Really Short. Tomorrow isn’t promised. Breathe deeper. Forgive faster. Hug tighter. Work hard — but live even harder.
5 Things You Can Start Doing Today:
- Use the Solomon Strategy: Next time you’re overwhelmed, stop and imagine it’s your best friend with the same problem. What advice would you give them? Now follow it.
- Audit Your Circle: Spend more time with confident, grounded people. Their energy will shape yours. Confidence is viral — catch it from the right sources.
- Track Tiny Wins: Create a habit of writing down 1 small win at the end of each day. This activates your brain’s reward system and helps build real confidence over time.
- Craft Your Origin Story: Whether you're a founder, coach, or just someone figuring it out — write down your story. Why did you start? What do you stand for? It will become your anchor and your amplifier.
- Reframe Setbacks Instantly: Instead of spiraling, try this: when something bad happens, ask out loud: “What is this trying to teach me?” That one line can save your day — and your mindset.
This episode wasn’t just a podcast — it was a moment in time. CJ shared his dopamine highs, personal heartbreaks, business challenges, and spiritual reminders, all tied together with one intention: to help you grow through what you go through.
🎧 If this episode moved you — pass it on. That one share might be the lifeline someone else needs today. This is The Shift. Welcome to the ride.




















