Photo: D. Paul Graham, “1938 Talbot-Lago T150” Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance 2023

“Monday 5 Things”™ ….. Big …..

I’ve had a week of big. A big concours. Big cars. Big money. Big egos. Big excitement. Big, bold wines. A big bay. Big emotions. Thinking big. Even the movie “Big” back at my hotel. For anyone remotely interested in cars, the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance is a big deal. On Sunday, as thousands of people walk onto the show field of one the most recognizable golf holes in the world, I take time for one of my (many) routines while at Pebble. I find a bench in the middle of the fairway, put my cameras down and I just sit, watch, listen, appreciate, pray, and think. This morning’s M5T ponders Big.

1. Big Freedom

Big freedom comes from living a meaningful life. A life that focuses on the positive, clarity, and commitment to what is most important to you. A life free of grudges, pettiness, vengeance, and prejudice. A mindset of wonder, excellence, and understanding and being truthful with yourself.

2. Big Living

Living big is living above labels, expectations of others, and seeing beyond your hurts, failures, and disappointments. Living big allows you to see needs and do what you can to make an impact for others. Living big is about perseverance, living your faith, recognizing big moments, celebrating all victories, and embrace your goals without apology.

3. Big Consideration

Big consideration is unconditional yet honest. It is a life of humility, gratitude, and appreciation for all you have. It is recognizing that today and each new day is fresh slate. A day that you can influence others for the better. Big consideration allows you to trust, to love, and to commit.

4. Big Honesty

Big honesty fosters authentic compassion, fairness, support, and clarity for others. Big honesty is bold, clear, unflinching, and confident. Big honesty allows you to establish boundaries and practice mindful acceptance. Big honesty with yourself allows you to become a better person, for yourself and others. Big honesty allows you to lead and to inspire.

5. Big Mindset

Living big is a mindset. A mindset of generously sharing your gifts, talents, and time. A big mindset allows you to face head-on the things you fear the most, acknowledge your weaknesses, yet focus on your strengths. It is a growth mindset and one that watches for and takes every opportunity that crosses your path. A big mindset allows you to live your dreams as if they are already here.

Here’s to a week of thinking and living your own big life.

© 2023 D. Paul Graham, all rights reserved.

For over 11 years, D. Paul Graham has published “Monday 5 Things” ™, also known to readers as M5T.

You can reach Paul by email at dpg@imagegraham.com