Are You Truly Wired for Success—or Just Plugged In?
I find too many around the world that are not "wired" just "plugged in"
It's Monday morning again—coffee in hand, staring at the day ahead, feeling that familiar tug between excitement and anxiety. Still adjusting from jet lag after a week in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, I'm reflecting deeply on my experiences. One standout was stepping out of my comfort zone to try camel meat—a reminder of how powerful and rewarding embracing new experiences can be (it is good for those who have not tried it)
There's a nagging thought I have daily that might resonate with you too: Am I genuinely aligned with what fuels me, or am I simply going through the motions?
The reality check is clear: if you're not aware of your unique wiring—your personal blend of strengths, passions, and values—you're operating like outdated software in a fast-paced world. You're bound to experience slowdowns, frustrations, and a lack of fulfillment in all areas of your life.
Understanding 'Wired' as a Mindset
Being "wired" isn't about technical skills or careers—it's a mindset.
It's a mental state that empowers you to navigate life effectively, whether you're raising children, pursuing education, creating art, or simply striving to grow as a person. This mindset involves recognizing and harnessing your unique strengths, cultivating resilience, and maintaining a growth-oriented outlook in everything you do.
Insights from the Middle East: Embracing Continuous Learning
During my travels, I was struck by the region's profound commitment to growth and lifelong learning, captured perfectly in an Arabic proverb:
"لا يوجد طريق مختصر إلى مكان يستحق الذهاب إليه."
Translated, it means:
"There are no shortcuts to any place worth going."
This wisdom reminds us that meaningful success in any pursuit—whether raising compassionate children, creating meaningful art, building community, or personal development—requires sustained effort and dedication.
Why Knowing Your Wiring Matters More Than Ever
Today's world is dynamic, relentless, and evolving rapidly. Research shows only about 32% of people feel genuinely engaged in their daily activities. Yet when individuals align their actions with their inherent strengths and passions, engagement—and happiness—soars. This applies to everyone from caregivers to artists, students to retirees.
Engagement means living with purpose, productivity, and genuine satisfaction in whatever path you choose.
The Human Edge in a Technological World
In our increasingly automated world, understanding your unique strengths has become more critical. While technology advances, it lacks inherently human traits—creativity, empathy, and nuanced judgment. As Microsoft's CEO Satya Nadella notes:
"AI cannot replace human qualities like creativity, empathy, and judgment. Instead, AI will amplify our human capabilities and help cultivate our creative spirit."
Knowing your wiring ensures you're focusing on the uniquely human skills that make your contribution to the world special—whether in your family, community, or creative pursuits.
Setting Your Morning Alarm—Mindset First
The alarm clock isn't just about when you wake up; it's about how you wake up mentally. Setting your mental "alarm" means intentionally choosing your mindset each day:
Select a gentle, uplifting alarm tone to foster calmness rather than stress.
Dedicate your first waking moments to reflection, gratitude, or intention-setting rather than immediate digital distractions.
Engage in morning rituals such as brief meditation, hydration, or physical movement to reinforce a purposeful mindset.
Mindset is Everything
Your mindset shapes your daily alignment:
Embrace curiosity about your evolving passions and strengths.
View challenges as opportunities for growth rather than setbacks.
Regularly reassess and adapt your daily activities to stay aligned with what matters most to you.
ESM Framework for Daily Decision-Making
Use this simple yet powerful framework, from Jay Shetty, in all aspects of life:
Energy: Does this activity energize and excite me?
Soul: Does it align with my deepest values and what matters most?
Meaning: Does it create value and meaning in my life and others'?
Navigating Change: Your Wiring Evolves
Change is inevitable—your wiring evolves:
Regularly reassess what brings you joy and meaning.
Proactively develop aspects of yourself that align with your evolving purpose.
Embrace change as an opportunity for realignment and growth in all life stages.
Parents, Mentors, and Friends: Recognizing Others' Wiring
Whether you're guiding children, supporting friends, or connecting with loved ones:
Regularly discuss and celebrate each person's unique strengths and interests.
Encourage activities that align with natural talents and passions.
Celebrate when people operate from their authentic strengths.
Action Steps for This Week (Always good to start a month this way):
Identify activities that truly energize you and those around you.
Note activities that consistently drain your energy and spirit.
Intentionally realign your week toward more energizing, meaningful experiences.
Quick Self-Assessment: Are You Wired?
Take a moment to reflect honestly:
Do I frequently lose track of time because I'm deeply engaged? (Yes = 2, Sometimes = 1, No = 0)
Am I genuinely excited about my plans for this week? (Yes = 2, Sometimes = 1, No = 0)
Do my natural strengths clearly apply to my daily activities? (Yes = 2, Somewhat = 1, No = 0)
Do I finish most days feeling energized rather than drained? (Yes = 2, Occasionally = 1, No = 0)
Am I actively pursuing opportunities aligned with my passions? (Yes = 2, Occasionally = 1, No = 0)
Results:
8-10 points: You're Wired! Keep aligning your activities with your authentic self.
4-7 points: Partially Wired—Focus more intentionally on alignment in daily life.
0-3 points: Not Wired—It's time for honest reflection and meaningful adjustments.
This Monday, and the first Monday in March, isn't just another start—it's your chance to intentionally plug into your unique purpose and potential, whatever form that takes in your life.
Ready to truly wire yourself for success in what matters most to you?
Let's begin. There is and wont be a better time than today.
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About Jason Averbook
Jason Averbook is a globally recognized thought leader in Digital HR Strategy, Generative AI, and the future of work—named one of the Top 25 Human Capital and Work Thought Leaders in the world. With over two decades guiding the HR tech evolution, Jason champions shifting from simply executing technology projects to truly embodying a digital mindset. He’s authored two influential books, founded Leapgen, and regularly inspires global audiences as a speaker, advisor, and educator.
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Great reflections.