The Glass Is Neither Half Full Nor Half Empty

Hello September! Goodbye summer.

Is your glass half full or half empty? Today, I invite you to put on your positivity glasses and join me on a journey of reimagining “the glass”—yes, that glass that’s been the subject of countless “half full” and “half empty” debates.

Start with a New Glass: An Empty Canvas of Opportunity

Recently, as I dropped my daughter off at college for her junior year, a powerful realization struck me. She’s already halfway through her college journey. The back half begins. And with my 50th birthday approaching, I have been spending more time thinking about life in terms of “first half” and “second half.” It’s time to stop!

Throughout my life, I’ve been a firm believer in the “glass is half full” perspective, always focusing on the positive side of things. In fact, I would go so far as to say the glass is always full and spilling over. This is a foundational principle of The Life Is Too Short Guy philosophy. But now, I see the potential limitations of this viewpoint. Looking at situations this way, both my daughter and I might end up focusing on what’s already accomplished, on what’s “half full.” And that creates a limiting belief as to what might be ahead. If I already filled the glass halfway, what does that mean for the rest of the glass?

Instead, what if we approached life with an “empty glass” mindset? Let’s leave the limiting glass metaphor behind for a minute and think instead in terms of a canvas. Imagine waking up each day with a clean white canvas, ready to be painted with experiences, growth, and joy. This perspective offers a fresh start, a chance to fill the glass (or canvas) entirely—no matter what point we’re at in life. It’s an empowering shift that emphasizes the limitless possibilities that lie ahead.

Every Day, Every Moment: A New Beginning

In The Life Is Too Short Guy, I talk about making every day a new beginning. Every year, every month, every day is an opportunity to hit the reset button. By discarding the notion of the “half full” glass, we free ourselves from predefined limitations. When we view each moment as an “empty glass,” we give ourselves permission to overflow it with enthusiasm, passion, and purpose. It’s a reminder that we’re not confined by the past, but rather driven by the boundless potential of the future.

Embrace the Overflow: Make the Most of Every Day

So, here is my challenge to you. Let’s view each day as a fresh chance to fill our glasses to the brim and make it the best day ever. Whether it’s starting a new project, deepening relationships, pursuing a passion, or simply finding joy in the little things, we have the power to overflow our lives with positivity.

As we navigate through the second half of the year, let’s carry this newfound perspective with us. Let’s greet each day with open arms, embracing the blank canvas of possibility that it represents. Whether you’re 20, 40, or 60, this moment is your moment—a chance to let your optimism paint a masterpiece of resilience and fulfillment.

Remember, the glass isn’t just half full or half empty—it’s a vessel waiting to be filled with the extraordinary. Here’s to overflowing joy, boundless opportunities, and a life painted with the brightest colors.

Listening to LITSG

I finalized the audio recording of The Life Is Too Short Guy and submitted it to Audible this week. For all of you who prefer to listen to your books, you will have that opportunity when it is released this month.

Regards,
Scott