The Rise & Grind Blog, From Pure Grind Coffee
Creating a Morning Routine when Life Gets Chaotic
Motivation doesn’t come from drive; it comes from consistency. Getting up and doing the same things over and over — practicing your craft until it becomes second nature. Motivation is a rhythm and roll; it’s promising yourself every morning when you wake up (sometimes out loud to make it stick) “I’m going to get X, Y, and Z knocked out however I can. I know by accomplishing those things, I’m one step closer to my goals.”
No, that’s not the sexy definition of motivation that people use to sell bogus self-help books. It’s the honest one.
Motivation thrives in the morning. That’s why a consistent morning routine is so crucial to success — or even simply maintaining your mental health. Because as much as some self-proclaimed badasses say they ‘thrive’ on change, the truth is that humans need structure in their lives.
Night Owls, don’t turn away just yet! This applies to you, too. You might work best in the wee hours of 1 a.m. or later, but a consistent routine in the morning (however you define “morning”) frees you up to be creative busybodies later at night.
We wanted to pull together a handful of our favorite tips on creating morning routine and sticking to it — even when life and the world get chaotic.
Strip your schedule to bare bones — then rebuild.
We humans have a tendency to make our lives way harder than they need to be. We get glued to our phones, ready to tear into complete strangers on the internet for 40 minutes of our morning instead of, ya know, showering. Or we do the opposite and overschedule our mornings to where we have to get half our to-do list checked off before we’re ever out the door.
Take a good, hard look at your morning routine. What can go? What could wait until you get home? What’s eating up a lot of your good energy first thing? What puts you in a better mood before you get started with your day?
Do the neutral tasks and chores that have to get done (i.e. brush your teeth, straighten your bed). Dump the mess that raises your blood pressure first thing in the a.m. (i.e. getting into political debates with JoeMerica926304). Invest in the daily tasks that make you smile (i.e. savoring a cup of coffee).
Stop making promises to yourself.
“Tomorrow is the day I’m going to wake up early and instantly become a morning person!”
Making promises about a new-and-improved morning routine creates more frustration when you don’t meet every single one of those expectations. No one goes from oversleeping your alarm to suddenly waking up an hour and a half earlier, drinking lemon water and doing yoga. Morning routines take time to establish. It takes anywhere from 40-60 days to create a habit — and that’s just one singular habit!
Rather than disappointing yourself with broken promises, try this: celebrate one little thing you did each morning. Pat yourself on the back for drinking a full glass of water after waking up or for stretching. Celebrating even the smallest tasks sends a subliminal pat on the back to your brain, coaxing you to do more to get more positive reinforcement.
Try the 1-minute rule.
Anyone can do anything for just a minute. If you spot a task needing to be done and it can be done in about a minute, do it. Bed? Made. Shoes you always trip on by the door? Put them in your closet. Dishes you keep forgetting to bring down? Take them downstairs before they bring in ants. You’ll be surprised how easy it is to default to getting 1-minute tasks done as soon as you see them.
And for those who are addicted to competition, set a timer for 20 minutes and see how many one-minute tasks you knock out before the buzzer dings. Do that a couple times a week, and not only will you have a cleaner house, you’ll feel more productive and (wait for it…) more motivated!
Trying to create structure amidst chaos might seem impossible, but it’s not. Take time for yourself to evaluate what really matters, and invest in those things. And if that investment also happens to include a cup of high-quality Pure Grind coffee, well… we think you’ve added an excellent choice to your morning routine.
12 Nonfiction Books to Light a Fire Under Your Ass
If there’s ever been a time for motivational books, it’s 2020.
And no, we’re not talking about the sales-pitch-laden, “BE YOUR OWN BOSS”-yelling, stolen-quotes using books that litter the shelves of the B&N “self-help” section. We’ve collected a list of 12 no-BS nonfiction pieces that go deeper than the norm to help light a fire under your ass and inspire you to make meaningful changes in your life.
“Bossy Pants” by Tina Fey
Take a walk through Tina Fey’s life pre-fame as she delves into the hardships that she has faced to become the successful woman in comedy that she is today. This memoir is inspiring, while still providing the comedic relief that Fey is so well known for.
“I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban” by Christina Lamb and Malala Yousafzai
This list would not be complete without mention of the incredible Malala Yousafazai and her fight for women's right to education at the young age of 11 — after being shot in the head simply for wanting to go to school. This memoir compels you with her bravery, and we guarantee you walk away feeling changed.
“Tiny Beautiful Things” by Cheryl Strayed
Pulling from questions that she received as an advice columnist, Strayed answers all questions surrounding relationships, success and life. Strayed answers questions you didn’t even know you needed answered, all with her signature empathy and understanding.
“The Last Lecture” by Randy Pausch
A professor faced with terminal cancer, Pausch gave his “last lecture”, “Really Achieving your Childhood Dream” on what it really means to live. Read through his final thoughts on the importance of seizing the moment and living your life as if everyday will be your last.
“The Glass Castle” by Jeannette Walls
Walls’s journey of resilience and valor will engross you as she takes you through a heartbreakingly honest look at the life of poverty, hunger and homelessness she and her family faced. Become inspired to create your own path as she and her siblings break the cycle that they were born into despite the odds.
“The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck” by Mark Manson
Manson goes against the grain of the typical overly positive “self help” book as he emphasizes the importance of having struggles in life to give it more meaning, pulling from his own life experiences.
“Everything Is F*cked: A Book About Hope” by Mark Manson
In a phenomenal follow-up, Manson uses psychological research, philosophical teachings and hard science to challenge us to question our ideas of what happiness and success are. Manson puts it all out on the table, and seasons the most uncomfortable truths with enough humor to keep you reading.
“Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail” by Cheryl Strayed
Heal alongside Cheryl Strayed as she takes you through her journey of heartbreak and loss. Learn how she gained back her strength and identity through a self-discovering hike across the Pacific coast. (And for an added bonus, check out the movie adaptation featuring Reese Witherspoon!)
“Year of Yes” by Shonda Rhimes
Walk with Shonda Rhimes through her year of saying “yes” that pushed her out of her comfort zone and led to life changes she didn’t think possible.
“The Power of Habit” by Charles Duhigg
Live a healthier and more successful life through following Duhigg’s scientific approach to understanding unsavory habits and how to improve them. Learn about yourself and how changing your habits can encourage success.
“Rewire” by Richard O’ Connor
Ever wondered why you couldn’t shake a bad habit? Renowned psychologist Richard O’ Connor uses science to share how to shake them and “rewire” your thought process.
The next time you’re in the mood for a bit of meaningful motivation, pick up one of these books and a cup of Pure Grind coffee to take on your day.
Bring Your Hustle Home
It feels like we’ve been working from home forever. We’ve killed damn near every germ we’ve come across, and our hands are peeling from all the sanitizing. Although some gyms, breweries, and salons are opening back up, life just isn't the same and neither is the hustle. It might feel like the universe is closing down on you. You’re a hustler, so you can’t stand the feeling of being unproductive. But just know that with the virtual time we are in, it’s important to take your hustle online! Continue managing your brand identity and build trust with your community during these crazy times by getting your business on the internet.
Fire Up The Blogging Machine
If you’re not already blogging, what are you even doing? Blogging is essential in business and marketing. Your writing will give you more visibility online and establishes you as a thought leader, which will create growth in your business. Plus, it drives traffic to your site, helping your hustle stay alive. When all of this passes and things start to open up again, you’ll want your audience to remember you and come to you during the good times.
VLOG The Hell Out Of Your Hustle
Videos are the way of the world right now. The set-up can be as simple as your iPhone placed up against a stack of books, or your laptop open right in front of you. Seriously, even musicians are releasing social distancing music videos made on Zoom and FaceTime. It’s the aesthetic. Don’t focus on perfection; just get the content done. If you’re a brewery, for instance, do a DIY video for your regular bar patrons to brew up the good stuff at home. People want visuals. They want to do all the same things they were doing before — and they need you, the expert, to be there for them and let them know they can do it. Get creative, demonstrate your know-how, and build that trust and relationship with your client base.
Get Your Voice Heard With A Podcast
Your audience should be able to digest what you’re putting into the world in all sorts of ways — reading, watching, and listening. Podcasting gives your audience a whole other platform to consume your content. You don’t need fancy equipment, and you can record remotely. With just a click of a button, your clients can get the juicy information they need right from you. And it gives them something more to do while at home!
Sharing Is Caring
After you’ve got your content created, it’s time to get it all online. Share links and spread your message on the proper social media channels that work for you. Clearly, if you are a brewery, you may not want to be posting on LinkedIn. However, Instagram is a great place to give tutorials to your followers. If you’re a personal trainer, post some workout videos to get your clients moving. If you’re a hairstylist, help your clients manage their quarantine hair for their virtual meetings. Either way, your audience needs you, and the hustle never stops.
Grind. Drink. Repeat. Hustle.
All good hustles begin with a smooth cup of freshly ground Pure Grind Coffee. You’re going to love this coffee and it might just freaking change your life. Grab a bag below and keep hustling on. Now, go kick some ass and take some names.
You need these small batch coffee beans in your life. They’re bold. They’re delicious. They don’t apologize for being their awesome self. Our kick-ass beans come from the mountains of Central and South America and boast low acidity with an amazing bold flavor profile that will probably change your life.
Each batch of Pure Grind is meticulously roasted in small batches so your beans will be amazingly fresh AND awesome. Enjoy a 16oz bag today!.
F The Haters
Leadership is a damn staple of the hustlers toolkit. Arianna Huffington said, “One of the greatest skills of leadership is being unflappable. Anytime you do anything in the world, there’s going to be criticism." Leadership comes with many responsibilities, but it also puts a target on your back when failures come around. There are many bad ways to deal with criticism as a leader, so here are some good ways to approach criticism as a freaking hustler.
Don’t React on Impulse
The first thing you’re going to want to do as a hustler is to not react immediately to the criticism. Rather than react impulsively, it is crucial for you to remain calm and take a step back from the situation as a whole. If you quickly try to approach the criticism without thinking, it can only go poorly. So take a step back and breathe before you handle shit.
Don’t Take It Personally
The next step to approaching criticism as a leader is to not take it personally. This isn’t to say don’t work to the best of your ability, but you simply should not worry about what others think about you. If someone is toxic or negative toward you, it’s a reflection of that person. Easier said than done, but releasing yourself from the opinions of others is a major key to being the best hustler you can be. A true entrepreneur rides on their own waves and doesn’t give a crap what others say.
Turn It Into Opportunity
Rather than look at the criticism you’ve received negatively, look at what the criticism represents. Are they right or are they simply blowing smoke up your ass? Whether they’re right or not, take it as an opportunity to turn it into growth. As hustlers, we are constantly growing and getting better, so why not use criticism as a growth tool?
Criticism is going to come all the time in leadership. Any step you take or pivot you approach will be critiqued, nitpicked, and criticized. Be prepared to take the punches and keep hustling just as hard. F what they say. Stay the course and keep freaking drinking damn good coffee.
Let’s Get You Some Coffee.
You need these freshly roasted, small batch coffee beans in your life. They’re bold. They’re delicious. They don’t apologize for being their awesome self. Each batch of Pure Grind is meticulously roasted in small delicious batches, fresh, delicious, whole beaned goodness. Our monthly subscription plans are the bee’s knees, each month, you’ll receive freshly roasted bag(s) of our original whole bean small-batch roast. 16oz of whole bean awesomeness.
The Glory of the Side Hustle
It’s the freaking weekend. You’re home from work and you’ve got some free time, but you don’t know what the heck to do with it. You’re a hustler and you don’t want to sit back and watch Netflix; you want to grind. So what can you do? Side hustles are the epitome of being a grinder, as they keep us hungry and wanting more. Get your ass off the couch and let’s do this.
What is a Side Hustle?
Side hustles are money-making opportunities we can do outside of our typical jobs to gain more revenue and a credible reputation in the long run. Most people hone their side hustle over the weekend, but truly, you can put time into your side hustle whenever you feel like it needs your attention.
Get Moving
Now that you can see how a side hustle would be useful to you as a grinder, here are some ideas that might get your mind racing on what you can do. One of the biggest side hustles is flipping items on Ebay or Craigslist. Simply buy a product for cheap then turn around and resell it on eBay for a nice profit! Another great side hustle is the delivery service. Driving people through Uber and Lyft or delivering food through Grubhub or Postmates all require little effort, some patience, and a decent side hustle! If you have a passion or hobby, create a business out of it. Entrepreneurship is the way of the world now.
Pure Grind
Need some inspo? You’ll find it right in your coffee cup. Pure Grind was actually established as a side hustle. Damn right. Our founder is the CEO (and chief coffee brewer) of a very successful digital marketing agency. But he craved more. He lives and breathes damn good coffee and he wanted to sell it to the masses. Now here we are. Hustling bags of beautiful beans and killing the game. You can, too. Awaken by letting that brew boil in your body.
Now that you’ve got the jist of the side hustle, the next time your bored and don’t know what to do with yourself, instead of sitting back and relaxing, keep hustling! Oh and before you’re out the door, don’t leave behind your cup of Pure Grind. It’s the fuel for your hustle.
Want to give the gift of snobbery? Check out our Coffee Snob shopping guide to fuel your friends’ and family’s hustle, too. Don’t let your loved ones drink shitty coffee.
Join the coveted coffee snob club with this coffee snob starter kit. You’ll get 3 16oz. bags of freshly roasted awesomeness and your choice of either a French Press or Coffee Grinder.
The Pure Grind Coffee snob starter kit ensures that your path to pure coffee snobbery will be short. Tear open that bag (with dignity of course), take in the heavenly aroma, grind those beans to perfection, brew, sip, sip some more, and then go and brew some more. Welcome to coffee snobbery at its finest, welcome to Pure Grind Coffee.
Screw The Status Quo
It may present itself in many different ways, but the damn business status quo is as popular as ever. First high school, then college, and finally the corporate ladder. This cycle is evident all across the world, but for some people, this cycle is not appealing to them. If you’re one of the people who do not enjoy the idea of this climb, we’ve got some tips for you.
Stay Away from Peer Pressure
The social norm nowadays is to participate in the Business Status Quo. Everyone will tell you you’re crazy for starting a business or launching a product. You will be told you need college to do any of this. The key is to stay focused. The pressure will come from peers, friends, and even family as they see you attempting to veer from the status quo, but you won’t listen because you’re a hustler. And freaking hustlers do whatever they damn please. Be bold like our bag of beans.
Find What You Love
Your freaking passion is what drives you and keeps you motivated to do more. So why the hell would you put that passion to the side chasing someone else’s dream? You could be utilizing your passion for the greater good. If chasing the corporate ladder sounds dreadful to you (as it should), why not go out and find something you love doing and focus on honing that skill? Work smarter, not harder. You’re not one of these peppermint mocha freaks. You’re a rebellious badass.
School May Not Be for You
If the idea of school makes you cringe, then no freaking shame. You most likely have already thought about ditching this status quo on multiple occasions. You’re not alone in realizing school isn’t for you. In fact, Gary Vaynerchuk, an incredible entrepreneur we look up to, has one of his primary school report cards hanging in his office because it was so damn bad. Gary was never great in school, but he realized his issues and turned them into a multi-million dollar business. If school isn’t for you, then keep hustling and doing you. You don’t have to be like everyone else; you could stand out and shine, like our coffee.
As hustlers, we’re going to want to be in the spotlight. Staying away from peer pressure, finding what you love, and understanding what is for you are all keys to staying on top. In fact, we wouldn’t be where we are without wanting to stray from the shitty status quo. Keep hustling, keep brewing, and keep drinking some kickass Pure Grind.
Grab Life By The Beans & Snag Some Pure Grind Today.
You need these small batch coffee beans in your life. They’re bold. They’re delicious. They don’t apologize for being their awesome self. Our kick-ass beans come from the mountains of Central and South America and boast low acidity with an amazing bold flavor profile that will probably change your life.
Each batch of Pure Grind is meticulously roasted in small batches so your beans will be amazingly fresh AND awesome. Enjoy a 16oz bag today!.
FOMO
FOMO. It’s a word you’ve heard all too much and yet, something you can’t live without. It’s the fear of missing out on experiences when you see other people doing them. It is very easy as hustlers to fall victim to FOMO when in your daily grind, as we like to compare ourselves to other people. Here’s a few tips to ditch the FOMO. You’re no victim. Boss the F up.
Take Social Media Fasts
In order to avoid FOMO, turn your freakin’ social media off so we avoid the distraction of what other people are working on. When working on a big project, attending important events or even before vital meetings, turning off social media may be just what you need to focus on your brand and not think about what other people are doing in your market. A true entrepreneur never compares themself to others. Compete only with your damn self.
Create With the Customer in Mind
It’s very easy in business to see a new tech solution or creative process and instantly get worried about missing out on this new idea or process. However, what people fail to recognize is that acquiring this new tech will typically lead to increased cost-to-consumer. Rather than get overwhelmed by all the new tech and increasing costs associated with it, focus on making the customer happy with what you already have. You might discover that as a hustler, you can make the customer happy without the shiny new things. That’s the real, no-bullshit human-to-human connection.
See Things Through
The biggest problem with FOMO is that people typically like to jump from thing to thing when they fall victim to FOMO. It’s crucial as businesspeople that before throwing our hands up and moving onto the next damn fad, we buckle down and see the strategy we currently have in place through. This ensures that we work hard on what we currently have rather than jump ship whenever shit goes wrong. Finish what you started, dammit.
FOMO is a difficult thing to navigate in business, but if you can avoid falling victim to it, then your business will thrive. Yoda — the OG motivational guru — said, "Fear is the path to the dark side. Fear leads to anger. Anger leads to hate. Hate leads to suffering." So stay grounded in your hustle, grab that cup of Pure Grind, and keep things rolling.
Grab Life By The Beans And Snag Some Pure Grind Coffee
You need these small batch coffee beans in your life. They’re bold. They’re delicious. They don’t apologize for being their awesome self. Our kick-ass beans come from the mountains of Central and South America and boast low acidity with an amazing bold flavor profile that will probably change your life.
Each batch of Pure Grind is meticulously roasted in small batches so your beans will be amazingly fresh AND awesome. Enjoy a 16oz bag today!.
"You're Mediocre"
Two words no freaking hustler wants to hear: “You’re mediocre.” Being told by someone that you’re average is one of the worst things you can hear. And it’s such bullshit! Grinders like us tend to think of ourselves as salmon — swimming upstream and doing things your way. Sadly, you were still told you’re average. So what can you do?
Take a Self-Assessment Test
Self-reflection is vital to success. Don’t be above analyzing and critiquing yourself. Take a look at your recent work and see if this person was actually right or not. It could be that we get stuck up on our opinion of ourselves and fail to realize that our work has truly been mediocre recently. Step it up. You’ve got this. You just needed a little kick in the ass. We all have down moments.
Examine The Process
After you’ve taken a look back at your work, take a look at your process. If you have a set way of how things get accomplished in your office, take a look at those methods to see if anything is interfering with your creativity. It’s possible there may be something in those steps that has caused your mojo to become stagnant in your work, which is why someone called you out. Put your pride aside and remake the process.
Put It Behind You
As grinders, we are in the spotlight. We work our asses off to ensure success in our businesses and work even harder to spread our recognition. If you’ve been introspective and find your process to be solid, then it’s very possible this person is just another bump in your road. Being in the spotlight comes with its highs and lows. The trick is to not get too high on your highs and too low on your lows.
Let’s be real — you’re going to get roasted from time to time. F the damn haters. Drown out the negative noise. Hustlers don’t dwell on the past. Analyze, adjust, and ass-kick your way to the next step. You’re a Pure Grind hustler, AKA anything but the average, basic, pumpkin-spice-drinking tool. You’re bold, you’re bad, you’re unapologetic. Turn the heat up and keep pushing the freaking envelope.
Grab Some Fuel For The Hustle
You need these small batch coffee beans in your life. They’re bold. They’re delicious. They don’t apologize for being their awesome self. Our kick-ass beans come from the mountains of Central and South America and boast low acidity with an amazing bold flavor profile that will probably change your life.
Each batch of Pure Grind is meticulously roasted in small batches so your beans will be amazingly fresh AND awesome. Enjoy a 16oz bag today!.
Keep The Pressure On
You did it — you bagged that killer deal you’ve been working on for months. All your pumpkin-latte-drinking coworkers want you to go out and celebrate the new achievement. But screw that, you’re a hustler, a coffee snob, a freaking purist. While they are adding bullshit whipped cream to their coffee, you’re bold AF. In your mind, this achievement is simply another rung on the ladder of your success story and now you’re ready for the next damn step. What should you do now? Sit back and enjoy the freaking ride, man.
Kick Ass All Over Again
So you’ve won. It doesn’t end there. Keep on winning. Thrive on it. Write down more goals, and get moving. Ensuring that you always have a game plan is vital to the grind. Make sure you know where you’ve been, where you are, and where you’re going during your tenure in business. Start small, think big. And like we always say, 10X every damn thing you do. Take your goal of making $1,000 dollars and multiply it by 10. You’re a freaking superstar. There is nothing you can’t do.
Turn Up The Freaking Heat
In getting this new achievement, people will expect you to sit back and relax to reap the rewards of your newfound goal. But that’s what slackers do. You, my friend, are not a slacker. Leave that for people who drink shitty coffee. Instead, turn up the heat and increasingly impress those above and around you with how well you work and succeed. Give the people above you a reason to be pleased in their decision and motivate others to grow their own strategies.
Network, Network… And You Guessed It — Network
People get gigs left and right because of who they know. Why should this be a tactic to keep the pressure on? Because networking with people in power is just as crucial as working your ass off to hit that sales goal. Maintaining a solid network with the people around you is vital to the life of a hustler. Make connections. Bring a bag of Pure Grind, show them what good coffee tastes like, and change the world.
Keep on freaking winning with your favorite F-ing coffee snobs. 10X your shit, turn up the heat, and give your network a taste of what you’re all about. If they aren’t drinking good coffee, are they really your kind of people? You’re better than Peppermint Patty and Candy Cane Carl. Don’t taint your coffee and hustle with nonsense. Share the joy of Pure Grind with your circle. Our brew is pure, beautiful, aromatic, delicious... just as God intended it to be.
Check Out The Coffee Snob Kit!
Distractions, Distractions, Distractions.
When you look at the world today, there are freaking distractions almost everywhere. Take driving. You’re on your commute and there are bullshit billboards to look at, there are too many damn ads during your favorite podcast, and then your phone buzzes with a text from a potential client. All of this happens just within your daily commute. It’s crazy to think about how many things we get distracted by on a daily basis. It’s overwhelming to even think about how to turn them off. The key to ending distractions lies within yourself.
You’ve Gotta Focus
Many reports have shown that attention spans are falling quickly. Human attention spans have dropped from 12 seconds in 2000 to around eight seconds today. *gulp* This is an eye-raising number to think about. Something will typically have your attention for only about eight seconds at a time, and once that eight seconds is up, our brains are moving on to the next thing. We don’t have enough time in a day to waste any second on bullshit. It’s why elevator pitches and quick sells have become so common in the workplace. It’s also why you keep falling off your grind — because of the massive amounts of distractions in your world. Change your scenery, and get creative again.
Simple Distraction-Solvers
Now I know what you’re thinking: How can I eliminate distractions in my life right now? Hold on. The first thing you have to remember is that distractions come from within. While there’s plenty of things that could distract you in the outside world, it’s ultimately you that chooses to take them in. So what can you do?
Well, let’s start with the biggest distraction in 2019… the damn cellphone. We love our phones. In a recent study, King University found that the average person touches their phone an average of 2,617 times a day. That’s freaking nuts. Shut. That. Shit. Off. For five minutes, for a half an hour, or for a day. Put it aside and get your work done.
As an entrepreneur, you are going to deal with a lot of BS and a lot of distractions. But one thing’s for sure: Our blend of the best damn dark brew will wake you the F up and help you focus. So drink up — it’s time to kick the ass of any distraction that stumbles across your path.
Be Less Distracted & More Caffeinated With Pure Grind
You need these small batch coffee beans in your life. They’re bold. They’re delicious. They don’t apologize for being their awesome self. Our kick-ass beans come from the mountains of Central and South America and boast low acidity with an amazing bold flavor profile that will probably change your life.
Each batch of Pure Grind is meticulously roasted in small batches so your beans will be amazingly fresh AND awesome. Enjoy a 16oz bag today!.
I Lost My Special Purpose
Take A Step Back
As simple as it sounds, taking a step back from your daily routine can really help you understand where you are in your goals. Open your eyes to all that you’ve accomplished in recent months, even though you’ve felt like you’re without purpose. Step back, reassess, and keep on pushing. This means take a break — yes, we know hustlers don’t relax. But in the middle of the chaos, you need to take a deep breath and analyze where you are so you can create a new path. Goals don’t just appear out of thin air; you’ve got to develop a plan, man.
Attribute Daily Tasks To Long Term Goals
When you make your daily schedule, start putting a long-term motivation behind everything you do in your day. For instance, “go to the gym” turns into “go to the gym to hit my one-year weight loss goal.” Apply this attitude to your professional life. “Book clients” should be “book clients at least six months to one year out.” Simple adjustments in your mindset can help you maintain your motivation. Train your brain to think positively, then release that energy into everything you do. Fuel up that passion and freaking kill it.
Switch That Shit Up.
Finally, it could be as simple as changing things up! Instead of going to your typical lunch spot for a meeting, try a new place that puts you out of your comfort zone. Being uncomfortable is part of our necessary human challenge — that’s when growth happens. As humans, our brains tend to get bored quickly, so making sure we keep our environments interesting is important to our success as grinders. Keep it fresh, like your daily coffee.
See? It’s that easy! Now go out, rediscover your freaking purpose, and grab your cup of Pure Grind badass coffee so you can be ready to make the day your bitch.
You need these small batch coffee beans in your life. They’re bold. They’re delicious. They don’t apologize for being their awesome self. Our kick-ass beans come from the mountains of Central and South America and boast low acidity with an amazing bold flavor profile that will probably change your life.
Each batch of Pure Grind is meticulously roasted in small batches so your beans will be amazingly fresh AND awesome. Enjoy a 16oz bag today!.
You're A Freaking Purist
On a swampy, sweaty, humidity laden JANUARY afternoon in Orlando, I rolled up to an appointment in my pickup with the AC blowing and the AC/DC cranking. This meeting was a long time coming. It wasn’t going to be easy. It wasn’t going to be comfortable. It was flat out going to suck ass. It was time. It was time to end a relationship that started out all nice and fluffy and ended up being lipstick on a pig.
I’m not normally a confrontative person, in fact, I pretty much steer clear of conflict wherever I can. But This. This could wait no longer. I had to tell this person how I felt he had failed me and several others by getting greedy. He had a great thing going, but he got greedy. A pretty cool networking group with some pretty cool people that was started for some pretty cool reasons had turned to utter shit and turned out to be NOT SO different than any other. Self-serving.
We sat down and I endured some rather BURNT coffee from a national chain. He chose to recline outside, so the 150 degree coffee and the 92 degree, chunky humidity drenched Central Florida air started to work together to cause extreme discomfort. Dripping with sweat, I spoke up, hoping to get this over with and get back to my tunes and air conditioning. As I expressed my disdain for the shift of the group that I was well entrenched in, my contact was gracious and politely heard me out. He massaged his unkept beard a few times with his hand and then looked me dead in the eyes and said, “you’re a freaking purist, you don’t cut corners. Sometimes, Tom, you need to cut corners.”
I was just called a purist. My brain scrambled to put meaning to this. Purist… Was this an insult? Had I upset him so much that he resorted to name-calling? Did an epic war of words just begin? I stared at him as I continued to drip with sweat and process what had just happened. He went on to explain that as the group had grown, he had to start cutting corners to accommodate the growth. He had less great speakers, less classy venues, he had to control the narrative a bit more as it got more popular. Quantity over quality. Ok. I get it, I think. But…
I’ve owned a digital marketing agency for over 14 years. On Target works with some high-end companies who expect some high-end results. As we grew, we learned. We made mistakes. We made bad hires. We made some poor financial decisions. BUT, we always, always, always put the customer first. No matter what, we’d make certain that they always got our best. They paid our paychecks. They kept us afloat. They spread the good word about us and help us grow the agency even larger. If that’s what being a purist is, I’m ok with that. Cutting corners helps no one long term. Doing it the right way, sticking to your guns, and seeing a long term gain as opposed to a quickie, is the only way for me, my agency, AND my coffee company.
So, I raise a mug of Pure Grind coffee to the purists, the ones who seek quality always. The ones who don’t settle. The ones who live by a high set of standards. Here’s to the ones who don’t muddy the waters with excess nonsense. Here’s to the ones that appreciate a great thing when they see it. Here’s to the ones who don’t cave and cut corners to jack up their profits. Here’s to the freaking purists, everywhere. I salute you.
Hi. My name is Tom and I’m a freaking purist and the name for this coffee was inspired by this very interaction. Do it right or don’t do it all. Thanks so much for reading and sharing this with a friend.
Get Pure Grind.
You need these small batch coffee beans in your life. They’re bold. They’re delicious. They don’t apologize for being their awesome self. Our kick-ass beans come from the mountains of Central and South America and boast low acidity with an amazing bold flavor profile that will probably change your life.
Each batch of Pure Grind is meticulously roasted in small batches so your beans will be amazingly fresh AND awesome. Enjoy a 16oz bag today!.
Entrepreneurs Don’t Bitch About Mondays
You hear it all the time — “I don’t like Mondays.” We heard The Boomtown Rats sing it in 1979. It’s a line made famous because it was graffitied on the walls of Shermer High School, the set of “The Breakfast Club.” But the cool thing to do isn’t to bitch about Mondays; it’s making the best of Mondays. The first day of the week is a fresh start, a new day to conquer the life you are trying to build. Instead of complaining about Mondays, find a solution or change to overcome your blues.
Take a Walk
If you’re feeling stressed, one of the best ways to clear your head is to go for a walk. Walking helps you wind down, boosts your brain capabilities, and stimulates creativity. It’s a healthy activity that gives you a break from the everyday stresses of your hustle.
Love What You Do
It sounds so cliché, but don’t do things that you really hate. You are in control of your life, so you get to call the shots. Eliminate any toxic or unhealthy attitudes, environments, and relationships. There are going to be days that feel like the end of the world, but a bad day isn’t a bad life. Sometimes our passion for what we do can make us feel frustrated. Don’t confuse frustration with toxicity. Your hustle should be something you feel passionate about.
Learn Something New
Like we say: Never stop learning. Be curious. If you feel like your hustle needs a bit of a boost, seek ways to step it up. Go the extra mile. Read blogs, watch YouTube videos, listen to podcasts, absorb any and every information you get your hands on. This refuel will kickstart your motivation and make you hungry for the win.
Make the Best of It
Make the best of your situation. If you have long commutes, find good music or podcasts to make the ride more enjoyable. If you have back-to-back meetings, take a few moments in between to step outside and breathe. If you aren’t feeling motivated at the office, redecorate with uplighting decor. This is the hand that you’ve been dealt with, so work with it.
Do Something Creative
While drinking your Pure Grind coffee, write down creative ideas that will restore your spirit. Use Mondays to plan out a successful week. What is one creative thing you can accomplish each day that will make you feel happy? Challenge yourself. Get ahead of the game by mapping out your own rules.
Hustlers Don’t Complain. They Figure It Out.
You work with someone who complains too much. Your wife complains too much. Your kids complain too much. Hell, you even complain too much. But you need to dial down that negative noise, as it has no space in a hustler’s realm. OK, so your car broke down, you didn’t close that deal, and you feel like you’re just not hitting it out of the park. But sit down, hush up, and identify the problem and create solutions. That’s how you’ll figure shit out and keep it moving.
You’re Not Alone
Yes, it’s super cliché, but fear and anxiety plants inside your brain the idea that you’re the only one dealing with an issue. But we guarantee you, the problem has arisen for someone else before. And they made it through with some damage control and problem-solving skills. Find inspiration in people who have already conquered your challenges.
Frustrations Are a Part of Life
The things people complain about usually involve being annoyed by something, being dissatisfied with a situation, or feeling threatened. You may feel like you are powerless in a situation, but you have control over your own self and your behavior. This energy can build up and cause physical discomfort. Complaining is human nature’s way of releasing the pent-up energy. In reality, all venting does is take our problems and make them someone else’s. Rather than solving a problem, you are just trying to get people on your side. That’s not the best way to blow off steam because the problem is still lingering. You’ve just swept it under the rug, and we guarantee you it’ll resurface. Then you’re just on a hamster wheel and pushing people away with your negativity. Stop spinning on this endless cycle. Hustlers don’t waste time complaining because they know it doesn’t improve their situation. You will gain nothing and lose everything.
Confrontation
Vent to the right person — thoughtfully. If your colleague is causing you distress because they are always late to important meetings, address them directly. A simple and direct form of communication could ease the tension. If you lost a deal to someone else, have a talk with yourself. Why did it blow over? How could you change it for next time? There’s nothing wrong with someone having the same idea and taking it to the next level. This just means they got to it quicker and your come-up is a whole other opportunity. Be patient — your beans are brewing. You can’t pour from an empty cup.
Drink Up
Winning doesn’t happen without losing. Read that again. Fail. Fail again. Fail hard. Prepare, don’t react. That’s how you learn — you don’t quit. Double your efforts and keep it moving. There’s always another day, when you get to wake up again and drink your coffee. You need that blood flowing through your brain and veins. You’ll feel that adrenaline you need to keep it moving. Your body wakes up and you’re unstoppable. Be productive and be valuable. Don’t be a Negative Nancy. If you can’t handle the heat, you’re most certainly in the wrong business.
Fuel Your Hustle With A Freaking Freshly Roasted Bag Of Beans.
You need these small batch coffee beans in your life. They’re bold. They’re delicious. They don’t apologize for being their awesome self. Our kick-ass beans come from the mountains of Central and South America and boast low acidity with an amazing bold flavor profile that will probably change your life.
Each batch of Pure Grind is meticulously roasted in small batches so your beans will be amazingly fresh AND awesome. Enjoy a 16oz bag today!.
Dear Fears: F Off
Everyone has fears. Everyone has anxiety. Even the most successful hustlers. I mean, think about it, fears are just defense mechanisms. It’s your brain and your body trying to protect you from the unknown, the dangerous, the risky. But really — we need a little thrill in our lives. We all need to take risks. Want to know how courageous people conquer their fears? Read on, my friend.
Self-Awareness
The first step in conquering anything is to admit you have a problem. You are fearful. Own it. Respect it. Challenge it! Grab a pen and paper or your phone and write it down. Write out what you are afraid of. Self-reflection is a necessary first step before you can truly dive into it.
Explore It
Fearless people understand that fear is an interactive experience made up of emotional, physical, and mental parts. Fear is not just worry, but it is a trick to make your mind think things are worse than they are. Your own actions have an impact on the degree of fear you feel. Discover the origin of your fears. What triggered this? Understand that it’s not about what scares you; it’s about why it scares you. It could have anything to do with a past experience, forecasting the future, or just biology — genetic predisposed fears that you were designed to be afraid of. When you identify the why, you can discover solutions.
Overprepare, Don’t Overreact
People who live fearlessly don’t spend much time worrying about the worst-case scenario. In fact, they prepare for it. Have a plan, have a backup plan; plan B, plan C, even plan D. Overprepare without obsessing or overreacting. Be calm. Control your mind, don’t let it control you. Freaking out never solves anything; it just wastes more time, and we don’t have time to waste.
Be Inspired
Look at your favorite people and fill your brain with images of how you want yourself to be. Connect with role models, people who have the same fears you do. Talk to them, read about them, and use these examples as an energy source to kick your fears in the ass.
Fuel your hustle by putting your fears in the backseat. You’re in the driver’s seat, so you are in control. Fears don’t ever really go away, but once you identify them and start preparing, you can take action. To correct behaviors, be willing to look stupid and make mistakes. Take a breath, sip your coffee, and let go.
Fuel The Hustle With Pure Grind Coffee
You need these small batch coffee beans in your life. They’re bold. They’re delicious. They don’t apologize for being their awesome self. Our kick-ass beans come from the mountains of Central and South America and boast low acidity with an amazing bold flavor profile that will probably change your life.
Each batch of Pure Grind is meticulously roasted in small batches so your beans will be amazingly fresh AND awesome. Enjoy a 16oz bag today!.
5 Things Every Entrepreneur Should Be Doing
You might think successful people have it easy. But think again; they had to take that intense climb to the top. Ask any entrepreneur and they will tell you it isn’t easy. It’s never been easy, and it never will be easy. Anything could change at any minute. And really, once you make it to the top, there’s only one way to go. To continue rising and staying afloat, incorporate these tips into your grind.
Get Up Early
Be an early riser and get a headstart on your day. We get it — you’re tired, you want to sleep later, and you may have to head to a job that makes you miserable. We’re going to tell you some of the most important words you’ll ever need to know in business: Stop complaining. Instead, solve problems. Successful people are proactive and have side hustles they need to fit into their schedule. Create some space in your day, and set the tone from the start. Wake up early, read the news, drink your coffee, and enjoy how good it feels to feel those roasted beans run through your veins. That’s when you start to feel alive.
Start A Blog
Blogging is one of the best ways to reach your target audience. Social media is the way of life now, and people spend countless hours on it daily. It’s user-friendly and the way most people find information. Produce engaging content, use a variety of media — including audio and video content, and solve your audience’s problems. That’s the goal: fixing their issues. Once you’ve got them on your site, try to keep them there. They’ll likely enjoy their stay and continue to visit.
Never Stop Learning
One of the most effective ways to grow your business is to continue learning. Be curious. Ask questions. Dive into topics about anything and everything. Every day, there are new marketing rules and changes to algorithms. You need to be in the know and up to date. Take classes instructed by people who are successful in their industry, and learn from their mistakes. Listen to podcasts, watch videos, and read books. Take notes. Entrepreneurship is like going to business school every day, without having to step foot on campus.
Work Out And Meditate
We know you work hard. You feel like you’re always on the go. You don’t have time for anything. Your meals come from drive-thrus. But we can’t emphasize enough how important it is to be committed to your health. If you’re not in good shape, you can’t hustle. Prepare healthier snacks ahead of time, and make sure you work out. Again, wake up early and get moving. A good workout routine will make you feel more productive and successful, as your brain and blood circulate. If you don’t have time to go to the gym, go for a walk or buy workout gear for your home. Take a few minutes at a redlight to close your eyes and meditate. Take deep breaths in between the hustle and bustle of your day. Clear your brain and keep on.
Have Fun And Drink More Pure Grind Coffee
Loving what you do is the most important part of being a successful entrepreneur. Sure, you’ll have your down days, days where you feel like you need a break, but overall you need to believe in the mission and be passionate about it. That’s how you win. Keep your eye on the prize. Don’t forget the coffee. Cheers!
Get Your Hustle On With Pure Grind.
You need these small batch coffee beans in your life. They’re bold. They’re delicious. They don’t apologize for being their awesome self. Our kick-ass beans come from the mountains of Central and South America and boast low acidity with an amazing bold flavor profile that will probably change your life.
Each batch of Pure Grind is meticulously roasted in small batches so your beans will be amazingly fresh AND awesome. Enjoy a 16oz bag today!.
People Who Are Killing It: Marcia Kilgore
Every day, you wake up, you wash your face, you drink your Pure Grind coffee, and you get on to your hustle. It’s time to kick the day in the ass. That’s what serial entrepreneur Marcia Kilgore does. She kills it, and she never stops.
When she was 17, Marcia moved from Canada to New York after high school with just $300 in her pocket and no plan.
When she moved to the States, Marcia learned how to do facials on herself because she was on a quest to battle her acne-prone skin. Her endeavor was so successful, it led to opening a spa and starting a skincare line called Bliss in 1996. Starting out of a room in New York City, the spa became so popular it booked months in advance and had a schedule full of celebrity clientele. The products are filling the shelves of stores like Ulta and Target and are filling up markets globally. The brand’s slogan: best face forward. By putting her best face forward, she is taking over the beauty world.
There’s a reason she’s called a serial entrepreneur; Marcia is changing the beauty business one company at a time. Having built five companies over the last two decades, she can’t stop, and she won’t stop. The woman is a slinger, launching business ventures left and right.
On the great Gary Vee’s show, Marcia said,
“There is no shortcut. There is no way around it. You just have to work and sacrifice.”
Marcia is often asked what’s upcoming in the works — since someone on their grind is always thinking ahead for what’s next. Sometimes we find ourselves on a path with no direction. A true hustler doesn’t need guidance; they find a way. That’s how they learn to be good on their own. You have to be your own compass. By taking life day by day, she is now a disruptive business mogul and brain behind multiple beauty brands. Stories like hers are the motivational mindset behind Pure Grind. Some things we can learn from Marcia Kilgore? Take risks, live day by day, and put your best face forward. Like a true hustler.
Grab Some Fuel For Your Own Hustle
You need these small batch coffee beans in your life. They’re bold. They’re delicious. They don’t apologize for being their awesome self. Our kick-ass beans come from the mountains of Central and South America and boast low acidity with an amazing bold flavor profile that will probably change your life.
Each batch of Pure Grind is meticulously roasted in small batches so your beans will be amazingly fresh AND awesome. Enjoy a 16oz bag today!.
Listen to Podcasts, For Your Own Sake
There’s a podcast for everything — from business to art to sports to technology. Podcasters are sharing their content on all sorts of platforms, including iTunes and SoundCloud. It’s easier than ever to subscribe, stream, and listen to podcasts with topics you care about. Whether you just want to listen to something heartwarming on the drive to work or learn more about real estate, podcasts have the information you need. If you’re not already listening, here’s why you should start now.
Convenience
You can listen to digital audio anytime, anywhere. A time-shifted medium, listeners can download their favorite programs whenever — even five years after being published. We all want what we want “on demand” with just a simple click, in the palm of our hands. No waiting, no set time, no set schedule, no waiting for the game to be over so your program can start. Now. Most people use podcasts as an engaging secondary activity — mostly at home, in the car, or walking around. It isn’t mentally demanding and perfect for when you are committed to tasks that don’t require a lot of focus. Pure entertainment while you’re on your grind — working out, going for a walk, or driving to your gig.
Original
The current podcast system, centered mostly around Apple’s iTunes, consists of tens of thousands of podcast shows. Most are independently created and distributed by people unaffiliated with a radio station or media company. They just turned their passion into a new adventure. They made it happen. Just like that. Listeners feel as though they get content that they wouldn’t be able to get anywhere else. Even large media companies, such as The New York Times and Slate, are now getting with the times and have podcast-only content so their audience can consume news in a variety of ways.
Inspiration
As a hustler, you’re constantly finding ways to develop personally and professionally. How about listening to experts in your field? As a listener, you get to choose the podcasts you want to listen to, you get to decide what topic to pick, you determine how long you want to engage, and where you want to listen to it. You call the shots. What are you passionate about? Do you have free time between two meetings to listen to something that sparks inspiration in you? You know we’re all about motivating hustlers. Listen to the TED Radio Hour. Each show focuses on a common theme, like a source of happiness or the meaning of work. Or perhaps you’re more interested in digital marketing guru Gary V’s show based around social media and entrepreneurship. Escape from your world for a bit and listen to your favorite hustler! You want to stay motivated and on the tracks at all times.
Trust
Unlike streaming TV, music, and online video, podcasts are where most audiences find organic recommendations. Active listeners, or super listeners, have a trust in the hosts of podcasts and the sources where they get information. Word of mouth is the primary means for discovering a podcast. Because of how intimate the audio is, listeners tend to feel like they have a relationship with the host. There’s just something about them that makes them feel like they have a personal connection. The host-listener relationship is the core of this advertising channel. Listeners are known to take action when they hear ads on podcasts they enjoy. So there you have it, listen more and take action! Like the hustler, you are on your grind.
Fuel The Hustle With Some Pure Grind
You need these freshly roasted, small batch coffee beans in your life. They’re bold. They’re delicious. They don’t apologize for being their awesome self. Each batch of Pure Grind is meticulously roasted in small delicious batches, fresh, delicious, whole beaned goodness. Our monthly subscription plans are the bee’s knees, each month, you’ll receive freshly roasted bag(s) of our original whole bean small-batch roast. 16oz of whole bean awesomeness.
Grab Some Freaking Motivation
At Pure Grind, we’re constantly inspired by hustlers that are working hard, kicking ass, and making a difference. Seeking motivation from others isn’t wrong, nor does it take away from your originality; in fact, it’s important to seek inspiration from those who are doing similar work as you. Motivational speakers have a major impact on the world. Their words are powerful and make you feel like you can conquer anything. And you can! Here are some of our favorite motivational speakers.
Gary V.
Gary Vaynerchuk is a Belarusian–American entrepreneur who has written more than five books on entrepreneurship, leadership, social media, and having an influence . He gained huge success in the digital marketing and social media space, leading companies VaynerMedia and VaynerX. Even as a teenager, he started making money by selling baseball cards and flowers. Always a money-minded businessperson, he took over his father’s retail-wine business and transformed it into a highly successful e-commerce company. Now he is known as the first wine guru of the YouTube era. Oh, he also loves the F-Bomb.
“Many of you are worrying about your years while wasting your day. You can’t expect 30 years of results from 30 minutes of work. You need to move fast, but understand your vision takes time.”
Tony Robbins
Tony Robbins didn’t always live a super successful or amazing life; his childhood was ridden with abuse and chaos. He left his home at 17 and started promoting Jim Rohn’s seminars. Eventually, he decided to become a motivational speaker himself. He is seen literally changing people’s lives in minutes. YouTube is filled with videos, but there is one that truly stands out. Tony Robbins cures a man’s 30 years of stuttering in just seven minutes! Talk about motivating!
Suzie Orman
Suze Orman is an expert financial advisor and hosts her own podcast that has been running internationally for 13 years. After college, she worked as a waitress and started investing in trading options. She became an account executive at Merrill Lynch until 1983, when she left to become a vice president of investments at Prudential Bache Securities. She knows it all, from retirement rules to women taking control of their money. A #1 New York Times bestseller, she has more than 25 million books in circulation that are available in 12 languages worldwide. Her podcasts are considered to help people make a connection between their self-worth and net worth.
Nick Vujicic
Nick Vujicic, or “the man with no limbs,” is an Australian born with Tetra-Amelia syndrome, which is a very rare disorder where a baby is born without all four limbs. No doubt Nick struggled with this condition, not only physically but mentally too. But his condition led him to find his own non-profit organization, “Life Without Limbs.” If you watch his motivational speeches on YouTube, you’ll learn how he’s adapted to life without arms and lengths. He doesn’t let his lack of limbs control his life. He can do what anyone else can do, even type 43 words per minute. Watch “No Arms, No Legs, No Excuses” when he said, “Beautiful things can happen from your broken pieces when you give your broken pieces a chance,” and you’ll feel like you are worth it and can accomplish anything.
Snag some liquid inspiration:
Good Habits That Lead to Your Success
Learn From Failures
Shit happens. Everyone has failed — even the most admired. Your favorite hustler worked her way from the ground up. Failure doesn’t discriminate; we all face it. And we all learn from it. Don’t allow it to control you or your life. When you fail, observe what you did, what you did well, what you could do better, and what you’re going to do about it. Always think about your next move.
Embrace Positive Attitudes
Every day you wake up, you choose your attitude. Yes, it’s a choice. Put on an outfit that makes you feel good. Smile, even if you aren’t feeling up to it. Prepare yourself to walk out of the door and into the world. Your attitude is part of your body language. Nobody wants to be around a negative person. A positive mindset is all about practice and discipline. Some days you’ll wake up and feel like life caught up to you and you can’t keep on. Get your priorities in line and the power will follow. Recommit, don’t quit. Hustlers don’t quit!
Establish Your Purpose
When you clearly see your target, the easier it is to hit it. Don’t do things just because; do things with purpose. Ask yourself these questions: What do you want to do? Why do you want to do it? How can you do it? Then you find the power to achieve it, and that’s where you discover who you are.
Compete With Only Yourself
Fear no one. Don’t be intimidated by others or beat yourself up about the competition. Be great all on your own. Eliminate anything on your social media feeds that make you feel disappointed in your own life. Remember what Theodore Roosevelt said: “Comparison is the thief of joy.” Everyone gets beat at some point in their lives. Sometimes people execute your same ideas before you. But that’s nobody’s fault; they just acted quicker than you. So respect the competition, but do not fear them. Be inspired by them, and surround yourself with motivation.
Fuel The Hustle
Grab a bag of Pure Grind and get to work!
You need these small batch coffee beans in your life. They’re bold. They’re delicious. They don’t apologize for being their awesome self. Our kick-ass beans come from the mountains of Central and South America and boast low acidity with an amazing bold flavor profile that will probably change your life.
Each batch of Pure Grind is meticulously roasted in small batches so your beans will be amazingly fresh AND awesome. Enjoy a 16oz bag today!.