Weekly Wisdom—Gratitude, Entrepreneurial Focus, and Recognizing Opportunities (7/19/25)

 This week, I reflected on three powerful and thought-provoking topics: “An Attitude of Gratitude,” “Identifying and Exploiting the Right Entrepreneurial Activity…for You,” and “Recognizing and Shaping Opportunities.” Each one explores how our perspective, choices, and actions shape both our personal growth and the opportunities available to us. These messages challenged me to think deeply about how gratitude, self-awareness, and intentional action can transform not just the way we pursue success but also the way we experience life. They reminded me that our mindset determines how we respond to challenges and whether we recognize the blessings right in front of us.

An Attitude of Gratitude

President Thomas S. Monson’s message is a heartfelt reminder of the life-changing power of gratitude. True happiness doesn’t come from waiting for ideal circumstances; it comes from actively choosing to see blessings in every stage of life. Gratitude shifts our focus away from what’s missing to what’s already here: family, friends, health, and even the struggles that teach us resilience. What stands out most is the invitation to express gratitude openly, not just silently. Gratitude strengthens relationships, deepens our faith, and gives us the strength to endure trials with hope. This message inspires me to intentionally pause and notice the good, to show appreciation through my words and actions, and to make gratitude a daily habit that changes how I interact with others and approach life’s challenges.

Identifying and Exploiting the Right Entrepreneurial Activity…for You

This topic explores how finding the right entrepreneurial path requires knowing yourself—your strengths, passions, and what motivates you. Success isn’t about chasing every opportunity; it’s about choosing ones that align with your long-term vision and values. The reading emphasizes that entrepreneurship involves risk, but taking the right risks, those that are calculated and intentional, leads to growth. I learned the importance of testing ideas in small, manageable ways before fully committing, which helps reduce failure and refine your vision. It also made me reflect on how my personal “why” matters more than external measures of success. Pursuing opportunities that energize me not only builds resilience but also allows me to create a meaningful impact.

Recognizing and Shaping Opportunities

These readings highlight that opportunities rarely arrive fully formed; they are discovered, shaped, and improved through creativity, persistence, and action. Recognizing an opportunity often means seeing potential where others only see obstacles and having the courage to move forward even when success isn’t guaranteed. Shaping an opportunity takes commitment, testing, adapting, and refining ideas until they meet real needs. What stood out to me was the reminder that progress comes from consistent effort, even in small steps. This perspective motivates me to stay curious and proactive, to see challenges as stepping stones, and to trust that meaningful growth happens when I keep showing up and putting in the work.

5 Key Takeaways

  • Gratitude shifts our focus and strengthens resilience, helping us find joy in all circumstances.

  • Success in entrepreneurship comes from aligning work with personal strengths and values.

  • Opportunities often need shaping; persistence and adaptability make the difference.

  • Expressing gratitude strengthens relationships and deepens faith in God’s plan.

  • Smart, intentional risks lead to sustainable growth and a more meaningful path forward.

Conclusion
Reflecting on these lessons, I’m reminded that real success isn’t defined by speed or outward achievements; it’s built on gratitude, intentional action, and staying true to what matters most. Each message encourages me to approach life with a thankful heart, pursue opportunities that reflect my values, and shape challenges into growth through persistence and faith. They also remind me that even small steps, taken with purpose, create lasting change over time. I feel motivated to live with greater awareness and gratitude, trusting that the right mindset can transform difficulties into opportunities and turn steady effort into meaningful impact.

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