Life Lessons:
Chris Brogan
Woot! In the Life Lessons Hot Seat today is Chris Brogan, a guy I had the good fortune to meet while speaking this summer at the Disney Social Media Moms conference. Now, since I was new to this whole social media game, I wasn’t really aware of the fact that this guy is a FREAKING ROCK STAR in that world. When he spoke, I understood why. Engaging, down-to-earth, real, all the things needed for success in this business and in life. Anyway, say hi to my buddy, Chris and if you want to be a part of our exercise, drop us a line; we’ll get the questions out to you!
Are you happy at the moment?
Yes! Happier than I’ve been in years. Lots of life changes and very hard work made this true.
If you could go back and say anything to your 16-year-old self now – what would it be?
Be confident and brave. The more you practice this, the better your life will always be. It’s never too late, but I would’ve loved the extra time.
What’s the most important thing you’ve learned this year?
I learned that I can’t stay tangled in things, that I have to do hard work if I want to be healthy, and that I can’t settle.
What do you most want to achieve in the next 12 months?
I want to get my business back on track. 2011 was a dog of a year. I tried hard to shift my pivot and got beaten up for it. Small business and I don’t mix well, business-wise, so I’m back to the big boys.
What’s your secret to happiness?
My secret to happiness is remembering that I’m the person I have to please. It’s 100% my job, and that it’s important to put myself first in living strong and within myself, otherwise I can’t be a good partner.
What one ritual or practice keeps you grounded?
I’m working on learning yoga and meditation. I’m bad at both still. Can’t get into the habit.
What’s your biggest regret?
My biggest regret is that I didn’t do the hard work that I knew was necessary years ago.
What’s the most important lesson you’ve taught your kid(s)?
Hopefully, I just taught my kids that you can be loved and have much love, even if you’re in a split household.
What bad habit would you most like to change about yourself?
I eat when I’m depressed. I’m depressed often. Need I say more?
Aside from motherhood and marriage what are you most proud of in your life?
I’m not a mom and I’m getting divorced, so neither is my proud moment. The moment I’m most proud of is realizing just what was wrong with me so I could fix it.
When were you happiest?
I’m happiest now.
What ten words best describe you?
Helpful, funny, prolific, thoughtful, gregarious (selectively), charming, melancholy, concerned, forgetful, hopeful.
Chris Brogan consults and speaks professionally with Fortune 100 and 500 companies like PepsiCo, General Motors, Microsoft, and more, on the future of business communications, and social software technologies. He is a New York Times bestselling co-author of Trust Agents, and a featured monthly columnist at Entrepreneur Magazine. Chris’s blog, [chrisbrogan.com], is in the Top 5 of the Advertising Age Power150. He has over 11 years experience in online community, social media, and related technologies. You can learn more about him by visiting his page.
