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Dopamine: The Double-Edged Reward Chemical

We often talk about motivation, joy, and drive—but behind all of those feelings is a powerful brain chemical called dopamine. It’s the “feel good” neurotransmitter that gets released when we do something rewarding, satisfying, or even just novel. In healthy doses, dopamine motivates us to reach goals, connect with others, and grow. But in excess—or through the wrong avenues—it can quietly hijack our habits and mental health.

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Resilience, Habits Jay Poland Resilience, Habits Jay Poland

Win the Morning, Win the Day

There’s a well-known phrase that says, “How you start your day is how you live your day.” And it’s true: the first moments of your morning often set the tone for everything that follows. In a world filled with noise, pressure, and distractions, how we begin matters more than ever. Winning the morning isn’t about perfection—it’s about intention.

At Providence Perspectives, we believe resilience is not built in grand moments alone. It's forged in the quiet consistency of our habits, especially how we start each day. When you win the morning, you take back control over your mindset, your focus, and your spiritual grounding.

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The Seinfeld Strategy: How a Comedy Legend Can Help You Build Consistency

What does Jerry Seinfeld—one of the most successful comedians of all time—have to do with your goals, habits, or even your spiritual growth?

Quite a bit, actually.

Seinfeld is known for turning everyday observations into comedic gold. But what’s lesser known is the simple yet powerful productivity method he used to become a prolific writer and master of his craft. It’s called The Seinfeld Strategy, and it just might be the missing piece in your journey toward lasting change.

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Resilience Jay Poland Resilience Jay Poland

How do I Handle Adversity?

Life’s storms are inevitable. No one gets through unscathed. Unexpected loss, financial struggles, relational conflicts, or even the crushing weight of personal failure—these storms test us in ways we never anticipated. But resilience isn’t built in the absence of hardship; it is forged in the very heart of the storm.

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Mindset, Perspective, Depression, Anxiety Jay Poland Mindset, Perspective, Depression, Anxiety Jay Poland

Comparison Is the Thief of Joy: Why I Avoid Comparative Thinking

Great words by Theodore Roosevelt. We live in a world obsessed with comparison. Social media, workplace evaluations, even casual conversations—all are riddled with phrases like better than, worse than, more successful, less talented, faster, slower, stronger, weaker. These comparative terms subtly shape our mindset, often leaving us feeling either inadequate or superior. Neither outcome is healthy.

I dislike comparative language because it shifts our focus away from personal growth and gratitude. Instead of appreciating where we are, we fixate on where we aren’t. Instead of celebrating others, we measure ourselves against them. Comparison creates an invisible scoreboard where we’re constantly ranking ourselves, but there’s no actual finish line—just exhaustion and discontent.

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Mindset Jay Poland Mindset Jay Poland

The Power of a Providence Perspective

We live in a world filled with distractions—news, social media, work stress, and personal challenges can easily consume our thoughts. But Scripture reminds us that what we focus on determines the direction of our lives. The New Testament urges believers to set their minds on things above, shifting their focus from temporary struggles to eternal truths.

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Goal Setting, Habits, Tracking Jay Poland Goal Setting, Habits, Tracking Jay Poland

The Power of Tracking Habits: Unlocking Growth Through Accountability

Building new habits can feel like an uphill battle, especially when life is filled with distractions and competing priorities. But what if the key to long-term success lies not only in starting good habits but in tracking them? Research shows that individuals who monitor their habits and progress experience greater success and sustained personal growth than those who don't. In this blog, we’ll dive into the science behind habit tracking, the tangible benefits it provides, and how tools like the Dalio app can transform your journey toward growth.

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Goal Setting Jay Poland Goal Setting Jay Poland

A New Year, A New You: Reflecting Before Resolving

As we turn the page to a new year, many of us find ourselves in a familiar rhythm: reflecting on the past and dreaming of what’s ahead. Often, our goals center on improving our finances or shedding a few pounds. While these pursuits are valuable, what about the spiritual component of our lives?

This New Year, let’s take a moment to look inward before we leap forward. Genuine transformation begins with honest reflection—especially when it comes to our relationship with God.

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