Golden Age In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery…   I start with something a little unexpected: these big, goofy glasses. They’re not just for show—I recently made a major decision to get eye surgery. Not LASIK, but something bigger. This choice wasn’t about looks or convenience; it was about safety, responsibility, and how I show up for my family.   A few months ago, our fire alarms went off in the middle of the night. My instinct was to rush to my daughters' rooms, but I realized as I stumbled in the dark that my vision could leave me compromised in an emergency. It was a harsh wake-up call. As the leader of my family, if I can’t see, I can’t protect. This realization hit hard. I do everything I can to stay ready—physically, mentally, and emotionally. So, I decided to invest in a long-term solution: light-adjustable lenses. Now, if a crisis hits, I know I’ll be ready.   This episode is about personal responsibility. It’s about owning your choices, from the health decisions you make to the people you surround yourself with. Too often, we let outside influences—like elections, holidays, or even sports games—derail us from our goals. I’ve been there too, but I learned that waiting for the “right time” or for things to “settle down” is a story we tell ourselves to justify inaction.   The Lesson When we invest in ourselves, we’re telling our families, businesses, and communities that we’re here to lead, no matter the circumstances. Whether it’s improving our health, managing our time, or growing our business, these are the real commitments that turn any era into a "golden age."   Reflect on This:   Are you preparing yourself to lead, even in difficult or unexpected moments?   How much do you allow outside events to dictate your focus and energy?   What areas in your life could benefit from a personal investment, like health or skill development?   Who in your life relies on you showing up at your best, no matter the day or situation?   What’s one choice you can make today to reinforce your commitment to your goals?   Notable Quotes:   "If I can’t see, I can’t protect. I’m no longer a leader if I’m stumbling in the dark."   "The golden age is a time of opportunity. I decided many years ago that this was going to be the golden age."   "Too many people are swayed by things outside of them. If you want to live in the golden age, you’ve got to be on your game."   "Your outcomes over the next four years depend squarely on you, not on some law or limitation."   "I decide to improve my vision and the way I see myself, the expectations I have, and the path I want to go on."   In this episode, I’m not just talking about vision; I’m talking about the mindset that builds security, stability, and success. So let’s end this year strong and charge into the next with clarity, responsibility, and purpose.   Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: @azaraujo Facebook: A.Z. Araujo TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: Do The Work Podcast   For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: dothework.com/azaa   Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: dothework.com bigmoneybrokerage.com Join my mailing list for updates!   New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: • • shop.dothework.com