Balance is a Process, Not a Point

In this video, John shares insights from Model 51-Balance is a Process Not a Point from his book Thinking for Success. He emphasizes that balance in life is not something you permanently achieve and maintain but something you continually adjust. He explains that different seasons of life require different priorities. At times, work may demand […]

Creating Value Starts With a Gift

In this chapter, John explains that true success begins with value creation, which starts with giving rather than getting. Most people focus on what they want to receive but that is actually the result, not the starting point. The principle is that value must come first. When you focus on providing value to others, you […]

Julie’s Star Strategy: 5 Pillars for Purpose, Planning & Relationships

In this video, Julie shares how creating a clear personal mission statement has transformed the way she makes decisions and lives with purpose. Using a simple but powerful symbol, a star, Julie builds her life around five guiding pillars. Each point of the star represents one of her core commitments: Love God, Love Others, Pursue […]

Organizational Complexity with an Increasing Number of Relationships

In this video, John breaks down Model 11: Organizational Complexity with an Increasing Number of Relationships from his book Thinking for Success. As organizations grow, this complexity can hurt productivity. Messages get crossed, decisions slow down and things feel harder than they should. That’s why strong strategy matters. Large organizations create smaller teams or departments […]

Productivity Tri-Quation

In this video, John explains Model 33: The Productivity Tri-Quation from his book Thinking for Success. He breaks down Hyrum W. Smith’s philosophy that our cycle of event control, productivity and self-esteem can be either virtuous or vicious, shaping our outcomes. Using the example of two salespeople, he shows that focusing on the right actions-what […]

Favor: The Perception Advantage

In this video, John explains Model 26: Favor: The Perception Advantage from his book Thinking for Success. He explores favor as an intangible quality that changes how people perceive us, opening doors for prosperity and opportunity. Using examples like ice cream flavors and the story of the children of Israel receiving favor in the eyes […]

Isaiah 48:17

“Thus says the Lord, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: ‘I am the Lord your God, who teaches you to profit, who leads you in the way you should go.’” – Isaiah 48:17

Ending the Shirtsleeves Proverb

John Knowlton, February 18, 2026 This piece was originally published in Trusts & Estates on February 18, 2026. Read the original article here The first generation makes it, the second generation spends it and the third generation loses it. You’ve probably heard some version of the “Shirtsleeves” proverb. Shirtsleeves to Shirtsleeves in three generations is […]

Don’t Fight in Front of the Kids

In this video, John explores chapter 8, Don’t Fight in Front of the Kids from his book Thinking for Success. He discusses a crucial leadership principle: unity must be protected in front of people you lead. Just as parents should avoid displaying conflict in front of their children, organizational leaders must be careful not to […]

Hebrews 5:14

“Solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil.” – Hebrews 5:14 View Post