In this transformative episode, we explore the fundamental reasons why traditional New Year's resolutions consistently fall short and introduce a paradigm-shifting approach to goal-setting. By extending our vision from yearly milestones to decade-long achievements, we unlock unprecedented potential for growth and success. Hosts Nicolai and Luis draw from their extensive experience to demonstrate how this expanded time horizon creates space for compound growth, allowing achievements that might seem impossible within a shorter timeframe.

Through real-world examples and practical insights, they illustrate how this longer-term perspective helps overcome common pitfalls of short-term thinking, while fostering resilience and strategic patience. The conversation reveals how extending your planning horizon beyond the conventional annual cycle can lead to exponential growth and achievements that transcend ordinary expectations.

Episode Highlights & Timeline

[00:00] Introduction & New Year Reflections

[02:53] Vision Casting & Long-term Planning

[05:35] Understanding Time Perspective

[08:50] The Power of Small Actions

[13:31] Real-world Success Stories

[16:55] Building Systems for Success

[19:47] The Compound Effect

[21:42] Grace in Goal Setting

Lessons Learned

Your baseline can shift dramatically over time - what seems impossible today could become your new normal

The compound effect of small, consistent actions is more powerful than sporadic big efforts

Having grace for "bad days" is crucial for long-term success

Starting somewhere, even if imperfect, is better than waiting for perfect conditions

Progress isn't linear - expect and embrace the natural ups and downs of growth

Your environment and systems matter more than willpower or motivation

Regular review and adjustment of your approach keeps you on track for long-term success

https://youtu.be/Hq7T6QJXGI0

Main Takeaways

Think in decades, not just years. As Nicolai shares, "I hope that 10 years from now, I'm going to look back at 39 and be like, hey, you were okay at 39, but look how much farther you have come now."

Focus on systems over goals. Build daily habits that compound over time rather than focusing solely on outcomes.

Allow yourself to dream bigger. Many of us underestimate what we can achieve in a decade while overestimating what we can do in a year.

Create accountability structures that support your long-term vision

In this episode, we explore how engineers can get better at giving and receiving feedback at work. We share real stories about both successes and failures in our careers, showing how feedback helped us grow. Our hosts share their personal experiences and the lessons they learned along the way. You'll learn practical tips and examples that will help you handle feedback better in your engineering career. Whether you've been an engineer for years or are just starting out, this episode will help you use feedback to become better at your job.

"Feedback is a two-way street - both giving and receiving require practice."

Timeline:

00:00:00 - Welcome and introduction 00:00:14 - Discussion about new team member and handling feedback 00:01:52 - Addressing negative feedback and learning from mistakes 00:04:30 - Personal experience with feedback struggles 00:09:00 - Importance of owning mistakes and team leadership 00:17:00 - Creating psychological safety in teams 00:23:00 - Role of engineers in society and responsibility 00:26:00 - Supervisors' role in feedback culture 00:30:31 - Episode summary and key takeaways

Watch it: https://youtu.be/MJuYVeoxZh8

Lessons and Takeaways

Start tracking feedback: Begin a feedback journal to document both positive and negative feedback you receive. Reflect on it regularly to identify patterns and areas for growth.

Practice active listening: During your next feedback session, focus on truly understanding the other person's perspective without interrupting. Summarize their points to ensure clarity.

Create a safe environment: Build trust in your team by fostering psychological safety where everyone feels comfortable sharing honest feedback without fear.

Own your mistakes: When receiving feedback about errors, take responsibility and outline clear steps to prevent similar issues in the future.

Adopt the "we" mindset: Frame feedback in a collaborative way by focusing on team solutions and shared goals rather than assigning blame.

"Take time to process feedback before responding."

Take Action:

Start a feedback journal this week

Practice active listening in your next feedback session

Schedule regular reflection time for both successes and areas for improvement

Links and References

Master Your End-of-Year Goal Planning: A Guide for Engineering Professionals

In this powerful episode on end-of-year goal planning, we dive deep into a four-step framework that transforms abstract ambitions into achievable outcomes. Join us as we explore how to create meaningful goals that align with your life's mission while maintaining the flexibility to adapt as circumstances change.

Key Topics Discussed:

[00:00:14] Introduction to goal setting and reflection on 2024

[00:03:01] The importance of celebrating progress

[00:08:00] Framework for identifying meaningful goals

[00:15:03] Understanding and bridging gaps in goal achievement

[00:20:46] Creating an effective game plan

Lessons Learned

Simplicity is key - complex systems often lead to abandonment

Goals should have emotional resonance to maintain momentum

Regular review and adjustment periods are crucial for long-term success

The power of "just-in-time" goal setting for maintaining relevance

Main Takeaways

"Even if I did 80% of the goal and still failed, 80% is a lot." - This powerful quote reminds us that progress, not perfection, should be our focus.

The four-step framework:

Celebrate Progress

Identify Goals

Analyze Gaps

Create Game Plan

Take Action

Start your "wins folder" today - create a dedicated space for tracking achievements

Define your life categories and identify one goal for each

Schedule monthly review sessions for 2025 to maintain momentum

Keep it simple - begin with no more than three concurrent goals

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of internships in engineering, exploring why they are crucial for career success. Fresh from experiences at the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers convention, where thousands of students competed for opportunities, Nicolai shares invaluable insights about landing that first internship. From the shocking statistic that recruiters spend only 6 seconds reviewing each resume, to practical strategies like using company keywords and building an online presence, this episode is packed with actionable advice.

You'll discover why any work experience - even cleaning dorms or working as a quality control technician - can be valuable for professional development. The hosts discuss the significant difference between student and professional mindsets, and how internships help bridge this gap. Plus, learn how networking through internships can lead directly to job offers, as demonstrated by real success stories from the hosts' experiences.

Whether you're a student looking for your first internship or a professional seeking to understand the value of internship programs, this conversation offers practical tips, personal experiences, and proven strategies for standing out in today's competitive engineering job market.

Lessons Learned

Internships are a critical differentiator in job applications - "I still was at such an advantage with having those four years of internships"

Any work experience is valuable - from cleaning dorms to quality control technician, all jobs teach professional skills

The transition from student to professional mindset is significant - "Being a worker and being a student are very different"

Network building through internships can lead directly to job offers - as demonstrated by one host's experience getting hired through a previous internship connection

Main Takeaways

Recruiters spend an average of just 6 seconds reviewing each resume - making first impressions critical

Having internship experience significantly increases chances of getting hired full-time

Different types of internships can help identify preferred career paths - "it helped me focus on what discipline I actually wanted to do"

Professional skills developed during any job are transferable and valuable

Take Action

Create a standout resume with keywords from company websites

Develop an online presence through LinkedIn and personal websites

Be proactive in reaching out - "Just find a phone and call the front desk"

Apply the five-hour rule during internships - spend one hour each day learning about your field

Attend industry conventions and career fairs

Join professional organizations like ASCE and Engineers Without Borders

In this episode, we dive deep into essential money principles with financial coach Nicolai, exploring practical strategies for managing finances as young professionals. The conversation centers around the fundamental of personal finance including simple tips to get you started such as the 50-30-20 rule of budgeting, where 50% goes to needs, 30% to wants, and 20% to savings.

"Learn how to optimize your financial systems with real-world advice for engineers at every career stage."

Key themes include:

The importance of emergency funds

Strategic use of sinking funds for predictable expenses like car maintenance, holidays, and home repairs

Housing costs management

The psychology of credit card use and responsible travel hacking

Nicolai shares his personal journey from financial struggles to becoming a financial coach, while Luis discusses his family's current approach to budgeting, including managing travel expenses and planning for a growing family. Both hosts emphasize the importance of having clear financial priorities and maintaining discipline in spending.

The episode provides practical insights for engineers looking to optimize their financial systems, whether they're just starting their careers or looking to refine their existing financial strategies.

Big thank you to the podcast partners for making this episode possible

PPI: https://www.luisfelipeduque.com/PPI2Pass

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In this week's episode of Engineering our Future, we're diving deep into a question that's on the minds of many engineers and professionals: What's the real difference between working at a small versus big firms? Join Luis and Nicolai as they unpack this complex topic.

Whether you're a recent graduate weighing your options or a seasoned pro considering a change, this episode offers valuable insights to help you navigate your career path.

Key questions we'll explore:

* How does company size impact your day-to-day work and long-term career trajectory?

* What are the hidden advantages - and potential pitfalls - of both small and large firms?

* How can you leverage the unique opportunities in each environment to accelerate your professional growth?

"Engineering is not just about building structures; it's about constructing a fulfilling career."

Drawing from their own experiences transitioning between different sized companies, Luis and Nikolai offer candid reflections and practical advice. They'll challenge you to think critically about what you truly value in your work environment and how to align your career choices with your personal and professional goals.

"Your career choices should reflect your values and professional goals."

Whether you're team "small firm energy" or dreaming of big corporate resources, this episode promises to broaden your perspective and equip you with the insights you need to make informed decisions about your engineering future. Tune in, and let's engineer not just structures, but careers built to last.

"Understanding the dynamics of small versus large firms can redefine your engineering career."

Lessons and Takeaways

* Evaluate how company size aligns with your career goals and values to make informed decisions.

* Identify the unique opportunities available at both small and large firms to enhance your professional growth.

* Consider the long-term impact of daily work environment differences when choosing between company sizes.

* Be aware of the hidden advantages and potential pitfalls of both small and large firms to navigate your career path effectively.

* Reflect on your personal priorities to ensure your career choices align with what you value most in a work environment.

Links and References

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