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What Does It Mean To Be “Rich”? Insights from Thomas C. Corley’s “Rich Habits”

When most people hear the term “rich”, they immediately think of vast wealth, luxury cars, and opulent homes. However, in the context of Thomas C. Corley’s “Rich Habits: The Daily Success Habits of Wealthy Individuals”, being rich isn’t merely about the accumulation of money. Instead, it’s about cultivating habits that lead to success in multiple facets of life. These habits, as highlighted by Corley, become the bedrock for a successful, balanced, and prosperous life.

Defining Richness

Richness, as illuminated in “Rich Habits”, doesn’t exclusively pertain to financial wealth. Being truly rich encompasses a holistic wellness in personal growth, relationships, health, and certainly, financial stability. When one adopts the right habits, they not only build financial security but also enrich their lives with knowledge, stronger relationships, and personal well-being.

Key Habits from “Rich Habits”

  1. Daily Self-improvement: Committing to lifelong learning.
  2. Goal Setting: Charting a clear path to success.
  3. Networking: Building relationships with driven and positive individuals.
  4. Limited Recreational Activities: Focusing time on productive endeavors.
  5. Avoid Procrastination: Valuing time and seizing the day.
  6. Early Risers: Gaining a productive edge by starting the day early.
  7. Monitor Health: Ensuring that one’s health is a top priority.
  8. Financial Discipline: Spending wisely and saving diligently.
  9. Positive Thinking: Keeping an optimistic mindset.
  10. Providing Value: Being of service and value in one’s professional life.

Affirmations to Build Rich Habits

Affirmations are positive statements that help reinforce beliefs and drive behaviors. Here are ten affirmations inspired by “Rich Habits” that you can incorporate into your daily routine:

  1. I am committed to daily self-improvement and growth.
  2. I set clear goals and work diligently to achieve them.
  3. I surround myself with positive and ambitious individuals.
  4. I prioritize my time for activities that align with my goals.
  5. I take immediate action on tasks and avoid procrastination.
  6. I rise early, ready to make the most of my day.
  7. I make conscious decisions for my physical and mental well-being.
  8. I practice financial discipline, ensuring a prosperous future.
  9. I maintain a positive outlook, regardless of challenges I face.
  10. I consistently seek ways to provide immense value in everything I do.

In conclusion, being rich extends beyond monetary wealth. It is a holistic approach to life that embodies growth, discipline, positivity, and value-driven actions. Adopting the habits highlighted in Corley’s “Rich Habits” and reinforcing them with daily affirmations can pave the way for a richer and more fulfilling life.

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The Power of Simplicity: A Reflection by Di Tran

In a world where complexity often overshadows simplicity, Di Tran’s enlightening conversation with an 80-year-old American of North Korean descent offers a profound insight into the importance of unity and the value of simplicity in human societies.

The octogenarian’s comment: “Di Tran, do you know why Vietnam is a lot better than North and South Korea? It is that Vietnam is united as one,” draws a parallel between national unity and simplicity. Vietnam’s unity, despite its tumultuous past, stands in stark contrast to the Korean peninsula’s divided history. Though it is critical to understand that such a perspective demands one to sideline political ideologies momentarily, the essence remains — unity simplifies the complications that come with division.

A quick search by Di Tran reveals that many Koreans, despite decades of separation, yearn for a united Korea. Campaigns that promote this unity focus on the humanistic aspect: allowing Koreans to experience the joys and sorrows of life without the weight of a divisive political regime. This dream, to many, embodies simplicity in its purest form.

Yet, the complexities of human societies do not limit themselves to the Korean peninsula. Take the USA, often heralded as the “land of the free,” still grappling with issues of racial discrimination. Though most Americans believe in the greatness of their nation, the fight for equal representation and the eradication of systemic racism remains an ongoing battle.

The paradox lies in humanity’s inherent nature. We are creatures who crave simplicity, as evident from the fact that most fundamental human needs – love, respect, understanding – are simple in essence. However, societal constructs, historical baggage, and political intricacies often overshadow this craving.

In his book, “The Laws of Simplicity,” John Maeda states that simplicity is about subtracting the obvious and adding the meaningful. Applying this principle to societies implies focusing on the unifying human elements and shedding divisive forces.

Moreover, Leonardo da Vinci’s famous saying, “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication,” resonates with the idea that finding unity, whether in national identity or the fight against discrimination, is a mark of evolved societies.

In conclusion, Di Tran’s reflection on the critical concept of simplicity, inspired by a conversation with a seasoned traveler of life, is a poignant reminder for all. While complexities are inevitable, societies that champion simplicity, unity, and equality invariably prosper. It’s a lesson that, though known to many, is practiced by few. We must strive not only to understand the power of simplicity but to actively integrate it into our global tapestry.

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The American Dream: From Lao to Louisville, a Father-Daughter Tale of Hard Work and Inspiration

In the heart of America, the story of Ti Lin Khounkham and his daughter Lily Lin offers a vivid illustration of perseverance, hope, and the indefatigable American spirit. Originally hailing from Lao, the Khounkham family epitomizes the essence of the American Dream, embodying the ideals of hard work and determination.

As the morning sun peeks over Louisville, Kentucky, the city witnesses an endearing tableau: a young 16-year-old, Lily, giving her hardworking father, Ti Lin, a pedicure. It’s not just any pedicure; it’s one she has honed and refined as a student at the renowned Louisville Beauty Academy. Founded by Di Tran, a Vietnamese immigrant and a beacon of the American spirit, this academy stands as a symbol of accessibility, affordability, and most importantly, dreams achieved. Serving the underserved, the academy has proudly graduated over a thousand students, each with a unique story of resilience.

Lily is no ordinary teenager. With her accelerated studies, she graduated high school early, showcasing an unparalleled drive. As she preps for college, she has her eyes set on acquiring her nail technology license from the Louisville Beauty Academy. For Lily, this license is more than just a certificate; it’s a ticket to independence, allowing her to earn a significant income through college and beyond. She mirrors the journey of Di Tran, the founder of her school. A proud American and an immigrant, Di Tran, with his bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD (ABD) in computer engineering, used his nail license as a stepping stone to support his education. Today, he juggles the roles of an active nail technician, salon owner, and an educator with aplomb.

Parallelly, Ti Lin Khounkham stands as a testament to the art of craftsmanship. As a skilled construction worker, he remodels homes, pouring his dedication and expertise into every project.

The synergy between father and daughter is palpable. Ti Lin’s grit and hard work, combined with Lily’s passion and determination, make for an inspiring duo. Their journey, from Lao to Louisville, is not just their own; it’s a tale that resonates with every immigrant, every hardworking individual aiming for a better life.

In the words of Di Tran, witnessing such profound moments of love and ambition, “Can this be more beautiful?” Indeed, America thrives on these stories. As the Khounkham family continues their journey, they remind us that dreams, when chased with unwavering spirit, do come true.

God blesses their path and the countless others who tread similarly, reminding us of the boundless possibilities that await in the land of the free.

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Aprovechando el Poder de las Afirmaciones Matutinas: Una Perspectiva del Libro de Di Tran “Deja el MIEDO y Enfócate en la FE”

En su próximo libro “Deja el MIEDO y Enfócate en la FE”, Di Tran subraya la importancia de cultivar una mentalidad sin miedo, arraigada en la fe. Las afirmaciones matutinas, como él sugiere, pueden ser una herramienta fundamental en este proceso transformador. Aquí, profundizamos en el por qué, cuándo y dónde de las afirmaciones, inspirados en las enseñanzas de Tran.

¿Por Qué Usar Afirmaciones Matutinas?

  1. Fortalecer la Fe por Encima del Miedo: Como Di Tran destaca, reemplazar pensamientos motivados por el miedo con afirmaciones alimentadas por la fe puede remodelar nuestro marco mental.
  2. Impulsar la Autoconfianza: Las enseñanzas de Tran se centran en el poder de la autoconfianza. Hablar positivamente a uno mismo fomenta esta creencia, dirigiéndonos hacia nuestro propósito.
  3. Superar Dudas Diarias: La afirmación continua refuerza nuestra fe en nuestro viaje, ayudando a disminuir las dudas diarias.
  4. Establecer un Tonificado lleno de Fe: Alineándose con el mensaje de Tran, comenzar el día arraigado en la fe puede impactar profundamente nuestras acciones y experiencias.

¿Cuándo Usar Afirmaciones Matutinas?

  1. Al Despertar: Tomando una página del libro de Tran, comienza el día con fe recitando afirmaciones al despertar.
  2. Durante la Oración o Meditación: Incorpora afirmaciones en tus prácticas espirituales diarias para una conexión y alineación más profunda.
  3. Cuando se Enfrenta a Desafíos: En momentos de duda, acude a tus afirmaciones como recordatorio de tu viaje lleno de fe.

¿Dónde Usar Afirmaciones Matutinas?

  1. Espacios Sagrados: Ya sea un altar, rincón de meditación o un rincón especial en tu hogar, este espacio puede ser un recordatorio de tu viaje lleno de fe.
  2. Diarios: Siguiendo el énfasis de Tran en la introspección, escribir afirmaciones puede profundizar su impacto.
  3. Plataformas Digitales: Usando tecnología, configura recordatorios o alarmas con afirmaciones para instilar fe a lo largo del día.

10-20 Afirmaciones Inspiradas por “Deja el MIEDO y Enfócate en la FE”

  1. “Hoy, elijo la fe sobre el miedo.”
  2. “Mi fe me guía a través de la incertidumbre.”
  3. “Cada desafío es una prueba de mi fe, y estoy listo.”
  4. “Soy un faro de luz y fe en este mundo.”
  5. “A través de la fe, todo es posible.”
  6. “Libero miedos y dudas, abrazando la energía ilimitada de la fe.”
  7. “Hoy, camino con fe, sabiendo que estoy divinamente guiado.”
  8. “Mi fe es mi escudo, protegiéndome de la negatividad.”
  9. “Con fe inquebrantable, muevo montañas.”
  10. “Merezco bendiciones, porque mi fe es fuerte.”
  11. “Cada momento es una oportunidad para fortalecer mi fe.”
  12. “Mi fe es la base sobre la cual construyo mis sueños.”
  13. “Estoy rodeado de amor divino, reforzando mi fe.”
  14. “Hoy, me concentro en los milagros que la fe trae a mi vida.”
  15. “La fe me guía, el miedo me abandona.”
  16. “Con la fe a mi lado, supero todos los obstáculos.”
  17. “Soy un vaso de fe, difundiendo esperanza y amor.”
  18. “Confío en el camino que la fe pone ante mí.”
  19. “Mi fe crece con cada día que pasa, iluminando mi viaje.”
  20. “La gratitud me llena, porque a través de la fe, soy transformado.”

En el espíritu de las enseñanzas de Di Tran, las afirmaciones matutinas sirven como recordatorios diarios para permanecer arraigados en la fe, dejando de lado el miedo. Estas afirmaciones, derivadas de sus profundos conocimientos, pueden ser, de hecho, la piedra angular de una vida sin miedo y guiada por la fe.

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The Ever-Churning Mind: Aging, Intuition, and Finding Purpose

Have you ever laid in bed, eyes heavy with fatigue, but your mind refusing to rest? With age, it seems that the inner monologues, reflections, and musings only intensify. Our minds are in a perpetual state of activity, like a river that never ceases to flow. One might ask, “why would you want to silence it?” This inexhaustible mental engine might very well be God-given, a divine compass guiding us toward our purpose.

The Constantly Working Mind

With every passing year, our life experiences accumulate. They say that with age comes wisdom, but perhaps it’s more accurate to say that with age comes contemplation. A study by Maillet and Rajah (2013) suggested that as we age, we shift towards using our medial prefrontal cortex more, an area associated with self-referential thoughts. This could account for the heightened self-reflection and introspection many report as they grow older.

Your Mind: A God-Given Guide

For believers in a higher power, the mind’s relentless workings can be seen as divine. Many spiritual teachings emphasize the significance of intuition as a link to the divine. “For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God,” reads Romans 8:14. In this view, the thoughts, insights, and intuitions that arise in our minds could be perceived as whispers from the universe, guiding us towards our destinies.

The Flow of Intuition

Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, a prominent psychologist, coined the term “flow” to describe a state of optimal experience where individuals feel fully immersed and engaged in an activity, with a perfect balance between challenge and skill. When one is in flow, there is a sense of effortlessness, as if being carried by a current. One could argue that when we align with our intuition, we are tapping into this flow, a harmonious state where decisions feel right, and paths unfold naturally before us.

Listening with a Heart

Learning to listen and trust our intuition requires both work and a listening heart. As Lao Tzu once said, “Knowing others is wisdom; knowing the self is enlightenment.” This path towards understanding and trusting our inner voice is not about suppression or force but rather about creating space. Meditation, mindfulness practices, and self-reflection can all cultivate this space, allowing for our intuition to shine through more clearly.

Conclusion

The mind’s ceaseless activity is not something to be silenced but rather to be embraced. Whether seen as a gift from God or a product of years of experience, our thoughts and intuitions serve as guides, leading us towards our purpose. By aligning with this inner compass, by flowing with zero friction, we can navigate life’s currents with grace and ease.

References:

  • Maillet, D., & Rajah, M. N. (2013). Age-related differences in brain activity in the subsequent memory paradigm: A meta-analysis. Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews, 37(10), 2405-2417.
  • Csikszentmihalyi, M. (1990). Flow: The psychology of optimal experience. Harper & Row.
  • The Bible, Romans 8:14.
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Living in a World Where We Disregard Our Bodies as the Temple of God

In today’s fast-paced society, we’ve seen a disturbing trend of individuals turning to various substances and harmful behaviors to cope with the stresses of life. The phrase “your body is a temple” can be traced back to ancient scriptures, particularly in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, which reads, “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.” Despite this poignant reminder, many have moved away from treating their bodies with reverence and care.

1. Drugs and Medication Overuse

Modern society has seen an alarming rise in drug abuse, both in terms of illegal substances and the overuse of prescription medications. The opioid epidemic in the U.S., for example, took the lives of nearly 500,000 people between 1999 and 2019, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It’s a stark reminder of the lengths people will go to find relief, even at the risk of their own lives.

2. Excessive Consumption of Processed Foods

Our eating habits have also deviated from natural, whole foods to heavily processed and artificial products. These often lack essential nutrients and are loaded with sugars, unhealthy fats, and preservatives. As per Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, diets high in processed foods contribute to obesity, diabetes, heart diseases, and a range of other health issues.

3. Overindulgence in Alcohol and Recreational Drugs

Apart from prescription medications, there’s also been a surge in the consumption of alcohol and recreational drugs. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) states that in 2019, 25.8% of people ages 18 and older reported that they engaged in binge drinking in the past month.

4. Mental Health Implications

As we abuse our physical bodies, our mental health deteriorates as well. The World Health Organization (WHO) points out that depression is currently the leading cause of disability worldwide. While there are many factors at play, the disregard for our bodies and the consumption of harmful substances undoubtedly play a role.

5. Rediscovering the Temple Within

It’s crucial to remember that the concept of the body as a temple isn’t just religious dogma but is grounded in practical wisdom. When we nourish our bodies with healthy foods, engage in regular exercise, and avoid harmful substances, we’re better equipped mentally, emotionally, and spiritually to face life’s challenges.

There are numerous initiatives worldwide advocating for a more holistic approach to well-being. From yoga and meditation retreats to organic food movements, people are gradually awakening to the importance of honoring their bodies.

In Conclusion

While the world may present countless temptations and shortcuts to temporary relief, we must be vigilant in preserving the sanctity of our bodies. By recognizing our bodies as sacred vessels, we can make choices that not only enhance our physical health but also nurture our spiritual well-being.

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Language is Not the Barrier; We Are

Di Tran’s profound reflection, “Language is not a barrier, we are the barrier to think language is the barrier”, is a gentle reminder of the power of non-verbal communication and human connection. At the heart of this assertion lies the idea that while language is undeniably an essential tool for communication, it is not the sole factor determining our capacity to understand or be understood.

The Power of Non-Verbal Communication

Dr. Albert Mehrabian’s study in the 1970s introduced a now widely-referenced concept: when verbal and non-verbal communications are incongruent, people rely more on non-verbal cues than words to determine meaning. According to Mehrabian’s rule, words constitute only 7% of the overall message, with tone of voice accounting for 38% and body language a whopping 55% (Mehrabian, 1971). In other words, while the words we use are critical, how we say them and our body language can convey even more about our feelings and intentions.

One can easily spot the validity of these findings in everyday scenarios. For instance, when two individuals greet each other, a warm, genuine smile can immediately bridge the gap of unfamiliarity—even if they don’t share a common language. A simple gesture of open arms can signify acceptance, while leaning forward can denote interest and engagement.

The Impact of Cultural Literacy

While understanding body language can transcend language barriers, it’s also vital to recognize the influence of cultural differences. As Edward T. Hall mentions in his book, “The Silent Language” (1959), different cultures have their own set of unspoken rules and interpretations of personal space, gestures, and body movements. What might be seen as a welcoming gesture in one culture could be considered rude or intrusive in another.

In light of this, genuine interest in and respect for diverse cultural norms is essential. This approach not only facilitates clearer communication but also fosters deeper connections between individuals of different backgrounds.

Breaking Down Self-imposed Barriers

Di Tran’s reflection also brings attention to the psychological and sociological barriers we create for ourselves. We often anticipate difficulty in understanding someone from a different linguistic background, even before making an attempt. In “The Power of Communication: Skills to Build Trust, Inspire Loyalty, and Lead Effectively”, Helio Fred Garcia notes that our preconceived biases, fears, or misconceptions can create more significant communication impediments than any actual language differences.

Conclusion

Language, while a crucial element of human communication, is just one facet of a multidimensional system of interaction. Non-verbal cues—be it a smile, a nod, or an extended hand—hold the potential to connect souls. As we move forward in an increasingly globalized world, embracing the power of non-verbal communication, while being mindful of cultural nuances, can help us break down the barriers we’ve constructed. After all, genuine human connection transcends mere words.

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“Well Done is Better than Well Said”: An Exploration of Action Over Words

Introduction

The proverb “Well done is better than well said” is often attributed to one of America’s founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin. This quote emphasizes the importance of actions over mere words, arguing that what a person does holds more value than what they say they will do. Throughout history, this belief has been echoed by various cultures and philosophies.

Historical Background

Benjamin Franklin, a renowned statesman, scientist, and writer, was known for his wisdom and wit. This particular quote is part of his collection of sayings that are recorded in “Poor Richard’s Almanack,” first published in 1732.

The Emphasis on Action

  1. Philosophical Perspectives: Ancient philosophers like Aristotle advocated for virtuous action as the path to a good life. In his Nicomachean Ethics, Aristotle emphasizes that virtue lies in our actions, not just our words or thoughts.
  2. Literary Examples: In Shakespeare’s “Hamlet,” the character Polonius advises, “Give thy thoughts no tongue.” This supports the idea that actions speak louder than words, as empty promises and mere talk can lead to misunderstandings and broken trust.
  3. Business Ethics: The quote can also be applied to business ethics. A company’s mission statement means nothing if its practices do not align with its proclaimed values. For example, businesses that claim to be environmentally friendly must demonstrate this through tangible actions.
  4. Psychological Insights: Psychological research suggests that there is often a gap between what people say they will do and what they actually do. This phenomenon is known as the intention-behavior gap and has been studied in various contexts, including health behavior and consumer behavior (Sheeran, 2002).

Contemporary Application

In today’s social media-driven world, where words are often prioritized, Franklin’s wisdom resonates more than ever. The rise of ‘slacktivism,’ where online support for a cause does not translate into real-world action, illustrates the ongoing relevance of this quote.

Conclusion

The phrase “Well done is better than well said” serves as a timeless reminder that actions hold greater significance than mere words. From historical philosophers to modern-day scenarios, this principle encourages a focus on tangible deeds rather than empty promises. By fostering a culture of accountability and integrity, both individuals and organizations can benefit from embracing the wisdom in these simple yet profound words.

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Decision-making in the Hands of the Risk-free: The Perilous Path

In the realm of decision-making, the idea of accountability plays a critical role. As Di Tran, the renowned author of books such as “Drop the Me and focus on the OTHERs” and “Guiding Lights: A journey of courage, compassion, and faith,” elucidates, there are significant dangers when the power of choice is placed in the hands of those who pay no price for being wrong.

This principle aligns well with his additional stance that one should avoid engaging with those who have nothing to lose. Tran’s ideas can be supported by examining the theories and perspectives of various acclaimed authors and their corresponding literature.

Nassim Nicholas Taleb, in his book “Skin in the Game: Hidden Asymmetries in Daily Life”, corroborates Tran’s theory. He argues that decision-making should be in the hands of those who bear the consequences of their decisions. When decision-makers are insulated from the effects of their decisions, they might favor reckless or self-serving actions, leading to negative outcomes for others (Taleb, 2018).

Taleb’s concept of ‘skin in the game’—the idea that one’s stake in the outcome is a crucial element of any decision—reflects Tran’s philosophy. A decision-maker who pays no price for being wrong is likely to make riskier decisions since they do not bear any personal repercussions. Conversely, someone with ‘skin in the game’ will make decisions carefully, considering all implications.

This concept extends to Tran’s other philosophy: not to ‘play’ with those who have nothing to lose. The implications are twofold: first, it is an extension of the idea that decision-makers should bear the consequences of their decisions. Second, it speaks to a broader societal issue, suggesting that interaction with those who stand to lose nothing in any given scenario can be dangerous and potentially damaging.

Barbara Oakley, in her book “Pathological Altruism,” introduces the concept of ‘altruistic harm,’ where people, under the guise of helping, cause more harm than good due to a lack of personal repercussions (Oakley, 2012). This phenomenon aligns with Tran’s philosophy. Those who have nothing to lose might act recklessly and cause harm to others, whether intentionally or not.

Adding to the discussion, Robert I. Sutton in “The No Asshole Rule” emphasizes the damage that people who don’t care about the consequences of their actions can cause in an organizational context (Sutton, 2007). This book presents various examples of people disregarding the impact of their decisions on others, causing harm to the organization’s culture and productivity. Again, this complements Tran’s philosophy of avoiding engagement with those who have nothing to lose.

In conclusion, Di Tran’s alignment around decision-making and interaction with risk-free individuals highlights the crucial importance of accountability in all human actions. The references to the works of Taleb, Oakley, and Sutton demonstrate that decision-making without personal stakes can lead to reckless choices, negative societal impact, and a toxic environment. It’s a stark reminder that those who stand to gain or lose nothing from their decisions can prove dangerous for individuals and society at large.

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Delighting Donut Devotees: How Gaby Shanklin’s ‘Lil Shanklin’s Donuts’ is Set to Take Over Louisville

A good donut can indeed transform an ordinary day into an extraordinary one – a sentiment shared by many, including Di Tran, the president of New American Business Association Inc. His recent interest was piqued by Lil Shanklin’s Donuts, a vibrant and promising venture by Gaby Shanklin, which with his endorsement, shows immense potential to become a regular feature at Louisville Beauty Academy.

Gaby Shanklin, a passionate baker since her teenage years, has always been fascinated by the art of baking. Her early entrepreneurial journey began by creating Latin desserts, selling homemade treats to friends and family. However, it was her discovery of mini donuts during the 2020 pandemic that truly ignited her business journey and led to the birth of Lil Shanklin’s Donuts.

Lil Shanklin’s Donuts, a home-based/mobile donut shop, specializes in delightfully creative mini donuts for every occasion. It is her ability to infuse joy into each piece that has caught the eye of many, including Di Tran. Recognizing the unique potential in Gaby’s venture, Tran foresees a promising future for these mini marvels.

With Tran’s endorsement, there is growing anticipation that Lil Shanklin’s Donuts could soon become a regular feature at the Louisville Beauty Academy. This venture would provide staff, students, and visitors with a delicious, bite-sized pick-me-up, perfect for those busy days of learning and creativity.

From vending events to the Jeffersonville Farmers Market and private event catering, Lil Shanklin’s Donuts has been delighting people with its charming presence. With the potential opportunity at Louisville Beauty Academy, it is set to expand its reach further.

Di Tran’s support underscores what Gaby’s loyal customers already knew – her mini donuts are a culinary marvel, both in terms of their aesthetic appeal and their scrumptious taste. A small but mighty delight, Gaby Shanklin’s mini donuts are proof that size does not define taste, and every little piece can offer a sizable amount of joy.

As Gaby prepares to potentially enter this new chapter with Louisville Beauty Academy, she carries with her the shared sentiment of all those who have tried her mini donuts: amazement at just how good a donut can look, and taste! The success story of Lil Shanklin’s Donuts serves as a testament to the idea that, with passion, creativity, and a little help from unexpected quarters, a simple donut can become a symbol of joy, success, and community spirit.