Tag: "Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH"

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Community Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH Drop the ME and focus on the OTHERS Guiding Lights: A Journey of Courage, Compassion and Faith Self-Improve Workforce Development

You Are Only as Good as Your Last Work: A Dive into Continuous Improvement and Self-Reflection

The age-old adage, “You are only as good as your last work,” has been a driving force for professionals, artists, and individuals in all spheres of life. This statement calls for introspection and the constant pursuit of excellence. Di Tran, in her soon-to-be-released book, “Drop the FEAR and focus on the FAITH,” adds another layer to this perspective with the phrase, “but your last work has to be yesterday.” This extension emphasizes not only the importance of our last accomplishment but also the necessity for daily commitment to self-improvement.

1. Understanding the Proverbial Context

To be seen as ‘only as good as your last work’ suggests that regardless of our previous achievements, our most recent output is what will be most remembered and judged upon. In a world where our accomplishments are often fleeting, it’s a sobering reminder to remain diligent, committed, and focused.

This mindset is especially prevalent in industries such as entertainment and sports. A movie star’s last box office hit or a footballer’s most recent match performance becomes the benchmark for their present reputation.

2. Di Tran’s Insightful Addition

When Di Tran comments, “but your last work has to be yesterday,” she presents an idea that challenges complacency. It’s not just about doing great work; it’s about doing it consistently, and always seeking ways to push the envelope. Tran’s words mirror the ethos of daily commitment, implying that resting on past laurels is not an option.

In her book, she dives deep into the idea of conquering fear, hinting that often, our reluctance to push our boundaries daily stems from internal insecurities or apprehensions. But by focusing on faith – whether in oneself, in a higher power, or in the process – one can find the courage to strive each day.

3. The Role of Continual Learning

In Malcolm Gladwell’s “Outliers”, he speaks of the ‘10,000-hour rule’, the idea that it takes roughly 10,000 hours of practice to achieve mastery in a field. But mastery doesn’t signify the end. Even experts must continually hone their craft to maintain and surpass their previous standards.

Continual learning means staying updated with the latest in one’s industry, re-evaluating one’s methods, and constantly seeking feedback.

4. The Pressure of Modern Society

In the era of social media and instant gratification, the pressure to constantly outdo oneself is intense. While this has driven innovation and creativity, it’s also contributed to burnout and mental health challenges.

Books like “Drop the FEAR and focus on the FAITH” act as guides in such turbulent times. They remind readers of the importance of pacing oneself, focusing on genuine growth rather than external validation, and finding a sustainable rhythm.

5. Building Sustainable Habits

James Clear, in “Atomic Habits”, elaborates on how tiny changes can result in remarkable results. Aligning with Tran’s philosophy, Clear discusses how habits, when done consistently, can lead to substantial long-term improvement and success.

For one to ensure that their ‘last work was yesterday’, building daily, sustainable habits becomes essential. It’s not about grand gestures but consistent, small steps forward.

6. The Need for Reflection

While the pursuit of daily betterment is commendable, it’s equally crucial to engage in regular reflection. Without it, one might be in perpetual motion without understanding the direction. Authors like Stephen R. Covey, in “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People”, stress the importance of self-reflection in personal and professional growth.

7. Conclusion

“You are only as good as your last work” is a call to remain present, committed, and never take success for granted. With Di Tran’s addition, we are reminded of the power of daily action, of pushing ourselves just a bit more each day.

In our pursuit of excellence, it’s essential to remember that while the world might judge us based on our last success, genuine growth comes from a place of passion, consistent effort, and an unwavering belief in oneself. In the face of challenges, books like “Drop the FEAR and focus on the FAITH” serve as lighthouses, guiding us towards a path of continual self-improvement and faith in our journey.

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Community Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH Drop the ME and focus on the OTHERS Guiding Lights: A Journey of Courage, Compassion and Faith Self-Improve Workforce Development

Harnessing the Power of Affirmation for Security: An Analysis Inspired by Di Trans’ Upcoming Book “Drop the FEAR and focus on the FAITH”

Security, both in the physical and emotional sense, is a cornerstone of human well-being. It ensures that we feel safe, protected, and able to confidently pursue our dreams. One way to bolster this feeling of security is through positive affirmations. Di Trans’ soon-to-be-released book, “Drop the FEAR and focus on the FAITH”, emphasizes the importance of this practice. The powerful mantra, “God, I thank you for I am”, serves as a foundation for these affirmations.

Let’s dive deeper into the word “SECURITY” to understand the essence of each affirmation and its importance:

S – I am Strong.
Strength isn’t just physical; it encompasses emotional and mental resilience. Recognizing our inner strength is vital. Di Trans’ emphasis on faith over fear implies that we possess an inherent resilience that can overcome any adversity.

E – I am Empowered.
Empowerment is about harnessing our personal power. When we feel empowered, we feel in control of our journey, making it integral for our internal sense of security.

C – I am Confident.
Confidence ensures we trust our abilities and decisions. A confident person feels secure in their path and choices, further solidifying our sense of self.

U – I am Unbreakable.
Aligning with Di Trans’ message of focusing on faith, believing we are unbreakable emphasizes that, fortified by faith, our spirit can withstand any challenge.

R – I am Resilient.
Resilience means rebounding from setbacks. It signifies that we can recover from any blows to our security, ensuring we won’t remain defeated for long.

I – I am Inspired.
Inspiration propels us forward. An inspired person is driven and motivated, adding another layer to their internal security by providing purpose.

T – I am Tenacious.
Tenacity ensures we persist against challenges. It’s the determination to keep moving forward, ensuring our progress isn’t hampered by external factors.

Y – I am Yielding to positive energy.
By focusing on positivity, we repel negative influences that might shake our security. Yielding to positivity ensures we are surrounded by uplifting energies that fortify our spirit.

In sum, affirmations play a pivotal role in fostering an internal sense of security. They act as reminders of our strength, resilience, and potential. By aligning these affirmations with the teachings of Di Trans, we learn to drop our fears, embrace faith, and fortify our inner security.

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Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH Drop the ME and focus on the OTHERS Guiding Lights: A Journey of Courage, Compassion and Faith Leadership Development Self-Improve Small Businesses Workforce Development

Di Tran’s Reflections on Compassionate Living

Di Tran’s powerful statement, “I learned to genuinely care for others within the capacity that I have in sale, in doing all things. Value given, equal values returned from multiple directions,” captures the essence of his philosophy. It underscores the idea that when we invest our energies in uplifting and supporting others, we not only contribute to the betterment of our communities but also attract positive energies in return. This principle forms the crux of his writings and teachings.

In “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERs”, Tran masterfully expounds on the idea that moving away from a self-centric perspective and prioritizing the needs and well-being of others can lead to more profound personal growth and societal harmony. He emphasizes the inherent value of every individual and the mutual benefits of compassion and understanding.

“Guiding Lights: A Journey of Courage, Compassion, and Faith” is yet another testament to Tran’s commitment to advocating for a life centered around community and compassion. Here, he intertwines tales of resilience and the power of faith, offering readers a beacon of hope in times of adversity.

The anticipation surrounding his upcoming work, “Drop the FEAR and focus on the FAITH,” suggests that Tran will delve even deeper into the interconnectedness of faith, community, and personal growth. With fear often acting as a barrier to meaningful connections and compassionate action, a shift towards faith and trust can open doors to transformative experiences.

Tran’s teachings resonate with the works of other renowned authors who have championed similar philosophies. For instance, Dale Carnegie, in his classic “How to Win Friends and Influence People,” emphasizes the importance of genuine interest in others as a key to personal and professional success. Similarly, Stephen R. Covey’s “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” encourages readers to adopt a mindset of mutual benefit and understanding, aligning closely with Tran’s beliefs.

In conclusion, Di Tran’s writings provide a profound reminder that in giving, we receive, and in caring for others, we nurture our souls. His emphasis on shifting focus from the self to the community and from fear to faith provides a roadmap for personal growth and societal well-being. As Tran and other authors have shown, when we genuinely care and invest in others, the universe reciprocates with blessings in myriad forms.

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Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH Drop the ME and focus on the OTHERS Guiding Lights: A Journey of Courage, Compassion and Faith Self-Improve Workforce Development

The Pain of Growth: A Deep Dive into Continuous Learning

Growth, in its very essence, is a journey marked by discomfort and resilience. Just like a seed pushing its way through the soil, humans face challenges when stepping out of their comfort zones. Di Tran, a 41-year-old author, often reflects upon this journey, wondering: “What have I truly learned in all these years?”

The act of trying something new, learning a different skill, or accepting a piece of critical feedback – each step requires courage. They force us to question our long-standing beliefs, pushing us into territories we might not be familiar with.

Di Tran, in his books “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERs” and “Guiding Lights: A Journey of Courage, Compassion, and Faith,” emphasizes the significance of looking beyond oneself. He beautifully portrays the idea of community and the importance of nurturing relationships for personal and collective growth. With his soon-to-be-released “Drop the FEAR and focus on the FAITH,” we can anticipate a deeper exploration into conquering internal fears and emphasizing faith in the journey of life.

Dr. Carol Dweck’s “Mindset: The New Psychology of Success” provides an insightful parallel. Her research on the fixed versus growth mindsets underlines the importance of continuous learning. Dweck contends that those with a growth mindset, although they face the regular discomforts of pushing boundaries, are more likely to lead successful and fulfilled lives.

However, a significant question remains: Are we merely living or truly experiencing life? Have the past 20 or 30 years seen us evolve, or are we trapped in the nostalgia of yesteryears? While some might find solace in consistency, it’s essential to differentiate between being consistent and being stagnant.

True experience of life implies embracing every facet of existence. It’s about challenging one’s fears, expanding horizons, and continuously evolving. Instead of clinging to one aspect of life, it’s about diversity in experiences and continuous growth.

So, as Di Tran stands as a beacon of introspection and growth for many, it’s essential to self-reflect: Are we just existing, or are we genuinely living our life to its fullest potential? To truly experience life means more than just existing—it means cherishing every lesson, questioning norms, and embarking on the journey of continuous learning.

In sum, the journey of growth, filled with its daily, weekly, or monthly pains, is a necessary path towards a fulfilling life. It’s a testament to our potential and our unwavering spirit of discovery. As we forge ahead, let’s celebrate these growing pains as markers of our unending quest for knowledge and experience.

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Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH Self-Improve

The World Within You: Interpreting the Parable of the Sower Through Di Tran’s Vision of Faith

Today’s reading, the Parable of the Sower as recounted in the Gospel of Matthew (13:1-23), is an enduring tale that remains deeply relevant in our current times. Seen through the lens of Di Tran’s insights, author of “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH,” we can draw new insights into this ancient wisdom.

In his book, Di Tran puts forward a compelling idea: the “World is within you”. He suggests that the exterior world we experience is a reflection of our internal state. Applying this perspective to today’s parable, we can view the story as a metaphor for how our inner state – our faith, understanding, and receptiveness – shapes our encounter with the Word of God.

In the parable, Jesus likens the Word to seeds falling on different types of ground. Some seeds fall on the path and are quickly devoured by birds, some on rocky ground where they wither without roots, some among thorns where they’re choked, and others on fertile soil, where they thrive and yield a bountiful harvest. These types of ground represent our hearts’ conditions when the Word is sown.

The seed on the path represents a heart hardened by fear and misunderstanding, rendering it unable to receive or understand the Word. This mirrors Di Tran’s teachings about fear being an obstacle that prevents us from fully experiencing and engaging with the world inside and outside us.

The rocky ground signifies a heart that receives the Word with joy but lacks the depth or understanding to sustain it during challenging times. This aligns with Di Tran’s caution against superficial faith that easily withers under adversity, emphasizing the importance of deep-rooted faith that can endure tribulations.

The thorny ground symbolizes a heart preoccupied with worldly worries and materialistic desires, causing the Word to be choked and bear no fruit. Here, we see Di Tran’s belief reflected; when we focus too much on external circumstances and wealth, we risk losing our internal spiritual richness.

The fertile soil, finally, stands for a heart open to the Word, understanding and nurturing it to bear abundant fruit. This is the heart Di Tran encourages us to cultivate in his writings, one that drops fear and focuses on faith, allowing a flourishing spiritual life.

In the latter part of the reading, Jesus talks about those with eyes that see and ears that hear, underlining Di Tran’s principle. The truly blessed are those who look inward, understanding and acting on faith rather than fear, thereby truly seeing and hearing the Word of God.

Through the Parable of the Sower, we’re reminded that the world, with all its trials and triumphs, resides within us. We have the freedom to choose our inner terrain, whether we become the path, rocks, thorns, or fertile soil. As Di Tran affirms, it’s our choice to focus on fear or embrace faith that will shape this internal landscape. By looking inward, nurturing our faith, and embracing the world within us, we can become the fertile ground where the Word flourishes.

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Community Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH Drop the ME and focus on the OTHERS Information Technology Leadership Development Self-Improve Small Businesses Workforce Development

The Power of Self Belief: Reflecting on “Leave the Mirror and Change Your Face” and “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH”

As we traverse the winding paths of self-discovery, personal development, and spiritual growth, we are often guided by the wisdom of those who have gone before us. Two insightful pieces of literature, “Leave the Mirror and Change Your Face” by Neville Goddard and “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH” by Di Tran, provide unique and transformative perspectives on these journeys. These works underscore the importance of a strong belief in self-imagination, fostering the affirmation of the “I AM” identity, and internalizing this conviction without contradiction.

“Leave the Mirror and Change Your Face” is a potent metaphor that reflects Neville Goddard’s philosophical orientation towards changing one’s reality by changing one’s internal state. According to Goddard, the outer world is but a mirror of our inner world, mirroring our beliefs, perceptions, and expectations. As such, if we wish to alter our external circumstances, we must first change the face we present to the mirror – our inner state.

Goddard’s thesis profoundly underscores the power of self-imagination and the importance of aligning one’s beliefs with one’s desires. This fundamental assertion, that the belief in the reality of our imaginal acts is key to manifesting our desires, mirrors the teachings found in Di Tran’s book, “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH.”

In “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH,” Tran emphasizes the immense power that faith and belief have on our lives. He teaches us to relinquish our fears and, instead, concentrate on the faith we have in our abilities and our dreams. He believes that fear only serves to distract us from our true potentials and ambitions.

Just like Goddard, Tran emphasizes that faith in our internal vision—our self-imagination—holds the power to shape our external reality. Tran advocates that one’s internal affirmation of “I AM” must be positive, robust, and free from any contradiction or doubt. This means that the faith in oneself and one’s abilities must be unshakeable and must come from within. Both authors agree that only by believing in oneself, in one’s worth, and in one’s ability to achieve can one truly manifest the reality one desires.

Interestingly, the convergence of these themes across both works reinforces the idea that fear and doubt are significant barriers to personal development and actualizing our goals. Both Goddard and Tran emphasize that these negative emotions distort the mirror of our reality, reflecting back the very fears and doubts we harbor within ourselves.

In summary, both “Leave the Mirror and Change Your Face” by Neville Goddard and “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH” by Di Tran provide a fascinating exploration into the power of self-belief and the role of self-imagination in shaping our realities. The concept of “I AM” plays a crucial role in both works, emphasizing that our internal state, what we believe and imagine ourselves to be, strongly influences our external circumstances. In this sense, they teach us that to manifest the reality we desire, we must first change our face, drop the fear, and focus on faith. By doing so, we unlock the power to transform our lives from within.

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Community Food Immigration Small Businesses

Thuy Van Cafe: A Family-Owned Gem Serving Authentic Vietnamese Cuisine in Louisville, KY

When it comes to authentic and consistently delicious Vietnamese cuisine in Louisville, Kentucky, look no further than Thuy Van Cafe. Located at 5600 National Turnpike, Louisville, KY 40214, this family-owned restaurant has been a staple in the community for decades, with fans like Di Tran, author of “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERs” and soon-to-be-released “Drop the FEAR and focus on the FAITH” books.

Di Tran has been a loyal customer of Thuy Van Cafe for almost 30 years. Growing up in Louisville and now raising his own family, he has been a regular at the restaurant for years, although with a busy schedule and three babies, he doesn’t get to eat there weekly like he used to. However, whenever he does get the chance to visit, he always brings his second generation – his kids. And if you take one look at the picture of his kids fighting over the food, you’ll know just how good it is.

Di Tran is a food critic, and he is quite critical when it comes to Vietnamese food. From Pho to Banh Mi, Che Ba Mau, Bun thit nuong, and more, he knows his stuff. And he can attest that Thuy Van Cafe does not disappoint. Each dish is prepared with the utmost care and authenticity, and the flavors are consistently delicious.

Pho is a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup made with beef broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat – typically beef or chicken. It’s a staple dish in Vietnamese cuisine and can be eaten for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Banh Mi is a Vietnamese sandwich typically served on a baguette with pickled vegetables, cilantro, chili peppers, and meat – usually pork, chicken, or beef. It’s a popular street food in Vietnam and has become increasingly popular in the US.

Che Ba Mau, also known as three-color dessert, is a traditional Vietnamese dessert made with layers of beans, jelly, and coconut milk. It’s a sweet and refreshing treat that’s perfect for a hot summer day.

Bun thit nuong is a popular Vietnamese dish made with grilled pork, vermicelli noodles, lettuce, and herbs. It’s often served with a fish sauce dressing and can be topped with peanuts and fried onions.

At Thuy Van Cafe, you can be sure that each of these dishes – and more – will be prepared with the utmost care and authenticity. The family-owned restaurant takes pride in serving consistently delicious food that keeps customers coming back for more.

So if you’re in the Louisville area and looking for authentic and delicious Vietnamese cuisine, head to Thuy Van Cafe. With their warm and welcoming atmosphere and consistently tasty dishes, you won’t be disappointed.

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Leadership Development Self-Improve Small Businesses Workforce Development

How Investing in Yourself and Serving Others Can Change Your Life: Lessons from Di Tran

How Bad Do You Want It - Viet Bao Louisville, KY
How Bad Do You Want It - Viet Bao Louisville, KY

Di Tran is a true inspiration to those looking to make positive changes in their lives. As the author of “Drop the ME and focus on the OTHERS” and the soon-to-be-released “Drop the FEAR and focus on the FAITH,” he has devoted his life to sharing his wisdom and helping others achieve their goals.

One of the most important lessons Di Tran has learned is that there is no such thing as a right or wrong decision in life. Rather, the key question to ask is “How invested are you in anything you’re talking about?” If you are truly invested in something, you will find a way to make it happen, regardless of whether it is considered “right” or “wrong” by others.

Devotion

This philosophy has been instrumental in Di Tran’s own life, particularly when it comes to physical health and small business ventures. He knows that if he wants something badly enough, he will make the necessary sacrifices to achieve it. For example, if he wants a six-pack, he will prioritize working out over eating and take all the necessary steps to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

But Di Tran’s message is not just about personal achievement. He also believes that serving others is one of the most important things we can do in life. This means being willing to take risks and try new things, even if they don’t always work out. It means investing time, money, and energy into helping others achieve their own goals, even if it means sacrificing some of our own desires.

In his mentoring and knowledge sharing sessions, Di Tran often asks the question “How bad do you want it?” because he knows that if we want something badly enough, we will do whatever it takes to make it happen. This means pushing through the hard times and never giving up, even when things seem impossible.

Hard works

For Di Tran, the key to success in life is simple: invest in the things that matter most to you and be willing to serve others. By doing so, we can achieve our own personal goals while also making a positive impact on the world around us. So, the next time you find yourself debating whether a decision is right or wrong, ask yourself instead, “How invested am I in this?” and let Di Tran’s words of wisdom guide you towards a brighter future.

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Information Technology Leadership Development Self-Improve Workforce Development

Conquer Fear, Focus on Faith: Practical Strategies for Overcoming Anxiety and Finding Purpose

Fear vs. Faith - Viet Bao Louisville KY
Fear vs. Faith - Viet Bao Louisville KY

Understanding Fear and Faith:

  • Fear is a natural human emotion that can be triggered by a perceived threat or danger. It can cause us to feel anxious, stressed, and even paralyzed in some cases.
  • Faith, on the other hand, is a sense of trust or confidence in something or someone beyond ourselves. It can provide a sense of calm, peace, and purpose, even in the face of uncertainty or adversity.
Fear vs. Faith

Identifying Fear:

    • To conquer fear, it’s important to first identify what is causing it. This may involve taking some time to reflect on your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and asking yourself what specifically is triggering your fear response.
    • Once you have identified the source of your fear, you can begin to develop strategies for overcoming it.

    Developing Faith:

      • One way to focus on faith is to develop a daily practice of gratitude, meditation, or prayer. These practices can help you cultivate a sense of trust and connection with something beyond yourself, and provide a sense of calm and clarity.
      • Another way to develop faith is to seek out positive role models or mentors who embody the qualities of courage, resilience, and optimism. Surrounding yourself with these types of people can help you cultivate a sense of faith and belief in yourself and your ability to overcome challenges.

      Taking Action:

        • To conquer fear, it’s important to take action towards your goals, even if it’s just small steps at first. This can help you build momentum and a sense of accomplishment, which can in turn help boost your confidence and reduce your fear.
        • It’s also important to practice self-compassion and self-care as you work towards conquering your fear. This may involve setting realistic expectations for yourself, celebrating small victories, and taking time to rest and recharge when needed.

        The frameworks and actionable items outlined above are an integral part of Di Tran’s upcoming book, “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the Faith.” Through this book, Di Tran aims to provide readers with a practical guide to overcoming fear and cultivating faith, so they can live a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life.

        By understanding the nature of fear and faith, identifying the sources of fear, and developing daily practices that promote faith, readers can learn to conquer fear and achieve their goals. Taking action towards those goals, practicing self-compassion and self-care, and surrounding themselves with positive role models can also help readers build confidence and resilience as they navigate life’s challenges.

        With “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the Faith,” Di Tran hopes to inspire readers to live boldly, with faith as their guiding light, and to pursue their dreams with courage and conviction.

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        Self-Improve

        Di Tran’s 41st Birthday: Reflections on Life, Faith, and Sharing with Others

        Di Tran - Turning 41st
        Di Tran - Turning 41st

        Di Tran’s 41st birthday marks a new chapter in his life, as he reflects on his past accomplishments and looks forward to new adventures. Having recently authored the book “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERs,” and soon releasing “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH,” Di Tran has gained valuable insights and wisdom that he hopes to share with others.

        While there are many cultural and societal beliefs surrounding age 40, Di Tran believes that it’s a time to focus on others and let go of self-centeredness. In “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERs,” he encourages readers to shift their perspective and consider the needs and well-being of those around them. This shift in focus can lead to greater empathy, stronger relationships, and a more fulfilling life.

        Di Tran’s upcoming book, “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH,” further explores the idea of letting go of self-doubt and trusting in a higher power. As he approaches his 41st year, Di Tran believes that it’s essential to have faith in oneself and in the universe, even in the face of uncertainty and challenges. This attitude can lead to greater resilience, a more positive outlook, and a deeper sense of purpose.

        For Di Tran, turning 41 is not about being “over the hill” or experiencing a midlife crisis. Instead, it’s a time to celebrate all that he has accomplished and to look forward to new opportunities for growth and learning. He believes that everyone’s experience of turning 40 will be different, and he hopes that his books can offer guidance and inspiration to those who are seeking a new perspective on life.

        In summary, Di Tran’s 41st birthday is a time of reflection and growth, as he shares his insights and experiences with others through his writing. By focusing on others and letting go of fear, he hopes to inspire others to live a more fulfilling and purposeful life.

        Di Tran – Q/A for an Author’s books

        When you first moved to the United States, what did the American Dream mean to you?

        To me, it meant the freedom to express myself without fear of government suppression. It also meant the ability to share my knowledge and beliefs, as well as pursue economic opportunities. I was grateful for the fact that what I own belongs to me, and not to the government.

        For how long have you been living in the USA?

        28 years since 1995

        What was the biggest challenge you faced when you first arrived in the USA?

        The language barrier and the pressure of adjusting to all the new things.

        What was your experience like when you first arrived?

        Although we knew that the country would offer a better life, it wasn’t exactly as we had imagined in our dreams. Starting with only $400 in our pockets for a family of 5, and without being able to communicate in English with anyone, we were faced with a daunting challenge that was both worrying and challenging. Nonetheless, we remained optimistic and grateful for the opportunities that awaited us in this new country.

        Can you describe your journey to the USA?

        I came with my cousin who is mixed of an American military personnel. His son was coming home to the USA, and he kindly took us along since our family had helped raise him.

        Have you achieved your American Dream?

        Absolutely, every day since we first landed here. For example, we ate our first hotdog and burger, even if it was a new experience. We slept on our first mattress, even if it was dirty. We saw snow for the first time walking out of the airport and met people from many other nationalities in the first week. It felt like the whole world was in Louisville, KY, USA.

        What challenges did you face to achieve your American Dream?

        Although hard work is required everywhere, hard work in America is easier because we knew that good results would come. In Vietnam, effort given did not always lead to good results in a communist country. Therefore, hard work was not a challenge for us to achieve our American Dream.

        How did you overcome the challenges you faced in pursuing your American Dream and what surprised you the most?

        The key was to constantly learn and take action, always being in survival mode. We anticipated that everything would be new, so nothing was truly surprising, but of course, with every challenge and hard work, there were moments of failure. However, we learned to embrace those failures and use them as opportunities to grow and move forward in life.

        What skills did you have to learn to achieve your American Dream?

        Education was key to achieving our American Dream. We had to learn new skills and gain knowledge through both life education and formal education. Fortunately, we were able to take advantage of free secondary education and partially free post-secondary education (college) for low-income individuals.

        What challenges did you face in becoming a professional in the USA?

        Language was the biggest challenge for me, and my inherent shyness made it even more difficult.

        How did you make professional connections in the USA?

        I made a concerted effort to be out and about, and I worked hard to build credibility by serving others. By doing this, I was able to establish relationships and make connections with professionals.

        What did you do to connect with the right professionals?

        As I moved along, I learned to filter and identify the professionals who could best help me achieve my goals within the limited time I had available.

        How did you achieve your American Dream?

        I achieved my American Dream through hard work and continuous learning.

        How did you become successful?

        I became successful by never giving up on working hard and learning constantly. Making progress towards my goals gave me happiness.

        In your opinion, what mindset is necessary for someone pursuing the American Dream to learn, survive, connect, grow and succeed in the USA?

        The mindset of an American Dreamer is all about taking action. Instead of just thinking about things, you have to learn and apply what you learn.

        What advice would you give to someone who is eager to move to the US to experience the American Dream?

        I would advise them that the USA is a great country to live in, and it offers many opportunities for success. However, success comes from hard work, and if you’re not willing to put in the effort, then it doesn’t matter where you are in the world.

        How would you describe the things in your life that you appreciate and feel thankful for?

        To put it simply, I am grateful for life itself. The fact that I am alive is a blessing, and this holds true no matter where you are in the world. However, it is easier to appreciate this in America because basic needs such as food, education, and time are more readily available.

        References to Di Tran’s Interview

        Rotary Club of Louisville – Di Tran Presenter – The Debt to be Paid: Giving Back and Paying It Forward

        I am supporting my good friend Selma Jacinto Dominigos with her current and future books

        I am looking forward to Selma Jacinto Domingos’ second book.