The author expresses a deep passion for problem-solving, rooted in a love for coding. They argue that seeing problems as opportunities fosters leadership and innovation. Embracing challenges leads to growth, as organizations become stronger by addressing issues. By adopting a mindset focused on solutions, leaders can create lasting impact and competitive advantage.
Author Archives: Matthew E. Porter
Work-Life Balance Is Bullshit or A Lie
The author reflects on the challenges of work-life balance, arguing it is an unrealistic and damaging goal. Instead, they advocate for work-life integration, which acknowledges the interconnectedness of professional and personal responsibilities. By prioritizing health, family, and community, individuals can adapt to varying demands while maintaining focus on what truly matters.
Why I Started Blogging Again: A Journey Through Parenthood
The author reflects on the evolving parent-child relationship and their motivation to blog. Each parenting stage is likened to a driving metaphor, highlighting a shift from control to independence as children grow. Blogging serves as a legacy, allowing the author to share insights with their adult children while also learning from them.
10 Years with MS: The Obstacle is the Way
On the tenth anniversary of my multiple sclerosis diagnosis, the author reflects on the journey and lessons learned over the decade. Gratitude for stability, the value of time, and the power of community emerge as key themes. Emphasizing growth, resilience, and the importance of asking for help, the author celebrates life fully.
Family Strategic Planning: Developing Our Mission and Core Values
Years ago, strategic planning was crucial for my business, but I neglected it for my family. A wake-up call from my mentor led me to develop our family’s Mission and Core Values. Drawing from business experience, we reversed engineered our Mission and identified seven core values, ultimately transforming our family’s direction and culture.
Net Sum Zero vs. Non-Net Sum Zero: Two Fundamental Belief Systems
Beliefs shape our reality and influence success and relationships. There are two mindsets: Net Sum Zero (belief in scarcity) and Non-Net Sum Zero (belief in abundance). Net Sum Zero fosters competition and fear; Non-Net Sum Zero embraces mutual success and abundance. Examples from Star Wars and real life illustrate these mindsets. Align with abundance for personal and mutual growth.
The Pitfalls of Startup Competitions: Grants vs. Equity
Startup competitions have become a vital component of the entrepreneurial ecosystem, providing nascent businesses with essential funding, mentorship, and visibility. One standout organization in Saint Louis is Arch Grants, which conducts a startup competition where winners receive non-equity grants. As an inaugural judge for Arch Grants, I have seen firsthand the impact of this approach.Continue reading “The Pitfalls of Startup Competitions: Grants vs. Equity”
The Future of MS: What Does A Cure Mean & Unintended Consequences
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society has been undergoing a leadership change with the retirement of our previous CEO and the appointment of our new CEO (Congrats, Tim!). The new CEO will build on the immense progress made in understanding multiple sclerosis (MS), including its potential links to Epstein-Barr. The confluence of these has caused meContinue reading “The Future of MS: What Does A Cure Mean & Unintended Consequences “
Suspended Campaign and Gratitude: Navigating Leadership and Integrity
“We have a debt to those before us and an obligation to those after us. We maximize life and potential through heart, intelligence, and grit. We focus on our bond. We do all of this together because we are always stronger together. Mostest.” – Porter Family Mission Statement For over a decade, our family missionContinue reading “Suspended Campaign and Gratitude: Navigating Leadership and Integrity”
The Gift of Reflection: What Happens If You Write Down What Someone Means to You?
On my youngest child’s 18th birthday, I handed him three small notebooks, continuing a family tradition. For a year, I wrote daily entries reflecting on the recipient, chronicling what I loved and admired about them. I had previously done something similar for my spouse and his siblings.
This practice became a personal journey of growth, deepening my appreciation for my loved ones and strengthening our bonds. For my children, the notebooks also captured their transformation from adolescence to adulthood.