Mike Nygren

Essays on ordinary things, with candor, risk, and heart.

Mike Nygren: Author

The Ten Balloons. Principles of Leadership, Life and Love captures the spirit of what it means to take an intentional look at your life. This realistic approach to a balanced life is personal and practical in outlining steps for creating intentional purpose statements in ten areas of your life.

Mike’s story telling approach to life brings great inspiration and motivation in the areas of family, career, relationships, education, finances, health, and adventure. This multi-generational topic is designed for young people and adult audiences of all ages who like personal challenges.

 

Ten Balloons: Ten Essays Living an Intentional Life

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Ten Balloons: Ten Essays Living an Intentional Life
What if your life had ten balloons, each representing a vital part of who you are? This essay introduces the concept of personal mission statements for each area of life, encouraging reflection, intentionality, and a messy but meaningful start.

Essay 1: Mental – Training for Life
Mental clarity is the starting point for growth. This essay invites readers to invest in their inner world, creating space for reflection, focus, and purposeful action.

Essay 2: Career – More Than a Job
A career can be a calling, not just a paycheck. This essay encourages reflection on purpose, legacy, and building a life aligned with who you are becoming.

Essay 3: Adventure – The Road Itself
Adventure is a mindset, not just travel. Through personal stories, this essay shows how curiosity and risk-taking can turn life’s detours into intentional journeys.

Essay 4: Education – A Lifestyle of Learning
Education is a way of life, not grades or diplomas. The author demonstrates how curiosity, mentorship, and learning rhythms elevate leadership and purpose.

Essay 5: Financial – More Than Just Money
Financial choices shape every part of life. This essay explores how aligning money with values, seasons, and purpose matters more than accumulation or perfection.

Essay 6: Hobby – Passion with Purpose
Hobbies are sacred spaces where joy meets meaning. The essay shows how pursuing passions fuels life, refreshes energy, and enriches other balloons.

Essay 7: Friend – The Quiet Force Behind Everything
Friendships quietly shape our lives. This essay invites reflection on connection, presence, and thoughtful care that strengthens all areas of life.

Essay 8: Family – Where Love and Loss Collide
Family is tender, complex, and transformative. The essay explores presence, grief, and creating a legacy of meaningful connection.

Essay 9: Primary Relationship – The Anchor and the Challenge
Our most intimate bond is both an anchor and a challenge. This essay highlights courage, honesty, and intention as keys to a healthy, lasting relationship.

Essay 10: Physical Balloon – A Lifelong Mission to Stay in Good Shape
Physical wellness supports every area of life. The essay emphasizes persistence, presence, and adapting fitness over time to enjoy energy, resilience, and joy.

Contact mike@tenballoons.com