When I was a child, one of my favorite toys was Bozo the clown. Our inflatable Bozo might have been 3 feet tall, which means he was about the same size as me. Bozo provided my first lessons in resilience and consistency. I could bop him in the nose and he would bounce right back. …
Resilience: Bouncing Back from Disappointment, Difficulty, and Disaster Read More »
Panama City is a military town where every day is like Veteran’s Day. Patriotism is a strong part of the fabric of our community. Jennifer Clark moved to Panama City when she was assigned to Tyndall Air Force Base. Her story is documented in her book, 166 Days: My Journey Through the Darkness. When Jennifer …
Extreme ChangeThree hours on the afternoon of October 10, 2018, changed everything for this little city I call home. Mighty oaks that have stood through hundreds of storms couldn’t withstand the power of Hurricane Michael. The incessant roar of the wind deafened the sound of giant trees crashing all around as we crouched in a …
If you’ve never experienced a Category 4 hurricane, I urge you emphatically – don’t do it. Do whatever it takes to pack up your valuables and get out of town. Hurricane Michael caused a setback of enormous proportions for the Panhandle of Florida. The Shock of Setback After the harrowing experience of riding out Hurricane …
Unity is one of the most effective ways to achieve progress in anything. It is one of the most powerful forces on the planet, which explains why it’s so difficult to obtain, much less sustain. Unity is oneness, yet it exponentially multiplies the magnitude of any effort. Too little is written about it, perhaps because …
Thrive, not strive is my new mantra. Rise and grind is how tons of people start Monday. Rush, work, and strive through pressure, stress, and frustration. If this sounds all too familiar, it’s time to make room for thriving and flourishing. How can you shift negativity into motivation? Wouldn’t it be grand if instead of …
Leadership leaves a legacy. Senator John McCain wrote a farewell statement to America before his passing on August 25, 2018 at age 81. As a student of leadership, and one who loves America passionately, I am moved deeply by the words of John McCain. (I took the liberty to bold some text within his message.) …
Leadership Leaves a Legacy: Farewell from Senator John McCain Read More »
Self-Limiting Beliefs A small incident last week put me face to face with the reality of self-limiting beliefs. It wasn’t a life-changing issue, but it brought to mind the weightier beliefs we all have that don’t serve us well. Often, they show up in our self-talk. “I could never write a book.” “I’m no good …
Last week, I attended the promotion and pinning ceremony for the South Walton Fire Department. Our son was recognized as a new officer – a result of hard work and determination as he developed his leadership abilities and technical acumen. It was such a privilege to be among the family, friends, and off-duty officers who …
Of all the goals I set this year, becoming unoffendable is probably the grandest. When I mention this goal, the typical response is delivered with a smirk; “How is that working out for you?” Brant Hansen author of Unoffendable points out, “Anger is extraordinarily easy. It’s our default setting.” My personal default setting is happiness but …