From Chad

Amy Cuddy is a Harvard professor. At 19 she was in a car accident and suffered a TBI, shattering her identity. She tells the story of how her academic advisor helped her become more than she thought of herself. She in turn was able to help one of her students become more than she thought.

Humans possess the unique power of choice and action. Unlike other lifeforms, bound by instinct or immobility, humans can move how they choose. This power enables us to shape our lives, intentionally, breaking free from rope patterns and pursue new paths. By embracing action and taking responsibility for our choices, we can unlock our full potential and design a life of purpose and achievement.

Don’t cheat the future you. You are counting on you.

Nelson Mandela, imprisoned for 27 years for anti-apartheid activism, emerge from prison ready to lead negotiations for a democratic South Africa. His hope, fueled by his belief in the goodness of his cause and his active pursuit of agency, enabled him to endure hardship and emerge stronger. When you focus on what you can control you can too.

Bob Reich observed that companies where employees use “we” and “us” are different from those where employees use “they” and “them”. So Price, founder of Fed Mart and Price club, believed in creating “alter egos” among employees, teaching them to think and act like the owner. This mindset, emphasizing understanding the “why”behind actions, is crucial for both employees and managers.

William Rosenberg, founder of Dunkin’ Donuts, built his success by improving upon existing ideas rather than reinventing the wheel. He emphasize the importance of learning from others’ successes and failures, encouraging listeners to “takeoff where others left off”.

The brain, designed for survival, can hinder growth by suppressing potential and tricking us into believing we can’t do certain things. Michael Jordan, recognizing the mind as an athletes, worst enemy, emphasize the importance of blocking out distractions, maintaining focus, and relying on a strong work ethic to overcome mental obstacles. Ultimately, successfully controlling our mission rather than being controlled by our mind tricks.

The Michelin brothers, facing a failing family rubber factory, focused on time management and efficiency. Their breakthrough came with the invention of the air filled, removable tire, which they showcased through sponsored bicycle and car races. The brothers success, driven by their disciplined approach to time management, highlights the importance of using time wisely, as small increments can add up significantly.

A small church group, trying to help a woman with an eating disorder, was reminded to “act their age“ and focus on their mission. This analogy, like Amazon‘s growth from acorn to oak, emphasizes the importance of comparing one’s journey to their own progress, not others’ outcomes.

Independence, both national and personal, requires ongoing battles. Just as the American Revolution continued after the Declaration of Independence, achieving personal freedom from tyranny demands continuous effort in a willingness to fight for strength, discipline, and freedom.