One of the great paradoxes of life is explained in Samuel Ullman’s poem YOUTH: “Youth is not a time of life; it is a state of mind”
Failing to see the paradox that “youth” has another dimension other than time, can cause us to look outward for something that is inside all of us. Many folks live a life unsatisfied in search of the Fountain of Youth and other external solutions.
Instead, consider that:
It is a matter of the will, a quality of the imagination, a vigor of the emotions; it is the freshness of the deep springs of life.” Samuel Ullman
It’s no wonder that this poem was a favorite of General Douglas MacArthur. He had a framed copy on the wall behind his desk (in his Tokyo office) while serving as the Supreme Allied Commander in Japan. He often quoted the poem in his speeches and read the entire poem at his 75th Birthday Celebration.
I’ve included it here and in my Leader’s Guide (free sign-up gift). I read it often. Nothing helps me maintain focus, perspective, and courage more than this gift from Samuel Ullman. I hope it will inspire you, too.
May you always pursue your ideals!
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There are many tips, lists, and tools to help you navigate through life. One tool that I’ve used since its introduction by Tom Peters in 1996, is a PERSONAL BRAND EQUITY EVALUATION. Tom outlines eight simple and thought-provoking questions that you can use to provide clarity on your journey.
The PERSONAL BRAND EQUITY EVALUATION is my #1 navigation tool for assessing my journey through life. I’ve used it since 1996 and update it every 90 days. I also recommend completing and reviewing a PERSONAL BRAND EQUITY EVALUATION every 90 days. Doing so will reduce the chances of stagnation and promote action, intention, clarity, and innovation in your life. It will also promote your connection to others.
A PERSONAL BRAND EQUITY EVALUATION by Tom Peters
- I am known for: [2-4 items].
- By this time next year, I plan also to be known for [1-2 more things].
- My current project [which is:_________] is challenging me in the following [1-3 ways].
- New stuff I’ve learned in the last 90 days includes [1-3 things].
- Important additions to my Address Book in the last 90 days include [2-4 names].
- My public—local/regional/national/global—“visibility program” consists of [2 things].
- My principal “resume enhancement activity” for the next 90 days is [1 item].
- My resume is discernibly different from last year’s on this date in the following [1-2 ways].
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All we have, as in all, personally or professionally, is the quality of our relationships!”
Elbert Hubbard was that rarest of beings–a philosophical businessman. In 1895 he founded the Roycrofters, a community of artisans selling handcrafted goods. A prolific author, he was a favorite of Henry Ford, Theodore Roosevelt, and other great leaders of his time.
A Message to Garcia is Hubbard’s most famous work. In it, he argues that the greatest hero is the man who simply does his job, completing the task no matter what the obstacles. Within Hubbard’s lifetime, the Message was reprinted more than any book besides the Bible.
Elbert Hubbard was one of the most interesting American characters of his time. He had a rare faculty of expression and he used it to serve the cause of common sense in this country.” Henry Ford
Get your copy here through my Amazon Affiliate link: A Message to Garcia
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The experience, education, and training I’ve had in my life continually highlighted the significance of a sense of personal responsibility. I’ve been far from perfect, but I actively attempt to counter the trap of blaming others. This is a valuable key to keep us focused on our purpose, goals and objectives, rather than the conditions of the journey.
Dr. Ben Carson continually shares this valuable key to his professional maturity. Introduced to him early in his childhood by his Mother, she had him read this poem every time he made an excuse, whined, or complained.
This simple poem was the catalyst to his amazing life. I hope it can provide similar insights and inspiration to you.
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One of the most published articles in history, “A Message to Garcia” (by Elbert Hubbard) highlights several great challenges and lessons of life. There are four key lessons that I would like to discuss: three of those lessons are key points from the author and the fourth is one that will assist you as you LEAD FROM YOUR CURRENT POSITION®
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This remarkable biography, In the Hands of Providence, traces the life and times of Joshua L. Chamberlain, the professor-turned-soldier who led the Twentieth Maine Regiment to glory at Gettysburg, earned a battlefield promotion to Brigadier General from Ulysses S. Grant at Petersburg, and was wounded six times during the course of the Civil War.
Chosen to accept the formal Confederate surrender at Appomattox, Chamberlain endeared himself to succeeding generations with his unforgettable salutation of Robert E. Lee’s vanquished army.
After the war, he went on to serve four terms as governor of his home state of Maine and later became president of Bowdoin College. He wrote prolifically about the war, including The Passing of the Armies, a classic account of the final campaign of the Army of the Potomac.
Get your copy here through my Amazon Affiliate link: In the Hands of Providence
If you enjoyed this post, please consider sharing it with your friends, and be sure to subscribe to the LEAD FROM YOUR CURRENT POSITION® email list!
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Check out the Blog Posts in these Categories:
Leadership — Personal Development — Productivity — Passion
This page has affiliate referral links, meaning I get a small commission if you decide to make a purchase. However, there’s no extra cost to you.
I wanted to take a moment to describe what inspired me to create Lead From Your Current Position®. Knowing this will give you a better understanding of the concept and insight into the rationale of why you should Lead From Your Current Position®… and maybe inspire you to contribute your thoughts here.
What is our duty?
Developing this concept is deeply personal. In my journey through life, I’ve consistently sought to identify my purpose… to identify my duty.
In addition to the preparation my parents and schooling provided me, I’ve been fortunate to serve in one of the greatest leadership apprenticeship programs in the world: serving in the United States Army. A Retired Army Officer, my military career spanned 24 1/2 years where I served in a variety of positions as an Airborne Infantry and Attack and Cavalry Aviation Officer. I had the privilege to lead five platoons and command two companies and an ROTC battalion. Additionally, I taught at the Aviation Captain’s Career Course, the United States Military Academy (West Point), and Indiana University (Bloomington).
Always a Soldier, I’ve spent my entire life inquiring about leadership and learning. This has continued since I transitioned from military service.
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The co-author of the classic Extraordinary Golf offers an innovative approach to improving the overall game by focusing on putting, which accounts for more than one-third of the strokes in a typical round. Not just a tips-and-techniques book, Extraordinary Putting features a series of illustrated exercises that will help golfers:
– Develop the inner freedom to trust themselves and recognize self-imposed barriers
– Find the peace of mind that comes from letting go of mental chatter and self-judgments
– Increase awareness, allowing golfers to pay attention to their experiences
– Understand the differences in those experiences from stroke to stroke – Master the art of self-coaching
Get your copy here through my Amazon Affiliate link: Extraordinary Putting
If you enjoyed this post, please consider sharing it with your friends, and be sure to subscribe to the LEAD FROM YOUR CURRENT POSITION® email list!
Subscribe to LEAD FROM YOUR CURRENT POSITION®
Check out the Blog Posts in these Categories:
Leadership — Personal Development — Productivity — Passion
This page has affiliate referral links, meaning I get a small commission if you decide to make a purchase. However, there’s no extra cost to you.
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