Can Do: Breaking Through the Limits You Place on Yourself
You are capable of more than you think. The key is deciding whether to listen to your mind and emotions or keep going despite others telling you to stop.
Name something you want to do but can't seem to accomplish. It can be as simple as cleaning the closet or as complicated as learning to fly.
There are limits on life, resources, and health, but the strongest are often set by our thoughts and emotions.
Military training shows we can endure more than our minds suggest. The key decision is to listen to limitations or persist.
Now, shifting from mindset to practical steps, let's cut to the chase for REAL Success. Here are four tips to put into practice today.
What is your purpose in life? Does what you want to do fit into that purpose?
Set intentional objectives and goals to progress toward your purpose.
Use the R.E.A.L. Success guidelines to stay focused.
Don't give up. If you falter, get up and keep moving. Persistence is what defines success.
R = Relationship. It would help if you had people who believe in you and who will hold you accountable.
E = Equipping. Make sure you have what you need to succeed. You cannot succeed running out of gas in the desert.
A = Attitude. Attitude is where emotions, mind, and thoughts come into play.
L = Leadership. Learn from others and lead others.
Request the REAL Success Master Course and find a good coach.
STORY
Military teams succeed with teamwork, equipment, leadership, and most importantly, attitude. Failures become stepping stones to success.
On a Marine base, "VMAC CAN DO!" was painted on a building, reminding everyone that success depends more on attitude than resources.
Mindfulness research shows that our secondary thoughts heavily impact our secondary emotions. Here’s how:
Initial Input > Initial Reaction > Initial Thought >> Secondary Thought > Secondary Emotions
We can't control initial reactions, but we can shape our secondary thoughts and emotional responses.
For example, my secondary thought may focus on anger from being scared and embarrassed at work. The more I dwell, the more emotional I feel with little benefit. If I notice this pattern, I can change or interrupt it to reduce its negative impact on my life. In the military, we often disliked tasks but still completed them. Replacing negative thoughts with positive ones helps, as there's a difference between honest sharing and complaining.
THE BOTTOM LINE
As you reflect on changing habits, remember it is not impossible but can be difficult. Here are four resources to help.
The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth by John Maxwell
Atomic Habits by James Clear
Help Yourself with Premium Coaching
* Concepts and books by John Maxwell, James Clear, & Mindfulness Techniques
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H Mark Taylor enjoys living on a farm with his lifelong friend and partner, romping with their German Shepherds, and practicing mindfulness to enjoy life. He is a leadership and life coach with more than 20 years of experience and training. He earned his Master's in Information Management from Washington University - St. Louis and has multiple certifications in Leadership, Project Management, and Cyber Security. H Mark gives all credit to his wife, Young, and to God.
