Saturday, June 14, 2008
Living One's Dreams - A Sailor's Recipe
by Cresswell Walker, executive coach, trainer and organizational effectiveness consultant with http://www.tripleE.com
5Cs That Really Matter
C is for COURSE
Simply by following a compass heading at sea, sooner or later a destination shows up over the horizon. I was amazed by how far I could get by sailing just a little bit every day. I eventually “found” Australia by compass and by sailing more than 15,000km, all at jogging speed!
Set goals for your life and career, plot your course, and then get the heck out there and start sailing! Every day, do at least one thing that takes you in the direction of your dream.
C is for COURAGE
When I first went to sea I was afraid everyday. Now, I am afraid every other day. Fear never goes away – courage is the willingness to be afraid.
Success only rewards risk: Be a modern-day warrior. Aim high, be bold, step out, say what you think. Don’t let the notion of “saving face” and not being the “tall poppy” discourage you from taking the risks that cultivate your courage.
C is for CAPACITY
When I set out on an ocean passage I feel sick and stumble inadequately around on deck. But, provided I look after myself, the demands of the boat and the weather stretch and strengthen me until I can sail happily for weeks.
Dedicate yourself to stretching your capacity in every way – physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. Care for your body by exercising. Eat lightly and eat frequently – use food as fuel for body and creativity. Take time daily for meditation, yoga or prayer. Breathe deeply, take breaks, and practice using both sides of your brain.
C is for COMMITMENT
To reach distant shores, I had to sail out of sight of land for many days and sometimes weeks. Then, I had to accept total responsibility for everything on board. Though I had no control over the weather, I still had responsibility for the survival of my wife and myself.
Decide what you are going to do, then commit irrevocably to your success – no turning back. And assume responsibility for everything – no blame, no fault finding, no excuses.
C is for COMPASSION
The harsh side of being at sea exposes me to me. Miserable conditions sometimes makes me a miserable human being, but compassion makes it possible to love myself (mostly) and carry on. Along with the other Cs, there must be caring for self, for others and for our greater purpose.
Life is like a voyage and we only get to sail it once. If you are not now living the life of your dreams, decide to do so today. Then set sail and focus daily on the next 5Cs. Someday soon, you too will be living the life of your dreams.
by Cresswell Walker, executive coach, trainer and organizational effectiveness consultant with http://www.tripleE.com
5Cs That Really Matter
C is for COURSE
Simply by following a compass heading at sea, sooner or later a destination shows up over the horizon. I was amazed by how far I could get by sailing just a little bit every day. I eventually “found” Australia by compass and by sailing more than 15,000km, all at jogging speed!
Set goals for your life and career, plot your course, and then get the heck out there and start sailing! Every day, do at least one thing that takes you in the direction of your dream.
C is for COURAGE
When I first went to sea I was afraid everyday. Now, I am afraid every other day. Fear never goes away – courage is the willingness to be afraid.
Success only rewards risk: Be a modern-day warrior. Aim high, be bold, step out, say what you think. Don’t let the notion of “saving face” and not being the “tall poppy” discourage you from taking the risks that cultivate your courage.
C is for CAPACITY
When I set out on an ocean passage I feel sick and stumble inadequately around on deck. But, provided I look after myself, the demands of the boat and the weather stretch and strengthen me until I can sail happily for weeks.
Dedicate yourself to stretching your capacity in every way – physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. Care for your body by exercising. Eat lightly and eat frequently – use food as fuel for body and creativity. Take time daily for meditation, yoga or prayer. Breathe deeply, take breaks, and practice using both sides of your brain.
C is for COMMITMENT
To reach distant shores, I had to sail out of sight of land for many days and sometimes weeks. Then, I had to accept total responsibility for everything on board. Though I had no control over the weather, I still had responsibility for the survival of my wife and myself.
Decide what you are going to do, then commit irrevocably to your success – no turning back. And assume responsibility for everything – no blame, no fault finding, no excuses.
C is for COMPASSION
The harsh side of being at sea exposes me to me. Miserable conditions sometimes makes me a miserable human being, but compassion makes it possible to love myself (mostly) and carry on. Along with the other Cs, there must be caring for self, for others and for our greater purpose.
Life is like a voyage and we only get to sail it once. If you are not now living the life of your dreams, decide to do so today. Then set sail and focus daily on the next 5Cs. Someday soon, you too will be living the life of your dreams.
