said, “Hey, it’s not the end of the world,” before calling her kids and sharing her adventure with them. The
wisest among us have a remarkable ability to maintain grounded when times get tough.
No life is perfect; mine certainly isn’t. we all must face challenges, both large and small. This very
minute, somewhere in the world, there are parents dealing with the death of a child. This very minute,
someone has suffered an accident that will devastate their loved ones. This very minute, there are human
beings dealing with illness in a hospital bed. Sickness, loss, disappointment. No one gets through life
without experiencing this stuff. But you and I have the power to choose to rise above our external
circumstances. We always have the choice to be strong and positive when things fall apart. We have the
right to use our stumbling blocks as stepping stones to our greatest life. This isn’t motivational
sloganeering. I believe this is truth.
What distinguishes people with an
Extraordinary character from the rest of us
Is how they respond when life sends
One of its inevitable curves.
Grace under pressure. That’s what separates leaders from followers. It’s that beautiful quality that inspires
others and reflects a well – developed spirit. It’s a trait that allows you to carve out a spectacular life – one
you’ll be proud of at the end. My seatmate was right – things could have been so much worse. I’m safe. I
have my health. I have two wonderful children. I have work I love and so much to be grateful for. Sure I now
have to wait a few hours to catch the next flight home. Maybe I’ll get started on that book my editor keeps
asking me about.
40.
To Be More Productive, Relax
and Have More Fun
Spending all your time working will not make you more productive. In my experience, and I’ve been at this
fro over 10 years, few people get their best ideas at work. I invite you to take a moment to think about that.
Checking your email messages on your BlackBerry every 60 seconds will not make you more effective.
Burning the candle at both ends doesn’t tap into your natural pool of creativity. Refusing to take vacations
will not make you a star performer. Here’s a big lesso