Write a Great Story
By Steve Gahagen
“The only thing people regret is that they didn’t live boldly enough, that they didn’t invest enough heart, didn’t love enough. Nothing else really counts at all.” - English Poet, Ted Hughes
The word adventure is exciting. It is a word that combines risk with an uncertain outcome. No risk, no adventure. Everyone wants to go on a great adventure. I’m convinced this is the case and why so many people are willing to pay $100 to compete in a challenging competition like a mud run or warrior dash. The thrill of adventure calls us.
In real life, living boldly and adventurously is more difficult. The magnetic pull of culture is to play it safe and to be like everyone else. It’s almost as if the goal of our culture is to live a long life and arrive at death safely.
Gallup identifies “Knowing Yourself” as the first demand of leadership. When we know who we are and are confident in our strengths, we are more free to live boldly. We are freed from having to compare ourselves to others and can appreciate the strengths and talents of those around us.
QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER
I encourage you to discuss these questions around the office water cooler or home dinner table. You can breathe life into people in your sphere of influence as you ask them to share their thoughts.
Is the magnetic pull of culture toward safety or living boldly? Why would you say that?
Who do you admire who has lived boldly? Why?
What risk would you take today if you were living boldly?