This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Health & Fitness

It's All About Perception

Perception is Everything

I just returned to Agoura Hills on Thursday evening, after spending a few days at Travis Air Force base. I was invited by a Lieutenant Colonel in the Marine Corps to speak at a conference he was hosting, on base, for his executive officers. I spoke for about two hours about the concepts in my book, The GOAL Formula.

As a former U.S. Marine, I understand a great deal about being a Marine and the challenges you can face. As I spoke to each of the Marines, it made me think about all of the chanllenges I hear about when I speak to groups of civilians. Yes, we all have tough times we face, but sometimes it is good to speak to the members of our military to have a better understanding of what a "tough day" can consist of.

I meet with people every day who get easily frustrated by traffic, an impatient customer, or even a long line at Starbucks. We often need to ask ourselves if the frustration we are feeling is really worth the energy we are giving it. Could we route that same energy into a more worthwhile area of our lives? Definitely, the answer is "yes."

Find out what's happening in Agoura Hillswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

I have often reflected on a conversation I had a few weeks back with a Major in the Marine Corps. He had recently read my book and we were discussing the benefits of stayin on track with your goals.  He has had his fair share of tough times; times that could have easily knocked him off of his horse. But he has stayed focused on his goals and on the goals of the Marines in his command.

As a combat veteran, he shared with me that he has lost five men in his command, while serving in the Iraq War. Talk about a tough time - an extremely challenging circumstance! It really makes you think about how "tough" your day is going. 

Find out what's happening in Agoura Hillswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Today, I want to encourage you to keep things in perspective. Do not sweat the small stuff. Stay focused on your goals - no matter what circumstances you face.

To learn more about my books, please visit my website: www.thinkgreat90.com.

Think GREAT,

Erik   

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?