2017 is likely to be a year unlike any we've ever experienced. America has never been more divided, and many people are feeling alienated and anxious.
Now, more than ever, it's critical to do what we can to build our capacity to be resilient. This means having the vision that enables us to see the beauty and compassion that's unfolding around us so we don't lose hope, while also staying grounded so we're ready to take the actions necessary to manage whatever comes our way.
In The Thriver's Edge, we are asked to develop strength in five key areas: cultivating a strong body, a strong spirit, a strong mind, a strong community, and a strong character, not just to survive, but to thrive, now and in the future.
- Cultivate a Strong Body. We need strong bodies because physical strength helps to ground us. Exercising regularly, getting good nutrition each day and making sure we get sound, restful sleep gives us the energy we need to thrive and successfully manage stress and fear.
- Cultivate a Strong Spirit. Building a strong spirit allows us to do. It gives us a higher perspective that isn't bound by time or circumstances. It helps us stay grounded and not lose our center when we feel attacked.
- Cultivate a Strong Mind. The mind is a powerful instrument and we have far more control over what we think. We are constantly choosing how we make meaning of our lives and of the world.
- Cultivate a Strong Community. We are all connected, and especially when times are challenging, we need people we can rely on for support. We need assurance that we're not alone, that others have our backs and that we will get through challenging times together.
- Cultivate a Strong Character. Our moral courage is a reflection of our character. These times call for us to be both brave and resolute. We need to know what we stand for and what we're unwilling to sacrifice, regardless of the cost.
Let's make 2017 the year we commit to strengthen ourselves in these five areas, so that collectively, we can create a world where everyone can thrive.
Perhaps, we decide to develop a plan for change.
The path to thriving is a journey of inner transformation--of deepening our capacity for self-insight, compassion, courage, and commitment to becoming all we can be. This path to thriving can be long and arduous. It has proven so for many.
In the Declaration of Independence, the Founders did not begin with a list of what the king was doing wrong. They began by stating what was morally right and then followed up with their list of the king's errors. They then offered a high-level plan for solution--which was the establishment of a new nation.
"Perseverance and spirit have done wonders in all ages." George Washington
Source: Donna Stoneham: The Thriver's Edge: Seven Keys to Transform the Way You Live, Love, and Lead
Gordon Leidner: The Leadership Secrets of Hamilton: 7 Steps to Revolutionary Leadership from Alexander Hamilton and the Founding Fathers