Sep 19, 2018
Positioning yourself for failure
is not normal, but it can be enlightening. Jim and Jan are both big
proponents of getting a little scuffed up now and then. In this
week’s episode, they tell their personal stories about their
biggest challenges, and the lessons they learned once they were on
the other side.
Key Takeaways
[1:24] Jan recounts the story of
a mountain bike crash that broke his knee. He remembers feeling
pain, embarrassment, anxiety when it first happened and he was at
the mercy of his rehabilitation. He got through it, and 14 years
later and still riding, he is grateful and thankful for the lesson
on patience.
[5:59] Are you giving yourself
opportunities to get scuffed up, push your limits and go beyond
your safety zone? When you think about what is really scaring you,
is it also holding you back?
[8:12] Jim reflects upon his
time in college at University of Illinois. While enrolled in the
College of Engineering, the Dean told him in order to switch to the
Business School, he must get his grades up first, which happened to
be not so easy for the young student. He knew he needed to put the
pedal to the metal, and wrestled through the struggle and
embarrassment of having trouble in class. In the end, he learned a
lesson in humility, hard work and had some fun while getting a few
solid C’s.
[13:56] As a leader, you have to
create your own crucibles and let people go through theirs. As
parents, managers or supervisors, it is natural to want to try and
help them. Letting people struggle will make them better and
stronger, and give them a sense of grit.
[20:26] Excitement lives outside
of the comfort zone. While physical challenges are a great way to
expand your limitations, you can also break out by conquering your
fears emotionally and mentally.
[21:35] Jan is preparing for his
upcoming 12 minute TedTalk, “Suffer Everything, Dare Everything.
Why Difficulties Matter”. This is a prime example of getting out of
the comfort zone.
Quotes
- Sometimes we have to be a patient, to learn the
lesson of patience.
- There
is something about getting scuffed up that may actually provide
enlightenment.
- Are
you doing enough things in your life where you have the opportunity
to get scuffed up?
- We do
have to create our own crucible. That’s what hardens and
strengthens us.
- Lead
less. Let people make mistakes and learn from them.
- What
are you scared of, and why aren’t you doing it?
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