Things I Have Learned Along The Way

• Remember when you leave this earth, you can take with you nothing that you have received; only what you have given: a heart enriched by honest service, love, sacrifice, and courage.
  — Saint Francis of Assisi CATHOLIC SAINT, FOUNDER OF FRANCISCANS

Some of the greatest lessons

One lesson that impacted me profoundly was realizing how destructive protectionism is. Since that time, I regularly journal and reflect on my behaviour. Now I take time to ensure I am in sync with my values and "walk the talk." This period of self-reflection can be challenging, but it's essential to be authentic and true to ourselves. It's part of our journey to excellence.

I continue to strive to educate others on the things that have positively impacted my life. It's equally important to be vulnerable and share the things that have knocked me down. Those situations pointed out my flaws and failings; they increased my self-awareness and made me more resilient. Sharing what I learned is both cathartic and insightful, as I encourage others to participate in bettering their life from lessons learned along life's journey.

Life Requires Resilience...

My first book, Giving Back, was all about self-discovery and evaluating my life; where have I been, where am I going, and accessing if I lived a "drive-by life."

A heart full of gratitude is a heart that gives. When we're grateful, we have a desire to give back, and in giving back, we find joy. We get because we give. Nothing material lasts. What endures are the relationships, the experiences, and the love. These are forever—the gifts that keep giving. Life is better when we are happy but even better when others are happy because of us.

Each chapter of this book is about one aspect of the journey of life. Together, these aspects become an irrepressible force that should compel us to give back to the best of our ability. They add up to a culture of caring that can permeate our lives—in our families, in our workplaces, and in all our dealings with others along the way. Joyful giving will be an ongoing part of my journey, which I know for sure.

Here is what I learned on my journey to excellence:

• Lifelong learning is essential to my personal growth.

• I am always accountable for my behaviour and actions without excuse.

• Each day is a new day where I can begin with a fresh start.

• Creating and maintaining to-do lists daily supports my goal achievement.

• As a parent, I am responsible for modelling and teaching the necessary leadership skills to my children to reach out and make the world a better place.

• I can model emotional intelligence to my family, friends, and peers by choosing how I react and respond to their emotions.

• Mediocrity can’t be tolerated on a journey to excellence.

• Taking care of the mind, body, and soul is essential to practicing excellence.

• It is not possible for everyone to like me.

• I don’t have to like everyone I interact with, but I will conduct myself respectfully with them.

• Reading provides a great source of knowledge and inspiration.

• Hard physical work is very fulfilling and motivating.

• Nature’s beauty is one of God’s greatest gifts.

• Problems are only solved with solutions.

• Family must be a priority to live a balanced life.

• Surrounding myself with like-minded people will support me on my journey to excellence.

• I must manage my habits, so they are positive and support my goals.

• Fitting in is not a requirement.

• There is a huge difference between want and need, and knowing the difference is key.

• If I don’t believe in myself, no one else will.

• I need to accept the things that I cannot change.

• Giving up is not an option.

• Asking for help is a sign of strength.

• Building relationships is essential to forward movement.

• Practicing gratitude every day is essential to sustain your life.

• Passion is essential to personal and professional growth.

• Respect is earned.

• Being authentic to oneself and others is necessary to preserve reputation and character.