Are you "too busy?"

Often times we can get "too busy" for things.  This week on ESPN College Hoops they have been promoting the V Foundation for Jimmy V Week.  Jimmy Valvano was a great basketball coach, but an even greater person.  Before Jimmy lost his battle with cancer in 1993 he gave the speech linked below.  I challenge you to watch this video.  It's got great content that can help us all Strive4Excellence and realize we are never "too busy" to enjoy life and those around us.

Here are some keys to take from the video:

3 Things to do Everyday
Laugh
Think
Emotions move to tears (happy or sad)

Keys to Success
Know where you started
Know where you are
Know where you're going to be

I don't care if you are a basketball fan or not.  Check out this video! It is well worth your time.

Click here for Jimmy V's speech from 1993 ESPY's

Different Perspectives

Things aren't always as they seem.  Whenever you are faced with a tough situation look at things from all angles.  Think outside of the box.  If we want to push ourselves to greatness and Strive4Excellence in all we do we have to approach things from all angles and different perspectives.  Just because things have been done a certain way for a period of time, it does not mean it is the best way. 

Start small.  Choose one part of your life or something you are involved with currently.  Take a step back and look at things and ask yourself, "Could we be doing this better?"  Keep an open mind and look at it from as many angles and different perspectives as you can.  You may even surprise yourself with what you accomplish when you do so.

Leader by Example

Attached is a video segment that was shown on College Football Live on ESPN.  Of course I am a little biased being a Cyclone fan, but that aside, Jake Knott's passion, appreciation of all, and positive outlook are quality characteristics we all should strive for.  Jake Knott, an outstanding linebacker for Iowa State, faced a season ending injury, but played through the pain before his surgery the following Monday, because of his love for his teammates and passion of the game.  One of my early posts dealt with finding your passion.  The passion that Jake shows in this clip is exactly what I was talking about!  Jake's outlook on the whole situation is, also, a huge point to take away from this video.  He could be angry, because he can't finish his senior year on the field.  This is not the case though.  He just keeps saying how lucky he is to be a part of what he was.  You show this passion in your life and outlook on even the toughest situations you are well on your way Striving4Excellence.

Jake Knott Video from College Football Live on ESPN via Cyclones.com