“Always bear in mind that your own resolution to succeed is more important than any other.” – Abraham Lincoln.
This week, we conclude the Resilient Factor of the DREAM acronym by exploring the final elements of the PURPOSE acronym. Here’s how you can embody these principles to cultivate resilience and thrive in the face of adversity.
S = Serve Others
Contributing to something greater than yourself can provide a profound sense of purpose and resilience.
Mahatma Gandhi famously stated, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” Serving others, whether through volunteering, mentoring, or supporting your community, not only strengthens social connections but also reinforces your sense of purpose and belonging. Imagine the ripple effect of your actions, spreading positivity and resilience throughout your community.
E = Embrace Joy
Amid challenges, finding moments of joy and gratitude is crucial for resilience. Henri Nouwen said, “Joy does not simply happen to us. We have to choose joy and keep choosing it every day.” Cultivate joy by focusing on the present moment, practicing gratitude, and engaging in activities that bring you happiness and fulfillment. Picture yourself savoring a simple pleasure, a warm conversation, or a quiet moment of reflection, each one a building block of your resilience.
By embodying the PURPOSE acronym and integrating these principles into your life, you can cultivate resilience intentionally, navigate challenges effectively, and thrive in the face of adversity. Living your dream and doing life big is not just a slogan; it’s a way of life.
Inspiration from History: Abraham Lincoln
Abraham Lincoln’s journey from poverty to becoming the 16th President of the United States is an inspiring tale of resilience and determination. Despite facing hardships and limited education, Lincoln’s unwavering spirit and innate intelligence propelled him to greatness. He encountered countless challenges throughout his ascent to power, yet his strong moral compass guided him through the darkest moments in American history. Lincoln’s story serves as a reminder that with perseverance and integrity, one can overcome any obstacle and achieve extraordinary success.
Imagine if Lincoln had abandoned his dream after all the setbacks he faced. The world would have been deprived of his monumental contributions. Instead, he used setbacks as setups for comebacks, making the United States stronger and better.
When we leave our dreams, we deprive the world of what could have been but never was. It is by living our dreams that we make our unique contributions, creating a brighter and better world for everyone. [To be continued next week].
