I love stories about individuals who purpose to practice the "mind over matter" principle, who are not merely survivors, but "thrivers"!  Many of these individuals  appear to be the under dog, had the odds stacked against them, and would certainly have the worlds sympathy if they chose to give up and give in to the circumstances they found themselves surrounded by. 

  "The Chinese pianist Liu Chi Kung was imprisoned for seven years during the Cultural Revolution, during which time he had no access to a piano.  When he returned to giving concerts again after he was released, his playing was better than ever.  Asked how this was possible since he had not practiced for seven years, he replied: I did practice, every day.  I rehearsed every piece I had ever played, note by note, in my mind."

(Bernie Zilbergeld)

    The newly released film, Soul Surfer shares the true story of Bethany Hamilton who at age 13 was brutally attacked by a shark while surfing and almost died.  This horrible incident left her with only one arm and the devastating realization that her future would no longer include her childhood dream of becoming a professional surfer...or would it?  Less than a month later, with board in hand, Bethany reentered the ocean and began relearning how to surf with her new unbalanced body.  Today at 21, she says, "I realized that telling my story could change people's perspectives on hard times they're going through." She has published five nonfiction books that share her faith in God - which is where she directly credits her determination, strength, courage and ability to overcome. 

   Just as the young teenage Bethany faced a "giant" in the form of a shark, the young teenage boy David also faced a literal giant named Goliath, measuring over nine feet tall, wearing a full suit of armor as he stood before him on the battle field.  In this Biblical account, David, who was simply a shepherd boy took his faith, skills with a slingshot, a few small stones and relied on the Lord to slay the giant and thus defeat the entire Philistine army.

  Giants in any form can be anything from intimidating to terrifying. So, who and what are the "giants" we face each day? Most of our giants aren't the kind who will physically stand before us and threaten to attack; rather they simply speak to our mind and heart with messages of: discouragement, temptation, loneliness, doubt, worry, guilt, anger, resentment, jealousy, failure or fear.  These invisible, yet powerful giants cripple us if allowed to.

On a daily basis, the computer of our mind receives 12,000 to 50,000 thoughts, images and pieces of information.  One of the greatest things about this miraculous creation is that it's unable to hold two thoughts simultaneously.  Test if for yourself: in your mind, count backward from ten to one, at the same time say your name aloud.  (Seriously, try it...then try again.)  No, it's not just you, it's not possible.  Isn't that great?  That means there's no room for the "Fear Giant" to bully it's way into my mind if it's currently occupied by faith or courage.     

   Although we cannot change the past, the inevitable or things that happen to us in life, we do choose how we respond.  With the aforementioned individuals in mind, here are a few character qualities they displayed:

                     ABC's of Courageous Thinking:

   1)    Assemble needed resources and support

ØWise and trusted counsel is essential 

ØPractical and inspirational tools

   2)    Be committed to vision, mission and goals

ØPassionate about "what" and "why"

ØTake action on short and long term goals

3)    Choose to think and act courageously - regardless of feelings

ØTell yourself what / how to think: program positive - filter negative

ØLet go of that which you cannot control

As you consider some of the common traits these individuals share, think about what giants you might slay as you choose to live courageously.

 Joan Endicott is an internationally known professional speaker, facilitator, author and life coach who helps empower individuals and organizations to grow their teams, increase morale and productivity.  For more information visit: JoanEndicott.com, call (208) 453-8056 or email:Joan@JoanEndicott.com

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