He’s a Green Beret who lost his leg during the war in Afghanistan.
When his leg was shot and almost completely severed from his body he didn’t give up.
He kept fighting for four more hours and even carried his own leg down the mountain.
After making it out alive he didn’t retire. He re-enlisted as a Green Beret sniper and kept serving his country.
His name is John Wayne Walding.
He was born on the 4th of July.
You can’t make this up.
He’s an American hero!
I had the honor and challenge of speaking after him at the Ignite Conference this past weekend to 4500 men.
I say challenge because when you are following a speaker like this who has such a compelling story of heroism it’s hard not to compare yourself and say there’s nothing I’ve done that even remotely compares to that.
What I’ve learned and what I want to share with you, because this applies to all of us, is that everyone has a unique purpose, message and story and you are meant to live and share yours.
You are One of One. There is no one like you. You can’t be anyone else. You aren’t supposed to be like them. You are supposed to be you and share your unique essence, spirit and ideas.
Decide what makes you unique. Get clear on your mission and message. What stories can you tell that are unique to you and will resonate with those you share them with.
We hear the term “imposter syndrome” a lot and I define it as believing the lie that you aren’t enough and that you don’t deserve the goodness or position you’ve been given.
The answer to the imposter syndrome, which is always an attack on your identity, is to know the truth: That you matter. You are here for a reason. You are worthy. You are one of one. You may not impact everyone, but you are meant to impact someone.
As I walked on stage, I told myself “Be You. You aren’t a war hero. You are a teacher. You haven’t served in the military but you’ve coached military leaders. Teach the audience what you came here to teach. Share with them principles, habits, funny and meaningful stories and ideas that only you can share that they can apply and use. Your personal story may not be as compelling, but your purpose is to help them write and create a better story.”
While I was signing books a gentleman came up to me and said, “I don’t usually get moved by speakers, but you really moved me. You were so real and authentic.” I want to encourage you do the same.
Be real. Be authentic. Be you.
It doesn’t cost a dime to be real but it’s priceless!
And while you may not have a name like John Wayne, they will remember you!
Lead Positive,
-Jon
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