Become a Mountain

When I was 16 years old I wrote a short collection of poems.   The cover page listed a few youthful notions that would become my life long guiding principles:"Be wary of artificial limits and self-compromiseIf the world praises mediocrity, don't seek praiseBe true to yourselfYou make your own destiny"Some of these ideas were written in response to high school teachers who told me that my goals were unachievable - I should not ask "will I" but "can I".Over my career, I've worked with and for many people.   Along the way I've encountered many styles - those who lead by intimidation, those who lead by collaboration, and those who lead by inspiration.   Some have asked me to stretch my limits and others have asked me to constrain them.When I recently reviewed the words I wrote at 16, I reaffirmed that at my core is the notion that I should live each day to the fullest, performing at what I consider the very edge of my capabilities, then add one more thing.    It's the motivational equivalent of "no pain, no gain".My wife recently sent me a quote that summarizes this passion even more eloquently:"I am here for a purpose and that purpose is to grow into a mountain, not to shrink to a grain of sand. Henceforth will I apply all my efforts to become the highest mountain of all and I will strain my potential until it cries for mercy.  Og Mandino"When I was resident in emergency medicine in Los Angeles, I was on the front line during some of the most violen...
Source: Life as a Healthcare CIO - Category: Technology Consultants Source Type: blogs