Honour Our Potential Everyday

Honour Our Potential Everyday "Paddles up; paddles in the water; take it away!" the steersmen shout, spurring the Warriors of Hope Dragon Boat Team as they begin a race toward the finish line. The team consists of breast cancer survivors, energetic and determined to demonstrate what people can accomplish when they honour their own potential following cancer treatments. The Warriors honour the spirit of the dragon, which, in China, represents individuals coming together as a team and working toward a common goal.

Maybe you have had an encounter with cancer, or another illness or obstacle that resulted in a defining moment in your life — a moment in which you realize that you are capable of so much more than you actively pursue. The keys to turning these obstacles into new opportunities are passion, determination, and strength, and work in both our personal and professional lives.

Passion comes from within. Whether we feel a small, fleeting spark or a roaring flame of desire, our passions guide us to greatness. But are we in tune with our guidance systems?

One way to ignite passion for your career or place of employment is to think deeply about your 'why'. "Why am I in this job or position? Why is this important to me?" and, ultimately, "What is my purpose?"

When we have a purpose — a 'why' — we can deal with the 'what'. For example, my 'why' is "to empower people to develop their unlimited potential and enjoy abundance in their lives". This is my purpose. Now, suppose a challenge arises that I cannot meet. By returning to my 'why' — my purpose — and taking action on something that empowers people to develop their potential and enjoy abundance, I allow my actions to be guided by my passion and purpose, not my failures and defeats.

This strategy requires determination and a clear understanding of 'why'. You have unlimited potential to become, do, and obtain anything that you believe, declare, and work toward. Passion and determination drive employees, businesses, and entrepreneurs; they build positive, productive, and profitable relationships within organizations and among clients, since passion engages those that come into contact with impassioned people.

If and when you're feeling low on workplace passion, look to your team for strength. Ask your peers to hold you accountable to your potential, and accept their help. Read more about the similarities between Dragon Boat racing and team building for the workplace in my blog.

The Breast Cancer Campaign uses the word 'HOPE' as its brand. If we use this word to remember the lessons from this article, we can make a habit of Honouring Our Potential Everyday. Best wishes for HOPE in your daily actions.

Blessings,

Penny

Dedication – This article is dedicated to the team at North Bay Hydro, as they remember a colleague Mark Storie (1958 – 2011). His legacy was honoured today, recognizing his strong faith, commitment to family and the significant difference he made in our community through his love and generosity. May we continue to Honour Our Potential Everyday in his memory.