I was inspired recently after reading the transcript from the graduation speech given by Admiral McRaven to the class of 2014 on May 17th at the University of Texas. The speech provided great food for thought and showed the resilience of humans when it really mattered. It made me think sometimes I need to step back and realise the bigger picture through the little things. It also made me think of the characteristics and attributes that are found in those who strive for better and have character and ‘grit’.
If you don’t have the time to go through the entire transcript here are some of the great points he made.
- If you want to change the world, start off by making your bed
- If you want to change the world, find someone to help you paddle
- If you want to change the world, measure a person by the size of their heart, not the size of their flippers
- If you want to change the world get over being a sugar cookie and keep moving forward
- If you want to change the world, don’t back down from the sharks
- if you want to change the world, start singing when you’re up to your neck in mud
Just reading those points might not make much sense, but if you see the reasons why (tied to Navy Seal training) they’ll make a lot of sense to why they matter.
If you have the time have a read of the transcript for yourself, or if you’re so inclined watched the YouTube video of the speech here at the University of Texas website.
Ant and Owl 