What challenges must you overcome?

The only people that don't have challenges are dead. That doesn't apply since you are reading this post. Therefore, the tribe expects you to make the most of your passion for a positive impact. The combination of demons and temptations we face are as diverse as humanity; however, we can all relate. I could struggle with alcoholism and drugs, yours is perfectionism; mine is laziness, yours is a workaholic or some crazy mash-up. In all cases, the damage we can do to ourselves and those around us will leave a scar. Leaving good works left undone and our passion taken to the grave.

We need to push back against our natural tendency to roll back under the covers and say it is too hard to fight today. Give yourself a moment to recognize the internal talk or acknowledge the bodies weariness, then begin to fight back. When those we support are feeling off their game, we rally to their side and encourage them on, reminding them of previous victories. We sit on the edge of our seats with the adrenalin coursing through our veins holding our breath, waiting for just the right moment to yell "Rocky, get up!" Then we go ballistic as Rocky climbs from the bloody mat to eventually pummel his opponent; blow after blow, until it is done.

Trying to change the world is not an easy task, even for a good cause. The entrepreneur lifestyle has recently been glorified due to some notable successes coupled with the Silicon Valley payout of some start-ups. It will always be easier to push the play button on Netflix, but it doesn't mean this is how you must spend your time. We have the ability to reach around the globe, meet like-minded people and find the community that is looking for the same change we are pursuing.

We know the hard days are coming and will require reinforcements to bolster our strength with tactics and encouragement. Knowing opposition will come from the outside, will give the courage to address the other internal or environmental challenges that rise during the pursuit of your vision.

Invest in your community, be generous, be authentic and find those that will be in your corner to help you in the fight that looms ahead. If your passion, vision and desire are strong enough, then make it happen. The world is always changing, muscle your way in to paint it in your colors.

What is your sacred cow?

We all have them and if you claim you are sacred cow free, then most likely, we just stumbled upon your favorite bovine. Welcome to the barnyard, shake your boots off and let's have some fun. Vegan or carnivore? Build a wall or amnesty? Democrat, Republican or Independent? Christian or Muslim? Northern or Southern Africa? Pro-life or Pro-choice? Mac or Windows? You can spend the next couple minutes justifying your position and how everyone else that sees the world different is an idiot or we can take a humble moment to chat. Excellent, thanks for taking a moment to consider the cows for what they are; thoughts and beliefs that have made us the people we are today. This inquiry is about identifying the sacred cows, not confronting or tearing them down. 

Clearly identifying those topics that are too sensitive to approach is helpful in knowing ourselves. Time has granted me the gift of patience and a willingness to listen, a bit. I don't write as someone free from the barnyard. I am still convinced that many of my cows are justifiably sacred. I believe that I am a bit more approachable and willing to listen and talk about my cows, even if they remain sacred to me. We must be able to discuss why we have the thoughts and beliefs that have shaped us. 

Engaging in thoughtful discourse allows for maturation of our perspective. The opportunity to hear the opposing perspective must never be feared and allows for the nuances to be appreciated. This gift allows for engagement with another human being. Soon enough we will be bones in the grave swaddled in our precious beliefs. Now is the time to listen, engage, laugh, appreciate and learn. This life is too precious to push others away because there is a different brand on their bovine.

Going Further: What are the sacred cows your willing to discuss today that was met with a visceral response previously? What positions have solidified over the years? Can you  engage in friendly discourse across these topics? How do you appreciate the opposing perspective, even if you don't agree?