In this thought-provoking article, we delve into the profound concept of doing work for the love of it and its transformative effects on our lives. Drawing inspiration from his grandson’s swimming competition, Jim shares this anecdote as he witnesses the power of passion firsthand and explores the intricate interplay between purpose, dedication, and success. So read through the article and learn what Jim has realized watching his grandson’s resilience and dedication.
It’s a Saturday morning at the pool. I volunteered to be a timer for my grandson and a couple of his teammates. Meanwhile, athletes are in the water preparing to swim the mile. As the event is about to begin, a thought crosses my mind: “I don’t think I have ever swum a mile”.
Love for the Sport
I’m amazed at my grandson’s progress in this sport. He is creating a name for himself. NO one is putting pressure on him to be in the pool at 5:30 AM, six days a week, just to be back in the pool later that afternoon. He’s doing work for the love of it, the sport, winning, and his teammates.
As the swimmers hit the water after their impressive dives, music blares through the natatorium’s sound system. It is an upbeat atmosphere as family, friends, and teammates watch and cheer them on! I too am excited and curious.
I’m watching them swim back and forth, back and forth. Consistent and disciplined. About 15 minutes or so later, the intensity increases both inside and outside the water as a handbell clangs incessantly clearly calling out a warning. Red plastic signs are plunged into the far end of each swimmer’s lane making them aware of the last lap. The race was already on but now it’s the finish!
It’s like they were all waiting for permission to let it all out. Once that bell rang and the red signs plunged, the swimmers demonstrated a whole new level of speed and ambition for the final wall touch. What endurance! Great performance! Inspiring!
Competing Against Setbacks: Perseverance in the Face of Adversity
After debriefing with my grandson, I learned he had a not-so-unusual mishap with his goggles about ten laps into the race. As a result, he could not see clearly and his cap began falling off. Before the race ended, it had fallen completely off. That part, we all witnessed as it unfolded. It was unfortunate but these things happen. I was very encouraged and inspired because if you were watching from the stands, you would never know he was struggling because of how he dealt with the situation and how he finished. He did not win the race but he did very well and learned a lot.
Reflecting on Purpose: Discovering Meaning in Work
- Like my grandson, am I doing my work for the love of it? The mission of it? And the people in it?
- Do I train for consistency and endurance so that when the bell rings, I have enough in the tank to give it my all?
- When unfortunate things happen, do they derail me or do I find a way to compete in spite of it?
Explore More Content
Embark on a journey of inspiration and growth! Dive into more captivating stories of hard work, unwavering conviction, and exceptional leadership. Explore these suggestions and discover the profound impact of doing work for the love of it.
Or if you’re up for something different, there’s a whole breadth of content waiting to be explored in our blogs and podcast pages, so make sure to check them out!
Together, we can invest in great leaders. You can make a difference! 💙
Thank you for reading our Monday Moments! If this was helpful, share this with a friend!
Ready to become a better communicator and build your character?
Join the Lead Today Community to get more info.
We deliver free leadership training through The Today Counts Show podcast.
🎧 Listen/Watch on your favorite platform: Spotify | Apple | Youtube | Lead Today Website
Get a copy of Jim’s new book Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past
Here are FREE gifts for you!
- Get The First Seven Pages of STORY For FREE!
- Learn to stop losing and start achieving in your area of influence with this exclusive eBook. >>> Click here to get your free bundle.
Have you seen our YouTube Channel? We are releasing more content to help you grow. Come check out our latest videos, and while you’re there, please like the video and subscribe.
👍 Follow us on Social Media for more content
- Like our Facebook page
- Follow us on Instagram: @leadtodaycommunity | @jimpiper_jr
- Subscribe to our YouTube channel
- Connect with us on LinkedIn
- Join our Facebook Group | LinkedIn Group
Need a Keynote Speaker for your next team meeting, community gathering, or training session? I’d love to speak to your group (in person or virtual)! Contact me to discuss your specific needs and desired outcomes. BOOK JIM NOW
🎙️ Interested in becoming our next podcast guest? Send us an email: jim@leadtodaycommunity.com
👕 Spread encouragement and support with our Lead Today Hebrews 3:13 shirt. Order yours now
You may further support our mission through donation and by purchase of our books and merchandise.
The Lead Today Community exists to raise up moral and effective leaders in every sector of society.