Four Fabulous Teachers - #1: Aimee Mullins

I am setting out to blog about four people I find truly remarkable for their life teachings. First up? Aimee Mullins, a teacher of the potential of the human will.

Aimee was born with fibular hemimelia, a limb anomaly wherein there is partial or total absence of the fibula (shin) bones. She had both legs amputated below the knee when she was only a year old.  However, as she jokingly remarks in a TED talk - from the moment she was born and her doctor communicated that she would never be able to walk, Aimee has been making a liar out of this doctor ever since (she is a World Record Holder in the 100 meter, 200 meter and Long Jump).

Throughout this TED video, Aimee speaks to the opportunity that lies in adversity and about the X-factor, the potential of the human will; "the human ability to survive and flourish is driven by the struggle of the human spirit through conflict into transformation."



Rather than see adversity as something we need to sidestep, Aimee rather sees it as something to embrace so that we can be successful not in spite of it of because of it. "Adversity gives us a sense of self - a sense of power. Adversity is more than just tough times but, rather, change - adversity is just change we haven't adapted ourselves to yet.

She also remembers, however, that this is not something we can always simply do on our own.  We often need help from others so we can see this opportunity that lies in front of us, or maybe we just need one person "all you need is one person to show you the epiphany of your own power and you are off."

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“It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent that survives. It is the one that is the most adaptable to change.” - Charles Darwin

Grow, Grow, Grow

Peter DiGiammarino, CEO of Compusearch, likes growth.  In fact, it may be more accurate to say he loves it.  In this video, Peter outlines some of the elements key in helping companies who may be "performing well, but not up to their potential, grow to see that potential."  Throughout the 12 or so minutes he speaks on the topic of growth, he describes why maintaining a strong team is paramount to this growth, and why it is essential to have that team be comprised of individuals who are motivated to do the right thing because they see what the right thing is to do.  Finally, he stresses that in a time of frustration, it can be prudent to "helicopter above."  Looking at the situation at large can help to identify all factors; appropriate measures can then be taken and the team can continue to move forward.

Listen here and fast forward to minutes 27:17 - 39:25. Enjoy!

For more of Peter's wisdom and insight, check out this article on "what problem do you solve for whom and how."

Want to learn even more? Meet Peter in person and listen to him speak on how to use your network to grow a career in professional services.   -> Peter is speaking at the Young AFCEA Bethesda council Professional Development series on February 24th in Arlington, VA (metro-accessible).  Sign up here!