June 26, 2017

Dear Grandchildren,

I’d like to talk about your greatest power. Can you think for a few minutes what your greatest power is? We all have this power and it’s important in your life and your company.

Your greatest power is your power to choose.

Now don’t give up on me yet, because this is important for your success. You can make choices for your life, and the freedom to use your will. 

You’re free to put your thoughts into action, able to choose your own attitude, and able to change your life. It’s sad because so many choose not to tap into their full potential. Many people trudge through life doing things they don’t want to do, working jobs they don’t want to work, and having conversations they don’t want to have.

Grandchildren, I want you to realize how powerful your choices are. If you think you can, you’re right! And if you think you can’t, you’re also right! It’s all begins with your belief in yourself and the choices you make.

I like these two phrases: 

If it’s to be, it’s up to me.

The me I see is the I, I’ll be.

Many people live as victims, and their bad choices lead to bad habits. For example, try eliminating negative words from your vocabulary. After all, negativity leads to complaining, sarcasm, gossiping, bragging, and even lying. So, use your power for good.

These bad choices are not for you, Grandchildren. You have the power to “choose” choices that’ll elevate you as a person. You can have a “I-can-do-it” attitude and become energized by those good choices. Making healthy choices not only energizes you, but creates new possibilities.

There are risks in taking ownership for your choices, but there’s a bigger risk if you do nothing, too afraid to step out and accomplish your dreams. The bottom line, you’re responsible for your choices.

I had the opportunity to take the Stephen R. Covey class, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, in Utah. These seven habits or choices are powerful if you live them.

1. Be proactive.

2. Begin with the end in mind.

3. Put first things first.

4. Think win-win.

5. Seek first to understand, then to be understood.

6. Synergize (work together).

7. Sharpen the saw (replenish yourself).

Each of these choices stems from a positive outlook.

In closing, I trust you’ll see the power of your choices.

I will end this letter with principles from the bestselling author and inspirational speaker on leadership Stan Toler. In his book, The Power of Your Attitude, he provided seven choices that can transform your life.

1. Believe it will work out. Choose hope!

2. Don’t take yourself too seriously. Choose humility!

3. Count your blessings. Choose gratitude!

4. Give more than you take. Choose generosity!

5. Be kind to everyone you meet. Choose compassion!

6. Celebrate life. Choose joy!

7. Keep going no matter what. Choose perseverance!

If you choose to live your life with these seven powerful choices,  I will see you at the top!

Grandpa