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Own Your Hour: From Darkness to Accountability

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I came across an article recently about people facing their so-called “darkest hour.” You have heard it too; the narrative that we are living through the worst times in history. That everything feels broken. That it is all because of what someone else said or what someone else did.

Here is the truth: It is incredibly easy to point fingers. It is even easier to blame the system, your boss, your parents, your children, your partner, or the person who disagreed with you last week. I have been blamed too; cast as the scapegoat or the fall guy more times than I can count. In the future, I guarantee it will happen again. Because I have been there, trust me when I say, I get it.

But this is not about me. And it is not really about whoever you have chosen to blame, either.

It is about ACCOUNTABILITY. Being ACCOUNTABLE to YOURSELF, FIRST.

At some point, we all have to stop, take a breath, and ask ourselves:
What role did I play in getting here?

We are each responsible for our choices. Our actions create outcomes. Our decisions shape our direction. And when we land in a “darkest hour,” more often than not, we helped turn off the lights ourselves.

That does not mean you are a failure. It means you are human. I am human. You are Human.

The difference between staying in the dark and stepping into the light is ownership.

Because once you own it, you can change it.

So, if you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or even hopeless, pause for a moment.

Ask yourself:

  • What choices brought me here?
  • What am I avoiding responsibility for?
  • What can I do differently, starting today?

Your darkest hour does not have to be your final chapter. It can be your turning point.

Take back the pen. Write the next page with accountability, intention, and action.

You do not need permission. You just need to decide. Get to work.

Thank you for time,
David Guerra

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On Building Success…

Not so long ago, I found myself at a crossroads. A crossroad where a decision had to be made. An action had to be taken. I had backed myself into a corner and in no uncertain terms the only way out was to barreling through those obstacles that did their best to keep my back to the corner.

Thinking they had the upper hand, I knew that I had to no choice but do what had to be done. The actions I took might be right for everyone but they were right for me. I was letting the wrong people have the upper hand for far too long. In doing that it was costing me more than I ever knew. However, I was astonished how quickly my sight had cleared up and the burden of trying hard to not make waves was lifted. I did what I had to do to distance myself, my wife, and my children from the insecurities of others. If I wanted to SUCCEED as a husband and father, their insecurity had long was a liability.

The time came to cast off their chains that weighed me down, I had to break from the ties that anchored me to their world. I had to step out from the darkness they felt I deserved. I did just that and success is within reach, now more than ever.

Building success without dimming your light for insecure people involves embracing your achievements and potential unapologetically, while remaining empathetic and supportive to those around you.

It’s important to recognize that your success can inspire others, rather than intimidate them.

Start by setting clear boundaries that protect your self-worth and goals. Focus on personal growth by celebrating your milestones and learning from challenges. Practice humility by acknowledging the contributions of others, yet remain confident in your abilities. Engage in open, positive communication and offer encouragement to help others find their own path to success. By doing so, you create an environment where everyone feels empowered to shine, fostering a culture of mutual respect and inspiration.

Thank you,
David

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2024: Adopting a ‘Can-Do’ Attitude

It is all about your attitude. It is all about your CONSISTENT attitude! It is NOT about being occasional. It is not about being a part-tine DOER! It is ALL about having a CAN-DO attitude. 

What is a CAN-DO attitude?
A CAN-DO attitude is just as it sounds. It means you have adopted an attitude (and the beginning of a lifestyle) that you will do what it takes to get what you know you can do and get done. The attitude is the mindset you have, that you believe what needs to be done can and will be done, by you.

Who can have a CAN-DO attitude?
EVERYONE! However, it all BEGINS with YOU. Someone has to lead the way, so why not you? Someone has to be the one to say, “enough is enough!” Someone has to be the one to do something in any situation when others refuse to step up.
One thing to know: The CAN-DO attitude is contagious. By being someone with a CAN-DO attitude know that others will see you, see your success, and want to achieve the same level of success. However, know that having a CAN-DO attitude is NOT a FLEX, it is something that others will want. The CAN-DO attitude is something that everyone can have, all they need is knowing that it is allowed and encouraged. By watching you exhibit a CAN-DO attitude, others will step up and join you.

Why is it important to have a CAN-DO Attitude?
The importance of having a CAN-DO attitude cannot be stressed enough. You, as an individual, know things must get done. You know that in almost all cases things are not going to get done by themselves. Additionally, you know that others lack the initiative to get those things done, especially those that must be done. This is where you, not for the sake of others, step up to get that done. You know you can do it, then do it. You know that where others fail, you succeed. So, succeed. You will come to find that the successful feeling that comes from completing something becomes like an addiction especially when you create more success.

Why is being CONSISTENT important when it comes to having a CAN-DO attitude?
Having a CAN-DO attitude means you hold yourself accountable, all the time. Seriously, what is the point of holding yourself accountable part of the time? Holding yourself accountable all the time minimizes any guess work when it comes to pushing yourself to achieve your goals and/or completing your mission. Consistency breeds reliability. 

As a current or future leader, the number one thing that those that will follow you look for and that is your level of reliability. How reliable are you to be present? How reliable are you to deliver the bad news as well as the good news? The only way to be known as a reliable leader is to be someone that is constantly consistent in what they do, say, and expect.

How long does it take to make CONSISTENCY a habit?
Short answer: as long as it takes. Long answer: As long as it takes for you to not to have to consciously think about or remember to have a CAN-DO attitude. Some say 21 days of consistency creates a habit. I say it depends on the individual some may be less others may be longer.

Let’s wrap this up.
As a leader, current or future, it serves you and those you lead to adopt a CAN-DO attitude. Having the mindset to do what must be done, when it needs to be done gives you and your team a one up on those individuals and/or groups that are not yet where they need to be to be successful. Be the example for those that are getting there and not yet inspired to begin their journey to have a full-time CAN-DO Attitude. Yes, as a leader that is your responsibility. 

Thank you,
David Guerra

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