Les Brown's Story of Perseverance
Welcome to Thoughtful Thursday and to start things off, I have a question for you: have you ever heard of Les Brown? He has been one of the most inspirational people I have looked to over the last 10-15 years. I had the pleasure of meeting Les on a few occasions and he is one of the real ones. If you don't know Les, here's just a small part of his story but I think it perfectly illustrates perseverance. Les Brown was born in a low-income section of Miami, Florida, and was given up for adoption at six weeks old. He was adopted by Mamie Brown, a 38-year-old single woman who worked as a cafeteria attendant and domestic assistant. Les was diagnosed with a "learning disability" while in grade school. However, this label and the low expectations set by others did not deter him from pursuing his dreams. Despite the challenges and the negative labeling, Les's life took a significant turn thanks to a high school teacher who saw potential in him that he couldn’t see in himself. This teacher's belief in him sparked a change in Les's self-perception. Les started to see beyond the limitations that had been imposed on him by others and began to envision a greater future for himself. Brown's professional life started with odd jobs, including being a sanitation worker and a nightclub DJ. However, his ambition was to be a broadcaster. He relentlessly pursued this dream, facing numerous rejections along the way. He finally got a break when he was hired for a minor role at a radio station and eventually worked his way up to become a prominent radio DJ. But Les Brown did not stop there. He went on to become a member of the Ohio House of Representatives, a motivational speaker, and an author, touching the lives of millions with his message of hope, resilience, and unwavering belief in oneself. Les Brown's philosophy is encapsulated in his own words: "You have greatness within you." Applying Les Brown's Lessons to Personal Development: 1. Reject Negative Labels: Les teaches us to reject the negative labels others may impose on us. Your potential is not determined by your current situation or how others see you but by your belief in yourself and your willingness to persevere. 2. Believe in Yourself: The cornerstone of personal development is self-belief. Like Les, you must cultivate a deep belief in your own potential and abilities, even when others doubt you. 3. Never Give Up: Les’s journey from a marginalized youth to a world-renowned speaker exemplifies the power of perseverance. No matter how many times you're rejected or face failure, continue pushing forward towards your goals. 4. Surround Yourself with Positive Influences: Just as a single teacher's belief in Les changed his life, surrounding yourself with positive and supportive people can have a profound impact on your personal growth and success. 5. Use Your Story to Inspire Others: Les Brown used his own life story to inspire others. Similarly, your personal journey, with all its struggles and triumphs, can be a source of motivation and encouragement for others.