Persist Without Exception

Every leader will come to the point where he feels he can go no more. That he must give in to the exhaustion he is facing. But is this the proper course to take?

This is the question answered by Andy Andrews in the last decision of The Traveler’s Gift. I’ve shared with you the previous six decisions in past blog posts.

David Ponder nears the end of his journey as he receives the scroll from Gabriel with the decision to Persist Without Exception written on it. It’s a fitting end as David had not persisted without exception and that’s how he wound up traveling through time.

What Is Persisting Without Exception?

Persisting without exception is knowing the end goal. It is being unwilling to waver even when the situation seems daunting and scary. It means continuing despite exhaustion setting in.

Passing The Leadership Baton

We’re running towards the goal. Full tilt. Knowing that we have to step up our games as a leader.

But there comes a time when we must face the toughest task a leader must face. The task to pass the leadership baton to the next generation.

Why This Is Difficult

The transition was difficult. It’s hard to stop something that you’ve enjoyed and that has been very rewarding.
— Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

To some, passing the leadership baton seems to come easy. They’re able to pass the baton just like Olympians. During their greatest burst of speed, they hand off the baton and the next person takes up the race.

For most, this isn’t the case. They like to hold onto their position of leadership as long as possible. Keeping the title and the responsibility.

There’s the struggle.

Using Obstacles To Become Great

There are days I stumble through life, cursing the obstacles I face. The truck not starting, trouble fixing a computer, or a struggling friendship.

They seem like they’re an obstacle in my way that I could do without.

I’m learning instead of seeing these situations as trouble, I need to use these obstacles to become great. And so do you.

Michael Phelps recently made history by winning the most medals in the Olympics. He, as of 2012, is the most decorated Olympian in history.

He achieved this through hard work and overcoming obstacles. Some of those obstacles were intentionally placed by his swim coach Bob Bowman.

Bob would intentionally put obstacles in the way of Michael Phelps.

Could you imagine this happening to you as a swimmer?