Rudy! Rudy! Rudy!

You! You! You!

Rudy is the classic story of someone who was always told they were too small for whatever their dreams were. Rudy’s dream is to play college football for Notre Dame.

 

Four lessons to take away from this film are:

• Determination
• You don't have to be a superstar to be a hero.
• Believe in yourself.
• Never give up on a dream. Don't be a quitter.

 

One Thought can Stop You

 

Our thoughts really do matter, and one “goofy thought” (as Rudy calls them) can stop you dead in your tracks. If you let it take root, one thought can discourage you, derail you, and cause you to make poor choices that take you away from your goals. It’s important to have a good defense that prevents negative influences and a good offense is one that supports positive messages. Best defense – believe in yourself. Best offense – surround yourself with honest, trustworthy coworkers.

 

When the Journey Gets Tough, Don’t Seek Permission to Fail

 

Often, when the going gets tough, we seek permission to stop.  Instead of hanging in there and enduring the pain, we look to those around us for permission to quit. Of course they’ll endorse that thinking. They can’t possibly understand the mission you’re on – because, most likely, it isn’t their mission.  You will provide hundreds of reasons to quit and they will approve them all. It’s easy.  Don’t be a quitter and don’t put a friend in the position to be a quitter supporter.  Instead of seeking permission to fail… seek a different set of eyes to set your path back on target. Yes… seek permission to pause and reflect.  Then attack!

 

All Contributions are Valuable

Rudy is on the practice team. This position is not glamorous.  But, his role contributes to the team’s game day preparation. Using your talents in a positive manner to make a difference (no matter how big or small) for a particular purpose, which ultimately is a benefit to the whole, is true contribution. Not everyone can be the coach. Not everyone can be the quarterback.  But, where would the QB be without his “line”?

 

Give Your Best - Always

Rudy went to practice every day giving his whole heart and effort, even though he didn't play in the games. By doing his best every day, Rudy helped the players to prepare for the big games by making them perform and work hard at practice instead of just giving them an easy ride.

The team respected Rudy because of his hard work and commitment.  

You may not be the top rainmaker, but your coworkers DO recognize hard work. Give it your best every day.

 

Commitment

 

The ultimate lesson from Rudy’s journey is commitment. Making the decision to follow through on a dream, goal, idea, or mission regardless of the challenges and obstacles.

Stay on Track!            Stay Committed!              Never Quit!