Author’s Note: Why Chapter 11 – "You Must Find Your Why" Is Close To My Heart

When I wrote Chapter 11 –?You Must Find Your Why?– I knew it was one of the key messages I had to share in?Dare to Be Great.?This isn’t just another motivational chant; it’s a personal reminder rooted in my own HTM journey—a journey where, like many of you, I’ve experienced both the highs that inspire and the lows that test our resilience.

I remember my first day back in 1993, feeling that rush of excitement stepping into a field where every piece of equipment I touched could save or change a life. There’s power in that, real power. But somewhere along the way, amid the day-to-day grind and even through national disasters like Hurricane Katrina, that thrill faded. I found myself on autopilot, just going through the motions. And it hit me—when we lose sight of the deeper meaning behind our work, that initial excitement slips away. What I came to realize is that our purpose, our?why,?is what reawakens that thrill. It’s what keeps us fueled and moving forward, even when the path is challenging.

Now, here’s the truth: I found my why once, and then, 15 years later, I lost it all over again. Life has a way of shifting us, of testing us. But through soul-searching and reevaluating what matters most, I found a way to rekindle my why, and it was even stronger the second time around. This isn’t a short game; this journey of finding and refining our purpose is ongoing. It takes courage, and it takes commitment.

Over the years, I’ve watched so many talented HTM professionals, biomed students, and apprentices struggle to find lasting fulfillment. It’s easy to fall into routines and let the days pass without feeling that spark, that sense of purpose. But I want each of you to know that this work is about so much more than fixing machines; it’s about keeping people healthy, giving doctors and nurses the tools they need, and, ultimately, changing lives. That’s how I found my why. And that’s why this chapter means so much to me—I want each of you to feel the weight and importance of your role.

When you find your why, you don’t just transform your career; you transform your life. Your why becomes a mental GPS, guiding you through uncertainty and every challenge you face. And once you’ve discovered it, you’ll unlock a strength and passion that propels you to greatness. This chapter is my call to action for each of you: dig deep, reflect, and anchor yourself in a purpose that lights up every moment on the job. Because with that purpose, that why, there is no limit to what you can achieve for yourself—and for the future of the HTM industry.

In closing, if you're ready to dig deep, find your purpose, and truly Dare to Be Great, this book is here to guide you on that journey. Each chapter is crafted to inspire, challenge, and empower you to reach new heights in both your career and life. If you’d like to begin this transformative journey, click the link: https://www.htmontheline.com/shop to grab your copy of Dare to Be Great and take the first step toward unlocking your full potential. The path to greatness starts here!