Gratitude and Guidance

I would like to share a story of how Gratitude and Guidance play into our lives...

It was almost a decade ago but I can still remember it because it was a wake-up call for me.

On that particular day, my beloved wife was feeling a bit down and out of sorts. So while I was out at the store I saw the November copy of Oprah Magazine and I bought it for her thinking it might cheer her up a bit...

Little did I know, as usual, something way smarter than me was guiding my actions.

For three days in a row, I too had been facing massive challenges. These challenges came in a wide variety, ranging from character attacks, professional attacks, to a personal journey back to my emotional childhood in which I questioned the very value of the love I offer. To say the least, it was a tough week! At one point I was in deep pain and although I knew it was emotional, my physical heart hurt. I gave my wife the magazine and went about my day.

A little later that morning, I entered my office and saw that my beloved wife had taken a page out of the Oprah Magazine I had bought her and clipped it up on my computer. I would like to share with you what it said about gratitude.

“Gratitude comes easily when our lives are in order-when the bills are paid, the children are behaving, our health is good. But our challenges are what bring the chance for transformation. And it is for our deepest pain that we can be most grateful, because we know our hardship will deliver a lesson that refines our character. As you practice gratitude this month, give thanks not only for what you have but also for what you have escaped. When difficulties arise, ask yourself, “What is the lesson for me in this?” And when you can give thanks in the midst of your trial, know that are becoming your finest.”

~OPRAH MAGAZINE, NOVEMBER 2000

As I sat at my desk, tears of gratitude poured down my face. I became instantly aware of all the things in my life that I had to be grateful for including the amazing woman I am blessed to call my wife.

On the surface, it’s easy for people to judge me as a tough guy. I lost my boyish looks during a rock-climbing incident in 1990 and my muscular body is evidence of my sport of bodybuilding. However, below the obvious, I am a deep thinker, a spiritually centered being, someone who likes a good laugh and despite the exterior, I am a big softy.

It is in these moments of awakening to everything I have to be grateful for that I know my reason and purpose in life.

This article is an excerpt from my book "Don't Read This...Unless You Want More Money"

I trust that you found this article valuable, if so, feel free to send this to your friends. I eagerly anticipate your feedback and comments.

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I created the Authentic Leadership Matrix after a lot of experience and research. One of the questions I'm asked often is what authentic leadership is and how do we define it. As a result, I created the matrix. It splits what leadership is into five separate categories. So, that you can take a clear look at how you perform in each of the five main areas that are required for you to become a world class authentic leader. The process takes you through each category simply with yes or no questions.https://matrix.fullmontyleadership.com/

With gratitude, D?v Baron

I also write for Entrepreneur.com:

• Is There Life After Success(ion)?
• Why 47 Percent of Your Best People Are Ready to Leave -- and What You Can Do About It
• The 11 Questions Emotionally Intelligent Leaders Ask Themselves
• Why Being a Self-Aware Leader Is Not Enough
• Unlocking 'the 4 Cs' to Create a Fiercely Loyal Corporate Culture 

“In 2015, Dov Baron was cited by Inc Magazine as one of the Top 100 Leadership Speaker to book for your next conference! He speaks internationally and is The Leading Authority on Next-Gen Authentic Leadership and creating a Culture of Fiercely Loyal Leaders. FullMontyLeadership.com

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P.S. To get your hands on Dov Baron’s new book “Fiercely Loyal” How High Performing Companies Develop and Retain Top Talent, go take a look here https://fiercelyloyalbook.com and get your FREE: How to instantly bond any team infographic”

To contact: Dov Baron International, and Authentic Paragon Alliance INC. Contact Authentic Paragon Alliance at +1 778 397 7717 https://FullMontyLeadership.com