From Paralysis to Purpose: An Inspiring Story of Persistence, Perspective and Leadership

Adversity doesn’t define you, but it can influence the road you take as you become who you are. That’s the belief of David Cooks, my guest on this episode of Talking Business Now. At the age of 15, David Cooks was a high school sophomore and a passionate basketball player. But then, he experienced a spinal aneurysm that left him as a T-6 paraplegic. From the beginning, David refused to let the wheelchair control his life. In his book, Getting Undressed: From Paralysis To Purpose, David shares his inspiring story of persistence, power of perspective and power of faith to demonstrate how obstacles should not define you and instead, should help you help others. He discusses how you can learn your own purpose and become a more effective leader by taking a break from your problems and challenges to help others with theirs. Here are just a few of the takeaways David offers in the podcast: Persevering through life’s challenges sometimes requires getting help. You’re not in it all by yourself. There is nothing wrong with small beginnings. Nothing is insignificant. Everything matters. Making adjustments on and off the court, and in life, are pivotal to success. Be willing to do things differently. Take advantage of whatever opportunity you’re given. How you handle success will determine how much success you can handle. What you are willing to sacrifice today is an indication of its value and where you are trying to go in the future. If it’s a priority, sacrifices are made; everything else gets excuses. Your ability will get you there, your character will keep you there, and it will stay with others long after you’re gone. It is impossible to live without failing at something, so don’t let that stop you from getting to your destiny. Embrace it, learn from it and get back in the line. David went on to receive his bachelor's degree in business administration from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and his MBA in finance from Duke University. He has coached at Duke University and has also spent time as an assistant basketball coach at Concordia College. David is the founder of David Cooks Enterprises, a speaking, coaching and training organization helping businesses and individuals put their purpose into action with clarity on teamwork, leadership and communication. Connect with David Cooks Facebook: www.facebook.com/24DavidSpeaks Twitter: www.twitter.com/dcespeaks.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/david-cooks-mba-20001210 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices