I wanted to share a little story with you today, which happened just this week. I had a rough night recently, one of those nights where you’re tossing and turning, battling a fever that just won’t let you be. But life goes on, and I still had responsibilities to fulfill the next day.
It reminded me of a time when I served as the president of the Louisiana Press Association. We were in the midst of our annual convention, and fate had a surprise in store for me – I developed a fever on the very day I arrived. Now, most people would have probably considered canceling their plans and crawling under the covers, but that’s just not how I roll.
I knew that there were obligations and commitments that required me to show up and deliver my best, regardless of how I felt. So, that’s exactly what I did. I mustered every ounce of my strength and showed up for each event, no matter how difficult it was to even stand up at times. I fulfilled my duties, gave speeches, and introduced other speakers as if I were on top of the world.
In between these commitments, I would retreat to my hotel room to rest and recover. It was a cycle of pushing myself to the limit, then taking a breather to recharge, only to jump back into action as soon as it was required. It wasn’t easy, I’ll admit. But you know what? That experience taught me a valuable lesson.
It taught me that true professionals don’t let circumstances hold them back. We show up and deliver to the best of our ability, no matter how we feel physically or emotionally. It’s a testament to our commitment and dedication to our responsibilities and the people we serve.
Life is full of unexpected challenges, and sometimes you’ll have to soldier on through adversity. Whether it’s a fever, a personal crisis, or just a rough day, the ability to show up and give it your all is what sets professionals apart. It’s about resilience, determination, and a deep sense of responsibility.
Now, I’m not saying you should push yourself to the brink of exhaustion when you’re unwell – taking care of your health is always a top priority. But when you have obligations, commitments, and responsibilities, remember that you have the inner strength to rise above adversity and deliver your best.
So, the next time you find yourself facing a tough day or a challenging situation, think about my feverish days as the president of the Louisiana Press Association. Remember that you have the power to show up and give it your all, no matter what. That’s what professionals do, and that’s how we make a real difference in the world.
Take care, stay strong, and keep showing up – you’ve got this!