As you maneuver through life, it will be impossible to avoid random volleys of “disapproval bullets” being fired at you by colleagues, friends, or loved ones. The good news is: You can be impervious to the shots. You can be Bulletproof. What is my definition of Bulletproof? The ability to give negative words, resistance, or even verbal attack no meaning.
There are 7 facets to master in order to become bulletproof:
- Vision: Every journey begins with a destination in mind. The more clear and compelling your Vision, the more joy you’ll feel, the more Discipline you’ll have, and the more Action you will take to move forward to achieve your dreams.
- Belief: The process of achieving anything in life starts with Belief. And to be bulletproof, Belief is not a luxury, it is mandatory! Your unwavering Belief will keep your Vision in focus. And a clear Vision will drive your behavior.
- Commitment: At the heart of all achievement is Commitment. Once you’ve made a decision to move in the direction of your dreams, then make a Commitment to see it through. Specifically, a “Whatever it takes” Commitment to success rather than “It sure would be nice” wishful thinking. The distinction between a pipedream and a realized dream is Commitment.
- Discipline: The difference between a wannabe champion and a true champion is Discipline. Everybody has potential, but not everybody is willing to dig deep and tap into the Discipline that is necessary to turn a Vision into reality.
- Accountability: How resolute is your willingness to hold yourself accountable? While you may be accountable to others, you may not be as much to yourself when there is nobody around to monitor, observe, or hold you responsible. Self-Accountability is who you are and what you do when no one is watching.
- Courage: It takes Courage to confront the uncertainties that lie between where you are and where you want to be. There are three distinct steps to summoning your courage: A) Take a time out; B) Take charge of your mind; C) Take action!
- Joy: You cannot be bulletproof without Joy. You just can’t sustain it. Why? Because without change being a joyful process, you’ll lose your unique, internal compass. It’s this compass that keeps you from going astray – so you stay on your path and end up right where you’re headed for.
It has been two decades since I formulated and put these seven facets into practice. Over the course of those years I’ve been told “no” when I knew for a fact I was right; received strong resistance or harsh criticism to great ideas I put forth; and had my integrity challenged by people who were mean and vengeful at heart. And yet I was unstoppable and ultimately succeeded because I’d achieved a state of mind where, in every instance, all negativity simply bounced off me. I’m bulletproof.
It’s your time, your turn.