In a recent live interview, I had an engaging conversation with Stephen Drum about his book "Life on the X,". We shared some great insights on how this military concept can be useful in everyday life and business. Let's dive into our discussion and the valuable lessons we offered.
What is "Life on the X"?
Former Navy SEAL, keynote speaker, and author of "Life on the X," Stephen Drum, inspires people and organizations to plan, prepare, and perform at their best, especially in high-level situations.
Coming from his military background, Stephen explained that the X represents a critical action point, much like "X marks the spot." In the military, it could mean landing on a rooftop from a helicopter or dealing with an ambush. This spot symbolizes a moment that demands focus, preparation, and composure. Stephen pointed out that we all face such moments in our daily lives—whether it's giving a client presentation, speaking in public, or any high-stakes situation.
Managing Stress and Staying Focused
Stephen "stressed" that stress isn't necessarily good or bad; it's how you manage it that counts.
While too much stress can be overwhelming, a certain stress level keeps us sharp and focused.
It's important to avoid retreating under stress. Instead, he suggested finding a balance that allows you to perform at your best without feeling overwhelmed. This balance between stress and focus is key to "Life on the X."
watch the full interview:
Redefining Toughness
What does it mean to be tough? Stephen redefined toughness beyond the usual image of a Navy SEAL. Just like a race car needs more than just a powerful engine to perform at its best, Stephen likened toughness to a well-rounded vehicle, where mental, physical, and spiritual fitness all play a role. It's about excelling in the face of adversity by integrating these different aspects of resilience and strength.
The Role of Values and Principles
Stephen highlighted the importance of knowing and living by your values and principles. Drawing from his work on the Navy's Warrior Toughness program, he explained that spirituality isn't just about religion; it's about connecting with your values, creating a personal mission statement, and holding yourself accountable. This connection empowers you to handle setbacks, make informed choices, and steer yourself back on course when faced with unexpected challenges.
I connected with this idea, mentioning how I help salespeople identify their meaningful goals by exploring their value systems. Stephen shared a practical exercise: think of three people you admire, list the attributes you respect in them, and derive your personal values from those traits. This process helps you create a mission statement and stay true to your values.
Stephen Drum offered a fascinating look into "Life on the X." His military insights provide practical strategies for managing stress, staying focused, and building toughness in everyday life. By understanding and living by our values, we can handle critical moments with confidence and grace, making the most of every opportunity that comes our way.
You can learn more about Stephen Drum on his website.
And Connect with Stephen on LinkedIn.
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