There is no way Ms. Nyad could have completed her goal without total dedication to the task. After all, she had failed her first four attempts. But something inside this woman would not let her give up. It probably didn’t hurt that she is an author, journalist, and motivational speaker, because she most certainly realized she could use her experiences as she strives to motivate others to set goals and work to achieve them.
Her accomplishment was no easy task. On her first four previous attempts, she had to endure wind shifts, dehydration, jellyfish stings all over her body and even in her mouth, and sheer physical and emotional exhaustion. She learned much from her first four attempts and planned accordingly for this last swim. Her plan included assembling a team of thirty-five people who assisted her by checking on weather conditions, feeding her and making sure she was hydrated, monitoring her physical and mental states, and even plucking jellyfish out of the waters ahead of her as she swam.
I have been talking about Ms. Nyad's historic swim this past week in my class sessions at the jail because her story so closely parallels those who are challenged by goals they strive to achieve. Ms. Nyad failed to complete the swim from Cuba to Key West four times previously, and yet she viewed it important enough to try once more. This time, she took the time to assess the obstacles and plan accordingly. In addition, she thoughtfully assembled a support team that would support her under any conditions. Her success emphasizes that people can accomplish anything they wish as long as they are committed, they have a well-thought out plan, and a strong team of supporters who are willing to help when things get tough.
All too often, many of us end up throwing in the towel when we fail. Use Diana Nyad's story to inspire you to realize and remember that all is possible as long as we truly want to succeed, we have a plan for success, and we stay connected with those who support us. Now get out there and make things happen!
