Nelson Mandela influenced and changed the world. He is a personal hero of mine. His life and work will continue to transcend and inspire many generations. This post is dedicated to Madiba.

Dream big

 I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear. ~Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela on Robben Island

If it doesn’t evoke fear it’s too safe. Starting a new chapter in life, traveling to places less traveled, going back to school, pursuing a big goal or changing jobs is scary. If we aren’t doing things that scare us we aren’t learning. Dream big and go after big dreams.

Give back and help others

To be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others. ~Nelson Mandela

Prisoners of Robben Island

Empowering and helping others brings purpose and a mission. My work with the Peace Corps, water.org and Achilles International provide me with new perspectives, higher levels of empathy and passion to keep giving back. Our work matters.

Don’t stop

After climbing a great hill, one only finds that there are many more hills to climb. ~Nelson Mandela 

Every big dream has hills to climb and each hill climbed brings us closer to success. The hills test our commitment and stop others who don’t want it bad enough. Don’t stop when it gets tough.

Forgive and let go

I knew if I didn’t leave my bitterness and hatred behind, I’d still be in prison. ~Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela’s prison cell on Robben Island

People will wrong us in life. We cannot control how others act but can control how we react. Disengage from the anger, bitterness and anxiety for a life filled with happiness and freedom.

Time is limited

We must use time wisely and forever realize that the time is always ripe to do right. ~Nelson Mandela

How do you spend your time? Is it spent on things that matter? Our timeline is unknown and limited. Each day is a gift and opportunity to better ourselves and the world. Take advantage of the moment; pursue lofty goals, help others and never give-up.

Robben Island