Can You Remember

The Sport of Kings, Generations,

Sep 11, 2023

Falconry is known as the sport of kings. In the sport, when a man sets out to train a falcon, he tethers the bird with a glove, some meat, and a rope, preventing it and encouraging it from flying away. Over time, the bird grows accustomed to this limitation, ceasing its attempts to break free. When the trainer finally removes the rope, the bird, though now unfettered, continues to fly within the confines of its previous restraints. It's a powerful metaphor for our own lives, where self-imposed limitations, or illusions, can hold us back.

Some of the truths that can wake us up from those constraints:

1. There is no Easy Life:

We often fall prey to the illusion that life should be easy, free of challenges. Yet, the reality is that life will always present obstacles. Whether we choose the practical path or pursue our passions, challenges persist. The key question is: do we want to face difficulties pursuing what truly matters to us or settle for what society deems "practical"?

2. There is no “Someday”:

"Someday" is an illusory land that never materializes on our calendars or watches. Waiting for the perfect moment is a futile exercise. Instead, set concrete goals, act now, and make "someday" a reality. Time waits for no one.

3. There is no Perfect Plan:

In search of the perfect plan, we often find ourselves paralyzed by indecision. There is no flawless plan. Imperfect plans, executed with determination and adjusted as needed, are the ones that lead to success. Dive in, learn as you go, and don't wait for a mythical perfect plan to emerge.

4. There are no Wrong Turns:

Fear of making mistakes can be paralyzing. Yet, no single error can irrevocably ruin our lives. Embrace the power of self-correction, learn from your missteps, and keep moving forward. A mistake is a stepping stone, not a stumbling block.

5. There is no Past:

The past is gone; it no longer defines us. Today is a fresh canvas on which to paint a new future. Start building the habits you've always desired now. The past should serve as a teacher, not a jailer.

6. There is Never Enough:

The root of fear often lies in feeling inadequate. However, if you are in a situation, it means you have the capacity to navigate it. Self-acceptance and trust in your ability to handle challenges are essential.

7. There is Nothing you Lack:

Believing in scarcity can blind us to opportunities and resources that surround us. Trust that there is no true lack. Embrace an abundance mindset, and you'll discover newfound possibilities.

8. There is no Separation:

In the grand tapestry of the universe, everything is interconnected. Your success is linked to the success of others. Help and support those around you, for it not only benefits them but also opens doors you never imagined existed.

9. There is no Chaos:

Chaos is a matter of perspective. Even in tumultuous times, there is always a bigger picture and a purpose. Look for the good, find reasons, and believe in the potential for positive change.

Breaking free from these illusions is the first step toward living a more fulfilled life. Embrace your potential, challenge self-imposed limits, and take meaningful actions. Today, I encourage you to reflect on these illusions, recognize where they might be holding you back, and ask yourself, "What will I do now?" The power to shape your destiny lies within your grasp. It's time to soar beyond the invisible ropes and embrace the boundless sky of possibility.

“The primary offramp to success is comfort.”

—Lloyd Reeb

For the first time ever, there are now 5 generations active in the workplace. This can create some static and Perdue University has been studying some of those.

Greatest Generation: 2% (1925-1945) Motivated by respect, providing long-term value, and recognition. Preferred communication is in person or via handwritten notes over email. Believes in obedience over individualism, seniority by age, and hierarchical advancements. Considered to be dependable, straightforward, tactful, and loyal.
Baby boomers: 25% (1946-1964) Motivated by company loyalty, duty, and teamwork. Preferred communication is whatever’s efficient, such as phone or face to face. Believes achievements come from putting in the work and making sacrifices to obtain success. Considered to be optimistic, competitive, workaholic, and team-oriented.
Generation X: 33% (1965-1980) Motivated by diversity, work-life balance, and personal interests over company interests. Preferred communication is either by phone or in person. Believes in diversity, leaving companies if they fail to meet their desires, and rejecting company changes that interfere with their personal lives. Considered to be flexible, informal, skeptical, and independent.
Generation Y: 35% (1981-2000) Motivated by responsibility, a quality manager, and unique work experiences. Preferred communication is either instant messages, texts, and email. Believes in seeking challenges, growth and development, fun work life, a balanced personal and work life, and leaving companies that dislike change. Considered to be competitive, civic-minded, open-minded, and achievement-oriented.
Generation Z: 5% (2001-2020) Motivated by personalization, diversity, individuality, and creativity. Preferred communication is instant messages, texts, and social media. Believes in independence and individuality, and prefers working with millennial managers, innovative peers, and new technologies. Considered to be global, entrepreneurial, progressive, and less focused.

My personal belief is that generations are not determined by a date range but from a more psycho-graphic orientation to a seminal event. Each generation has a single event that binds them together in a shared, definitive experience. Sharing the sorrow-washed joy of V-E data, watching the news anchors cry over Kennedy’s assassination, witnessing the explosion of the Challengers as the astronauts slipped the surly bonds of earth, and Coronavirus lockdowns unite a generation in its own view of a shared trial.

“When you die you take absolutely nothing with you except your reputation.”

— Kevin Kelly

You know I love my poetry. When I discover that others don’t read poetry on some sort of regular cadence, I’m just amazed. I’m drawn to those things that are supposed to be hard to understand, or that you can’t enjoy unless you understand deeply. Wine is one of those things, poetry another. This poem found me this week and I’ve marveled at it every day. Hope it speaks to you too, and maybe inspires you to add a bit of poetry to your life.