1.       Americans are crybabies-

OK… I’ll also lump Canadians and Brits in with us too (I know we got a few of you who read this blog). Don’t get me wrong I love my country, and for many reasons. Between the 24 hour Super Walmart’s and the ability to find a Wifi connection virtually on any corner we have it pretty easy…

Sometimes it’s too easy. I knew we’d be roughing it a little bit but when I found out it was an hour drive for internet; that was a little rough… I had to do everything I could to not stare at my new iPhone 4S every 10 minutes.  I finally just gave it to my son to play Angry Birds each day…

We survived, other than my minor electrocution and Kyler’s pink eye (at least I hope it was only pink-eye) everyone made it through ok and even had a great time. I’m sure we all probably built a little bit of added character along the way.

2.       Money doesn’t bring happiness

Throughout my business life (more so in the last few years) I’ve worked with and interacted with quite a few wealthy people. You forget how people can be so grateful with so little money.

During our trip I met some of the nicest and happiest people that I have ever met….

What’s the average monthly salary for a College educated Filipino?

 $150-$200.

The island we visited considers hot water a luxury (This circles back to my electrocution, I promise that you’ll love the photos).  The Philippines is definitely nowhere near being the richest country in the world, that’s for sure. Despite having the 12^th highest population in the world, their GDP ranks right below Nigeria, and Sweden (Sweden’s population is less than 10% of the Philippines). No need to explain anymore here…

3.       Opportunity is everywhere

 Our flight back seemed twice as long as the flight there (Maybe it’s just me but every flight feels like this).

As soon as I stepped off the plane back onto US soil (This is always a weird statement… It’s not like I jumped off the Mayflower and kissed actual dirt). I had an overwhelming thought of- “You’re in big trouble world… Opportunity is mine”. Now a lot of folks out there are complaining and moaning about how life is unfair and how the American dream is dead…  Those are the same people that have never attempted to create greatness…

The world is our playground and as soon as one realizes that failure is not permanent but only obstacles to overcome they WILL succeed.

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve failed in life. The ability to get back and know that I would succeed is what brought me to where I am today.  Unfortunately, many parts of the world, including the Philippines, they don’t know of the opportunities that exist. What’s the difference between someone who knows they have options vs someone who doesn’t know of anything outside of their town?  If you don’t take action, the answer is nothing.

During our trip I made it a point to do some volunteer work. Perception is everything, chances are what you and I may consider rough would be a walk in the park for others who haven’t been afford the opportunities we have.

4.       The human mind is capable of great things

I think this may be a basic rule of human nature, “The more we have, the less we innovate”. Ever hear the saying “Necessity is the mother of invention”? This was definitely something I witnessed first hand.  Ever see a motorcycle that can seat five people? I hadn’t until my trip.  When you have to create and solve problems, you can think of many things. This is a lesson I am definitely going to apply in my businesses.  I once heard someone use the phrase “The illusion of limited resources”.  If your mind is strong enough you can find a solution to anything.

5.       We can all do more

 This one is simple… There is no difference between you and I and all the great men and women who have ever walked this planet. In some cases you and I may have had better opportunities and a better vision of what we want to accomplish.  Be inspired, push yourself… Whatever we are capable of, we can always do more.

I know this post may seem a bit obnoxiously motivational and maybe it’s the jet lag talking but sometimes it takes quite literally living in someone else’s world to see just how blessed most of us are (If you’re reading this you and have an internet connection… You’re Blessed!).

This year has been a whirlwind, I’ve been home for only a few days now and I’m leaving for a trip to Vancouver for the weekend… 24 hours after getting back to the States I got invited to speak at an event… And truthfully I might have just blown it off if I had not just had the experience that I just did…  But I can do more, and my goal for this weekend is to help inspire others to create their own greatness.

Here’s to a great weekend and please don’t forget to challenge Yourself!

P.S. I took a ton of great photos on the trip, if you want see them (including how I almost electrocuted myself) I’ve posted them up on my Facebook Page.  Go check them out and don’t forget to “like” my page!