I have always been easily motivated and driven from a young age, a trait I often reflect on, primarily due to my experiences in the U.S. Army. For those who may not know, especially new followers of my LinkedIn page, here’s a bit of perspective. About 15 years ago, while serving in the military, I lost my sight during operations in Baghdad, Iraq.
One might assume that losing an arm, leg, the ability to move, or eyesight during war would change a person negatively forever. In my case, the loss of sight was indeed profoundly negative in one aspect but surprisingly positive in another. Blindness has propelled me to pursue goals I might never have dreamed of before. I’ve achieved dreams like running marathons, climbing large mountains, and kayaking through intense whitewater—all as a blind person. To some, this might seem unbelievable and remarkable, mainly due to the reactions and comments I receive about how they could never accomplish what I have. I often tell them they possess all the ability needed to achieve great things.
Blindness has challenged my way of life, pushing me, driven by motivation, to find unconventional methods of accomplishing tasks. There isn’t just one way to do something, and too often, people choose the easiest path or follow the trails blazed by successful entrepreneurs or pioneers. However, these aren’t the only paths to success or goal achievement, as I’ve realized. Blindness has also made me more open to criticism and judgment. Initially, being perceived as incapable of simple tasks was frustrating and annoying but became a powerful motivator. It has compelled me to find ways to be resourceful and persistent.
Moreover, blindness has enhanced my ability to communicate my thoughts, dreams, and identity. When faced with doubt from others, I’ve learned to articulate the possibilities and my approach to achieving them.
All of this has been incredibly rewarding. It’s rehabilitative and healing. Reflecting on my accomplishments and how I’ve healed, changed, or rather adapted, I realize I’m living a life very different from what I envisioned as a young adult.
Another aspect of blindness I’d like to highlight is how it has made me a better teammate. Whether in life or work, we usually operate in team environments, and blindness is no exception. It requires openness to collaborate with diverse individuals, particularly when only a few are willing to join me on a specific project. For example, if I wish to kayak a particular river section in Colorado, I must find people who are confident, caring, and trustworthy. Together, we train, develop communication systems, and build teamwork that enables us to achieve our goal.
All of this has been possible because, at my core, I am easily motivated. I constantly strive to work hard and excel in my endeavors. Interestingly, I’m aware that I will never execute tasks exactly like my sighted counterparts. But why does that matter when I can do things my way, unconventionally, achieving much the same without sight? I guess you could say I have a vision, even without sight.