The Austin Hatch Story

What we can all learn from Austin's miraculous journey

The Austin Hatch story forces us all to look within at what we can offer the world. It challenges us to re-define what's most important about living a life of purpose and meaning. I encourage you to devote yourself to watching the full 16-minute video below to learn about Austin's story. 

I am a firm believer that we can all reach unknown levels of excellence, both personally and professionally, when we take the time and energy to truly reflect upon our life's purpose (and work). I have spoken about this several times at conferences and workshops, over the last few years, in an effort to help  educators understand the powerful role that they play in lives of the students that they teach. 

Seeking to better understand our purpose and calling is no easy task. It takes hard work at a profoundly deep level. I've had people say to me, in the past, that it's all a bit too heavy and serious. That life is meant to be fun and we just need to enjoy each day without getting caught up in taking ourselves so seriously. 

I also know a few people who have a 'you just need to get on with it'  type attitude which has worked to serve them well in their personal and professional life. I certainly don't judge these points of view as being wrong. 

However, it is imperative to understand that the process of clarifying our purpose and better understanding our calling is a richly rewarding endeavour that can bring a mountain of joy, satisfaction, and sense of fulfillment in our lives. It's a noble  pursuit that is not rooted in any final destination, but more so in our journeys.

When I learned of the Austin Hatch story, it helped me to put into better perspective the true power of the human spirit when overcoming seemingly insurmountable odds in our lives. When thinking about our own ability to work through problems, overcome adversity, and demonstrate grit and resilience, we can sometimes fall into a trap of thinking we are helpless. That no matter how hard we try, we cannot be what we set out to be or achieve the goals and dreams we hold close in our hearts. 

Austin's story reminds us that we do indeed have the capacity to achieve excellence. I won't do justice explaining Austin's life and what he's gone through, so you will need to set aside 16 minutes to watch the video below. 

As you watch, think of the hardships you've experienced, not in an effort to compare, but more so to understand your thought patterns when confronted with these obstacles. Reflect on the limitless power that you  possess to work toward your goals and dreams whatever they may be. If we apply even 5% or 10% more of ourselves to working toward these dreams and goals, how much of a difference could that make? 

Why am I sharing the Austin Hatch story with you? Because I feel lucky and blessed to have come across it (Thank you Travis Stephenson!!). I believe we are all meant to be here for a reason. We all have a calling that is worth pursuing. What's yours? Does it require staying in your current profession to achieve excellence or taking the leap to do something else? Either way, I hope Austin's story empowers you to answer this question and take greater action in your lives.