It’s not a joke.
The only parts of my body I can move are my eyes and lips. My hands, feet, arms, and legs, are almost totally paralyzed, managing the occasional twitch and nothing more.
And yet… I have an amazing life.
Using speech recognition technology, I’ve written articles read by more than 5 million people. I’ve also built several online magazines that have, shockingly, made me a millionaire.
“This can’t be real,” you say. “You did all this, and you can’t freaking move?”
Hard to believe, I know, but it’s true. I do it all from home, sitting in my wheelchair, speaking into a microphone.
I’ve traveled a good bit too. I’ve lived in San Diego, Miami, Austin, and even Mazatlan, Mexico. Here’s a photo of me living the good life south of the border:
I look totally miserable, don’t I? Poor baby. 🙂
Not to imply it’s been easy, mind you. During my 34 years, I’ve had pneumonia 16 times, recovered from more than 50 broken bones, and spent literally years of my life in hospitals and doctor’s offices.
But I’m still here. Not only have I survived my condition, but I’ve built a life most people only dream about.
And starting today, I want to talk about how.
Over the coming months and years, I have a great deal to share with you, but I thought we would begin with the biggest lessons I’ve learned, lessons I’ve paid for in blood and tears, lessons that have saved my life, over and over and over again. Let’s begin.
Sidenote: Once you’re done reading these, be sure to check out 33 Books That Helped Me Become a Millionaire from My Wheelchair. Lots of great wisdom there.
Lesson #1: If You Can’t Win the Game, Change the Rules
About a decade ago, I was totally dependent on Medicaid, the U.S. government-run health insurance, to pay about $120,000 per year in medical bills. On the one hand, I was immensely grateful, because without it, I would’ve certainly died, but I was also trapped by their benevolence.
You see, Medicaid has income limits. If I made more than $700 per month, I would lose all medical coverage. Doctors, caregivers, medications, everything.
It was basically an ironclad contract preventing me from ever getting a regular job. I had a college degree, plenty of ambition, and even a few job offers, but I couldn’t accept any of them, because the government wouldn’t let me.
It seemed like a hopeless situation. If I got a job, I would lose my health insurance. If I didn’t get a job, I’d be forced to live in poverty forever. There was no way to win the game.
So, I changed the rules.
One of the job offers I received was from a small online magazine named Copyblogger, but instead of accepting it, here’s what I told them: “I’ll work for you for free. Don’t pay me anything. The only catch is, sometime in the future, I’m going to ask you for some favors, and if I do good work for you, I’d really appreciate your help.” They agreed, so I spent the next two years working 40-80 hours per week, mostly free of charge, although they did find ways to throw a few dollars my way every now and again.
During that time, I explored moving to Mexico. By moving there, I could reduce my health expenses from $120,000 to $18,000 per year. $102,000 in savings!
Eventually, I pulled the trigger. I called my boss and said, “Remember how I said I would ask for favors one day? Well, it’s time. I’m starting a consulting practice, and I’d love some help getting clients.” The next day, he allowed me to reach out to about 50,000 readers, and I filled my entire client roster within 24 hours.
Then I moved to Mexico, abandoning the U.S. healthcare system entirely. Within 30 days, I was making more than $10,000 a month, living in a beachfront condo, and paying for all my own health care expenses.
How?
By not playing the government’s game. Instead, I created a different game, a game that worked by my rules, a game I could win.
“But Jon,” you say. “You don’t understand. My situation is hopeless.”
Bullshit. The options available to you right now may be hopeless, but you can always create new ones. It’s not easy, but if you’re strong enough, you can turn any situation to your advantage. The key is to develop that strength in advance. Here’s how:
Lesson #2: Pain is Power
At some point or another, life punches everyone in the face.
The punch may be hard, or it may be soft, but it’s definitely coming, and your success or failure is largely determined by the answer to a single question: how well can you take the punch?
Do you roll around on the ground, weeping and moaning? Do you rock back on your heels but then keep going? Or have you been punched so many times already you don’t even notice?
Personally, I’m a living example of the last one. If you want to know what it’s like to live with a severe disability, just imagine that every morning six big guys sneak into your room and beat the hell out of you. Most days, the beating isn’t so bad, and you can limp through your day. Every now and again though, they keep punching and kicking you until you’re bleeding and broken, lose consciousness, and wake up in the hospital breathing through a tube.
That’s the best way I know to describe my life. Since the day I was born, muscular dystrophy has given me a daily beating.
The upside?
It’s made me incredibly strong. I can take any punch life throws at me without even breaking stride.
Lost $100,000 on a business deal? No biggie. Key employee quits? Yawn. Getting audited by the IRS? Wake me up when something important happens. Next to fusing my spinal vertebrae together, shattering my legs, or nearly drowning in my own mucus, none of it is honestly that big of a deal.
This, my friends, is the advantage of pain. The more you experience, the more you can handle in the future, and the less it knocks you off your game.
The way you respond to that pain is another matter, which we’ll talk about in a moment. For now, the point I want to make is this: if you feel depressed and weak, unable to cope with the difficulties of life, it’s not because you are a flawed human being. It’s because you were unprepared for the pain you are experiencing. The problem, ironically, is that you haven’t suffered enough.
The opposite is also true. If you want to become a stronger and more capable person, the smartest thing you can do is systematically (and safely) increase your pain tolerance.
For example, Tim Ferriss recommends lying down in the middle of a crowded public place like a supermarket or a coffee shop. You’ll feel like a fool, but the experience will condition you to deal with embarrassment and discomfort in the future.
The bottom line?
The degree of success you achieve in life is directly proportional to the amount of pain you can tolerate. If you ever want to accomplish big things like building a successful business, becoming the best in your field, or changing the world in some way, you need to start training yourself to endure the pain all those things require. It’ll also prepare you for the next time life punches you in the face, which is inevitable.
The only caveat is you have to keep the right mindset. If you respond to pain the wrong way, it makes you weaker, not stronger. Let’s talk about how to make sure that doesn’t happen…
Lesson #3: The Secret to Survival
In 2006, a teenager who we’ll call Bill was late to work at Wendy’s. Worried that his boss was going to fire him, he decided to floor it, driving through the city at 85 miles per hour, weaving in and out of traffic, running red lights, and squealing around corners. At first, everything went fine, but then something happened…
He plowed into my minivan going through an intersection. He was going so fast that it nearly ripped the entire front end of the van off, spinning me like a top in the street. My head went through the window, knocking me out, and when I woke up, I was stuffed underneath the dashboard, my 300 pound wheelchair lying on top of me, blood squirting out of my head, my legs shattered from my toes to my hips.
I spent the next month in the hospital. The bill was about $130,000, and not surprisingly, I discovered good ol’ Bill had crappy insurance, paying out a maximum of $20,000 for the accident. To top it off, doctors predicted it would take an entire year to recover enough to work or go back to school.
In other words, I was fucked.
As if it wasn’t enough that I was already dealing with Medicaid, poverty, and muscular dystrophy. Life decided to pile on a little extra, just to see how much I could take.
And honestly? It was a miracle I didn’t crack.
How easy would it have been to sink into despair? Or rage against the unfairness? Or maybe even take a little bit too much morphine one day and end it all?
But I didn’t. Mostly, I was able to handle it because I’d been conditioned by all the other difficulties of my life, but it was also because I deliberately shifted my perspective.
The people who struggle most are the ones who can’t accept the incessant unfairness of life. They become so consumed with what should have happened, the way other people should have behaved that they become incapable of dealing with reality.
If I allowed myself to be angry at Bill for even one moment, I may have sunk into a pit of rage and despair so deep I would’ve never climbed out of it. Instead, I forced myself to say, “Okay, this is my life now. What’s next?” After all, I couldn’t change what happened. The only thing I had control over was how I responded to that change, and the first and most critical response was total and complete acceptance.
A lot of people view acceptance as weakness. They think that, if they accept what’s happened to them, they’ll be admitting defeat.
But it’s the opposite. It’s only by acknowledging reality that you can create a plan to change that reality. Acceptance, as it turns out, is the first step to victory.
Following the accident, I hired an attorney who fought the insurance companies, the hospital, everyone. It took months, but he eventually settled my medical bills and gave me enough money to purchase a new car, totally debt-free. Meanwhile, I focused on my rehab, completing it in six months instead of the year doctors predicted, and I resumed my life even healthier than I was before the accident.
The point?
We’ve all heard the cliché about turning lemons into lemonade, but to do that, you can’t be pissed off at the lemons, go into denial about the existence of the lemons, or get depressed because you’re tired of making lemonade. You just have to grab a lemon and squeeze the shit out of the motherfucker.
Or better yet, just discard the lemons-to-lemonade metaphor entirely. Here’s a much better way to think about it:
Lesson #4: The Art of the Counterpunch
Remember how we talked about the importance of being able to take a punch?
Well, it’s only the first step. Once you’ve built some endurance, it’s time to learn how to fight back.
Consider this:
In boxing, every beginner learns the importance of the counterpunch. By attacking you, your opponent has to let his guard down, and it creates a brief but very real opportunity for you to sneak in a blow. You just have to train yourself to spot the opening.
Ironic, isn’t it? The best time to attack your opponent turns out to be right after he attacks you. In fact, the stronger the attack, the bigger the opportunity for a counterpunch.
And it’s true for more than just boxing. In life, every difficulty carries with it a corresponding opportunity of equal size.
For example, let’s go back to the car accident from the last section. I mentioned how I got an attorney to settle the medical bills and dedicated myself to rehab, completing it in half the time, but I didn’t tell you the best part of the story.
In between rehab visits, I had a lot of free time on my hands. A lot of people would’ve flopped down in front of the TV and zoned out, but thankfully, I had the presence of mind to recognize the opportunity. I’d always wanted to write more, but I’d never had the time… until the accident. So, I seized the opportunity and got my gimpy ass to work.
At first, it was only a journal, a way of jotting down my thoughts and emotions as a way to cope with the trauma. I enjoyed it so much I decided to start a blog, and within 60 days, it got nominated as one of the best blogs in the world. Following the nomination, I got an offer to help run an up-and-coming magazine, the one that eventually helped me launch my consulting practice when I got to Mexico, allowing me to live the life of my dreams.
Was it luck? A mere twist of fate that turned tragedy into triumph?
Not at all. It was a deliberate counterpunch, a way of taking the force of the blow life had dealt me and turning it to my advantage.
It’s just one of many throughout my life. Here are some more:
Punch: None of the cool kids in school want to be friends with me, because the wheelchair makes them uncomfortable. I become an outcast.
Counterpunch: I hang out with the other outcasts: nerds. They teach me how to code, and I’m writing my own software by the age of 12.
Punch: I can’t play sports, go swimming, or any of the other fun stuff kids do. I’m stuck inside, trapped in a body that can’t move.
Counterpunch: To keep from going crazy, I read half a dozen books a week. By the time I graduate high school, I’ve read more than most of my teachers.
Punch: I get accepted into MIT, but I’m dirt poor. For a year, I beg for help, but everyone ignores me. I have to turn down the offer.
Counterpunch: I apply to my somewhat crappy local university, and they offer me a full scholarship. I graduate debt-free.
Again, it looks like luck, but it’s not. The people we call “lucky” are ruled by the same fickle hand of fate as everyone else. The difference: when that hand turns against them, they look around, and they spot the opening.
The moral of the story:
The next time life punches you in the face, stop for a moment and ask yourself this simple question:
What’s the counterpunch?
No matter how bad the situation, no matter how hopeless it seems, there is always an opportunity to turn it to your advantage. You just have to discipline yourself to spot the opening, and then find the courage to use it.
Lesson #5: How to Find the Courage to Face Anything
The heart monitor flatlined.
I was lying in a shabby little bed in a nursing home you’ve never heard of. For years, I’d drifted toward death, and blessedly, mercifully, it was finally here. My heart stopped, my limbs quivered, and my bowels let loose, filling the air with a sickly stench. One last breath escaped my lips, and I was gone.
A few minutes later, a nurse walked into the room, wrinkling her nose at the stink. Pulling out her clipboard, she glanced at her watch and wrote down the time of death. Next, she pulled out her phone and called the morgue. “Got another one for you. Room 305,” she told them. With that, she pulled a sheet over my head and left the room. Two days later, they cremated me, and that, as they say, was that.
Pretty depressing, right?
Obviously, none of this ever happened. I wouldn’t be writing right now if it did.
But it could’ve happened. Years ago, if I’d made different decisions, I could’ve easily ended up in a nursing home somewhere. Crazily, it could still happen now. A few missteps, and I could lose everything, dying broken, useless, and alone.
And I’ll be straight up with you:
It scares the hell out of me. More than anything. You could pull out a gun, shove the barrel in my mouth, and start counting, and it wouldn’t even come close to scaring me as much as the scene I described.
Dying is one thing. A pointless death where no one notices or cares is quite another. To me at least.
Here’s why I am telling you this:
Every now and again, somebody asks me how I found the courage to move to Mexico with no money, no friends, and no backup plan. There are a gazillion different ways it could have gone wrong. I could’ve been robbed and murdered by thieves along the highway, scammed by immigration officials, or starved to death because I couldn’t afford food. Let’s face it, Mexico can be a dangerous place, and moving there in my condition was absolute insanity.
I knew this. I’ve never been one of those delusional people who thinks nothing bad will ever happen to them. On the contrary, I was pretty sure I was about to die, and I was scared shitless. When we drove across the border, I was sweating and shaking so much I was worried that immigration guys would think I was on drugs.
So, why did I do it? Why didn’t I turn back to the relative safety of the U.S.?
Well, my thought process went like this:
Worry: I could be scammed by immigration officials.
Response: True, but that’s still better than dying in a nursing home.
Worry: I could be killed by robbers along the highway
Response: True, but that’s still better than dying in a nursing home.
Worry: I could starve to death because I can’t afford food.
Response: True, but that’s still better than dying in a nursing home.
In other words… yes, I was terrified, but a sad, quiet little death in a nursing home terrified me more. I consciously and deliberately harnessed that fear, using it to propel me to do things everyone thought were insane.
And that’s how courage works. The people we think of as heroes don’t have a mystical ability to transcend fear. To them, the alternative to taking action is simply unacceptable. They do what needs to be done, not because they want to, but because they feel there is no other choice.
Same for me. To get myself to take action, I didn’t meditate, clear my mind, and proceed to do the impossible with calmness and confidence. I woke up each morning and pictured what would happen if I didn’t act. I envisioned the heart monitor, the nurse, my body being pushed into the flames. I deliberately put myself into a state of such intense terror that everything I had to do felt manageable by comparison.
It’s dark, I know, but it’s also an immense secret. If you find yourself paralyzed by fear, the only way out is often to find something that scares you more. Imagine what will happen if you do nothing, make it so real in your mind that you’re about to jump out of your skin, and then harness that energy to do the crazy things you need to do.
To be clear, I’m not suggesting you live your life in fear. The moment you’ve faced down the impossible situation, stop torturing yourself. Adopt a positive attitude, and go about your life.
But if you’re just trying to survive?
Fear is fuel. So burn, baby, burn.
Lesson #6: Embrace the Crazy
The world is full of people who will tell you to “be reasonable.” You should have reasonable goals, reasonable expectations, a reasonable attitude.
But listen…
Was it reasonable for me to give up all my government benefits and move to a country not exactly known for its stellar medical care?
Was it reasonable to work 40+ hours a week for a company that didn’t pay me a dime?
Was it reasonable for me to start a business when failure would’ve meant starving to death on the streets of Mexico?
Not in the slightest. It was actually pretty crazy.
Here’s the thing, though:
If you’re in a crazy situation, sometimes the only way out is to make a bold move that appears insane, but it’s not, because the alternative is worse.
For instance, I’ll readily admit that working for a company full-time without asking for a penny in return is a dumb idea most of the time. Compared to the alternative of not working at all though, it’s actually a smart move.
The problem is, we’re not used to thinking that way. We’re so used to evaluating options on their own merits that we become paralyzed in situations where all the options are bad.
The solution is to train yourself to at least acknowledge the crazy alternatives. Whenever you’re making a decision, ask yourself, “What are the options I’m not considering because they seem too crazy?” You don’t have to choose the crazy option, but you should still train yourself to recognize it, because there might come a day when you need it.
Here’s a current example from my life:
I cope with a fair amount of back pain. This surprises some people, because they assume I can’t feel anything from the neck down, but I can. My disease only affects the motor neurons, not the sensory ones, so I’m able to feel just as much as anyone. Most days, the pain is manageable, but sometimes it’s unbearable.
The typical treatment options: narcotics, anti-inflammatories, herbal therapies, surgery, exercise, stretching, chiropractic adjustments, acupuncture, a new wheelchair seating system, and lots of other reasonable things.
But what are the unreasonable options?
In order of increasing craziness, I could…
- Buy a $5,000 bed that’s like floating on a pocket of air, lie down in it, and never move again, conducting all my business from bed for the rest of my life.
- Destroy all the nerve endings in my back, making it totally numb. Believe it or not, this is an actual medical procedure. It’s called denervation.
- Sever my spine, losing not only sensation but also the ability to breathe without a respirator. Obvious drawbacks, and I’m not sure I could get a doctor to do it, but still better than the last option…
- Suicide
Am I seriously considering any of these options?
Hell no! The pain isn’t nearly bad enough to take such drastic measures.
But it’s also comforting to be prepared for the worst. No matter how bad it gets, I always know I have options. If I’m forced to explore those options, I’ve prepared in advance, so I’m not trying to figure it all out in the moment.
The bottom line?
No matter how impossible the situation seems, you’re never trapped. There are always options.
And that brings us to the final lesson…
Lesson #7: Never, never, never give up
My mother rammed her hands into my ribs, forcing the air from my lungs. I coughed, the mucus rattling deep in my chest.
And then I screamed.
A few weeks earlier, I’d caught pneumonia, a respiratory infection that’s dangerous for a healthy person and a near-death sentence for someone like me. I didn’t have the strength to cough the mucus up myself, so doctors taught my mother to thrust her hands into my ribs, supplying the necessary force.
And it worked, but then something terrible happened:
My ribs cracked. Worse, the bones would grind together and fracture a little more every time my mother helped me cough.
But we couldn’t stop. If we did, doctors were absolutely certain I would suffocate and die.
So, literally hundreds of times per day, my mother would shove on my broken ribs. I screamed, I cried, I begged her to stop. Still a child, I couldn’t understand why she had to hurt me so much. Even today, I marvel that she could bring herself to do it.
But she did. For weeks.
One night, when I was lying in bed, wheezing and whimpering, she brought this little plaque of a quote from Winston Churchill and put it on the table beside me. It sits on my desk now.
“Say the words,” she said.
I shook my head. “It hurts.”
“Whisper them, then,” she said, and so I did. Every night, she would push on my ribs a dozen times before going to bed, and every night, she would make me whisper the words…
Never, never, never give up.
Hokey? Yes, but it worked. I never gave up, not because I was strong or brave or special, but because my mother wouldn’t let me.
And now I want to do the same for you.
Sooner or later, we all reach a point in life where our trials become unbearable. Determination turns to despair, self-confidence becomes self-pity, and our hope for a better tomorrow dwindles and dies, replaced by a grim certainty that our life is over.
But it’s not. We simply need someone to remind us that triumph over adversity isn’t about being the strongest or the smartest, the “perfect” human being who can overcome anything life throws at them. On the contrary, the greatest victories are won by the weakest people, living in the darkest times, facing monsters that make even the stoutest heroes cower and run.
And yet they prevail. Not through riches or genius or even luck, but by setting their jaw, bracing their feet, and weathering the storm. They don’t defeat misfortune; they outlast it, clinging stubbornly to their spot, absorbing blow after blow, roaring their defiance into the wind until their lips crack and their voice breaks, and yet still they find the strength to whisper, “I will never, ever give up.”
You can be one of those people. I know you can, and so I came here to tell you…
Today, you might feel too poor or sick or unlucky to reach for your dreams, but you’re not.
Today, you might feel too tired or depressed or sad to even try, but you’re not.
Today, you might feel like an outcast, forgotten by your friends or family or anyone who might help you, but again, you are not.
You’re still breathing, my friend. That’s all it takes to stage a comeback.
So, say it with me now, would you?
“I will never, ever give up.”
Say it. Believe it.
And then recognize you’ve begun the journey to becoming totally unstoppable.
Dec 29, 2016 @ 8:38 pm
Looking forward to more! Thank you for such honesty!
Dec 29, 2016 @ 8:39 pm
Hi Jon – Last year my husband visited a lady who needed her laptop fixed. The only thing she could move were her eyes. Motor Neuron Disease took her some months later. Judy was a nurse most of her working life. My husband was in tears after seeing her. Her mind was so intact and she was able to communicate with precise detail. The making of ‘Never Never Never Give Up. As for me, I had a bad car accident when I was 22, now 60 and most of my life has been beating the odds with severe pain in all my spine. Thank you for explaining the counter punch, I think I have been unaware that this is what I have been doing. Well high risk of breaking bones and been told nothing can be done, oh! just continue with the medication! It is people like you Jon that inspire so many of us. Just want to say a huge THANK YOU!
Dec 29, 2016 @ 9:05 pm
Just shared this on Facebook.
Thank you for this piece, Jon Morrow!
As cliche as this phrase sounds, you are truly an inspiration.
There’s very few people I admire online, but you are one of them. Keep up the good work, and I look forward to reading this and becoming a better writer via your other blogs.
May you have have a happy new year and fantastic 2017!
Dec 29, 2016 @ 9:07 pm
I am speechless and that’s saying something. What an inspiration you are deserving every good thing that you made happen and much much more
Dec 29, 2016 @ 9:22 pm
My husband has dealt with chronic daily pain for the last dozen years. I just sent him this to read. We need to keep our dukes up. He now has cancer. We average 5-7 appointments a week.
In the past year stage four cancer took my 33 year old sister. She was just like you up until the very end. Unstoppable. Instead of a lonely death, there was such a steady stream of visitors way past visiting hours that it seemed like it would never end. Hopkins even accommodated the Ravens team members who visited her! She died loving the God who made her and surrounded by people who loved her passionately. Love like that never dies.
Thanks for sharing your amazing story!
Dec 29, 2016 @ 9:23 pm
Two words…Thank you!
Just WHAT I needed, WHEN I needed it.
Dec 29, 2016 @ 9:29 pm
I’m 42 years old and I just had a double bypass. My life has drastically changed, but I am determined it will be for the better. Thank you for sharing this. I have had so many days where I just want to cry and give up (even with the most amazing support system), but I know deep down that I am so blessed in spite of this.
Dec 29, 2016 @ 9:46 pm
Jon,
Thank you for doing this. I can’t wait to read more. Your lessons are powerful ones, not only because of your situation and the extraordinary challenges you face, but because of how articulate and honest you are in talking to us. Keep going, please … I need more of these lessons.
Dec 29, 2016 @ 9:46 pm
Thank you so much for working your ass off for such a long time. That’s the takeaway I needed in this moment.
I’ll be looking out for more and will support you how I can.
Dec 29, 2016 @ 9:47 pm
“You’re still breathing, my friend. That’s all it takes to stage a comeback.” My fave. Thanks for sharing and I look forward to more.
Dec 29, 2016 @ 9:52 pm
Hey Jon, if you never write anything more on this crazy blog, this article got me. I will never ever give up!
Dec 29, 2016 @ 10:14 pm
Hey John,
you are one…tough…dude.
You’ve served as an inspiration to people like me to pull the head out and get on with it…but with a plan.
I also live in a third world country, Indonesia.
Your jump into the deep end of life there in Mexico has reminded me of the cajones required for anyone to take a leap.
Mis cajones permanecen intactos, gracias por recordarme.
Feliz Navidad, Selamat Hari Raya Natal.
Dec 29, 2016 @ 10:35 pm
Hi Jon,
I just wanted to let you know that tears were streaming as I came to the end of your post. It was dead on for me. I have been trying to start a freelance writing business for several years, but the last year has been the most important since becoming a single mom. This month is the month I have known would come. It is the month I ran out of money.
So over and over I get to the part of marketing myself and then decide, no, I’m not ready to do this one, or I don’t know who to market to, or I’m not a good enough writer or strategist, or whatever, and then I start learning something else.
This happened to me again today. I was supposed to start building my website and marketing, but again, I got that feeling of dread and hopelessness and vulnerability. That feeling that there is no way I can make this work, I have no idea what I am doing and there are so many people that are better and have been doing this longer.
Then I started reading your article and I hope that I just need to keep trying. Do the feelings go away, or do you just know they are there, accept them and keep pushing forward anyway?
Some days are worse than others. Don’t get me wrong. I am otherwise a very upbeat and happy person, I’m just having a pretty tough time with this part of my life. I know what I want and like you, I do know what my other options are, but they are just not acceptable to me.
So again, thank you for your post. I will be looking for the next ones. I appreciate your willingness to share your struggles, disappointments and successes.
Dec 29, 2016 @ 10:56 pm
Thank you John! You are an inspiration!
Dec 29, 2016 @ 11:04 pm
This came at exactly the right moment for me. I started something HUGE, something that will take six or seven months, literally five minutes before this article showed up on my Facebook feed. THANK YOU! I’m all pumped now! Yeah, unstoppable! Seemingly impossible and insane thing, DOING IT!!
Dec 29, 2016 @ 11:06 pm
What a beautiful piece of writing.Thanks Jon
for just the inspiration I needed
Best wishes
Dec 29, 2016 @ 11:06 pm
Jon,
I’m so glad you’ve launched this blog. Thank you for sharing your incredible story – and the inspiring way you’ve chosen to live it. Definitely sharing this everywhere!
Dec 29, 2016 @ 11:11 pm
I felt like this. I was unstoppable but than I struck, I am trying to get out of this trouble for over 2 years but it seems like it will still take some time. I became lazy, especially time span killed my self confidence, thank you very much for reminding me all these lessons. A person is not defeated until he admits defeat, thank you very much for reminding me this.
Dec 29, 2016 @ 11:18 pm
Powerful Jon! You are so right. It is those that have struggled the most that can lead the way. Thank you for sharing your personal story. Congratulations on your new blog! Its the hard truth, inspirational, and motivational. I know it will touch many lives. I plan to share it with someone who is not ready to face her personal truth. I’m hoping hearing your blog might help make a difference in her life. Thank you! And what a perfect title for your new blog!!
Dec 29, 2016 @ 11:21 pm
Simply brilliant. I am the mother of a 16-year-old with severe mental health issues that could cause her to decide one day to end her life. If your mom is still living, please thank her for being an inspiration to Warrior Mamas everywhere. And thank YOU for being the Warrior Kid that never gave up!
Dec 30, 2016 @ 4:21 am
Swan Mothers – book on Amazon might offer you kinship, support.
Dec 29, 2016 @ 11:22 pm
Jon…I knew this blog would be great, but never realized how important it would be to me personally. I’m at a crossroad, and everything seems to be working against me. Giving up was looming. And then I just read your blog, and you’ve helped put me back on track. The ability to affect and inspire so many people, as the comments attest, is a powerful gift. You have the ability to speak as one who has succeeded against all odds- which makes you totally believable!
Keep ’em coming!
Dec 29, 2016 @ 11:36 pm
I’ve been receiving email from you since I signed up recently and your tone is so warm and personal that I feel I actually know you, but of course I do realise I’m one of the many fans you have. I love reading inspiring content and as I’m going through a massive personal crisis at the moment (but hey, who isn’t, right?), this is probably just what I needed to read right now. I’ve been blogging for almost a decade without even a fraction of the success you’re enjoying, but good for you, Jon. You are like that guy in the New Testament who got some coins from his master, went out and invested them and got a great return on his investment. Hats off to you and rightly so.
But may I add something? See, I’m Irish, from a developed country, a so-called ‘first world’ country. I got married to an Indian two decades ago, came out to India and now I’m living the life. I have four kids of mixed heritage. I’ve experienced a lot of trials and tribulations (yes, haven’t we all?). In my blogging life, I’ve learnt a thing or two. I guess you could say that India is what some people, in the so-called ‘developed world’ might refer to as a ‘third world country’. I wonder what a second world country is? I remember debating this with friends years ago and we came up with an idea that perhaps the countries which were industrially developed but where people had to queue up for basic groceries and the like that might qualify as ‘second world’. This was during the days before the metaphorical iron curtain fell, so perhaps I’m not only digressing but also showing my age, so perhaps I’d better leave that.
But the point is, my friend, you live in Mexico, a Spanish speaking country, but your blog post is definitely addressed to your fellow US citizens. Have you considered the fact that many of your fellow US citizens are of Mexican origin? They may be bilingual and they may enjoy reading blogs. If one of those fellow US citizens of Mexican origin saw their country referred to as ‘third world’, do you think they’d be happy about it? I’ve been blogging for a good many years on a variety of topics, but my main blog ‘Out of Ireland, into India’ had to be shut down a few years ago because I was no longer able to continue blogging anonymously and my blog contained way too many family details which could not, for discretion’s sake, be exposed on a public platform. I mean, who wants to know if my sister-in-law and I had a disagreement or whatever? However, when I was writing that blog, I had to be respectful of the country in which I was living. I had to be aware that while I was writing for a primarily western audience about the experiences of a western woman living in an Asian culture, it would be totally incorrect for me to refer to my country-in-law as a ‘third world country’, which, unfortunately, a lot of people are inclined to do. I wanted my posts to be universal. I wanted Indian readers to enjoy them too. I didn’t want to exclude anyone.
Okay, I know I’m going on a bit, which is probably one of the reasons why I’m not this wildly successful blogger, as you are. But I hope you get what I’m trying to convey to you.
I haven’t read your other commentators, so maybe someone else has pointed this out. But I thought it was worth mentioning. I get that you weren’t being condescending and that you respect your host country. But it’s amazing what some readers pick up from the most well meaning words we write. All the best, Jon.
Dec 29, 2016 @ 11:49 pm
You make a good point. I edited the post.
Dec 29, 2016 @ 11:43 pm
Best piece I’ve read in many years.
Thank You !!!
(Read in a Jungle in Laos)
Dec 29, 2016 @ 11:53 pm
Jon,
I’ve been watching you from afar for awhile, and I am more than intrigued by your story, and by your career. I am an aspiring lifestyle blogger and have been teetering on the edge for almost a year, but I’ve not been able to light the fire and pull the trigger. I greatly enjoyed this blog post, and I become less leery of you each time I read your brilliancy. I look forward to reading you and learning from you, and I may now be able to find the fuel for my fire. Many of the things you described I have felt, but I ignore it mostly because it is uncomfortable. Apparently I’m looking at this wrong and internalizing too much. I’ve lost my spark, and I’m desperate to get it back. Thank you.
Dec 29, 2016 @ 11:53 pm
Left to my own devices, I can rattle off my weary list of reasons why I have not attained financial freedom–for hours. It has become what I think of as a habitual list. A security blanket, I suppose. From reading your other blog, I knew this post would be a good one. But it’s much more than that. It inspires me to rethink my comfort zone. I have no idea right now how to change the rules. But I feel as if, just maybe, I have the freedom to find out.
Dec 29, 2016 @ 11:54 pm
Hey Jon! I’ve been following you since 2 years ago in your other blogs, and I’ve learn a lot on how to blog thanks to you. You’ve helped me and my partners with our business without even notice it. It was nice to know you a little more and learn on how to live to make the best out of life no matter how difficult it looks. You’re a hero. Abrazo desde Mexico.
Dec 29, 2016 @ 11:55 pm
Jon,
You don’t know how much I needed this right now. I am going through some sticky shit, and starting to feel sorry for my situation and for having a mental illness.
But, I just keep telling myself to”NEVER, NEVER give up!” until I’m crying my eyes out.
I don’t feel sorry for myself anymore. I am getting ready for a hell of a counterpunch!
I’ve been following you for a long time, and I’m glad I finally got to hear this from you.
Thank you!
Dec 30, 2016 @ 12:06 am
Thank you Jon! You made my heart sing. Unstoppable you!! Sharing.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 12:11 am
Hi Jon,
You are a legend. I never miss any post of you, and this one is the best gift from your side. This post made my day and I going to apply all the lessons of this post next year which only 2 days away from now.
I had to say a lot but I don’t want to say that, I will show that to the world, how Jon Morrow changed my life.
Thanks,
Umesh Singh
Dec 30, 2016 @ 12:11 am
Jon, you are the right person to say nothing is impossible and thank you for that. That’s a great example for all of us who cry and moan for every little pain in life, every fucking little pain in life. In fact, I believe now that the more we have a comfortable life the more we complain when the punch arrives. Because we never know the future and the fear to fail, the fear to loss what we have stop us from move ahead. But guess what? Finally nothing is ours except ourselves. And when we realize that the only thing we have is present and ourselves (our mind, our breath or whatever can make us conscious enough to decide) then the entire world opens up to our eyes.
Time ago I heard that difficult times, crisis, are dangerous, are a bet: you die or you live. But they are special because, as you well explained, they present us the right moment to react to the punch. These are difficult times, and we need more people aware that nothing is lost, as long and we never, ever, give up.
Thank you very much, Jon. Sometimes more than a couple articles (great of course) on how to make a great blog, we need this kind of advice from people who really know what pain is.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 12:12 am
Wonderful, Never, never, ever Give Up!
Dec 30, 2016 @ 12:18 am
I believe I have read your articles before but it was only today that I found about your predicament.
You are an inspiration to all and sundry Jon. I am to print certain parts of your story and paste it in my home office and the ‘office office’. I am also going to share your story with friends and family.
My best wishes are with you.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 12:25 am
American poet Charles Bukowski starts a poem like this:: “If you’re going to try, go all the way, otherwise don’t even start.” Your post, Jon, is much the same sentiment in another format. A most important sentiment. If you haven’t read Bukowski’s pome, I think you’ll love it:
http://www.artvilla.com/roll-the-dice-poem-by-bukowski/
Dec 30, 2016 @ 12:53 am
Unstopable!!. Riveting!!.
I’m going to share this with the Swahili speaking people.
Jon, you gave me the best 2016 wrapping gift i could never have anticipated.
All i can say is thank you.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 12:54 am
I’d like to share this on Linkedin, Jon. I can share the link, but is there a way to post the entire post? Thank you.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 1:21 am
Wow, wow, wow! Truly inspirational, Jon. Love the ‘counterpunch’ and ‘pain is power’ lessons. You continue to make such a difference. Simply superb. A humble thank you.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 1:45 am
You ALWAYS give us more than we expect! Every time I think you can’t possibly top one of your outstanding posts, you do! Sharing, of course! I’m grateful to have been part of your mentoring groups during this journey! Can’t wait to see what else you have up your sleeve!
Dec 30, 2016 @ 1:46 am
Crying, crying and crying. Crying not in despair. Crying and wondering if I really have any worry in my life. All the worries that were looking giant now seem to be smaller than a dust particle after reading your story which I read several earlier but this time you shared many new points.
Never, never, never give up even the sky falls on earth. We must keep struggling.
A big hug to you and happy new year.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 1:49 am
Hey Jon. I admire your spirit of resilience inspite the challenges you faced. Your story shows that, while things won’t work our way at times, giving up is the worst decision one could ever make.
I say: I will Never Never Never give up.
Thanks Jon for inspiring me with your words.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 2:00 am
Am still speechless after reading this . Your blog will give people hope . So many of us live in fear , despair and sadness . . this is the perfect way to get them out of your body, mind and soul . You are the best Mr Jon 🙂
Dec 30, 2016 @ 2:17 am
Wow. I’m truly speechless.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 2:38 am
Amazing article, Jon. Happy to see this site finally launch!
This reminds me of how my great grandfather would always say that you were the only one that could choose to let something happen to you – meaning that you could get up, dust yourself off, and move forward in spite of everything bad that happened, or you could internalize it and become the victim.
Never giving up is definitely the first step on the journey to becoming unstoppable.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 2:51 am
I’ve read your story before, Jon, but every time I read it, I am inspired anew. You are a brilliant writer and a remarkable human being. As you say, it would have been so easy for you to have given up a long time ago, but you turned adversity into strength. I am 65 years old, and I often think it’s too late for me to reach my goals, but when I read your story, my age seems like such a small thing. Thank you for approaching your writing with such honesty and vulnerability.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 2:52 am
Jon, long may you continue to be the inspiration you already are to so very many people. Wishing you more success than you dream of and using your valuable advice for my own dreams. Thanks
Dec 30, 2016 @ 3:32 am
Powerful……inspiring……life-changing. Just in time for the coming new year. Need to work on my counter punches more seriously now. Thank you for assuring me that I have “somewhere else” to go. Looking forward to learning more from you. I’m definitely sharing this. Happy New Year Jon 🙂
Dec 30, 2016 @ 3:44 am
Jon, I too live in pain everyday even though I’m able to move all my body parts. Your message has inspired me to not say “why me” tomorrow when I wake up and I’m hurting all over. Starting tomorrow, I will give you credit for my ability to succeed my goals. Your writing has pushed me in the right direction to Never, Never, Never Give Up!
Thank you from the bottom of my soul,
Dec 30, 2016 @ 3:46 am
Thank you for sharing your incredible personal experiences and life lessons, Jon. They are truly inspiring! I’m happy, not only because I get to read another blog of yours, but because this one is more personal and I anticipate a lot more inspiration coming my way in the days ahead.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 4:03 am
Thank you. You have helped me stay alive tonight. The pain is unbearable. But not as bad as being put into one of those living mausoleums they call nursing homes. I laughed when I read that part, because that scares the shit out of me too. So, I guess I will endure the unenviable. It’s better than a nursing home.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 4:19 am
Hi Jon,
Thanks a million for this awesome post. To be honest, my tears dropped when reading this post.
I have been following your works since I read your epic post on Problogger. Can’t wait to read your next posts in this new blog. Sure, I shared this post to my friends on my Facebook.
Btw, somehow I cannot download your 47 book list. I saw no download button but Pinterest buttons on the cover.
Warm regards from Indonesia
Dec 30, 2016 @ 4:20 am
This has been the best thing I’ve read.
I remember reading your stuff during the Copyblogger days.
I’ve been “punched” throughout my life too (in different ways) & I’ve followed similar lessons/rules to counterpunch.
I will save this post & give to my son to read (when he’s old enough to read!) because I couldn’t have passed these lessons on any better than you have.
You truly are inspiring Jon.
Keep on punching.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 4:37 am
You are the most inspiring person I’ve ever encountered. Not only are you a very talented writer which is obvious from the post (and all your work), but your attitude about life should reach the ears of every person on earth.
I loved reading this. And so awed by your success and positivity. Just earlier today I was thinking back to a trip to Jamaica, it was beautiful and I would go back in a heartbeat, but the amenities of a 4 star hotel there are let’s just say maybe 2 star here in North America. 🙂 Not a problem just a different culture. Anyway I was thinking how spoiled I was that I was a bit disappointed by that on the trip and admonishing myself for that. Well after reading this I have a whole lot more to admonish myself for being spoiled about. Wow.
Really puts things in perspective. Thank you for sharing your life so openly. I look forward to reading more of your inspiring and compelling articles.
And… tomorrow I’m gonna wake up and start conquering my dreams. I’ve already started in my head tonight. 🙂
Dec 30, 2016 @ 4:38 am
My mind is blown! I have several disabilities and thought I overcome/sacrifice a ‘lot’ on a day to day basis, but I’m a total lightweight in comparison!
You are an inspiration and I hope that your story will change people’s perceptions of what they can achieve.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 4:56 am
Inspirational, and beautifully written.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 5:00 am
Hey, Jon!
I am your long-time reader from Pakistan!
And believe me, YOU’RE AN INSPIRATION!
Not to just a few but to the billions! To the whole world!
Keep the world inspiring!
~ Adeel
Dec 30, 2016 @ 5:04 am
your lesson is really powerful. few times I tried saying never give up but then faced situations those dried my spirit. I have power of counterpunch. before when ever I was facing some problem for getting what I want , I used to shift to another way to achieve it and at high times even changed goals.
your words are fuel to our mind making us unstoppable!
Thank you.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 5:21 am
THANK YOU so much. Your article made me smile and cry at the same time. Wishing you all the best and love to read more…
Dec 30, 2016 @ 5:25 am
Thank you for sharing your inspiring message, Jon.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 5:34 am
Nothing in the world can give us more reason to live than this article. Truly inspirational. A great holiday gift from Jon 🙂
Dec 30, 2016 @ 6:21 am
Thank you so much for this! It makes my challenges so small compared with yours.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 6:26 am
Finaly someone that can whrite a blogg that I read every word of.
I must admit that american couches that chatt about think positive and change your life anoys me. Gurus like Tony Robinson Are like mad robots on speed. But here finaly acceptans and counter action:-) you are always welcome to join my Viking tribe and sit with the bonfire:-)
Dec 30, 2016 @ 6:36 am
Before I dropped this comment, I’d already read the entire post three times. Not just be cause its inspirational, touching, teaching, motivating but because am at the crossroad already considering giving up.
This post just gave a second thought, and made me know I can state a turn back through counter-punch.
Thanks so much, as I still stroll up to read again.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 6:39 am
Merci beaucoup for this lesson of courage 🙂
Dec 30, 2016 @ 6:51 am
Hi Jon,
Thank you so much for this article. I never usually comment on anything but I feel compelled to respond to your amazingly inspiring article. I feel so inspired and positive about my dreams, future, aspiration and hopes after reading this article. Thank you do much for being such a massive inspiration. I plan to print this article and read it as often as I can to remind myself of the what’s possible. I’m never going to give up thanks to you.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 7:01 am
Dear Jon,
I just for the first time visited your website. You have a remarkable story! Your story should be a part of any school curriculum. I believe we need to have our children read this. You are an example of endurance, strengths, and love of life.
I believe every one of us had to face some type of fear and despair at one time. You showing us that no matter what, we can never give up.
I followed this motto throughout my life. And it’s no coincidence that
I’ve also compared my struggles with lemons and making lemonade.
About few month ago I wrote a poem that compares lemons to lemonade we make when we overcome our adversities. I believe this poem can pay tribute to you and all of us taking this life’s journey.
I call my poem
Killer Lemonade
I am standing in the corner
Selling summer lemonade.
I am a little girl all over.
On this breezy summer day.
Lemonade I sell is
Good one.
Made of lemons that are fresh.
Fresh from tears of life
And sorrows.
On this heat of summer day.
I have a garden
Full of lemons.
And my trees are
Nice and firm.
Lemons keeps me busy always.
On this breezy summer days.
I smile when I am hurting.
I laugh when I am in pain.
The only way
I know it.
Is making
Killer lemonade.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 7:06 am
Wow Jon.
There are no words to describe the intensity & depth of the emotions felt reading this blog post Jon.
Your story is a slap in the face for the whiners, a boost of energy for the ambitious and a strong helping hand for the person wanting to give up.
In other words, it touches everyone.
And that’s how you are Jon. Empathetic, thoughtful and inspiring (and a freakin’ good writer & stroryteller!)
We live in a world where we have the privilege of choosing who we want to become, what we want to do, how we want to do it and who we want to surround ourselves with.
And it’s sad to realize that only a small percentage of people will truly own this responsibility.
I am glad that you are part of my life Jon. (And that I met you live!)
You literally changed my life: as a person, a coach, a business owner.
I owe it to you, the fact that I started a podcast. And now, 230 episodes later, I have built strong relationships & friendships with so many great entrepreneurs, but also growing my business like never before.
As a human being, most of the time we are wrong about what is positive or negative.
Some of the most difficult and stressful moments in our lives are the best teacher we’ll ever meet during our journey on this planet.
Those moments are the most formative, most gratifying in our entire existence.
They become our Roadmap for an exceptional life.
This exactly what you expressed in this post.
Again, thank you for being so authentic, and for sharing your story.
You are AWESOME.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 7:12 am
Recently, I have gone through a dark phase of my life. I wasn’t brave, I gave up easily, though not very easily. But I am back. Accepting defeat for a part of life makes you examine your options more positively. My own mantra to face any set back in life is ‘Life is going on, so I have no right to surrender’.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 7:21 am
About 8 years ago, my boss at the time noticed I had a tendency to overthink things. What can I say, I have an overactive imagination and I’m the analytical sort. I like to understand situations. But anyway. She loaned me a copy of Dale Carnegie’s How to Stop Worrying and Start Living. Most of it is fairly hokey but I’ll never forget the moral of one of the chapters. Say you’re worried about X. Well what is absolutely the worst possible thing that could happen? Now how would you deal with that? Got your strategy planned? Good, now forget about it. Most of the time, the absolutely worst possible thing doesn’t happen, but because you know how you’d deal with it, anything else is a walk in the park. And if it does happen…well you’re prepared. It certainly helped me out when I got made redundant during the 2008 economic meltdown and I was living in one of the most expensive cities on earth, where any benefits I could claim didn’t even meet my rent. As it happens, I got offered two jobs on the same day just two months later, and I actually ended up better off than I had been before I got made redundant (I still have no idea how). So while there are some things you’ve said that I don’t fully agree with, I definitely agree with that part of your post. Or, do what I do, and when the excrement is about to hit the fan, just ask yourself…what would Ellen Ripley do?
Dec 30, 2016 @ 7:35 am
Jon, you’re an amazing man. Your story is inspirational and you’re courageous. Thank you for this post.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 7:47 am
This could not have come at a better time for me, it’s the kick in the pants that I need. I’m 56, my husband is 61 and wanting to retire next summer. I just lost my ‘secure’ job of 12 years just before Christmas (Dec 3rd); totally unexpected. Not so bad a situation if it were just us but we adopted my great-niece this past summer, she had spent years in foster care with a not so nice family. She is a beautiful, smart, creative 10 year old child. We’ve been helping to raise her little half-sister who has a heart defect and has had heart surgeries and other procedures in her short 4 years whose father is trying to take of her by himself. We are Nana and Papaw but I’m the only ‘mother’ she has ever known. I know how your mother must have felt; I’ve had to help our little one through some difficult medical procedures all the while looking into her little eyes and her begging me to make them stop.
And we are wanting to foster more children that need a home and lots of love.
I’m at a crossroads, what do I do next? I’ve been wanting to make a living working for myself so that I can be available to my kids. Enjoy life on our terms. This article is just what I needed NOW. And what I want my girls to learn; they both have had a tough start but even at their ages they are tough little girls. I told my 10 year old that we have to be more careful with money because mama lost her job and she said that is ok as long as we are together.
Our family motto has always been Live well, Love much, Laugh often and that’s what we will continue to do. And Never, Never, Never give up. Thank you for sharing.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 8:25 am
“Amazing!”
Dec 30, 2016 @ 8:37 am
Thank you, Jon, for putting a human face on that most precious of virtues: courage. I am a huge admirer of yours.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 8:48 am
Jon:
We’ve never met. but I can honestly say that you’re the most incredible person I know.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 9:15 am
Indeed, your best writing. I look forward to seeing where you take this.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 9:26 am
AWESOME post Jon!!!
I was born and have been living in Ukraine – the 3rd world’s country.
Unfortunately, I got my almost full physical disability when I was a child, plus ve collected some illnesses during my life.
My financial condition is not better than my physical one. This is all about why I’m where I’m now.
Jon, let me know if you’re gonna run any of your projects in the Russian language, and I’d be happy to help.
Thank you and i shared your post on FB.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 9:28 am
Hi! I am a highschool student and with recent talks with my teachers, I have been told to give up on basically every aspect of the basis of education. My Honors Geometry teacher, telling me that it would be easier to just switch. That I am ‘not a math person.’ I clearly don’t understand the lack in her enthusiasm on my trying in a harder math class. Needless to say, after reading your article, I am definitely excited to stick it to her, come out on top, and be overall, a B or higher student. I know what I am going through is not nearly as final as yours, being that is is over by June, while yours is life long, but I just want to thank you for the lessons and encouragement.
I honestly would’ve just given up and take a C+ without your story inspiring me. Thank you.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 9:35 am
Thank you for the post. I found it in incredible read and it came at a very good time. Your wisdom regards the counterpunch and relationship with pain is a new and original insight and I know will help me. I have been feeling sorry for myself recently and your wisdom is allowing the kick in the backside that I was clearly needing.
My Mum died in October 2015. The way you describe your Mum reminded me of her. God Bless you and thanks again for the inspiration that I’ll certainly be sharing with my Daughter and hopefully to a wider audience.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 9:56 am
Spectacular Jon, Your Mom is an amazing woman. Happy New Year !!!!
Dec 30, 2016 @ 10:06 am
Jon,
I am going through a rather large rough patch in my life right now. I can’t tell you how much this post has inspired me to keep going. It is beautifully written and down to earth. No fluff or sugar coating. I love it! Thanks so much for inspiring me!
Dec 30, 2016 @ 10:41 am
Dear Jon,
I could write so many things about how your article has touched me.
However, all that I am going to write is “Thank you” and may God bless you!
Sandor
Dec 30, 2016 @ 10:49 am
I dont know if Im crying tears of happy or sad, or something in between. Your story is inspirational, you give me hope. I dont want to give up. No one has the right to give up after reading this story. If you can do it, we all can. How to counterpunch is the question, dukes are up but what now..
Dec 30, 2016 @ 10:50 am
Hello Jon, and thank you for inspiring me and all of your readers. You are one of the many unsung hero’s in the world and I want to give you thanks. I’m sure this post and the many to follow will encourage and inspire everyone who comes across them.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 11:42 am
I had to come back to your article today to finish it. Feeling sorry for ourselves does nothing to help us. Action as you have shown is the answer. You are an example. Living your life against all odds; while some of us are wasting away fully capable of doing great things, yet letting fear become our best friend.
You are a miracle!
Dec 30, 2016 @ 11:43 am
Wow, Jon!
So much to chew on. I will take two to chew on today: change the rules of the game and never, never, never give up. I’ll be back for another portion.
Thank you so much for sharing!
Dec 30, 2016 @ 11:44 am
Simply bad ass, Jon. Unfiltered, no bullshit, no drama. Pain is power and I will perfect the art of the counterpunch!
Dec 30, 2016 @ 11:59 am
Jon! Great post. As someone who has a different form of muscular dystrophy, I could relate to that aspect entirely. You inspired me to start a blog and begin guest blogging.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 12:10 pm
After reading this I realized that I have been looking at everything with the wrong attitude. I’ve always been a fall down and cry and why do bad things happen person. The section on taking a punch and counterpunching was actually a complete lightbulb moment for me. People always say “this too will pass” and “life isn’t fair” and you just live with it. I’m embarrassed to say I never considered looking at it the way you’ve presented it. I feel like a whole world of options just opened up that I never considered. Immediately after reading this article, I called my insurance company who I’ve been unhappy with about my rates but very happy with their service. I couldn’t find comparable coverage for enough of a difference to warrant changing companies. So I called them again after reading this, and discovered that by adding a renters policy to my account, the discount was enough that for the same price now both my vehicles and my belongings are covered. It’s a small victory, but now instead of feeling angry about my insurance, I now have the security of knowing my vehicle and my belongings are covered as well as an additional life insurance policy. Yes, I’m paying the same amount, but I have more security and peace of mind. It’s a small step, but I’m very pleased with the result, and I wouldn’t have explored it without having read this article. So, thank you. You, Sir, are a powerful motivator and I am saving this article so I don’t forget these ways to deal with setbacks. Wishing you the best.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 12:14 pm
So happy to see this live, Jon. Section 7 gets me every time (*tears*). In fact, every story about your mom seems to get me. I hope to be half the mom to my kids that yours has been to you so that they can also reach their best, no matter what life throws at them. So excited to watch you develop this blog and to use your wisdom here to reach my best as well. Lots of love & praise, always.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 12:28 pm
This is the best thing I have ever read in my life. Thank you for inspiring us with your courage and brilliant mind. Im a better man for it.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 12:37 pm
Jon,
This is such a great gift from you. I am grateful for the lessons, but I cannot add more to what others have said below. Have a Happy New Year–healthy, lots of joy, and more success for 2017
Dec 30, 2016 @ 12:51 pm
WINNER, in every since of the word. INSPIRE, me to do more. LOVE, you. Happy New Year.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 1:07 pm
Thank you Jon for creating this. They say “everyone knows something other people need.” You are different. You know lots of things other people need, as evidenced by your many successful blogs. Personally I need the information you’re sharing here. I’m all over this blog. You are a true inspiration and count me as your biggest fan. Thanks for sharing your life experience and for teaching genuinely helpful life lessons. I’m looking forward to reading more from Unstoppable!
Dec 30, 2016 @ 1:13 pm
Congratulations on your new blog Jon! This first article is already more amazing and motivating than most of the stuff I have read in the past few years!
It resonates a lot with me. In the past, I always used to complain about all the unfortunate and “unfair” circumstances in my life.
It wasn’t until I took my fate into my own hands and decided to either design my life and go for my dreams, or die a “pointless dead” as you call it spot on.
Your article reminds me of those key principles that are required for success.
If somebody reads this and puts it into practice, he will be successful.
I did not expect anything less from you Jon.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 1:14 pm
Thanks for sharing this Jon, my wife and I have been suffering from depression for years, it has really hammered home the need to “never never never give up”. I seem to be so far away from my goals, but I’ve been practicing the art of patience and continue to take tiny steps forward. Your story helps put our experiences into perspective.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 1:30 pm
I am biggest your fan, you inspire me every day.
This post is another masterpiece.
My biggest takeaway is this line:
“The best time to attack your opponent turns out to be right after he attacks you. In fact, the stronger the attack, the bigger the opportunity for a counterpunch”
I never thought about life this way, I am surely going to use this idea in my current life.
Thanks a ton Jon!
Dec 30, 2016 @ 1:55 pm
Quick confession.
I’ve only read the first 2 of your lessons, Jon -but I’m already putting your advice into practice as I re-position my business.
CONGRATULATIONS on achieving another EPIC DREAM! -pushing yourself beyond unimaginable odds that able-bodied humans couldn’t endure.
I’m confident generously sharing everything you have, Jon (giving your vulnerable true self, prodigy wisdom, writing gift, story talents, and tried ’n true lessons) shall change multitudes of peoples’ lives, businesses and even themselves -so one day they’ll have the mindset to NEVER give up achieving their epic dreams too!
Forever grateful for your generosity that exceeds my expectations,
~Keri
Dec 30, 2016 @ 2:37 pm
Forwarding this to my 18yo son and every single one of his friends…
When the grocery store clerk asks me, “How are you?” my response is always, “Fantastic, thanks! I woke up today, so how can I be anything else!”
I know you’re fantastic too. You woke up!
I can’t wait to read what you write tomorrow when you wake up again!
Inspirational just doesn’t cover this post.
Real is a better description!
Keep it up, Jon!
Dec 30, 2016 @ 2:44 pm
I can’t add to what has already been said but, of course, that won’t stop me from trying!
Thank you, Jon.
It’s quite usual that, when faced with an overwhelming problem, one’s certainties and confidence dissolve immediately. One faces the hellish abyss and isolation of having, and being, absolutely nothing.
Hence, the need for a pre-programmed plan, blueprint, or ‘safety-procedure’ to be automatically deployed like a parachute in times of a dire emergency.
Perhaps a better analogy would be that you have provided a means to clear the path through the jungle. Everyone has their own path to follow but, some are never even advised of the concept, let alone be guided as to the practicalities.
So, thank you again.
Fantastic to have you shining your light of hard-won wisdom and illuminating all of our dark little places.
I have shared your post and will continue to do so – it’s a great gift for the New Year. Thank you, Jon.
Btw, I think I am being sexist and lookist but, if you don’t mind me saying, you have lovely hair. I am envious of your lush locks.
Allow me to wish you, and yours, a very Happy New Year.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 2:46 pm
Wow! Amazing blog – sooooo inspirational… and there was me with my broken heart feeling sorry for myself. I feel ashamed now reading what you have been through and the obstacles you have overcome!
Love and hugs ❤️❤️
Dec 30, 2016 @ 2:49 pm
Epic PMA . What is your consultancy service? Does it give you a lot of free time to philanthropically PMAway you free Time pleasures.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 3:04 pm
Just look at all the people you’ve inspired. Pain develops character. I haven’t walk one step on your path. But I know this, you are one authentic human being. The only gratitude I can show to your sharing 1000% percent of yourself is to simply do and develop what I can in this frail temporary body. You possess more influence and power than all of us combined walking on two feet. No more excuses.
Dec 30, 2016 @ 3:17 pm
Love this freaking article! Thanks so much for posting this