The things that come closest to killing us are the things that make us grow. Damn, why do life’s best lessons need to come wrapped up in adversity? Our obstacles will not define us; we will be defined by how we overcame them. We’ve all experienced adversity in some...
When I attended an undercover in-service at the FBI Academy, several of my training sessions included a mock trial with cross-examination by a hostile public defender. The normal human response to a verbal attack is to become angry—maybe even strike back. But that is...
A reporter once asked me whether the FBI provides textbooks for an agent to study so they can become a strong leader. The answer is no; FBI agents aren’t given instruction books. Instead, they’re taught how to face their challenges head-on. My fellow...
As I look back over my early career, I wish I’d taken more risks. I wish I’d been a little braver in my choices, perhaps had more confidence in my ability to land on my feet when confronted with the unknown. If you’ve thought the same thing, you’re not alone. You...
When life sucks, it’s hard to be around perpetually perky people. My college roommate had unrelenting positivity and I frequently responded with sharp-tongued barbs intended to wilt her enthusiasm. It never did though—no matter what obstacle or barrier I presented,...
Recent Comments