-Isms: Views on life in Rural America

What is your why?

Nebraska volleyball coach John Cook posed the question to University of Nebraska-Lincoln graduates during Saturday’s virtual ceremony.

His question got me thinking. Okay, actually his entire 11 and one-half minute address got me thinking and has been on my mind all day.

Why? Mindset makes all the difference in life. Coach Cook is successful, so why not apply his lessons?

First things first: What is my why? What’s my motivation? What inspires me - and you - to become our best versions?

Giving a voice to other people’s stories is my motivation. Integrity and character inspire me. My why: truth telling. In a world filled with so much misinformation, it is important to serve as a voice of reason.

Answering the above-mentioned questions every day leads to success. Set goals and tackle the day. It’s not too late to begin.

Cook also shared his five secrets of success.

First, he talked about having an attitude of gratitude. I’d add have a sincere attitude of gratitude. Fake gratitude doesn’t serve a purpose. Instead, show your true colors. It makes others feel appreciated.

Next, he said the longer he coaches, the less he knows. Be open to learning new things, trying new ideas. Being in a constant state of learning allows you to grow.

Cook said another secret is to surround yourself with a team within a team. Surround yourself with people who push you to be your best version. Avoiding toxic relationships can be tricky. Sometimes, we are afraid of change and continue in a vicious cycle. Stop it. Now. Find your tribe, love them hard.

Always remember, “there ain’t no free lunch,” according to Cook. Sure, there are times when having something given to you makes life less complicated, but working for something, earning it on your own, brings greater satisfaction.

His final secret for success: Dream big, dream like a champion. Setting high, achievable goals spurs confidence. Use it to your advantage.

The coach said he asks himself three questions every morning. First, who needs me today? You may be surprised by the answer. My experiences show I’m surprised by who needs me, or a shoulder to cry on or a sounding board, every day. And, I learn from each of those situations.

Then, he focuses on career. He asks if the university were hiring, is his job performance strong enough they would hire him again. As an employer, I expect my counterparts to give 100%. I expect even more from myself. Strive to grow and bloom, instead of remaining stagnant.

Lastly, Cook said he asks, “Would I want to be coached by me?” He admits there are times when his players do not want to return. That’s when he refocuses his performance and keys in what is best for his team.

“It’s about somebody else besides you,” Cook said. Group mentality outweighs individual glory.

Cook also encouraged graduates to build three bones: a backbone to stand up for what you believe in and what is right; a wishbone, so you may always keep dreaming and setting goals, and a funny bone, because we always need a chuckle.

Begin each day with a fresh perspective.

And remember, there is no place like Nebraska.