Significant Outcomes in the Face of Adversity

# Participation is Mandatory

Posted by Dave Cooke on Feb 10, 2026 in Communication, Learning, Productivity, Teamwork, Uncategorized | 0 comments

Day 41: 23.7 miles/1:23

“Active participation is a two way street; either you are getting something out of it or you are bringing something to it. Either way there is never an excuse for not being involved.”

I was thinking about Brandon’s rehab program this morning. He is in his 3rd day of a 28-day program. This wasn’t really his idea, so he was grousing about having to go. He was pushing this notion that he was in a place where he didn’t need to go through another rehab. He felt like he wasn’t going to get anything new out of it. I reminded him that if he expected nothing from this rehab he would probably get that—nothing.

I attempted to change his thoughts about this program in a different way. He could either be a student or a mentor. If, in fact, this program offered him nothing new; then his obligation is to be a model for the power of the lesson. If he cannot get something out of it, bring something to it that benefits others. Either way, he is not excused from participating and engaging in the program.

This is a great reminder for all of us. There are activities, events, programs, and meetings that we all participate in. Some of these are not necessarily of our own choosing. Since are choice for participation is not an option, neither is our engagement. Either you get something out of the meeting or you bring something to it. There is no excuse to justify our lack of participation and involvement.

When we raise the standard of our accountability to be present for others, we are demonstrating leadership and commitment to those around us. We have an obligation to use our skills, talents, abilities and experiences to benefit others. How we engage, contribute, and participate in programs with our friends, family, co-workers, or customers is one of those opportunities to demonstrate our commitment to them. Remember, engage in every opportunity to learn or share. There is no excuse for doing otherwise.

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