Recently I’ve been super inspired by a young Aussie speaker, author, philanthropist and quadriplegic. Nick Vujicic was born without limbs to unsuspecting parents 27 years ago. In what he describes as his ‘chesty bond’ body, he’s since travelled the world raising money for the underprivileged, graduated from uni, given away his life savings ($20K) and learned to surf, skateboard and dive.
Punch Nick’s name into YouTube and you’ll find 7,000 results and loads of videos - some of which have netted over 2 million views!
After thumbing through his new book, Life Without Limits, I found that the secret to his boundless energy for life seems to be a genuine acceptance of who he is; as well as his commitment to giving of himself. Here’s what he says:
“It didn’t help that a few cruel kids called me a freak and an alien. Of course, I’m all too human and wanted to be like everyone else, but there seemed little chance for that. I wanted to be accepted. I felt I wasn’t. I wanted to fit in. It seemed I didn’t. And I hit a wall. My heart ached. I was depressed, overwhelmed by negative thoughts and didn’t see any point in my life…
“I found happiness when I realised that as imperfect as I may be, I am the perfect Nick Vujicic… I do believe my life has no limits.”
And here’s a little rundown on his two big lessons for living your biggest life:
Rule # 1
Accept yourself
“Everyone goes through times when they feel excluded, alienated or unloved. We all have our insecurities. Most kids fear they’ll be mocked because their noses are too big or their hair is too curly. Adults fear they won’t be able to pay the bills or that they will fail to live up to expectations. Such feelings pose a danger only if you allow negative thought to stick around rather than just wash over you.
“When you trust that you have blessings – talents, knowledge, love – to share with others, you will begin the journey to self-acceptance even if your gifts are not yet apparent. Once you begin to walk, others will find you and walk with you.”
Rule #2
Find your own groove. Then give.
“I was and am determined to make a contribution. You should believe in your power to do the same. Life without meaning has no hope. Life without hope has no faith. If you find a way to contribute, you will find your meaning, hope and faith will naturally follow and accompany you into your future.
“The greatest rewards come when you give of yourself. It’s about bettering the lives of others, being part of something bigger than yourself, and making a positive difference. You don’t have to be Mother Teresa to do that. You can even be a ‘disabled’ guy and make a difference.”
Life Without Limits is published by Allen & Unwin ($24.99). Photos courtesy of Allen & Unwin and www.attitudeisaltitude.com.
We accept
