It's Not What Happens to You, It's What You Do about It

During my holidays I attended a seminar by W. Mitchell. If you ever get a chance to hear him, do not pass up the opportunity. I also read his book, It's Not What Happens To You, It's What You Do About It. Taking Responsibility for Change. The book is short and a fast read. W. Mitchell had a motorcycle accident and suffered burns to 65% of his body which grossly disfigured him including burning off most of his hands and having plastic surgery to reconstruct most of his face. After that and with a $500,000 insurance settlement he started Vermont Castings and became a successful businessman. If that was not enough, he then crashed his plane and became a paraplegic. Despite this all, he is tremendously positive. He still thinks of all he can do and does not dwell on the things he can no longer do. We does not blame the world. He is a very warm and upbeat individual - someone I would naturally want as a friend. This particularly comes across in person. He looks you straight in the eyes and almost draws you to him. Not only is he positive, he is making something of his life. He ran for congress. He was the mayor of his town. Etc. When I think I have obstacles or challenges, I can just think of W. Mitchell and realize I have it good. If he can do what he has done, what can I do? Very inspirational.

W Mitchell is a story that really motivates me. He went through hell a few times, but will never give up. He doesn't see himself as a victom, he doesn't blame anyone else for his problems. This is a must read. Zev Saftlas, Author of Motivation That Works

Mitchell is amazing. Even though he was not heavy enough, he wanted to be a gripman on cable cars. He got the job--and just worked harder (heavier). One day, riding his motorcycle in San Francisco, he was hit but a truck. The resulting fire disfigured his face and took his fingers. He started Vermont Castings during the fuel crunch of the early seventies. One day, flying some executive friends in his small plane, the engine quit on takeoff; the crash left Mitchell paralyzed. He went on to be a talk show host, the mayor of Crested Butte, Colorado, and he even ran for congress. Today, he is a professional speaker who motivates audiences worldwide. Continually on the go, you have probably seen him in airports-ahead of you. Change happens! You can be a victim or do something about it. Mitchell is an inspiration both to those who have suffered injury and those who have not. He focuses not on what he can no longer do but on what he can-and he enjoys life to the fullest. As the author of 113 books (including revisions and foreign-language editions) and over 500 magazine articles, I highly recommend this book. [email protected].

If you are depressed, lonely, unsure, feeling sorry for yourself, or feel like life has dealt you a bad hand or know somebody that feels that way then get this book. My wife and I had the distinct honor of meeting this author last year and hearing his story from his lips. Afterwards, I simply could not put the book down until I was finished reading it. After listening to W Mitchell and reading this book we know that we don't have anything to complain about. When a challenge surfaces (no matter how difficult it appears)we simply focus our energy on how we are going to deal with it. Life is too short. Truly, It's Not What Happens to You, It's What You Do About It! {PS. There is no 'period' after his name W for special reasons and events that took place in his life.}

W. Mitchell's story is not only a compelling and fascinating read, it is also a lesson in perserverance, personal motivation and accomplishment in the face of adversity. If you have ever fallen into the trap of feeling sorry for yourself because of the adversities that you have to face, "It's Not What Happens To You, It's What You Do About It" will be a fabulous reality check for you and even better a remarkable motivator. W. Mitchell's book is truly one of the most motivational and inspiring books I have ever read!