ALPHA ATHLETES - The Sphinx Magazine

102
BOOK REVIEW
nation and persistent performance of
the beaver make them different from
other animals. They are small but they
use their powerful tails to pack material
in place. Just as beavers have developed
disciplined work skills, one must
develop a persistent work ethic that
distinguishes one from those around
them. Brother Boswell uses himself as
an example of this. He had finished his
undergraduate degree but he realized
that he needed additional preparation.
Consequently, he obtained a Certified
Public Accountant (CPA) certification
and then went on to attain the Master
of Business (MBA) degree. This preparation
proved to be well-timed and
enhanced his career possibilities.
Persistence also is important. He
cites Abraham Lincoln as a model of persistence.
Lincoln had seven major set
backs in his life; however in l860, he was
Fall • Winter 2008 The Sphinx: www.APA1906.net
elected as the
President of the
United States. “Never
give up on your
dreams,” asserts
Brother Boswell. “If
you maintain the
same level of perseverance
as Abraham
Lincoln and continuously
stay focused on
your goals, there is
no question that success
will be yours”
(p. 75).
Dolphins are
interesting creatures.
They are
famous for their
sociability and
trust of humans.
However, in the
wild, these animals
are noted for their
ability to fend off
predators while living
in a hostile environment.
The dolphin
has a positive
attitude regardless
of environmental
concerns. We must
never underestimate
the importance or
the impact of a
positive attitude on success or failure.
A positive attitude is essential for
success.
We should follow the example of
dolphins and avoid negativism that
affects our attitude. The author cites
an instance when a senior executive
who reported to him sought a meeting
with the chief executive of the organization
to lodge a personal complaint
against him. Brother Boswell says
even though he was disappointed with
his subordinate’s behavior, he did not
allow the incident to dampen his attitude;
he did not succumb to negativism.
As for the individual, even
though he appeared to be contrite, it
was the epitome of betrayal. His influence
in the organization was diminished
and he subsequently left the
organization. Brother Boswell maintained
his positive attitude and did not
let the incident dampen his spirit.
The African hornbill (a bird) and
the dwarf mongoose (a mammal)
work together to find food. They team
up to accomplish their objective. The
lesson to be obtained from this relationship
is to ignore individual differences
and build networks to accomplish
personal goals. Networking is
important. However, to advance one’s
career, one cannot rely on networking
alone. One must also focus on preparation
and performance.
Recognize that teamwork is
essential to accomplishing personal,
professional and organizational goals.
We learn this lesson from geese that fly
in “V” formation. The formation adds
uplift, reduces resistance, and
increases the flying range of the entire
flock. We learn from geese the importance
of teamwork.
Although team work is important,
never assume responsibility for the
other members’ failures. The effectiveness
of the team is more important
than the comfort of individual members.
Sometimes individual accomplishment
or personal goals must be
sacrificed for the overall benefit of the
team. There is no “I” in team.
Relationships built on trust are necessary
for satisfactory team work. Wild
geese honk encouragement while in
formation. It is important for team