EVERYONE CAN BE A SUCCESS Ken Simon Growing Up One of seven Mother graduated high school as valedictorian in 1948 Father a Pentecostal preacher Roger Williams projects in Mobile, Al Two-parent families Psychological imprisonment Stigma of living in projects A Time for Change 1964 Civil Rights Act passed 1970s brings change-of-government litigation Sam Jones becomes Mayor Lawyers become involved in community and fight for change Profound impact on entire family A Time for Change Family moved out of the projects Mother graduated with honors from Bishop State and the University of the South – the first black USA graduate Recognized as Mobile County’s Outstanding Reading Teacher Inspired to become a lawyer ……but how? Escape Is A Process Accepted at University of South Alabama Joined debate team Involvement in student government Inspired and motivated to serve others “Was I good enough?” Letter to my English 101 Professor October, 1991 First composition assignment Disappointment in writing skills of class Braced for grade…. Received an A And powerful message “Educate thyself brother, and you will go far.” Impact of Words Confidence boosted Self-worth affirmed Inspired to do well at South Attended law school Practiced law in Mobile, Washing D.C. and now Birmingham “You never know, brother, what your words can do for others.” Guiding Principles of Successful People Set Goals Plan a Strategy Develop a Value System Self-Confidence and Self-Esteem Initiative = Leadership Guiding Principals of Successful People Use Good Judgment Develop a Sense of Mission and Purpose Discover a Source of Inspiration We Must Serve Others What do you care about? Think Big Talent – recognize and accept your God-given talents Time – learn the importance of time Hope – anticipate good things Honesty – speaking the truth each time makes life amazingly simple Insight – listen and learn from others Think Big Be nice to people…..ALL people Knowledge – the key to independent living, your dreams, hopes and aspirations Books – good reading habits like champion weightlifter In-Depth Learning – don’t cram for exam, learn for life God 10 Things That Can Hinder Success Wrong Thinking Negativity Self-Doubt Laziness Selfishness 10 Things That Can Hinder Success Complaining Ignorance Stubbornness/Inflexibility Lack of Self-Awareness Lack of Faith