“Sharing failures makes us more relatable and likeable – and human.” Anonymous
I’m reading a book by friend, author, and Psychologist, Shauna Springer, PH.D. titled “Fall Out.” The book addresses skewed beliefs and real truths surrounding suicide involving, “those who protect us,” service members and first responders. It is a thought-provoking book which has informed my thinking and expanded my knowledge on the issue of suicide. I’ve lost many soldiers and veteran friends to suicide. The U.S. Army and many veteran service organizations struggle greatly to reverse the trend. There have been some advances in this space but nothing yet has solved the problem or even decreased the number of suicides.
One of the chapters in the book highlights the “altered state of consciousness,” those who ideate or commit suicide experience. Springer calls the reader – the person or organization who is taking on the cause of suicide prevention to “call to the warrior spirit.” This call counters the shaming of suicide as a selfish act – an approach to preventing it. Instead, Springer invites us to “activate the warrior spirit through honor, connection, and purpose.” She encourages us to tell our story. “Your story may help save a life,” she correctly claims. “Every time you share your struggle, you give someone else permission to survive theirs,” Springer continues. This line hit me – certainly as a sound approach to addressing suicide, but also as a sound approach in leadership…
Read the rest here.
