I know someone very close to me who has been suffering from emphysema for several years. This past year, her health took a turn for the worse and we were concerned by her lack of energy and the lack of color in her skin. She had been working with a doctor locally, but he didn’t seem too concerned about her oxygen level.

While on a trip, she became ill and went to a hospital near where she was traveling. The doctor took a quick look at her blood gasses and realized that she was horribly low on oxygen. He made several medication adjustments and got her all set up with an oxygen tank. The rehab people helped her develop a new diet and exercise routine, and her family was eagerly cheering her along.

The change in her color, energy level, and overall health was night and day. While there were several factors at play aiding in her recovery, the oxygen was key to helping her have the energy necessary to live instead of simply exist.

Here are a few things to think about regarding this lesson of recovery and how it may apply to your personal and professional development:
1. Oxygen can be a metaphor for anything that we put into our bodies and minds. What is the quality of your intake? Are you breathing in salacious news headlines that cause you to worry throughout the day, or are you beginning the day with motivating thoughts and words that will set you up for success?
2. Sometimes you need a different set of eyes looking at your situation. Whether it is a different physician offering a fresh perspective on a health challenge you have, or a business or life coach to help you navigate through the seas of life; no one does it alone.
3. Build a dream team. The recovery was first started by a doctor, assisted by other hospital staff, and was truly effective when the rehab staff provided the motivation and wisdom to aid in recovery. Who is part of your mastermind team? A quick inventory of my personal team includes the following: a few strong peer speakers whom I admire, a fantastic designer, an amazing web team, a boat load of computer programs and apps that help me create and execute business on a daily basis. Oh, and tons of books and other info products.

A great attitude is second only to oxygen when it comes to survival.