Embodying Sisu: The Seventh Tenet of the WayMaker Code

As we look deeper into the WayMaker Code, we come to its seventh powerful tenet: "Embody Sisu: Foster resilience in the face of adversity. Lead by example and transform challenges that come your way into opportunities for growth." This principle emphasizes the strength and resilience required to turn adversity into opportunity.

Understanding Sisu

Sisu begins where grit ends.

Sisu is a Finnish concept that is hard to translate directly but embodies the essence of extraordinary endurance and resilience in the face of adversity. It speaks to a deeper strength that enables individuals to withstand challenges that seem beyond one’s capacity. In the WayMaker Community, as I advocate in "Be Relentless," embodying sisu is about drawing from that deep well of inner strength, especially when you’ve reached the end of your perceived abilities.

Fostering Resilience in Adversity

Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks, learn from failure, and keep moving forward. It's about facing life’s hurdles head-on and emerging stronger on the other side. Embodying sisu means acknowledging the difficulty of a challenge while simultaneously refusing to give up.

Leading by Example

In the WayMaker Community, we lead by example. Demonstrating sisu in our actions inspires others to find their own strength and resilience. It’s about showing that perseverance, dedication, and strength of character can turn the tides of adversity.

Transforming Challenges into Opportunities

Challenges are not just obstacles; they are opportunities for growth and learning. Embodying sisu involves reinterpreting these challenges as chances to grow stronger and wiser. It’s about using adversity as a catalyst for personal and professional development.

Ways to Cultivate Sisu in Your Life

1. Acknowledge Your Strengths and Weaknesses: Recognize your capabilities and areas for improvement. This self-awareness is the first step in building resilience.
2. Stay Committed in Tough Times: When facing adversity, stay committed to your goals. Remember why you started and what you’re working towards.
3. Learn from Failures: View failures as learning opportunities. Analyze what went wrong, adjust your strategy, and try again.
4. Seek Support When Needed: Don’t be afraid to lean on your community for support. The WayMaker Community is here to help you find your sisu.
5. Do Hard Things: Train like a freak, do ice baths, fast, wake up early… self imposed hardship is one of the best ways to prepare for, and overcome the adversity that life throws your way.

As WayMakers, embodying sisu is about more than just enduring; it's about thriving in the face of challenges. It's a call to stand firm in adversity, to transform our trials into triumphs, and to lead by example in our pursuit of growth and excellence.

Let us embody sisu in our daily lives, demonstrating the remarkable strength and resilience that defines the spirit of a WayMaker.

Until next time, Stay Curious, Be Relentless & Forge Forward,

Jon Mayo

P.S. To connect with others who embody sisu and to share your own stories of resilience, CLICK HERE.

P.S.S. To learn more, CLICK HERE.