Professional Leader Magazine: The Nick Vujicic Interview

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ABOUT PROFESSIONAL LEADER MAGAZINE

Launched in 2013, Professional Leader Magazine is the free-ofcharge biannual digital publication that helps you influence output, growth, change, and culture. Each issue features Nicholas C. Hill’s exclusive interviews with internationally recognised thought leaders. Issues 1-4 and 8-10 share lessons in leadership from the late masters of business, government, and nonprofit. You also benefit from many of Nicholas C. Hill’s original leadership and management principles, which we present as beautiful full-page graphics. The eighty-page publication contains 100% human-generated content and boasts a readership of 674,910 professionals and 5948 active readers.

From 2013-2015, the world’s foremost event management company, Success Resources Inc, responsible for the speaking events of Richard Branson, Alan Sugar, Duncan Bannatyne, and Anthony Robbins, endorsed and used Professional Leader Magazine to promote its international events. Professional Leader Magazine is an official sponsor of The Great British Business Show, for which Nicholas C. Hill is a keynote speaker.

ABOUT HILL TRAINING LTD

Hill Training Ltd offers results-driven leadership and management training courses using the latest technologies, strategies, and timetested fundamentals. We channel our corporate wealth of research and resources into each of our business solutions, which we deliver in a high-profile business environment.

COPYRIGHT

Magazine articles, Nicholas Hill Principles quotations, and Nicholas Hill Laughs quotations copyright © Nicholas C. Hill, UK, 1996-2023. Magazine layout and design, front cover design copyright © Hill Training Ltd, 2020-2023. All rights reserved. Reproduction or resale in whole or in part by any means without written permission of the publisher is strictly forbidden. Additional photographs and illustrations used under license with copyright © Shutterstock, Fotolia, and Dreamstime.

DISCLAIMER

Hill Training Ltd and its employees or associates are not liable for any third party advertised product or content. We have taken reasonable care to ensure that all information contained within this publication is accurate at the time of production. The reader accepts full responsibility for the practise of any advice contained within this publication and fully indemnifies the publisher against any direct loss or consequential loss resulting from adherence to any said advice.

PROFESSIONAL (adjective) relating to work that needs special training or education LEADER (noun) a person in control of a group, country, or situation

© Cambridge University Press 2022

AUTHOR ABOUT THE MASTER COACH TRAINER OF SALES, LEADERSHIP & MANAGEMENT STRATEGY

EDITOR

FCMI • FIoL • FIC

NICHOLAS C. HILL & CAREER PROFILE

Nicholas C. Hill FCMI FIoL FIC is a veteran designer and trainer of 27 two-day ILM-recognised training courses in leadership and management and six in sales and customer service. He specialises in end-to-end original design and delivery of results-driven instructor-led programmes. Training is classroom-based, via live video conferencing or blended learning. Since 1996, Nicholas has delivered training for thousands of delegates from corporations and SMEs in over 300 industries as well as government and non-profit, improving productivity by an average of 104%, net profit by 26%, and achieving a 4.8-star rating from 2638 online reviews.

CORE SKILLS

• Leadership and Management Training

• Executive Coaching and Mentoring

• Training Course Research and Development

• Training Course Workbook Authoring

• C-Suite Presentation Skills

• Skills Diagnostic Assessments

• Business Operations and Administration

• Project Management and Implementation

CAREER SUMMARY

DATES: 2004 - PRESENT DAY

• Sales and Customer Service Training

• Learning and Development Strategy

• Training Course Design and Tailoring

• E-Learning and Blended Content Development

• Boardroom Stakeholder Facilitation

• Team Leadership and Recruitment

• Sales, Marketing, Account Management

• ACT! CRM, Xero, MS Office, Adobe Creative Cloud

COMPANY: Hill Training Ltd (Incorporated 2008)

POSITION: Managing Director SERVICES: Leadership, Management, Sales Training

OUTLINE

Nicholas designs and delivers leadership, management, and sales courses for cohorts averaging twelve delegates. Most courses are 14 CPD hours spread over two days. He generates and manages hundreds of satisfied clients which include

ABN AMRO Bank, Anglian Water, Ardagh Group, Bank of Ghana, Britannia Movers International, BUPA, Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals, Chubb Insurance, Church of England, Cobham Plc, Cobra Group, Domino Printing, Estée Lauder, EJ Group Inc, EY (Ernst & Young LLP), Hadley Group, Hasbro Inc, Herbert Smith Freehills LLP, Hughes TV and Audio Ltd, Laing O’Rourke Plc, Legal and General Plc, LISI Aerospace, Medivet, Masco UK Window Group, Neal and Massy, NHS, P&O Ferries, Oxford University Press, Playson Ltd, Premium Credit Ltd, Reed Recruitment Plc, Suez, Success Resources, University of Glasgow, University of the West of England, Voyage Care Ltd, Young Presidents’ Organization, and many more.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conduct, review, and compile diagnostic skills assessments for all course participants

• Research and develop tailored training courses to meet client requirements and align with KPIs

• Author and design 100-page full-colour course participant workbooks for each two-day course

• Deliver face-to-face training courses in the classroom, via live video conferencing, e-learning, and blended learning

• Deliver 1-2-1 training and coaching programmes for senior, middle, and first line management delegates

• Author and publish in-house leadership and management electronic magazine to supplement training courses

• Record and publish leadership and management webinars to supplement training courses

• Account management, sales, marketing, procurement, bookkeeping, invoicing, training records, and recruitment

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS

• Trained 42 managers and sales professionals for Playson Ltd over three and a half years, achieving 2173 cumulative CPD hours. Feedback continues to be ‘excellent’ and ‘outstanding’ in all nine categories, resulting in increased team performance, productivity, and efficiency across all five departments.

• Improved net profit by 26% for Medivet (Stocton). I improved sales by 37% and productivity by 104% for Vimer UK Ltd.

• Improved performance by 44%, productivity by 29%, and efficiency by 19% for Magenta Living Housing Association.

• Interviewed many celebrity leaders for our company magazine, including Ken Blanchard, Nick Vujicic, Erin Brockovich, Robert Kiyosaki, and Richard Denny.

• Achieved a 4.8-star rating from 2638 reviews on FindCourses.co.uk since 2012.

Contact Nicholas with your enquiries today: hello@nicholashill.com

LETTER FROM THE &

AUTHOR

EDITOR

MASTER COACH TRAINER OF SALES, LEADERSHIP & MANAGEMENT STRATEGY

FCMI • FIoL • FIC NICHOLAS C. HILL

Welcome to Issue 11 of Professional Leader™

Life Without Limbs

No matter how many challenges life throws at you, keeping your passion alive is a nurtured and desirable skill. Imagining your life without arms or legs is difficult enough. Living life with these unthinkable limitations is a different story altogether. People who brave such challenges develop an unshakeable attitude that crosses a vast ocean of disbelief, depression, or feelings of unfairness.

Early days

Born to a Serbian family on December 4, 1982, Nick Vujicic suffered from a rare disorder, Tetra-Amelia syndrome. This condition, characterised by the absence of four limbs, went undiagnosed by three sonograms. Braving all odds, Nick credits his success to the support extended by his family, friends, and faith.

Enduring Spirit

With age and rich experience, Nick did not let his disability come in the way of serving his life’s purpose. At the early age of 19 years, Nick pursued his engagement with public speaking. To reach out to more people, spread hope, and motivate people, he travelled all over the world to share his unique story with a vast audience.

No Looking Back

His film, Life’s Greater Purpose, reflects his thinking towards personal and professional pursuits. No Arms, No Legs, No Worries mirrors his unstoppable attitude towards life. He addresses audiences of tens of thousands of people who listen to him in amazement at the enthusiasm and hope that he brings to their lives. His audiences are a diverse group of business executives, teachers, and students.

Multiple Pursuits

His interests have led him to pursue a diverse work profile that includes being an author, musician, and actor. His hobbies comprise fishing, painting, and swimming. His short film Butterfly Circus received several accolades and awards. Nick continues to speak internationally and achieves these feats without arms or legs.

In this issue of Professional Leader Magazine, Nick Vujicic and I address the attitudes that debilitate you. Enjoy reading!

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by Nicholas C. Hill

TRANSFORMATIONAL

TRANSACTIONAL LEADERSHIP

DETERMINE THE NEED FOR TRANSFORMATIONAL OR TRANSACTIONAL LEADERSHIP ON A CASE-BY-CASE BASIS.

Two Traditional Leadership Styles

Theories of leadership have evolved significantly over the last few decades. Your adopted leadership style depends on context (prevailing circumstances) and content (beliefs, values, and personalities). Furthermore, your style becomes recognisable when integrating your values into operations management.

We will examine two traditional leadership styles

today: transformational and transactional leadership. Determine the need for transformational or transactional leadership on a case-by-case basis. However, you can learn style strengths and weaknesses to make an educated choice.

Transformational Leadership

Transformational leaders motivate their staff intrinsically, so they customise their style according to the inner drivers of each team member,

using praise, appreciation, recognition, status, and promotion. By practising transformational leadership, you can generate genuine enthusiasm in your team members and nurture a cordial atmosphere in the workplace. You can also motivate your team members to go beyond their job descriptions willingly due to the bond you cultivate with them. Furthermore, as you inspire your team members intrinsically, you mold their identity and character.

Inspire Personal Responsibility

Transformational leadership requires much patience, training, practice, and effort. You need exemplary interpersonal skills to magnify the attributes of this style. However, you can inspire personal responsibility, improve job satisfaction, and win team loyalty when you lead your colleagues this way.

Transactional Leadership

Transactional leadership is a traditional style. When

AS YOU INSPIRE YOUR TEAM MEMBERS INTRINSICALLY, YOU MOLD THEIR IDENTITY AND CHARACTER.

BY PRACTISING TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP, YOU CAN GENERATE GENUINE ENTHUSIASM IN YOUR TEAM MEMBERS.

THIS STYLE CAN RESTRICT CREATIVE AND INTERDEPENDENT THINKING AMONG YOUR TEAM MEMBERS, LIMITING THEIR GROWTH.

adopting this approach, you set clear objectives, offer little flexibility, and demand non-negotiable expectations from your team. You provide rewards when your people meet quotas and consequences when your people fall short. This way, you ensure consistent levels of productivity among your staff. Transactional leaders motivate their employees extrinsically, so they customise their leadership according to the outer drivers of each team member, using

money, extended vacations, bonuses, and gift vouchers.

Meeting Urgent Deadlines

This leadership style is valuable if you need to meet urgent deadlines and critical

your leadership authority. On the other hand, this style can restrict creative and interdependent thinking among your team members, limiting their growth. In times of trial, your team relies on your direction rather

targets. This approach allows you to set clear expectations and be steadfast in your decisions, demonstrating

than initiative. Therefore, responsibility always lies with you.

WHEN ADOPTING THIS APPROACH, YOU SET CLEAR OBJECTIVES AND DEMAND NON-NEGOTIABLE EXPECTATIONS.

Summing Up

Among the two leadership styles, there is no superior. Transformational leadership suits organisations that demand constant innovation, while transactional leadership is a solid solution in the face of tight deadlines or hard targets. Depending on the given context, you need to adopt the practical elements of each leadership style to develop one of your own. 

Develop your leadership style today with Hill Training Ltd.

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AMONG THE TWO LEADERSHIP STYLES, THERE IS NO SUPERIOR.

DEPENDING ON THE GIVEN CONTEXT, YOU NEED TO ADOPT THE PRACTICAL ELEMENTS OF EACH LEADERSHIP STYLE.

Your course helped me to tailor my leadership style and manage my limiting beliefs.

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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS LEADERSHIP WITH THE Masters OF

YOU WILL NOT KNOW WHAT YOU CAN ACHIEVE UNTIL YOU TRY.

NO

LEGS;ARMS; LIMITLESS POTENTIAL

Nicholas C. Hill Interviews Nick Vujicic

Part one of this interview introduces you to the captivating motivational speaker, Nick Vujicic, while touching on his life and struggles as a severely disabled person.

Nicholas Hill:

Thank you for the pleasure of your company here today.

Nick Vujicic:

Thank you for inviting me.

Nicholas Hill:

You are welcome. Nick, Firstly, congratulations on the success of your book, Life Without Limits. Here you handle the subject of living life to the fullest, despite being born with no arms or legs. While most people can hardly imagine their life without limbs, this is a reality

I CAN OPEN A COKE CAN WITH MY TEETH. I ENJOY PLAYING SOCCER AND OUTDOOR SPORTS.

for you. Please share with us how you have learnt to overcome these limitations.

Nick Vujicic:

I overcame my difficulties with much trial and error. I refused to overuse adaptive devices. My parents instilled two prominent views:

1. You will not know what you

can achieve until you try.

2. Moreover, when you try, if you fail, you can always retry. These two principles shaped my approach towards life.

Nicholas Hill:

You have struggled with many activities that most people take for granted, like brushing teeth and hair. What have you

learnt to do that surprises most people in your circle of family and friends?

Nick Vujicic:

I can open a coke can with my teeth. I enjoy playing soccer and outdoor sports. I also have a fondness for computer games. Most people would think these feats would be impossible for someone without limbs, but my desire to succeed led me to strategies that worked.

Nicholas Hill:

In a world of robotic technology, do you dream of a future life with mechanical

arms and legs?

Nick Vujicic: It is my long-felt dream. Yes, if God willing, why not?

Nicholas Hill: Until such time, how do you make a success of your life today?

Nick Vujicic: I have made peace that my attitude and faith can fill this gap and support me to take one day at a time as I choose to accomplish my calling on earth. There is also much good that can come from your life struggles, such as character development.

Nicholas Hill: We know from your books that you did not always think this way. When you were a child, you also battled with suicidal thoughts. A report conducted in 2012 and published by the Samaritans showed that 5981 people took their lives in the UK. What shifted your thinking?

Nick Vujicic: Yes, I was ten years old when I entertained suicidal thoughts. However, knowing how much my parents loved me and the pain I would cause for those I left behind, I decided not to.

THERE IS ALSO MUCH GOOD THAT CAN COME FROM YOUR LIFE STRUGGLES.

I WAS TEN YEARS OLD

WHEN I ENTERTAINED SUICIDAL THOUGHTS.

Nicholas Hill: What advice would you like to give to people who face similar disabilities?

Nick Vujicic: Develop a grateful attitude. This principle means that you focus on what you have rather than what you do not have. Furthermore, rid yourself of envy towards those who have more than you do. This concept is easier to say than to do; however, it is fundamental to obtaining contentment.

Develop your leadership potential today with Hill Training Ltd.

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Continued on page 36

FOCUS ON WHAT YOU HAVE RATHER THAN WHAT YOU DO NOT HAVE.

RID YOURSELF OF ENVY TOWARDS THOSE WHO HAVE

MORE THAN YOU DO.

WINNING DEVELOPING A ATTITUDE

Nicholas C. Hill Interviews Nick Vujicic

Continued from page 29

e now unpack the attitude that Nick Vujicic has adopted and refined to help him cope with a life without limbs. You will find part two of this interview eye-opening.

Nicholas Hill:

Many people in the west work hard and play hard. Even life with limbs is difficult. How do you achieve your results without limbs?

Nick Vujicic: People, who always ponder

Won the lack in their lives, will end up bitter, depressed, or angry. That describes many people in our world. I used to think that way until I redirected my thinking and put my complete trust in God.

Nicholas Hill:

Today’s professionals live in a highly competitive global environment. How can people still be competitive without fighting one another?

Nick Vujicic:

An individual ought to compete with themselves to persistently aim to become

PEOPLE, WHO ALWAYS PONDER ON THE LACK IN THEIR LIVES, WILL END UP BITTER, DEPRESSED, OR ANGRY.

the best they can be and perform better, instead of desiring to be ahead of someone else.

Nick Vujicic:

People often are too hard on themselves, and that is when they stop concentrating on

Nicholas Hill:

You mention on your website how you believe people in the west are prone to being over-serious. The media are responsible for instilling fear in our lives, perpetuating this seriousness. How can people overcome over-seriousness and fear?

the essential things in life. Fear is what prevents the existence of hope. It would help if you relaxed more to experience happiness. Acknowledging that you have a family or connections with other people is a good enough reason to celebrate life. I love to see people, laugh, dance, and enjoy life.

AN INDIVIDUAL OUGHT TO COMPETE WITH THEMSELVES, TO PERSISTENTLY AIM TO BECOME THE BEST THEY CAN BE.

FEAR IS WHAT PREVENTS THE EXISTENCE OF HOPE.

Nicholas Hill:

Other people might not take life too seriously yet are still unhappy. What advice would you give them?

also serve the purpose of your life ultimately. Bringing a positive difference in people’s lives can provide you with happiness and satisfaction that nothing else can offer.

MATERIAL GAINS OR A POSITIVE ATTITUDE ALONE CANNOT HEAL YOUR HEART OR SUSTAIN YOU.

Nick Vujicic: Without God, I could not find happiness. Only God knew what I went through and felt in my early life. I profess that I knew His presence all along. Material gains or a positive attitude alone cannot heal your heart or sustain you. You need balance. You must

You cannot buy hope in the high street stores. You own the power to influence others for good or otherwise. If you wish to overcome depression and find happiness, I suggest you count your blessings, take one day at a time, and place your faith in divine providence.

IF YOU WISH TO OVERCOME DEPRESSION AND FIND HAPPINESS, I SUGGEST YOU COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS.

Nicholas Hill: Your book mentions hope and its value in life. You refer to life without arms and legs as only half as bad as a life without hope. Why do you believe this to be true?

Nick Vujicic: We all face difficulties. Hope gets you through hard times and aids your survival. Hope

must be bigger than your circumstances. However, your arms and legs do not provide you with hope. It is in your heart.

Nicholas Hill: We see charities bringing hope throughout the world. What more can we do to support people with disabilities?

Nick Vujicic: Many charities reach out to those with disabilities. Being a ray of hope to others helps to contribute towards the greater good. You must share a message of hope and happiness to improve the quality of others’ lives.

Develop your leadership attitude today with Hill Training Ltd.

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Continued on page 46

BEING A RAY OF HOPE TO OTHERS

HELPS TO CONTRIBUTE TOWARDS THE GREATER GOOD.

YOU OWN THE POWER TO INFLUENCE OTHERS FOR GOOD OR OTHERWISE.

...up-to-date communication techniques, which equipped me to handle real team challenges.

S. Kidner Managing Director

You gave me the tools to help realign and influence my team through communication.

B. Addo Head

DESIGN

In-House New Course Design

ǃ You learn the subjects and only develop the skills you want and need.

ǃ You receive forty hours of pre-course tailoring from our principal master coach trainer (with 25 years of training experience).

ǃ We research and develop new course material according to your requirements.

ǃ We research your organisational history, culture, vision, and mission.

ǃ We align our course material with your organisation, sector and industry.

ǃ We author and design NEW course workbooks in your organisation’s name.

PAINFUL LESSONS

Continued from page 39

Non-disabled adults can only imagine the difficulty coping with severe disability, but the struggles through early development would be traumatic. In part three of this interview, we find out how Nick Vujicic did it.

Nicholas Hill: Yes. Your focus determines your direction, whether physical, mental, or emotional. Understanding and practising this notion is very different; however, your

life reflects your teachings. What important lessons did your parents teach you?

Nick Vujicic: My parents taught me always to be thankful for what I have and to put my trust in God. Only when you seek Him do you discover He loves you and has a greater plan for your life. As my faith grew, I learned to be confident in my talents, purpose, and God’s love.

Nicholas Hill: Due to your disabilities, you experienced much depression and loneliness during

Nicholas C. Hill Interviews Nick Vujicic

IT WAS NOT EASY TO LIVE WITH THE DISABILITY AMIDST OTHER KIDS, WHO OFTEN TEASED ME AT SCHOOL.

childhood. How did you learn to get through this?

Nick Vujicic:

It was not easy to live with the disability amidst other kids, who often teased me at school so I would return home in tears. My parents advised me to tackle this predicament with a smile. They told me to feel at ease with them. Therefore, I talked, played, and enjoyed life with

them, which made them realise that I was like them emotionally and mentally, if not physically. This attitude gave me the strength to enjoy my time in school, despite the bullying.

Nicholas Hill: What growing pains did you have to overcome?

Nick Vujicic:

In my early days, my life was

painful for two reasons: The first reason was the ridicule I received; secondly, I grieved the loss of a physically abled life. I felt a burden to my parents and friends. I failed to see a bright future ahead of me. Circumstances changed with time by the grace of God. In seventh grade, I received the honour of being the captain of my school. It felt good that society finally acknowledged my abilities rather than my disabilities. Now, I could contribute to my school.

Nicholas Hill:

Any child is dependent on their parents. No matter how well-intentioned the parents, lacking fundamental human needs will affect the child’s self-esteem. A severely disabled child relies extensively on their parents. This challenge means the

MY PARENTS ADVISED ME TO TACKLE THIS PREDICAMENT WITH A SMILE.

parents must work around the clock to care for the child. Moreover, in times of lack, the child needs reassurance that parents can still meet those needs later. How did you deal with this level of dependency?

Nick Vujicic: This is true. The act of trusting someone holds great value to me. My parents were wonderful and trustworthy. However, I also used to battle the fear of dependency and

losing trust in others. It helps to realise that to be free of fear is to be free from its adverse effects on your attitude and behaviour. If I experience joy and peace today, it is because of the philosophy and faith I have acquired, even though my family has also been my most significant support to help overcome my fears.

Nicholas Hill: Trust is a significant factor in leadership, in particular

THE ACT OF TRUSTING SOMEONE HOLDS GREAT VALUE TO ME.

TO BE FREE OF FEAR IS TO BE FREE FROM ITS ADVERSE EFFECTS ON YOUR ATTITUDE AND BEHAVIOUR.

delegation. Faith and trust are determining factors for personal development for someone dependent on others. What would you say to those struggling with faith and trust issues?

Nick Vujicic:

Surviving any disability can be difficult. If you are the parents of a disabled child, my advice is to have faith in others and God. Confidence in the latter can lead you to experience a more fulfilling life, regardless of worldly troubles. Whether you are disabled or not, when you face difficulties that hold no promise of change, it is time to change your heart and attitude to adapt to your environment.

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IT IS TIME TO CHANGE YOUR HEART AND ATTITUDE TO ADAPT TO YOUR ENVIRONMENT.

I now have many available options at hand to achieve wonderful results with my team.

M. Bozina Salon Manager

The course was simply fantastic...I can now manage performance and enforce genuine KPIs.

L. Gully Head of Sport

ONALL KEYNOTE SPEECHES

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Key Note Speeches

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POSITIVELY CHANGING LIVES

Continued from page 49

illions of people worldwide have received inspiration from his books and talks. Watching Nick Vujicic climb the stage before addressing immense crowds is captivating alone. In part four of this interview, you learn of his impact on humanity.

Nicholas Hill: You run a motivational speaking company called Attitude is Altitude. Please share with us the experiences

you gained while pursuing this business venture.

MNick Vujicic:

Attitude is Altitude is the motivational company I launched to deliver talks in schools and businesses to share my experience and communicate the value of attitude. It opens the door for conversations worldwide, such as in the Middle East, China, and Congress and Universities. It is an incredible journey, and the travel stories are plenty.

Nicholas Hill: You deliver your seminars to audiences of thousands, yet

HE BELIEVED I WOULD BECOME A SPEAKER ONE DAY. I COULD HARDLY BELIEVE HIS WORDS.

NICHOLAS C. HILL INTERVIEWS NICK VUJICIC

your reach has been much more extensive than that. If we were to search YouTube, we would find videos of your seminars, which have received millions of views. People want to see and hear you speak, Nick. How did you develop your interest in public speaking?

Nick Vujicic: When I was 17 years old, my school janitor could see that I was going through a down phase, and soon he became my friend. He then told me he believed I would become a speaker one day. I could hardly believe his words. He called me to address a small

group of students. When I did, my message touched them emotionally.

Nicholas Hill: How did this experience affect you personally?

Nick Vujicic: This gave me the confidence to share my story with people.

During an event where I had delivered my speech, a girl came up to me and said that no one had ever told her that she was lovely. Once I realised my words could affect people this way, I decided to tread the public speaking path.

Nicholas Hill: When delivering your

A GIRL CAME UP TO ME AND SAID THAT NO ONE HAD EVER TOLD HER THAT SHE WAS LOVELY.

ONCE I REALISED MY WORDS COULD AFFECT PEOPLE THIS WAY, I DECIDED TO TREAD THE PUBLIC SPEAKING PATH.

I USE HUMOUR TO BREAK THE ICE AND MAKE PEOPLE FEEL COMFORTABLE WITH ME.

seminars, you use humour to communicate your message, which you do exceptionally well.

Nick Vujicic: Thank you. I use humour to break the ice and make people feel comfortable with me. When you address an audience, they do not know what is in store. Humour helps a lot to make them feel at ease.

Nicholas Hill: Reflecting on your humanitarian pursuits, your visit to Africa at 20 years old prompted you to give away $20,000 to people experiencing poverty. What made you donate this money?

Nick Vujicic: I have always felt angered whenever I witnessed underprivileged people suffering silently or living in hungry and dilapidated

WHEN YOU ADDRESS AN AUDIENCE, THEY DO NOT KNOW WHAT IS IN STORE. HUMOUR HELPS A LOT TO MAKE THEM FEEL AT EASE.

I HAVE ALWAYS FELT ANGERED WHENEVER I WITNESSED UNDERPRIVILEGED PEOPLE SUFFERING SILENTLY.

conditions. I want to contribute my part. We often pray to God that He might help them, but we sometimes fail to be his hands and feet to serve His cause. The first time I saw poverty, I felt humbled; inspiration to help and make a difference started from there.

Nicholas Hill: Your work accomplishments led you to become the director and founding president of Life without Limbs. What does your organisation strive to achieve?

Nick Vujicic: It is a Christian ministry where we add practical

value to people’s lives. We partnered with Joni and Friends Ministry. Together, we distribute wheelchairs and other essentials.

Positively change lives today with Hill Training Ltd.

Book your FREE 30 minutes diagnostic consultation with Nicholas C. Hill. Quote ‘Professional Leader’ to redeem your booking.

Contact us now:

hello@nicholashill.com

+44

(0)345 678 9900

nicholashill.com

Continued on page 64

THE FIRST TIME I SAW POVERTY, I FELT HUMBLED; INSPIRATION TO HELP AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE STARTED FROM THERE.

B. Richard Vice President & GM EMEA ESTÉE

Dž Support a friend: Help a friend to step up to the next level of leadership and management

Dž Donate to charity: Support the directors of your favourite charity with training and development

Dž Split three ways: Pay for only two enrolments and then divide the fees between the three of you

Dž Keep it for yourself: Keep the free enrolment for yourself and enrol your colleagues at list price

Nicholas C. Hill Interviews Nick Vujicic

FIRST FAMILY

Continued from page 59

As a busy international speaker, the demands on his life are immense. However, Nick Vujicic is a family man who puts his nearest and dearest first. Part five of this interview reveals how his family encourages and supports his vision.

Nicholas Hill:

You are married to Kanae Miyahara and have four children. How did you meet your wife?

Nick Vujicic:

I was at an event holding a conversation with sixteen people, where they watched my short film, Butterfly Circus. I was sharing my mission and vision. Everyone was in tears, and so was Kanae. We were destined to meet. I fell in love with her at the Bell Tower in McKinney at the “Adriatica.” She is my best friend, and I completely adore her. She has the gift of grace, love, patience, and meekness. She is focused and gentle.

EVERYONE WAS IN TEARS, AND SO WAS KANAE.

Nicholas Hill: How significant has the support of your family been for you?

Nick Vujicic: They have contributed a lot, always cared for me, and cared for my needs. They have treated me just like any other family member. They still ask me to do my chores. I learned to work hard and never give up. My brother has been my

me like any other sibling. My father taught me to swim; with the support of my parents and uncle, I gained

caretaker from a young age, caring for my daily needs. People have addressed him more as ‘Nick’s brother’; hence, he has struggled to carve his individuality, but we are best friends today. My sister, six years younger, treats

the confidence to swim at the age of six. These experiences are cherished memories now.

Nicholas Hill: You know what it is like to live with a profound disability. What advice would you share

MY FATHER TAUGHT ME TO SWIM; WITH THE SUPPORT OF MY PARENTS AND UNCLE, I GAINED THE CONFIDENCE TO SWIM AT THE AGE OF SIX.

My copy of Limitless by Nick Vujicic from which I have received much inspiration.

I LEARNED TO WORK HARD AND NEVER GIVE UP.

with parents who are raising disabled children?

Nick Vujicic:

Never compare disabilities.

While some kids may suffer from mental disabilities, others may have to deal with physical disabilities like me. A child is a gift and comprises a unique package.

Sometimes you may have to face challenges. However, as parents, you must ensure you plant the seeds of love and encouragement in your child. Never underestimate the value of hope, as it has helped me to grow out of my troubles over time.

Nicholas Hill: Your books are an inspiration to many people. Please share with us some insights on your new book. What was your inspiration for writing the book?

Nick Vujicic: Post publication of my book, Life Without Limits, which went on to become a

AS PARENTS, YOU MUST ENSURE YOU PLANT THE SEEDS OF LOVE AND ENCOURAGEMENT.

NEVER UNDERESTIMATE THE VALUE OF HOPE, AS IT HAS HELPED ME TO GROW OUT OF MY TROUBLES OVER TIME.

bestseller in four nations, I underwent significant lifechanging experiences that I wanted to share with the world. It was a great and enriching experience. My family has always supported me, and they are the reason I choose to speak, sing, write,

MY FAMILY HAS ALWAYS SUPPORTED ME, AND THEY ARE THE REASON I CHOOSE TO SPEAK, SING, WRITE, POST VIDEOS, AND ACT.

love and hope and get myself closer to God. Moreover, I wrote this book to help people overcome their difficulties and live in peace.

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post videos, and act in short films like Butterfly Circus.

Nicholas Hill: What message do you wish to convey through the book?

Nick Vujicic: I want to express the value of

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Continued on page 72

I UNDERWENT SIGNIFICANT LIFE-CHANGING EXPERIENCES THAT I WANTED TO SHARE WITH THE WORLD.

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ETERNAL AN MINDSET

Nicholas C. Hill Interviews Nick Vujicic

Continued from page 67

Never to disguise his Christian faith, Nick Vujicic is often outspoken about spirituality and eternal matters. In part six of this interview, we dive deeper into his soul and unveil what drives him.

Nicholas Hill:

In your teachings, you speak extensively about your Christian faith and how a relationship with God is fundamental to a work-life balance. Many successful thought leaders have taught

and still teach this same principle. The list includes the likes of Zig Ziglar, Ken Blanchard, John Maxwell, and even Abraham Lincoln. Why do you choose to teach this principle also?

Nick Vujicic:

I mainly teach the importance of attitude. A positive attitude helps you, but an attitude alone cannot get you to the position you want to reach. You also need faith in yourself and faith in God. You need to know that whatever situations you face, God is available to you if you want Him. Faith

A POSITIVE ATTITUDE HELPS YOU, BUT AN ATTITUDE ALONE CANNOT GET YOU TO THE POSITION YOU WANT TO REACH.

is personal. My faith in God and the experiences I have undergone have empowered me to gain strength, grace, and humility to live my life just one day at a time. If my difficulties refuse to change, I will make my heart accept them.

Nicholas Hill: Many Professional Leader Magazine readers will wonder why I have even asked you to comment on your faith. However, according to a 2013 Harris poll, 72% of Western adults believe in God. This figure is much higher in the

East. These belief systems affect social systems and working relationships. With the influx of globalisation, respecting, if not sharing, others’ beliefs and values will help to reduce conflict and segregation. What ideas about God do you believe?

Nick Vujicic: Positivity and motivation alone do not suffice to overcome difficulties at work or home. Nor can the unconditional love of your parents heal all your pains.

POSITIVITY AND MOTIVATION ALONE DO NOT SUFFICE TO OVERCOME DIFFICULTIES AT WORK OR HOME.

IF MY DIFFICULTIES REFUSE TO CHANGE, I WILL MAKE MY HEART ACCEPT THEM.

Faith has raised me to the position where I find myself today. However, I refuse to be a preacher who asks you to pray for a miracle and see it happen. However, I believe God has promised me forgiveness for my sins. In addition, He has bestowed me with a purposeful life, which He has renewed with joy and happiness.

Nicholas Hill: Many people lose faith in God

FAITH HAS RAISED ME TO THE POSITION WHERE I FIND MYSELF TODAY.

when encountering hardship, yet you are a practising Christian who speaks of His faithfulness. Since you arrived in this world without arms or legs, what faithfulness are you referring to?

Nick Vujicic: God is the foundation and the ceiling of the unlimited hope I now have. He created me and allowed me to experience pain in my life, just like anyone else. My best decision

was to give God the broken pieces of my life. At 15 years old, I gave my life to Jesus when I read about how he healed a blind man and gave him a purpose. I do not need arms and legs but meaning, hope, and eternal life. I asked Jesus to come into my life, take the reins, and reveal his plan for my life.

Nicholas Hill: You have transformed your disability into a noble initiative. According to you, what has inspired you to do this?

Nick Vujicic: I am grateful to God and attribute my success to my

MY BEST DECISION WAS TO GIVE GOD THE BROKEN PIECES OF MY LIFE.

I DO NOT NEED ARMS AND LEGS BUT MEANING, HOPE, AND ETERNAL LIFE.

faith in Him. Sometimes we desire to know the plans of God even before we begin to trust Him. Just believing that He has a plan for you and trusting God to save you with his unconditional love could prove to be your greatest asset. “F.A.I.T.H” could be an acronym for “Full Assurance In The Heart”. At 19 years, I met a person who had Lou Gehrig’s disease, and even

post five years of his suffering, he did not complain. Instead, he made a website to inspire all bedridden people never to lose hope. I then realised that even if you do not experience a miracle personally, you could become a miracle to somebody else by spreading hope.

Nicholas Hill: Nick, it has been a pleasure. Thank you for sharing your views and experience with us.

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IF YOU DO NOT EXPERIENCE A MIRACLE PERSONALLY, YOU COULD BECOME A MIRACLE TO SOMEBODY ELSE BY SPREADING HOPE.

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Unleash the Power Within

Dž Live your life not by hope or chance but by design.

Dž Break old patterns and destroy limiting beliefs.

Dž Become a decisive person who takes massive, intelligent action.

Dž Condition yourself mentally, emotionally, and physically to create staggering results.

Dž Find and develop your strategy of success.

Dž Have more confidence and self-esteem.

Dž Generate more passion and enthusiasm.

Dž Become aware of the higher purpose for your life.

Dž Discover what drives you and what holds you back.

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