Adopted, Borrowed and Modified Philosophies For a Life with LESS ANXIETY
and MORE CONFIDENCE
Nonfiction / Self-Help
Date Published: January 29, 2024
Publisher: MindStir Media
This book contains a collection of sayings, thoughts, and life lessons that
have helped to reduce my level of stress and anxiety while building
confidence in myself and others. Some are mine, and others I have heard and
adopted either as is or marginally tailored to become mine over the years. I
repeat these sayings to myself and others almost daily. By reading these
healthy reminders on a daily basis you will come to realize a healthier
outlook on life, find others treat you with more kindness and respect all
while building confidence in yourself and your abilities.
EXCERPT
Preface
This book contains a collection of sayings, thoughts, and life lessons that have come in handy throughout my life. Some are mine, and others I have heard and adopted either as is or marginally tailored to become mine over the years. I repeat these sayings to myself and others almost daily.
As time passed, my family, friends, and colleagues came to refer to them as “Bretisms.” Often, people experience life-changing “ah-ha” moments; other times, they have a good laugh. Regardless of how they are initially received, in time, I have heard back from people umpteen times about how these expressions have impacted them, changing their outlook on life and happiness altogether. I am even referred to (usually in a fun, sarcastic tone) as Yoda, Confucius, or a contemporary philosopher. I accept those designations with an open heart.
Although I am a long way from being done with living, life for me up to this point has been a fantastic journey. My parents raised my older brother and sister and me with the love and compassion I can only hope I’m imparting to my own children. We moved around the country often during my childhood because of my father’s profession. As a result, I had the privilege of being acquainted with and befriending many people of different cultures, races, religions, and creeds. My father was a professional football coach, but he humbly began his career as a middle school English teacher.
He worked his way up to the pinnacle of his career as an NFL coach and executive, with the support of his loving wife and extended family. We moved around frequently, and it exposed me to many great leaders, inspirational figures, and unique characters who have shaped my life view. I wouldn’t be the man I am today without these great influences.
My brother went on to follow in my father’s footsteps and has spent over twenty-five years as an NFL coach. Through our relationship, I’ve had the privilege of meeting great people. A few examples would be Don Shula, Dick Vermeil, Bill Cower, Chip Kelly, Urban Meyer, Marty Schottenheimer, Bob Griese, Ron Jaworski, Vince Papale, Larry Csonka, and Ozzie Newsome, to name a few.
I took my own path. I began my career as a door-to-door salesman, selling frozen food for one hundred percent commission. If I wanted money, I decided early on that I’d better sell something; the idea of selling had always intrigued me. I quickly moved up to a manager’s role before I was given promotions to selling goods and eventually leading salespeople in their various jobs. I sold everything from commercial truck tires to heavy construction equipment to medical devices.
Rather than football, selling was somehow in my blood. I’ve had many professional roles, ranging from sales rep to president/CEO, and I’ve enjoyed all of them immensely. But to this day, when asked what I do for a living, I almost always respond, “I’m in sales,” regardless of my current title. It’s all the same thing to me. It’s of the utmost importance to me that I stay grounded and always feel like I’m at my starting point. It’s what drives me to forge ahead.
I understand that every reader is unique and learns in their own way. However, I’ve structured this book for the chapters to be read on any given day and in no particular order. Let the day’s Bretism sink in before moving to the next. I don’t recommend approaching this book like you’re binge-watching a series on Netflix. With that said, it’s your choice, of course.
My only objective is for you to feel more grounded and confident when you finish this book. I want you to experience more joy and passion in your daily life because that’s what life is for. I must say, though, that if you want to speak with a professional, please seek that help. The ideas expressed in this book are those of a life-experienced layperson.
I should note that all of the stories you’ll read herein are true. Also, the names have been changed for the sake of fairness.
Below is a poem my father wrote that we came across after his passing. We were sifting through his things and discovered a series of poems he had composed in a journal. It’s hard to imagine your parents as people separate from their parental role, but there will always be things we never knew about them. You’ll see. Before we get started with the first Bretism, I think this is a worthy read to get your mind in the right place before digging in.
“Untitled”
I have won many battles; I am a winner!
I have failed numerous times; But I am not a loser!
I have done for others; I am a friend!
I have disappointed others; yet they forgive!
I too have been wronged; I forgive!
I have been deceived; and remember!
I have loved; but only have one lover!
I am loved; and I cherish the thought!
~William C. Davis, 2016
About the Author
Born in Youngstown Ohio, with stops throughout his life in Michigan, NJ,
Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Florida, Ohio (again) Georgia and Texas. Bret Davis
is a born salesman. With the love of his wife of twenty-eight years, Kelly,
and their two sons, Blake and Connor, he has achieved his dreams and more.
Starting from a door-to-door salesman, he has worked his way up to
executive-level positions with multiple companies in the medical field.
Throughout his trials and experiences in the sales industry, Bret has come
to understand people and that the way we all work holds a unique value.
Today, he and his family reside in Houston, Texas.
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