What happens when purpose meets passion, and struggle fuels greatness? How do you discover your superpower, embrace discomfort, and unlock a life of impact, authenticity, and unstoppable growth? From the inspiration of Malcolm X and William Du Bois to the relentless drive of Eric Thomas, this is a story of turning setbacks into comebacks.

You Owe You: Ignite Your Power, Your Purpose, and Your Why

Imagine holding a book that feels like it was written just for you. "You Owe You" is not just a collection of words; it's a call to discover your power, your purpose, and to stop waiting for the perfect moment to change your life. It's a call to act, to embrace your uniqueness, and to live authentically. 

The author shares his own journey from feeling lost and victimized to becoming an internationally known motivational coach, working with people from all walks of life. His journey began with kids—helping high school dropouts, visiting juvenile centers, and tutoring struggling students. Kids were the first to resonate with his YouTube videos, and they took him along as they grew into successful adults.

His message reaches everyone: from NBA locker rooms to prisons, urging them to seize the moment and transform their lives. This book draws inspiration from influential works and personal experiences, aiming to deliver a simple yet profound message: you are the architect of your destiny. You can choose to be a victim or a victor. The author himself overcame homelessness and personal struggles by taking ownership of his life, shedding the victim mentality, and embracing his potential.

He shares inspiring stories like his mother, Vernessa Craig, who triumphed over adversity and never acted like a victim. She paved her own path, refusing to let circumstances define her. Or the story of Inky Johnson, who, despite a career-ending injury, refused to succumb to victimhood and went on to inspire others.

The book emphasizes the importance of taking ownership, making choices, setting standards, and eliminating excuses. It's about realizing that the only person standing in the way of your success is you. Once you embrace this mindset, you'll find people and resources ready to support you. The journey is long, but it's worth it. You're the CEO of your life, and it's time to take control.

Are You Ready to Be the CEO of Your Own Destiny?

Growing up, Eric Thomas, the author, felt the weight of history and the chains of a victim mentality, often isolating himself from those who loved him. His neighborhood was a tapestry of contrasts—8 Mile was suburban and structured, while 7 Mile was a bustling hub of multigenerational families. 

Eric found his escape in Bob's home, a refuge filled with warmth and resilience despite life's challenges. There, and at Detroit Center, a tiny church, he discovered a new kind of family. It was a place where he felt seen and supported, a community bound by faith and fellowship.

Eric came to understand that aloneness is a choice. It is easy to shut out the world when feeling misunderstood or hurt, but true freedom, he realized, comes from recognizing that one is never truly alone. The victim mentality, he noted, can blind people to the support waiting just beyond self-imposed barriers. In the church, Eric found connection and purpose—a sanctuary from his own darker thoughts. It was a place where he could bring his full self, flaws and all, and still be embraced.

Along his journey, Eric met Dede, whose kindness and clarity inspired him to face his struggles head-on. Through her support, he realized the importance of communication and choosing relationships that nurture growth. His work with athletes reflects this understanding—helping them see beyond their feelings to the evidence of support they might overlook.

Eric believes that support is vital, but not all relationships are genuine. Success, he observed, can attract those who seek only personal gain, making discernment crucial. It is about understanding who truly cares and who is there for the right reasons. Recognizing this, Eric argues, helps combat the victim mentality and fosters authentic connections.

To thrive, Eric emphasizes the importance of being open to support and willing to reach out. Like Charles's son Jackson, he notes that sometimes people need help to lift burdens they cannot manage alone. Embracing support, he says, means acknowledging both strengths and weaknesses. Tools like the Flight Assessment, which aid in self-awareness, reveal how individuals work best within teams and independently.

Ultimately, Eric's journey taught him that freedom and fulfillment come from knowing you are supported and never alone. Even when life feels isolating, he believes there is a community ready to embrace you. For Eric, it is about choosing connection, articulating your full self, and understanding that you are part of something bigger than solitary struggle.

Unveiling Strength: From Detroit's 7 Mile to Jackson's Journey

When Eric was eight, his parents sent him to a Bible camp, hoping he would gain independence and make new friends. Initially reluctant, Eric found himself hooked by the end of the week. During that time, he managed to bridge gaps between kids from different backgrounds, crafting bonds and fostering connections. It was here that his ability to unite people and motivate them became evident, marking the beginning of his journey to discovering his superpower—his gift for connection and communication.

This newfound independence and the thrill of connecting with diverse people sparked something deep within Eric. It felt as though he had tapped into a unique energy, a superpower, that made him feel unstoppable. However, without proper guidance, this energy sometimes manifested as impulsiveness, leading to trouble in school and strained relationships. Eric was labeled insubordinate, acting out for attention while grappling with challenges like dyslexia and ADHD.

Despite these obstacles, Eric found solace and purpose in speaking. Pastor Willis, a charismatic figure at Detroit Center, became an enduring source of inspiration for him. Captivated by the pastor's powerful sermons and leadership style, Eric began volunteering to speak at church, honing his skills and tapping into the flow of his superpower. Each time he spoke, it felt like an out-of-body experience—spiritual, exhilarating, and fulfilling. Speaking became his passion, his gift, his superpower.

Yet, Eric came to understand that discovering one’s superpower isn’t always a linear path. It requires introspection, listening to one’s inner voice, and recognizing what comes naturally. He often reflected on stories like that of Tobe Nwigwe, a rapper whose career-ending injury redirected him toward discovering his true calling through perseverance and the support of those who believed in him. Tobe’s journey reinforced for Eric the importance of trying, of recognizing one’s gifts, and pursuing them with unwavering focus.

Eric also realized how conformity can obscure one’s unique gifts. As a child, he had loved playing the violin but abandoned it due to external pressures and criticism. Allowing outside voices to drown out his own inner guidance led him astray. Reflecting on the lives of heroes like Frederick Douglass and Malcolm X, Eric was reminded of the value of nonconformity. These figures defied the odds, unapologetically embracing their superpowers to create lasting legacies.

Embracing one’s superpower, Eric believes, means loving it, nurturing it, and obsessively working to refine it. Like Steph Curry or Serena Williams, greatness is achieved through dedication and an unwavering love for one’s craft. Eric often emphasizes that money and success naturally follow when we channel our unique gifts toward our purpose. To him, the key lies in spending time with oneself, cultivating one’s innate abilities, and waking up each day determined to harness that superpower.

For Eric, the journey toward fulfilling one’s purpose is always waiting to begin. He encourages others to embrace their gifts wholeheartedly and take bold steps toward their destiny.

Could You Unlock Your Superpower Like Frederick Douglass, or Serena Williams?

When individuals discover their "why," it propels their lives forward, providing purpose and motivation. For Eric, it was his wife, Dede, who helped him uncover his. She recognized potential in him at a time when he was a high school dropout, living on the streets of Detroit. Her acceptance into Oakwood College ignited a spark of hope within him, motivating him to pursue his GED. With the support of Pastor Willis, Eric embarked on this journey, and despite initial challenges, he found joy in learning, driven by the possibility of joining Dede at college.

As Eric began to find his footing at Oakwood, he felt a strong pull to help others through teaching GED classes, motivated by a desire to make education practical and accessible. This work resonated deeply with his values of altruism and individualism, solidifying his sense of purpose beyond himself. 

Eric's "why" deepened even further with the birth of his son, Jalin, shifting his focus toward providing for and protecting his family. This profound experience illuminated a generational pattern within his family, inspiring Eric to commit to creating lasting change and building a meaningful legacy.

Eric observed that many athletes struggle to identify their "why" beyond their sport, but those who do—like Chris Paul and Devon Still—find a profound sense of purpose that resonates and inspires others. He believes it’s crucial for everyone to look inward and uncover their intrinsic motivations. 

Eric’s own journey, from homelessness to finding a family and community, underscored the transformative power of listening to one’s inner voice. A "why" serves as a guiding light, shaping actions and legacy. Eric encourages others to embrace their "why" and let it fuel their unique superpower.

Finding Your 'Why': A Journey From Detroit Streets to Oakwood Inspiration

Discovering and embracing one’s gifts is the key to unlocking purpose. When an individual recognizes their superpower, they embark on a journey that is both empowering and enlightening. Eric first found his path at Oakwood, a place where he experienced the joy and empowerment of public speaking. It was a space where opportunities seemed to unfold naturally, as if his gift was making room for him.

At Oakwood, Eric formed deep connections with friends like Irvin Daphnis, a passionate advocate for African heritage, and Tres Hayden, who was deeply immersed in spirituality and church life. Together, they explored their heritage and the rich history of African contributions, feeling a larger sense of purpose drawing them together. Inspired by historical figures and events, they felt compelled to share their newfound knowledge and experiences.

This passion led to the creation of Bell Tower Ministry, a space where they could engage with their peers and share messages of empowerment. Without microphones or platforms, they simply stood at the Bell Tower, speaking their truths and connecting with those who chose to listen. For Eric, this experience marked a transition into adulthood, as he became more aware of his identity and the broader world.

Eric’s journey was shaped by pivotal moments, such as reading *The Autobiography of Malcolm X*, which opened his eyes to the realities of race and identity in America. It was a profound awakening that led him to understand his place in the world and the importance of being intentional in his journey.

Purpose, Eric learned, requires structure and standards. At Bell Tower, he found a rhythm and focus, realizing that his voice and message could inspire and resonate with others. His style was simple yet passionate, aimed at encouraging people to connect with themselves and embrace their challenges.

This sense of purpose became even clearer during times of crisis, particularly when his wife, Dede, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Her illness tested their resilience and deepened Eric’s commitment to his “why”—supporting her and their family. These challenges pushed him to give more of himself and live fully in his purpose, recognizing that struggles often lead to growth.

Eric believes purpose is not always tied to a career. It’s about using one’s gifts to make a difference, often through intangible contributions that touch others’ lives. His speaking and teaching are rooted in helping people find their own power and purpose, often offering his work freely to those in need.

As Eric reflects on his journey, he sees life as a process of moving through purpose with intention, embracing struggles as opportunities for growth. By nurturing and sharing gifts, meaningful change and impact can be created. He poses the question: What do you love doing, and how can it positively affect others? How can you structure your life to pursue your purpose with clarity and intention? For Eric, the answer lies in remembering that gifts are meant to be shared, and one’s “why” is the driving force behind their purpose.

Can Malcolm X's Legacy Inspire You to Find Your Own Purpose?

Eric believes that miracles aren't just supernatural wonders; they're born from intention. He asserts that when individuals align with their purpose, opportunities arise, creating ripples that grow into waves—these, he says, are miracles. Eric discovered this concept firsthand by freely sharing his gifts, speaking at schools and conferences, and connecting with people who recognized the impact of his work. 

One pivotal moment for Eric was introducing Dr. Na'im Akbar, whose transformative ideas reshaped Eric's understanding of manhood. On that day, he felt the profound power of standing on stage alongside Dr. Akbar, an experience that expanded his sense of purpose.

Eric also emphasizes that miracles often stem from calculated risks. For example, moving his family from Huntsville to Michigan was a leap into the unknown, but it opened doors to Michigan State University's Black Male Initiative. Though his wife, Dede, was initially apprehensive about the move, it ultimately led to Eric completing his degree and experiencing future successes. To him, miracles require trust, effort, and being in the right place at the right time.

Eric insists that receiving miracles is not a passive act; it involves using one's gifts daily. He recalls meeting CJ, his business partner and lifelong friend, as a key turning point. Together, they launched "The Advantage" program at MSU, empowering students in a predominantly white institution. Their experimentation led to Eric uploading his "Secret to Success" speech on YouTube, a story born from urgency that resonated with audiences worldwide after NFL hopeful Giavanni Ruffin remixed it. 

Suddenly, Eric's voice became a fixture in commercials and on national television, illustrating how miracles can unfold through consistent practice and dedication.

Eric believes that miracles thrive when people embrace their authentic selves while surrounding themselves with others who have witnessed the power of miracles. He stresses that preparing for a miracle involves honing one’s craft, envisioning success, and remaining open to new opportunities. In his view, miracles are logical outcomes of intentional actions. He offers the example of his mother-in-law, who defied cancer by visualizing her dream of seeing her grandchildren graduate, demonstrating how belief and purpose can drive miraculous outcomes.

For Eric, miracles come from persistence, practice, and readiness for opportunities. Reflecting on his journey from humble beginnings to speaking for Fortune 500 companies, he recognizes that each step was vital. He encourages others to reflect on their own moments of being in the right place at the right time and to consider who brought them opportunities and what choices led them there. 

Eric advises envisioning the opportunities one seeks and mapping out steps to achieve them. Ultimately, he reminds readers that miracles are within reach when individuals walk boldly in their purpose.

Unleashing Miracles: From Dr. Na'im Akbar's Wisdom to YouTube Fame

Knowledge is the new currency. W.E.B. Du Bois, a pioneering African American sociologist, penned "The Talented Tenth," urging Black Americans to pursue education as the path to empowerment. 

Du Bois believed that educated leaders could uplift their communities, challenging systemic barriers. His vision resonates with Eric Thomas, who transformed his life through education, going from valuing labor in Detroit to becoming Dr. Eric Thomas, a motivational speaker. Education, however, is more than formal schooling; it's about acquiring knowledge that empowers you to excel and express yourself.

Eric's journey highlights the importance of self-education, inspired by figures like Martin Luther King Jr., Thurgood Marshall, and Toni Morrison—all of whom used their education to impact society profoundly. He emphasizes the necessity of balancing education with expression and excellence. Whether it's mastering code-switching to navigate different cultural landscapes or refining the ability to communicate effectively, excellence demands dedication and continuous learning.

Eric's experiences at Michigan State exposed the systemic challenges Black students face, with low graduation rates predicted based on socioeconomic backgrounds. Determined to change this, Eric devised a program to support students, saving the university money while fostering success. His story underscores the transformative power of education and the need to pursue knowledge relentlessly.

For Eric, knowledge is an act of self-love, a tool for discovering opportunities and honing gifts. It's about seeing beyond immediate surroundings and understanding the world. Athletes, for instance, benefit from mental sharpness and strategic thinking as their physical prowess wanes. Figures like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and LeBron James exemplify how continuous learning extends influence beyond sports.

Expression, vital to Eric's success, requires structure and clarity. Just as he learned corporate lingo and adapted his messages for wider audiences, anyone can benefit from refining their communication skills. Expression can come in many forms, but it must be studied and structured to reach its full potential. Eric's narrative reminds us that to thrive, we must be ready to work harder than anyone else, embracing education, expression, and excellence.

In the end, excellence is the pinnacle of translating education into impactful expression. It opens doors, creating opportunities that average performance cannot. Eric's journey is a testament to overcoming adversity, breaking barriers, and striving for greatness. His story encourages us to desire excellence, work diligently, and embrace learning as a lifelong pursuit.

Can Education Transform Your Life?

Pastor James Doggette once told Eric, "Good is good, but good is not great." Those words deeply resonated with him as he stood at a pivotal crossroads, preparing to leave Huntsville for Michigan State University. The transition was laden with uncertainty—there were no assurances of success or a community like the one he and his family had built before. Yet, Eric understood that staying stagnant was not an option; what doesn’t grow, dies.

Eric often reflects on how, in life, everything has an expiration date. Bread stales, milk sours, and what feels good in one chapter of life might not fulfill in the next. The dream he and his wife had nurtured in Huntsville was good, but he yearned for greatness. They knew they had to keep dreaming bigger, even if it meant risking comfort for the challenges of the unknown.

Athletes like Chris Paul served as an example to Eric. Constantly traded, Paul never grew complacent. Each move fueled his drive, pushing him to excel. It was a lesson Eric took to heart—embracing discomfort and using it to propel forward. Even legends like Michael Jordan created challenges to reach new heights, reminding Eric that greatness demands a relentless pursuit.

For Eric, embracing the unfamiliar was daunting, yet it became the most transformative place to be. Seeking new experiences cultivated his hunger for growth, and stepping out of his comfort zone was crucial. Discomfort, he realized, builds strength—just as tea releases its flavor in hot water.

Eric’s journey was far from easy. At MSU, despite his success in transforming student outreach, a sudden change in leadership jeopardized the program he had poured his heart into. Leaving became inevitable, but it granted him the freedom to chase greatness. Similarly, at the church he served, traditionalists resisted his modern approach, ultimately leading to his departure. Though painful, these moments proved to be necessary pivots.

Eric found solace in the biblical story of Joseph, who thrived despite adversity. Like Joseph, Eric embraced the shift from comfort to opportunity. Leaving the church marked a new beginning for him. With the support of a community that followed him out, he launched *A Place of Change*—a ministry that broke traditional molds and reached thousands globally.

Eric firmly believes that greatness isn’t effortless; it requires emotional upheaval and relentless pursuit. When faced with adversity, he chose elevation over defeat. Kobe Bryant’s words often echoed in his mind: "If you want to be great, you have to be obsessed with it." Eric understood that transitioning from good to great demanded embracing discomfort and pushing beyond mediocrity.

Ultimately, Eric’s journey taught him that greatness requires the courage to abandon predictability and stability in favor of growth. As Bryant urged, obsession fuels the path to excellence. Eric strives to always be where his feet are but never lets them remain static. He remains committed to pursuing greatness, allowing each step to define his path toward becoming his best self.

From Huntsville to Greatness: Embracing Change Like Chris Paul and Michael Jordan

Imagine stepping into a world without a guide, where every move is driven by instinct rather than strategy. That's how motivational speaker Eric Thomas began his journey—without a roadmap, just a passion for ministry and service. 

Eric didn't see his voice as a business, but rather as a gift that moved crowds and provoked thought. It took a chance encounter with CJ, a savvy entrepreneur, to realize the potential for financial gain. Together with Karl, a tech wizard from Barbados, they formed a team where each member brought their unique skills to the table: Eric was the voice, CJ the brain, and Karl the hands.

Their path was paved with trial and error, learning contracts, building websites, and establishing a brand. This scrappy approach led to unexpected success, like when NFL players and NBA coaches began calling after Eric's videos went viral. But they hadn't anticipated the wave of opportunities crashing in. Their growth was fueled by an unyielding desire to serve and inspire, even if it meant selling books from a car trunk.

Eric's journey teaches the importance of knowing your worth. Motivated by conversations with legends like Bob Proctor and Les Brown, he learned to value his difference and charge what he's worth. This shift allowed him to embrace his unique identity—a speaker who resonates with his audience because of shared struggles and triumphs.

Eric also discovered the power of forming a legacy. Through collaborations with successful mentors and friends, he saw the importance of leaving a lasting impact beyond financial wealth. His story is a testament to starting where you are, using what you have, and never losing sight of your purpose. The lesson is simple yet profound: Your voice is your business, and you owe it to yourself to be exactly who you are.

How Did Eric Thomas Transform His Voice into a Viral Legacy Inspiring NFL and NBA Giants?

Reflecting on personal growth, it's essential to recognize that each moment holds the potential for transformation. The journey to self-discovery is about embracing one's uniqueness and living authentically, rather than waiting for the perfect moment. 

We are the architects of our own destinies, capable of choosing between being a victim or a victor. Overcoming challenges requires taking ownership of one's life and shedding any victim mentality. The importance of support and genuine connections cannot be overstated, as they provide the foundation for growth and the strength to face adversity.

Recognizing one's superpower is crucial for unlocking purpose—it's about tuning into oneself and nurturing inherent gifts. This involves moving beyond conformity and embracing the uniqueness that defines us. Discovering your "why" propels life forward, providing motivation and shaping actions, ultimately contributing to a legacy. Education and knowledge are powerful tools that empower and drive excellence, allowing individuals to express themselves and make impactful contributions.

Growth demands stepping out of comfort zones, embracing discomfort, and relentlessly pursuing greatness. The transition from good to great requires courage and the willingness to abandon predictability for growth. Establishing a legacy involves valuing one's unique voice and embracing one's worth. This journey teaches us that our voice is integral to our identity, and we owe it to ourselves to live authentically and pursue our passions with intention.

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