“If your bayonet breaks, strike with the stock; if the stock gives way, hit with your fists; if your fists are hurt, bite with your teeth.”
— General Dragomirov

I came across this quote while touring the National Museum of the Marine Corps on Officer Candidate School’s Family Day – the moment I finally got to reunite with my son.

He was 15 pounds lighter than when I last saw him … and 15 times happier that he was about to leave it all behind.

What this quote captures — and what the Marine Corps hammers into every candidate — is that you always have more to give than you think. One more push-up. One more sit-up. One more mile. The body quits long before the will does, if you train the will.

At the graduation ceremony, General Mahoney, Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, left the new officers with a single charge: be ready. Mentally. Emotionally. Physically. Because every day is an opportunity to sharpen your skills, deepen your excellence, and grow into the leader the mission requires.

Watching Judge earn the title Marine reminded me that this truth isn’t just for those in service.

It’s for all of us – in the boardroom, conference room, and in every moment we think we’ve hit our limit.

We haven’t – we still have more to give.