From Surviving 14 Gunshots To Thriving
Let's face it: entrepreneurship demands more than hard work; it requires resilience, adaptability, and a proactive mindset. On the Energize with Bram podcast, Derrick McManus exemplifies these qualities. Derrick's story is not just about survival, but about forging strength out of extreme adversity. It’s a tale that offers valuable lessons for entrepreneurs and anyone seeking to make a significant impact in their field.
An Extraordinary Encounter with Resilience
The episode kicks off with an introduction to Derrick, a former elite agent who survived being shot 14 times on active duty. Far from deterring him, this near-death experience fueled Derrick’s desire to return to the force after two years of intensive rehabilitation. His courage and tenacity shine through as he recounts his recovery journey and return to work, stronger and more determined than ever.
From the Police Force to the STAR Group
Before becoming a globally recognized speaker, Derrick served as a police officer for 42 years. He eventually joined the STAR Group—Special Task and Rescue—where he was trained in high-risk operations, counterterrorism, and other adrenaline-pumping tasks. Derrick shares how the unpredictable nature of his work taught him to prepare for the unexpected and adapt quickly, skills that are critical in both high-pressure policing and entrepreneurial ventures.
The Philosophy of Human Durability
Central to Derrick’s message is the concept of "human durability." Rather than striving for unsustainable peak performance, Derrick advocates for "optimal performance"—being your best in any given circumstance. This perspective encourages us to embrace our limitations, recognizing that perfection isn’t the goal; resilience and adaptability are.
Confronting Personal Demons and Finding Balance
Derrick's resilience was not limited to his professional life. He candidly discusses how the emotional trauma of his divorce surpassed even the physical trauma of being shot. Through this personal challenge, Derrick learned the importance of acknowledging and preparing for emotional upheavals, advocating for open, honest communication with oneself and others to better navigate life's hurdles.
Planning for the Unpredictable
One of the most profound takeaways from Derrick's story is the importance of pre-emptive planning and communication. In his personal and professional life, Derrick embraced open conversations about worst-case scenarios, ensuring that he and his loved ones were prepared for any outcome. This proactive approach is something entrepreneurs can adopt when preparing for the unpredictabilities of business.
Living Passionately and Embracing Opportunities
Today, Derrick is not only an engaging speaker but an athlete, representing Australia in competitive triathlons at the age of 66. He teaches that age and adversity are no barriers to pursuing passion and achieving greatness. His optimistic outlook encourages us all to find joy and seize the opportunities life presents, no matter our circumstances.
Conclusion: A Mindset of Success
Derrick McManus inspires us to cultivate a mindset that combines resilience, optimism, and proactive planning. His journey from policing to motivational speaking underscores the power of self-trust and the ability to thrive—even in the toughest circumstances.
As Derrick prepares for exciting speaking engagements, sharing his insights with global audiences, his message remains clear: Trust yourself, pursue your passion, and embrace every challenge as an opportunity for growth.
To learn more about Derrick and his work, connect with him on LinkedIn or any speaking bureaus listing his engagements. Whether it's through personal interaction or public speaking, Derrick's experiences and philosophy offer invaluable lessons for all of us striving to balance personal fulfillment with professional excellence.
