THE COFFEE BEAN by: Jon Gordon and Damon West

Summary

Damon West shares his powerful story of transformation from a meth addict and convicted criminal to a motivational speaker. He recounts his arrest and life sentence, his mother's advice, and how he learned critical life lessons while in prison, notably through an analogy about a coffee bean. West explains that like a coffee bean, we have the power to transform our environment, emphasizing the importance of mental, physical, and spiritual health, servant leadership, and personal accountability. His message is one of hope, resilience, and the ability to change, no matter the circumstances.

Takeaways

• 😀 Damon West shares his transformation story, starting from a meth addict to a motivational speaker and author.
• 😀 His turning point came after being sentenced to 65 years in prison, which led him to reevaluate his life choices.
• 😀 Damon was inspired by a message from Mr. Jackson in prison, using the analogy of a carrot, egg, and coffee bean to explain how one can react to adversity.
• 😀 The carrot symbolizes people who become soft and broken by their environment, while the egg represents those who become hard and closed off.
• 😀 The coffee bean, however, symbolizes those who change their environment for the better, bringing positivity and energy wherever they go.
• 😀 Damon chose to be the coffee bean, applying lessons of positivity and energy to survive in prison and later to rebuild his life.
• 😀 The key to survival in prison and life, according to Damon, is daily work on mental, spiritual, and physical well-being.
• 😀 Serving others and practicing servant leadership is the secret to life—helping others achieve their goals helps you grow as well.
• 😀 The four things we control in life are our thoughts, words, feelings, and actions. These elements shape our life experience.
• 😀 Damon emphasizes that our past does not define us. Everyone has the power to change, regardless of their previous mistakes.
• 😀 The most powerful action one can take is to smile and maintain a positive body language, as it attracts similar energy from others.
• 😀 Damon concludes with a motivational call to action: 'If it is to be, it is up to me,' encouraging people to take control of their own destiny.

Q & A

What is the significance of the coffee bean in Damon West's story?

The coffee bean represents the power of positivity and transformation. Just like a coffee bean changes its environment when placed in boiling water, a person can change their surroundings and the energy around them through their mindset and actions.

How did Damon West end up in prison?

Damon West ended up in prison after being involved in a series of burglaries to feed his meth addiction. He was arrested and sentenced to 65 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

What role did Mr. Jackson play in Damon West's transformation?

Mr. Jackson, an experienced prisoner, taught Damon West about the metaphor of the carrot, egg, and coffee bean. He helped Damon realize that, like a coffee bean, he could change the environment around him and survive prison by maintaining a positive attitude and energy.

What does Damon mean by 'servant leadership'?

Servant leadership, according to Damon, is about helping others achieve their goals and raising them up. It's a selfless approach where you focus on serving others, which in turn leads to personal growth and fulfillment.

What are the four things Damon believes everyone can control in life?

Damon believes that everyone controls four things in life: what you think, what you say, what you feel, and what you do. These are the key aspects of your mindset and behavior that shape your life.

How does Damon describe the importance of body language and energy?

Damon emphasizes that body language, including a smile, plays a crucial role in creating positive energy. It’s impossible to be negative when you’re smiling, and your energy will attract others who radiate positivity as well.

What lesson did Damon learn about the power of positivity in prison?

Damon learned that having a positive mindset and energy could transform even the most challenging environments. By adopting the coffee bean mentality, he was able to change the atmosphere around him and find support from others who shared the same positive energy.

What is the significance of the phrase 'If it is to be, it is up to me'?

This phrase represents personal responsibility and empowerment. It is a reminder that you are the only person who can shape your future and overcome challenges. It reinforces the idea that you control your destiny.

What is Damon West's call to action for his audience?

Damon's call to action is for everyone to become a coffee bean—to adopt a positive mindset, to be a change agent in their environment, and to help others while maintaining positivity, regardless of the circumstances.

How did Damon West's past influence his message in the video?

Damon’s past, filled with addiction and prison time, serves as the foundation for his message of hope and redemption. His transformation from a convicted criminal to a motivational speaker highlights the power of change and the importance of personal growth.