Think like a shark, act like a 5-year old

What comes to mind when you hear the word "shark?" For many of us, images reminiscent of a scene from Jaws immediately pop into mind. We've all heard stories of attacks on the beach and we shy away from vacations to Mexico to swim with the sharks. They're scary creatures. However, knowing what they're capable of, have you ever tried to go beyond their actions and get inside their minds? How does a shark think?

I'm not a marine biologist or zoologist, but I've learned a few things about sharks. They're very intriguing to me because they're confident with who they are. They know what they were created for and use all of their God-given abilities to fulfill that purpose. They are the top of the food chain, so they need to be most efficient in moving through the water stalking their prey. They need to hunt and eat. Sharks clearly understand what they're capable of and use their strengths to their advantage. They never stop moving forward throughout their entire lives.

Unlike dolphins, sharks don't use sonar. Instead they use an acute sense of smell and an unmatched electrical sensitivity. They pick up on the tiny electrical charges a potential morsel makes when it flexes its muscles. They have the ability to determine the electromagnetic fields that all living things produce. This allows them to find prey hidden in sand. Also, using their sense of smell, they can hunt creatures that are vulnerable. Think of the phrase, "smelling blood." This refers to a shark knowing when best to attack. They're smart and wise.

In addition, sharks are covered with skin that keeps pesky particles away and allows them to move quickly through the water. Their covering of dermal denticles protect their skin from damage and parasites and improves fluid dynamics so it can move faster. When they make up their mind, they won't be denied. They are the ultimate predators. They may have small brains, but have great problem solving skills, social skills and curiosity. They do precisely what they're created to do; they do it well and they do it with confidence.

In terms of actions, a 5-year old is a stark contrast to a shark. Instead of attacking and devouring, he/she collaborates and looks for the next adventure that will provide the most excitement and fun. They never take themselves too seriously. In the movie Uncle Buck, John Candy applauds the attitude of his 5-year old niece as a "silly heart."

5-year old kids thoroughly enjoy life because their minds have yet to be fogged by life. They demonstrate an innate reverence of God, loyalty to family, compassion towards others and an admirable zest for life. How many five year old kids look forward to nap time or bed time (contrary to adults)? They're too busy enjoying life.

Sharks and 5-year old kids are at the opposite end of the spectrum when it comes to each ones thought process and behavior. However, if we can learn to adapt parts of each, we'll begin enjoying life much more and finding more success in all areas of our life.

Think like a shark, act like a 5-year old.