This weeks article, Ed tells the inspiring story of Jose M. Hernandez, who overcame numerous challenges to become an astronaut. Born in 1962 to a family of Mexican migrant farmworkers, Hernandez spent his childhood moving between California and Mexico, working in the fields alongside his family. Despite the hardships, including language barriers and constant relocations, he developed a passion for science and mathematics. Encouraged by a teacher, he pursued higher education, earning a degree in electrical engineering and later a master’s degree.
Hernandez’s career included important contributions to medical technology, such as developing a system for early breast cancer detection. He faced significant setbacks in his pursuit of becoming an astronaut, applying to NASA’s program 11 times before finally being selected in 2004. He flew on the Space Shuttle mission STS-128 in 2009, spending 13 days in space.
In addition to his NASA career, Hernandez ran for Congress in 2012, authored books, and founded a consulting company. His life story was turned into a movie, A Million Miles Away, which highlights his perseverance, the support of his family, and his faith.
The article also shares five practical life lessons Hernandez’s father taught him, which align with the Goal Driven System and goal-setting principles:
- Find your goal or purpose.
- Acknowledge your progress.
- Create a roadmap to reach your goal.
- Learn and prepare for challenges.
- Work harder once you think you’ve made it.
These lessons, rooted in perseverance and preparation, are applicable to anyone pursuing significant goals.