Become the CEO of Your Life

Don't let a criminal conviction define your future. Make decisions to show that you've worked to make amends, and use the time to create opportunities to succeed. During the 26 years I served inside, I learned from leaders. They taught me how to transform challenges into opportunities. Start by defining what you want to achieve, and then build your path.

In my case, I start with focus on earning academic credentials, contributing to society, and building support networks. I had a disciplined routine, and build a mindset that focused on personal accountability. I share lessons I learned with hopes of helping others chart a path toward the highest level of liberty at the soonest possible time.

When teaching others in prison, I encourage them to think of McDonald’s cheeseburgers. Most of us wouldn't call them the best burgers in the world, but they’re undeniably the best-selling burgers.

Why?

McDonald’s focused not on being the best in subjective taste but on achieving results. That mindset helps a person adapt. Ask:

• How can I work toward the highest level of liberty at the soonest possible time?

Understanding the System and Taking Ownership

The criminal justice system is like a vast, inflexible bureaucracy governed by policies, processes, and rules designed to preserve itself. It’s not inherently designed to help people succeed. Staff will frequently say that their primary concern is the custody and security of the institution, not the individual. While living in that system, expect obstacles. It's each individual's job to focus on results—on achieving the best outcome for yourself, no matter the challenges.

One of the biggest mistakes people make when facing incarceration is outsourcing control of their future. They rely on an attorney or passively accept decisions that others make. This approach doesn't lead to strength or confidence. If you relinquish control, you risk becoming a puppet in a system that prioritizes its own efficiency over your well-being.

Become the CEO of your life by owning your decisions, your time, and your future. This means:

• Building a Plan: Clearly define your goals and outline actionable steps to achieve them.
• Setting Priorities: Focus on what’s within your control and what will move you closer to your objectives.
• Developing Resources: Leverage tools, education, and relationships that align with your goals.
• Measuring Progress: Regularly evaluate your progress and make adjustments as needed.

These principles don’t just apply to navigating prison; they apply to navigating every challenge life throws at you.

Build Assets

One critical aspect of succeeding in the justice system is showcasing personal growth and transformation. While your past may have led to where you are today, your focus must shift to what you’re building now and how you’re preparing for the future. This effort can create leverage when advocating for clemency, reductions in sentences, or higher levels of liberty.

Unfortunately, many people focus too much on their pre-incarceration lives, thinking their past accomplishments will carry weight. While those achievements are significant, stakeholders will argue they were already considered during sentencing. Instead, shift your focus to these questions:

• What am I doing today to demonstrate I’m becoming a better person?
• How am I using my time in a productive and meaningful way?
• What skills, habits, and knowledge am I building to prepare for success upon release?

Do not underestimate the importance of documenting your progress. Write about your experiences, participate in programs, create a record of your education, and showcase your transformation. At Prison Professors, we’ve developed tools like the Prison Professors Talent. It allows people to build a Profile to advocate for themselves. They should publish their accomplishments and build a strong record showing how they've been preparing for success upon release.

Overcoming Challenges

Prison is a challenging environment, and success doesn’t happen by accident. Resources are limited, opportunities are scarce, and the system often penalizes those who strive for more. Factors like lockdowns, restricted access to education, and lack of family support can make growth feel nearly impossible. Yet, it’s precisely in this environment that resilience and strategic thinking matter most.

Here are some steps to help you overcome these challenges:

1. Develop a Resilient Mindset: Accept that obstacles are inevitable, but they can be overcome with persistence and determination.
2. Focus on Self-Reliance: Don’t wait for the system to help you; take the initiative to seek out knowledge and build skills.
3. Leverage Available Resources: While options may be limited, use every tool at your disposal, such as books, correspondence courses, or support from nonprofits like Prison Professors.
4. Build a Support Network: Relationships matter. Reach out to mentors, family members, and advocates who can assist you in your efforts to prepare for success.

During the time I served, I learned that the system isn’t designed to promote success. By taking ownership of my path, I could advance toward the goals I set. Like anyone, I could earn multiple degrees, publish books, and establish relationships with leaders and mentors who supported my vision. This approach allowed me to emerge stronger, more prepared, and equipped to lead a productive life.

Personal Leadership

One of the most valuable lessons I learned in prison was to think like a leader—even when I had no control over my physical circumstances. Leadership starts with a vision. Ask yourself, “What kind of life do I want to live after this experience?”  Then create a step-by-step plan to get there.

Here’s a simple framework to guide your leadership:

1. Vision: Define your long-term goals. Where do you see yourself in 5, 10, or 20 years?
2. Plan: Break down your vision into smaller, actionable steps. What can you do today to move closer to your goals?
3. Execution: Take deliberate action every day, even when it feels like progress is slow.
4. Adaptation: Be prepared to adjust your plan when new obstacles arise.
5. Accountability: Track your progress and hold yourself responsible for staying on course.

By focusing on these principles, you take charge of your future and position yourself as a worthy candidate for opportunities like reduced sentences, clemency, or post-release success.

Our nonprofit focuses on creating tools that empower you to:

• Build your personal profile and showcase your growth.
• Learn essential skills through free downloadable content and video courses.
• Access books and materials that inspire transformation.

If you can’t afford to purchase books, we also offer scholarships to ensure everyone has access to the tools they need. Our vision is to create a system where merit and personal transformation are rewarded, allowing individuals to regain their freedom and contribute positively to society.

Closing Thoughts

By becoming the CEO of your life, you take control of your future, create opportunities where none seem to exist, and position yourself for success beyond incarceration. Use our free resources, publish your profile on Prison Professors Talent, and start demonstrating your transformation today. Remember, your future is in your hands, and real change begins with a single, intentional step.

Stay strong, stay focused, and never stop building.

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