Least Likely to Succeed - by Milton Ford Wright (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

I was voted "Least Likely to Succeed" by my high school. When my daughters and son heard about this, they were angry. But I explained that this prediction, albeit mean, was what motivated me to disprove my school's expectations. I certainly would not recommend imposing this negative prediction on students to motivate them. I understood that not everyone would use it as a challenge as I did and the impact could be very damaging. Back then, there wasn't as much focus on positive reinforcement and self-esteem. In those times, everyone had to have a very thick skin. Sensitivity could cost you your life, as keeping your emotions in check was critical to coexist with White America as an ADOS (American Descendant of Slavery) in the Jim Crow south. I consider it a badge of honor that not only have I been successful in life both personally and professionally but that I made it against all odds despite being grossly underestimated by my educators. Success is always sweeter for the underdog.