Being Useful: Reflections on Service, Growth, Purpose and Tait Fletcher
During a conversation with Mr. Harry Shaw, I referenced an incredible talk that Tait Fletcher delivered at Summer Strong, a gathering where passionate individuals come together to celebrate strength and performance. Tait’s speech wasn’t just about physical strength or athletic achievement, it was about the deeper meaning of being useful and living a life of service.
Tait shared the story of a man whose defining characteristic was his unwavering usefulness to the people around him. He was a problem-solver, a contributor, and a vital part of the group’s forward progress. Tait highlighted this man as someone who exemplified the kind of legacy he wanted to leave behind. He wasn’t just “there” in life, he was actively supporting and improving the lives of those around him.
What It Means to Be Useful
Tait’s words resonated deeply with me, particularly his desire to be remembered as someone who was of service to his fellow man. This is about more than simply existing or going through the motions of life, it’s about providing value to others, helping them become the best versions of themselves, and pushing the group forward as a collective.
In today’s world, where it’s easy to become self-absorbed or distracted by personal struggles, this concept of usefulness feels especially important. We’ve all had those existential moments where we stop and ask, “What am I doing here? Is this even making a difference?” I’ve had those moments myself, questioning whether my work was truly helping anyone or if it was just spinning wheels.
But Tait’s perspective reframes those doubts. The question isn’t whether your contribution is perfect or earth-shattering - it’s whether you’re genuinely trying to improve the lives of those around you. Being useful isn’t about achieving some grand, unattainable ideal. It’s about consistently showing up, solving problems, and being someone others can rely on.
Beyond Being a Simple Man
In his talk, Tait pushed past the idea of being a “simple man.” While simplicity has its virtues, being useful requires intentionality, effort, and action. It’s about asking yourself tough questions:
Am I providing value to those around me?
Am I helping others become the best versions of themselves?
Am I contributing to the growth and forward momentum of the group I belong to?
These aren’t easy questions to answer, but they’re essential if you want to live a life of purpose.
Living with Purpose and Service
Reflecting on Tait’s talk, I see how being useful isn’t just a mindset, it’s a practice. It’s about looking outward instead of inward, recognizing where you can help others, and committing to the hard work of showing up for your community.
This doesn’t mean you ignore your own needs or struggles. It’s about finding balance: taking care of yourself so you can be of service to others. Whether that’s through mentoring, teaching, supporting a friend, or even just lending a hand when someone needs it, usefulness is a ripple effect.
Leaving a Legacy
Ultimately, Tait’s message at Summer Strong is a powerful reminder that the greatest measure of a life well-lived is the impact you have on others. Strength, success, and personal growth are important, but they mean little if they aren’t accompanied by a willingness to serve
John Welbourn is Founder/CEO of Power Athlete Inc and former NFL player. John was drafted with the 97th pick in 1999 NFL Draft and went on to be a starter for the Philadelphia Eagles from 1999-2003, appearing in 3 NFC Championship games, and started for the Kansas City Chiefs from 2004-2007. In 2008, he played with the New England Patriots until an injury ended his season early with him retiring in 2009. Over the course of his NFL career, John started over 100 games regular season games with 10 play-off appearances. He was a four-year letterman while playing football at the University of California at Berkeley. He graduated from the college of letters and sciences with a bachelor's degree in Rhetoric in 1998. And did his Masters work at the UC Berkeley School of Education in 1999. Since retiring from the NFL, John has worked extensively with the NFL, NHL, MLB, Olympic athletes, the US Army and Naval Special Warfare. He works as a consultant and advisor for several companies focused on improving human performance through training, nutrition and fitness-based technologies. John provides daily coaching and mentorship to over 5000 athletes around the world through his Power Athlete Coaches Network and training program delivery platform. Since in 2013, John has hosted a weekly podcast, Power Athlete Radio; a podcast dedicated to improving performance and connecting with some of the smartest people on the planet. With more than 700 episodes Power Athlete Radio has proven to be on the top podcasts in the strength and conditioning realm. John travels the world lecturing on performance and nutrition for Power Athlete and as a keynote speaker. John is a married father of three and resides in Austin, Texas. You can catch up with him at his personal blog, “Talk To Me Johnnie”, at Power Athlete or on social media @johnwelbourn.