What does “Make It Count” mean to you?

As a third year DECA member, I have had the opportunity to see three different DECA themes be used to motivate members to strive towards excellence.  In my freshman year, “Aspire Higher” taught me to go above and beyond my potential.  During my sophomore year, “Thrive” encouraged me to never settle for average.  However, in my opinion, the 2013-2014 theme is the most motivational theme yet!  “Make It Count” is the epitome of trying your hardest to live every opportunity to its fullest.  “Make It Count” extends itself beyond the realms of DECA and can be applied to any scenario in life.

          For those of you attending ICDC, think of this trip as the perfect way to MAKE IT COUNT.  In roughly one month, you will have the opportunity to compete against the top members in your event from all around the world.  Consider that an accomplishment of its own.  In your last chance to prove yourself worthy of a trophy, will you crack under pressure or MAKE IT COUNT?  Having first hand experience in winning first place in my event at ICDC, I know that the sense of accomplishment and pride is invaluable.  Work hard, and the results will reflect your effort.

          I like to think of MAKE IT COUNT as a reminder that there is a finite amount of time left for me in DECA.  Approaching my fourth and final year as a DECA member (high school DECA member at least!), I know that I only have one more chance to experience every DECA event.  Whether it be DECA month in November, Florida DECA CDC, or ICDC in Orlando, everything will be my last hurrah.  With only one more chance left, I know I have to MAKE IT COUNT in whatever I do.  MAKE IT COUNT should encourage you to think the same way and take advantage of all that DECA has to offer.

          So, Florida DECA, I challenge you to MAKE IT COUNT in the remainder of this year and in the future.  Seize every opportunity given and never take anything for granted.  When presented a task or chance, do everything in your power to MAKE IT COUNT.