The Mind is Primary
Life is unpredictable. We try to predict outcomes but these are, at best, probabilities. More often than not, the biggest challenge is sitting between our two ears. Our mind is a powerful thing. The stories we tell ourselves and the things we believe about ourselves can prevent change. We must understand that our talents and abilities can be developed through effort, good teaching and persistence.
Many walk into our doors scared or nervous because they hear about “the workouts.” To be honest, it’s not the workouts. It’s the process and exploration of your level of effort that makes things hard. With the right Mindset your perspective can change and you’ll turn a difficult challenge into a positive.
Changing your mindset is about framing unexpected problems as opportunities. Jocko Willink does an excellent job discussing this in his video “GOOD” . This video reminds me of how the obstacle is the way. It’s not something in the way. It literally is the way. It’s only by fighting through and embracing discomfort that you can become a better version of yourself. To me, embracing this philosophy of “good” makes me immune to failures and setbacks. No matter what obstacles I face, there is some way to frame it as a “good” thing…
Your life was turned upside down? Good. The universe forced you to make a change you were to scared too .
Friends have become strangers? Good. You now know who are real friends.
You left the gym feeling defeated? Good. Don’t underestimate the workout again. Make sure you put forth max effort next time.
You got hurt before your big race? Good. Train smarter next time.
I particularly like Jocko’s philosophy of “Good” because it gives you nowhere to hide. You can’t churn out excuses, voice complaints, or bitch about how things are unfair. You just have to look misfortune in the face, declare it to be “good”, and use it as an opportunity to grow.
You have to change your mindset. Stop making excuses. Excuses are lies, and they’re the center piece of failure. The ability to look at a failure, call it “good”, and use it as an opportunity to learn and grow, is an underrated skill that most people don’t possess.
So for 2020, next time something goes wrong in your life just say… GOOD! Look at the outcome as an OPPORTUNITY to learn and get better. Do not put your head down, complain, and look for your safe space. The choice is completely yours.
Don’t be a little bitch,*
Ruben Belliard
TTL/Chief Ass Kicker
*for the snowflakes that may get offended – unsubscribe
