As I train with my Coach each day this week, it has become abundantly clear in my mind that simply working hard does not equal ultimate victory. My Coach, Justin Dees, is always about the business of instructing, encouraging, setting the bar and then he has the audacity to push me to failure. The whole time, he is emphasizing proper technique, stretch, contraction, numbers of reps and then reviewing the technique to be sure I understand it and what is expected “today.” I am participating in a process that will lead me to excellence. I must keep reminding myself that in order to win I have to be humble, submissive to the Master’s Hand and Voice, and willing to endure the process. It’s the only way to be able to visualize the “end game.”
I am participating in this process. My mind is totally wrapped up in learning and expending the effort. I am forever engaged, looking for any sight of the winner’s circle.
However, my participation in the best of processes does not guarantee a win! But, I am absolutely convinced that in order to win we must do more than dream about winning or hope that we will win…..We must PREPARE to win. You see, hope is not a strategy and it is essential that each of us establishes a strategy or plan to win. Also, quitting is not an option so once you are locked on the goal, there are no “off ramps.”
I and you must develop “3-D” vision (today, tomorrow, and ultimately) that forgets yesterday. Interestingly, my Coach Justin rarely talks in the past tense. He is always talking about what needs to be done and the possibilities that can be had with hard work and following, “THE STRATEGY.”
Just remember to do some brain work and heart work before you start. Decide that the fire that burns inside you is real and worth every ounce of effort that you will expend on the goal you will set.
This is our time! Nobody can take it away from us. But, we can give it away with self-elimination. Don’t just go through the motions of participation. Make “winning” the only thing that matters to you. Then, participation will be a daily joy.
Douglas E. Graham
Six Pack and Senior 