More often than we like to admit, we engage in a process of “Pollyannaism” when we really want something of value for ourselves or those we love. Sometimes, it’s not so much a physical object to possess as it is an occurrence or an event that will benefit ourselves or those we love. In either case, we wile the time away “HOPING” that all will go well without raising a finger to effect the outcome. We substitute “HOPE” for “ACTION”. We also ignore the formulation of a “STRATEGY” to get what we most desperately desire.
There is nothing morally wrong with “HOPING” for good things. We all do that. But, we have to take our desires and “HOPES” and put legs on them. We have to push our ideas onto the drawing board, then the practice field, and then onto the playing field of life. “HOPE” is only the beginning. It is exciting and it helps us to define precisely what it is we want, to imagine what we would do with the thing we are “HOPING” for once we have attained it. In short, “HOPE” is the product of a dream but it is NOT an “ACTION” or a “STRATEGY” to get that which we “HOPE” for.
In bodybuilding, the sequence of events to get that which we seek is like this:
1.) Something ignites a dream. We spend much time thinking about having the dream become real and how this would impact me and my circumstances. Dreaming is a blast but in the end, dreams cannot satisfy.
2.) We then have to determine whether the dream is possible and worth having. At this stage we hold the dream up for scrutiny from many perspectives. There has to be the ability to actually see ourselves attaining the dream and a shift from just thinking and dreaming to “believing” it is possible to have our dream.
3.) Once we have decided that the dream is possible and worth having and that we have it within ourselves to attain or possess the dream, a plan or strategy must develop that we believe in and that takes us to our goal. At this point, though we don’t have our plan totally worked out, we have a perception that all is possible.
4.) Putting pen to paper is next up. The “STRATEGY” to get what we want has to take shape right before our eyes on a two dimensional surface. We have to be able to take what we believe to be true and paint a picture of the path forward. By doing this the dream comes alive. The written “STRATEGY” will cause us to consider all that is possible on our trek, both good and bad. Each step is put onto paper with an eye toward winning. Each stroke of our pen brings our dream into sharper focus. We have taken “HOPE” and given it a face, and a direction in the form of a “STRATEGY.”
5.) “HOPE” that once only existed in our “DREAMS” now must be launched. We take down our written “STRATEGY” and we start at the beginning. Each phase of the plan has to be executed as written to obtain the necessary results. This strategy is unwavering until it is proven that a change of course or a change of methodology is required. Execution is the name of this stage for their will be “NO” winning without it. Eventually, all strategies must be put into play, to be tested, to be modified, to be pushed to perfection which can only occur by execution of the strategy. Tireless and relentless repetition of the plan in a seemingly never ending sequence of practice, assessment, and correction will yield the needed skills to win.
6.) Lastly, “HOPE” will inevitably give way to setting foot on the field or stage of contest. No longer will “HOPE” be inoperable. “HOPE” now lives and is ready for the final test and the final attainment. It takes courage and a sense that all is possible. As you stand at the foot of the stairs awaiting the call to the stage to perform, take a deep breath and be confident in the knowledge that your “DREAM” is about to come to life for you. This is your moment and nobody can take it away from you! When you hear your name called, bound up those stairs and give ’em both barrels. THIS IS YOUR TIME!
Footnote: “Now faith is the substance of things “HOPED” for, the evidence of things not seen.”—-Now that you have arrived you now can see the things that were previously not seen.
Six Pack and Senior 