I would call this, “Kicking it into Overdrive” or “Turning on the Afterburners”
Life does not have to be lived according to the dictates of others, especially those that wish us bad tidings. We have the choice to “Live beyond mediocrity rather than live below the level of mediocrity.” We, myself included, must be able to focus on what we want and generate the energy to go get it. There is a fire inside us that wants us to out perform anybody who says we can’t do it or to beat anybody who is contending for the same goal as we seek.
As I take this quote from Arnold apart, it is painfully obvious that we have to place inside our hearts, minds, and soul that we resolve to not settle for something less than what we want. We have to get up every morning with the thought that this is the day that I will win. This is the day . that will define me as a winner.
When I was a young Navy Hospital Corpsman and I thought I knew what I was talking about, I was cornered by a Navy Chief Warrant Officer who had fought in World War II and was somewhat of a hero. When I told him that my brother was a Marine he put his finger in my chest and said, “Your brother is a Marine. He and you should be so excited about getting out there every morning to do your job that by the time you finished shaving you ought to kick the bathroom door down to get out there to do your job.” That’s the image of a Marine that I’ve kept inside my mind ever since that lecture, way back in 1971. This is the same image I reach for when I want to accomplish something. I ought to tear down any obstacle in my way to get out there and prep for my show.
Bodybuilding is made up of the mundane and the excitement required to “get it down.” I have to keep my eyes on the trophy to be had to drive me forward, to win, and to claim victory. It is very important to stay “hungry” and to push ourselves forward. There are so many goals and objectives to accomplish. Each one has to be approached with the same degree of urgency and confidence.
In closing. It is imperative that we develop an attitude that longs to be a winner, participate in life with an eye toward the goal(s) I’ve set before my own eyes. I choose to be a bodybuilder that anticipates winning and conquering my opponents. All of us need (not want) a mindset that puts us in the driver seat. We should not want to be prepping for contests or living our lives at the mercy of somebody else. This is my life and I choose to drive my own ambition according my own desires. Go for it! Do not let somebody else dictate what and how we do anything.
Until next time, I remain, Douglas E. Graham, Lt Col, USAF, (ret), MHSM
Six Pack and Senior 