Boy! This is a maxim that we cannot step around. Try to recall the last time you had to step out in faith with only a vision or a personal intuition to take the next step forward. I’m betting none of us wants to repeat this situation but, none of us would trade anything for the wisdom that we gained in the effort. In fact, the life we lead today is a direct reflection of confidence we garnered as we passed through these moments of continuing toward our stated goals despite not having all the pieces of the puzzle in place. Today we have personal self-assurance that we can make hard decisions and be successful.
My coach, Justin Dees exasperatingly admonished me to: “not just talk about what I need to do but to do it.” Believe me, he was pushing me to do better and to stick to the program he outlined for me. He was really saying that there isn’t always a clear path forward but you have to use what you know (that which Justin has taught me) and move out. Take that step of courage and determination to push through my stagnant state and be the person he knows I can be. I made a verbal commitment to up my game and prove I can do what I have been taught rather than just talk. I needed to instantly develop a self-confidence to push on and to win.
MY NEW LIFE
My “NEW LIFE” in bodybuilding was born. I was pushed beyond my mediocre effort to a new level of concentration. This “NEW LIFE” and its new trajectory has made getting up everyday worth it. I have an old saying, “I can’t wait for dawn, my training clothes are waiting.” I awaken each morning looking forward to the grind in the gym and the requisite time on the elliptical machine with super human anticipation. Justin’s admonition is still bearing fruit. My body is responding in ways I could not have ever imagined by responding to “LIFE” elevated and the encouragement from my great coach.
LESSONS AND RESULTS
Confidence, self esteem, courage, and power to master our lives beyond that which is familiar and comfortable. I think the key to all these great and wonderful attributes of a life lived on the edge requires that all of us are willing to walk up to the decision point that requires us to step out in faith even when all is not perfect. If we remain in our “COMFORT ZONE” we cheat ourselves out of victory that propels us to greater things. If we go beyond the “COMFORT ZONE” we will learn and we will have the greatest opportunity for success.
In closing, all of us need to be aware of our own risk aversion. We have to spend some time understanding the things that hold us back from being better and that stall us out in our progress. We have to learn to identify that point in our progress that will require something beyond that which we posses or holds us back. When we reach this point we have to be thoughtful and courageous to reach out grab the “BEGINNING OF OUR NEW LIVES” because we dared to move out and “LIVE.”
Until next time I remain, Douglas E. Graham, Lt Col, USAF, (ret), MHSM
Six Pack and Senior 