Overcoming all that others have planned for us is a daunting task. But, if we are to be better or different we have to dream, think, pray, and act on our own vision of ourselves.
Respect is what drives most of us guys to be the best at what we do. There is a high probability that a guy will live down to the expectations that has been given him, Or, conversely he will live up to the expectations that have been programmed into him from his earliest years. We guys are weird creatures and each of us is as different as snowflakes. However, there is a shared deep seated desire or requirement for guys to exist and advance. “HE MUST FEEL LIKE HE IS RESPECTED.” But, we all soon learn that respect must be won and it will never be just handed to us.
In bodybuilding as in life you start at the bottom and you begin the journey to the top. Nobody really sees who you are nor do they care. It’s at this stage of development that we must be well thought of by our trainers, or colleagues, our training partners, our families. We desperately want bodybuilding to be our reason and method to reach our goals and hopefully some respect. We choose bodybuilding because it provides a clear cut way forward but many people do not see it that way. They ridicule our efforts and down play our accomplishments even though they themselves have never attempted anything in the sport. All of us needs to have people around us that encourage us.
Respect in bodybuilding comes on a day by day, hour by hour basis. Initially, we are focused but we do not yet have the experience to accomplish anything. It’s the daily grind, that teaches the way to grow bigger, improve our stamina, define the physique we want.
Respect comes when the same people who disrespected us stop talking. Bad mouthing us ceases. I’ve often said that the best compliments are the ones that are unsolicited from others. That’s how you know the compliment is real and probably heartfelt. We must work hard with no thought of reward and no expectation that we will be singled out for praise. Our work ethic and character is being forged in the fire of effort and pain.
Slowly, we are changing into a person that our friends and family never envisioned us to become. Respect has been attained. This is the world we have chosen. This is ours and all the accomplishments and great results belong to us. Whatever others thought of us or predicted for us is no longer operative. We are different as bodybuilders and I’m betting that most people who saw us grow up never dreamed this was a possibility.
Bottom Line: We have done well “DANIELSON” (Mr. Miagi from Karate Kid) but it’s not what people thought. Nice work guys! Keep going.
At Home Post Training 
2016 After Nationals 
2018 at VASA 
2016 Before Viking Classic
Six Pack and Senior 