As I get older (and I’m so damned old that you can find my fingerprints on the Rosetta Stone) I have to pursue all that I do with an eye toward winning and not just participating. My philosophy is, “Why do it if you don’t want the best?” I make no excuses for my age. I am a “singularity.” I am here and I must be dealt with according to the rules of the game without regard to age or infirmities.
Too often all of us has a crisis of faith in ourselves and we do about three things to feel/be better; 1.) We have a ready made convenient excuse that will explain our failure to win or to at least be ready. 2.) We quit and then we submit a ready made excuse to save face. 3.) We look around. Decide we are capable and get our asses in the game.
Next up for the geriatric bodybuilder are 4 shows in 2022. Oh, I am aware of the wear and tear on my body and my wallet that will be wrought. But, I do it just to know that “I AM STILL IN CHARGE.” For me it’s all about self-mastery. Deciding what to do and then planning to accomplish my goals, sticking to the plan, and winning (finishing the course).
Face it gang! We all have things we want to do so now is the time to get started. I recall a conversation I was having with a good friend of mine, Doug Andrewski, who puts on the “Titan Championships” bodybuilding contest in Wisconsin every year. I said out loud, “I wish I had started competing when I was much younger!” Doug Came back with the greatest piece of wisdom I have ever heard. He said, “Look Doug (me) all we have is today AND you have a ton of potential.” This bit of advice and perspective took me by storm. I have been forever grateful to Doug Andrewski for this quip. Since then, I have forgotten about my years. Instead, I focus like I always have on just improving and being my best. I’m still here guys!!
To all the other guys who worry that they are too old to set massive goals in bodybuilding I say, “GET YOUR ASSES IN THE GAME.” Nobody is going to do it for you. It’s your call to either sit out or get onto the field of contest. Besides, I love seeing my old muscle head friends on stage. Also, you will probably add a few more years to your life! As a bonus, your wife gets the best of you.
In closing remember Doug Andrewski’s admonition, “Look! All we have is today AND all of us has tons of potential.” See you in the gym or on stage…..Your geriatric traveling companion…..Doug Graham
Six Pack and Senior 