Life's a journey, and sometimes we're our own biggest roadblock. As men, we often find ourselves stuck in a rut, wondering if there's more to life than the daily grind. Well, I'm here to tell you that there absolutely is, and it all starts with three simple keys: choice, commitment, and practice.
The Power of Choice
Every great achievement begins with a decision. It's not about waiting for the perfect moment or for someone to hand you an opportunity. It's about making a conscious choice to pursue something better.
I recently had a conversation with motivational speaker and coach Tony Schmaltz, and he nailed it when he said, "You have to make the choice that that's what you want." Whether it's more money, a better relationship, or getting in shape, it all starts with you deciding that you want it.
Commitment: The Game-Changer
Now, here's where the rubber meets the road. Making a choice is easy. Sticking to it? That's where most of us falter. Commitment is what separates the dreamers from the achievers.
As Tony put it, "You have to commit to taking the actions necessary to get that desire." It's not about trying. In fact, let's scratch that word from our vocabulary right now. There is no try. You either do, or you don't.
Practice Makes Progress
Here's the part that trips up a lot of guys. We make a choice, we commit, and then we expect instant results. Sorry, fellas, it doesn't work that way. Success is a product of consistent practice.
Tony emphasized this point: "You have to practice, practice, practice everything it takes to hit that result." It's not about being perfect; it's about being persistent.
Breaking Down Barriers
Now, I know what some of you are thinking. "But Brent, I've tried before and failed." Well, let's address that mindset right now.
The Myth of Trying
Remember when I said we should scratch "try" from our vocabulary? Here's why. Trying is often just an excuse for not fully committing. As Tony explained, referencing the wisdom of Yoda and Werner Erhard, "There really is no such thing as trying."
When you say you'll "try" to do something, you're already giving yourself an out. You're not fully committing. So from now on, it's either "I will" or "I won't." No more middle ground.
Comfort Zone: The Silent Killer
One of the biggest barriers to personal growth is our addiction to comfort. We've become allergic to discomfort, and it's holding us back.
Tony shared a brilliant exercise he uses with his clients. He challenges them to walk up to five random people in a store and say, "I am Batman" (or Batwoman). Why? Because it pushes you out of your comfort zone and helps you stop worrying about what others think.
The Path Forward
So, where do we go from here? It's simple, but not easy:
- Make a choice: Decide what you want to improve in your life.
- Commit fully: No more "trying." You're either in or you're out.
- Practice consistently: Every day, take actions that move you closer to your goal.
Remember, personal development isn't about becoming someone you're not. It's about becoming the best version of yourself. It's about realizing that the "American Dream" sold to us isn't the end-all-be-all. There's so much more to life if we're willing to reach for it.
As men, we have the power to shape our destinies. We can break free from the cycle of mediocrity and live lives of purpose and fulfillment. But it all starts with a choice. Your choice.
So, what's it going to be? Are you ready to step up, commit, and practice your way to a better life? The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Take that step today.
