You all running away from the obstacle when it’s the obstacle that will take you to the next level. ~Dr. Eric Thomas
The conceptual planning phase is over. I know what needs to be done. I defined the problem, and identified the operational variables that will impact the desired outcome. Now it’s time to move forward with the detailed planning phase. In other words, it’s time to set conditions for success. This will take analysis and a routine that includes checkpoints for accountability. I’ve heard 80% of new year resolutions fail. My assumption is that it’s because many of us fail to understand the work has to be consistent. It has to be the same frequency of brushing your teeth or taking a shower.
It’s been a tough couple of weeks getting back into the grind. Long days at work, more nights and weekends to follow. No worries, it’s what I train for. It’s why I get up at 0500hrs to put in work before the rest of my family starts their day. A power routine will set conditions for you to endure and to succeed. A growth mindset is a must have to compliment the rigor you put in each and every day so that you’re able to grow and to succeed. Hard work, a positive attitude, finding the ability to push through when there is no sign of comfort in sight builds character and reaching the finish line defines who you are, no matter the outcome.
Toughness of the heart is far more important than any physical advantage we may have.” ~Dr. Carol Dweck, Ph.D.
Laying the Foundation
Mental:
I began my mental growth this year with the book “Mindset: The New Psychology of Success” written by Dr. Carol S. Dweck, Ph.D. She outlines the pros of a positive mindset and cons of a negative mindset. Her examples range everywhere from relationships, to athletes, to academics, to parenting, and her research is very interesting. For example, I never knew overpraising your child can do more harm then good. It follows the adage hard work beats talent that doesn’t work hard. She profiles positive examples of what a growth mindset looks like in athletes like Michael Jordan and Muhammed Ali as well as coaches and educators like Marva Collins and John Wooden. Her research also takes us through the struggles of John McEnroe, Lee Iacocca, and Henry Ford. It was a great read to kickoff the new year and I hope it lays the foundation to build a more positive mindset moving forward.
You don’t become a failure until you start to blame.” ~John Wooden
Physical:
Up before dawn with four-miles under my belt before I have my first cup of coffee. I know that cardio and strength conditioning removes stress and provides enough resilience for me to face the day. Hitting the mats is also a form of physical therapy I still enjoy. Another goal I’ve added to the list is to stay alcohol-free for the month of January. No, I did not hit rock bottom; and no, I do not think alcohol is the devil. I decided to be spirit free because I’m curious to see how long I can keep going. I became a vegetarian in a similar fashion. I fully support having a drink with a friend or colleague in celebratory fashion, but do I need to have it added to my daily battle rhythm. We shall see, but nevertheless, I think a little detox never hurt anyone. I’ve done enough physical challenges and think it’s time to switch to a mental one.
Emotional:
Meditation, affirmation, reflection, repeat! Looking at everything holistically, I know values and propriety, help provide purpose, and purpose further strengthens resolve. I know there is a higher power out there. I’m actually an ordained minister under Universal Life Church. My philosophy is you get back what you put into the universe and as long as you are kind to your fellow man and do no harm, you will get what you deserve. So if your ever in need of a minister, hit me up, I’ll marry you. There is so much to be thankful for and that’s the reserve I need to focus on when times are not how I think they should be.
On the Horizon
While Claudia and I were home for the holidays, my beautiful wife was still on task. She found another property we are near closing the deal on. This acquisition will bring our company’s, Clas Capital, portfolio up to four properties, eight doors, and a whole lot of potential for future growth. In addition to being a successful house hunter, Claudia continues to share her knowledge on social media as she sharpens her skills in the real estate market. She has proved to be a true maverick in the real estate game and I’m gaining a ton of knowledge second hand. Our children have a great backbone for support and I’m sure their observations of what it means to grind will resonate and shape their perspective as they face challenges down the road.
People with a growth mindset know it takes time for potential to flower.” ~Dr. Carol Dweck, Ph.D.
Double Deuce
The holidays also remind me of not so settle times. Life is not always sunshine and rainbows. There are subtle triggers that bring us vets back to a dark place. A familiar void that reminds us of the friends and family we lost along the way. It’s not always crippling, or distinctive enough for others to notice what’s on our minds. It can come and go in a split second and suddenly you have feelings of grief and guilt that is unexplainable to the majority of the population. I know theses feelings are amplified for my brothers and sisters who have served and are still serving, so this year I began contributing to the Til Valhalla Project.
The Til Valhalla Project, in partnership with Mission 22, donate funds to reduce veteran suicide and honor those service members who have past. It’s been years since I’ve been in a combat zone, but every year that passes the memories and the emotions become stronger. I do not struggle with events from my past because they made me who I am and taught me how to appreciate what I have because it’s not permanent. However, if there is a way to help one of my fellow veterans stay in the fight and see each day as an opportunity to find a branch plan for inner peace and a regained sense of purpose I’m down to support. Remember the call to action for 2022: Smarter, Faster, Stronger, and Kinder. One team, one family!
~Doc