It might have been the perfect day at the pool. The temperature was in the mid 80’s, the sun was warm on her skin yet there was a touch of perfect coolness in the air. “I wish every day could be this good” she thought to herself. When she breathed in she smelled the sweetness of Honeysuckle, the kind that takes you back to when you were a kid on an amazing summer day. Her friends were all there too, laughing and taking turns sharing tidbits of their lives with each other. One of those little waterfalls was alive with the sounds of cascading water nearby and the husbands and boyfriends were all laughing and hanging out by the grill.
As she lay there stretched out on the lounge chair, she remembered spending nearly a whole Saturday at Stonebriar Mall shopping for a bikini. Luckily she had found the perfect one. Black, tasteful and super cute, it fit her better than she remembers them fitting back in the 80’s. The bikini might be better today than back then, but as she flips through her playlists on her iPhone, she stops on the 80’s music she has downloaded and begins to tap her fingers to Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey.
“Perfect!” she thought.
Then the alarm went off. Slowly she rolled over and hit the snooze button as she does every morning. In her mind it’s just another day of stress just waiting to happen. Soon she will be up and trying like mad to get the kids to wake up. No real time for a healthy breakfast, she knows that there will be a donut (or three) along with a cup of coffee (or three) waiting for her at work. After avoiding the mirror while getting in the shower, she reluctantly searches through her closet for the one outfit that will make her “look” thinner, even though she knows she simply isn’t. Truth is, she hasn’t been thin for long time now.
Today she feels terrible. She may have a smile on the outside, at times, but on the inside, she’s depressed and hates what she looks like and how she feels about herself. Sadly, she even feels pretty hopeless to change it. So, like most people, she simply gives up on the possibility that she can ever have the life she has always wanted. Instead she spends her time chasing her kid’s homework assignments, sports practices and their messes all over the house. Her life is hectic and her best two friends are sweets and high fat foods these days.
“Not perfect” she thought. Not even close.
Let me explain something to you as you read this. I am a door opener. Granted, my title is Fitness Specialist, but in reality, I’m a door opener. Here’s what I mean. We all want something, something fantastic. We want to go to the pool and we want to look good. Not only that but we want to feel good. We want energy, focus and above all else, we want to be happy. Here’s what I know: all of those things that you want are there for you, waiting on the other side of a door. They aren’t far off, they aren’t far-fetched but they are one thing that is far, -far from impossible!
In your world you have been blessed with many abilities; the ability to think, the ability to love and the ability to change. That’s right, to change. Hold that thought and let me tell you something. Every single person who reads this from the editor to you yourself will be in one of three groups. One group is the ones who stay right where they are. No success, no change, lots of moo-moo’s at the pool and excuses for not enjoying life. The second group is those who make “some” effort and end up changing “some.” You know, half effort and half results. These folks will live a little better life, but not an amazing life -sometimes the pool sometimes Oreo’s and frustration. Then the final group: those of us who will not settle any longer, those who will reach out and take the life that we want so badly for. This group smiles, this group has hope, this group lives! The hard reality is that YOU WILL BE IN ONE OF THESE THREE GROUPS. You can’t avoid it. Even if you say “I’m not participating in your group thing” then guess what? Group one.
The good news is that you can change which group you are in. There are “doors” separating them to be sure. Remember me saying I’m a door opener? Hello. Want the key to open your door? I call it your mindset. Some would call it your attitude, but either way it’s the same thing, and, that my friend, is your key. It’s one of the greatest things you possess and it is uniquely and unmistakably yours to use.
Unlock the door with your positive, can win, won’t lose attitude. Decide right now that you are sick and tired of being sick and tired. Decide that you are ready for change. Decide that the life you live is up to you and then simply reach out and get it. It’s nothing more complicated than healthy food and exercise. No pills, no surgeries, no fad or gimmicky shortcuts. Your journey won’t be perfect, but it will be perfect enough.
Pool time is soon at hand. Will you be there? I will. You bring the bikini and hot new body and I’ll bring “Journey’s Greatest Hits” and the Coppertone. See you there!
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Thursday, February 2, 2012
I Have A Question For You...
You know who they are, right? It seems that from the beginning everything falls into place for them. They come into the program all gung-ho and regardless of the fact that they are overweight and out of shape, they push like no one’s business... they are the ones who sit there and stare at me almost as if in a trance when I am speaking in a motivational way to the group as a whole. I know that they are getting every single word that I am saying and, more importantly, they are taking it to heart.
These folks seem to "drink the Kool-Aid" when it comes to the Ultimate Body Program. They learn everything they can about it, they breathe it and they LIVE it. In their spare time, they read all that they can about improving health and increasing their fitness levels. It seems that in every conversation that they have the subject of working out and eating healthy comes up. Much of the time, these people tend to irritate their friends by NEVER shutting up about the program. I guess the most important thing that these people have in common with each other is that they absolutely BELIEVE they can and will succeed.
So, who are these people? They are the "Ones Who Will Succeed." I can almost guarantee it. We roll dozens of them out of the program. They are the ones who decided at some point to actually change their lives for the better and then followed through. Annoying as they can be if you are not one of them, they truly are the ones who have it together.
Then, of course there’s the other group out there too. You know them: they talk a big talk about how they "used" to be something special and looked awesome. They tell you about how they are "going to" do it again, someday -maybe this day. But, something just hits you all wrong about their sincerity. These folks show up strong -for a week or two. Soon the stack of excuses gets so high, nothing can overcome them. This happens, that happens and ultimately the only thing that we all KNOW and can SEE happens is that their back side gets bigger and bigger.
These people have "crutch foods" down to an art. You know, 100 calorie snack packs here, low fat something there, blah blah blah. Bottom line is they aren't fooling anyone, especially themselves. These folks are the same ones that have talked to you time in and time out telling you about this diet, that diet supplement, this boot camp or that new fat loss book and on and on and on until you just smile and feel bad about how pathetic these people have become.
Know who these folks are? You guessed it; they are the "Ones Who Won't Succeed." They are all over and at times you may wish, as I do, that you could just grab them and shake the nonsense out of them. But, you can't. The only thing that would come out of them is some Diet Coke and the few little chocolate candies that they snatched off someone’s desk when no one was looking, except themselves.
My question is this: Who are you? Seriously. Imagine me sitting right in front of you looking you straight in the eyes and asking, "Who are you?" This is a critical question and one that demands a straight answer. You see, I already KNOW who I am. But, DO YOU?
There is but one tiny bit of hope for you if you have found yourself in the lagging, horrible, self-hating, self-deprecating, depressed place of which I speak. Stop. Yep, that's about it. Freaking STOP. You are in either one of these groups by YOUR OWN CHOICE. Exercise that choice that God gave you and fix it. Right now, right here, before you hit the end of this silly little message. Say to yourself "That's it. It's over. No more nonsense." Then, live it. Like I’ve said before, no magical Disney music is going to start playing, no fireworks are going to go off, nothing. It’s just you, your soon to be skinny ass and this new decision. That’s it, but, that’s enough.
I would be more than happy if you were to go into your kitchen and throw away anything that you can't handle. I would be more impressed if you would go to someone you care about and someone who cares about you either in person or by phone and tell them what you just decided. Tell them with conviction. The healing starts here.
The article is almost over. Just a few more sentences and it's done. If you just decided to change from the bad to the good group, welcome to the rest of your life in a new way -healthier and happier than you could possibly have expected. If you decided not to change (which is a nice way of saying you read the article but didn’t actually do anything about it), then I hope there’s a Twinkee or two left. You’re going to need them.
Hello new you. Nice to meet you...
These folks seem to "drink the Kool-Aid" when it comes to the Ultimate Body Program. They learn everything they can about it, they breathe it and they LIVE it. In their spare time, they read all that they can about improving health and increasing their fitness levels. It seems that in every conversation that they have the subject of working out and eating healthy comes up. Much of the time, these people tend to irritate their friends by NEVER shutting up about the program. I guess the most important thing that these people have in common with each other is that they absolutely BELIEVE they can and will succeed.
So, who are these people? They are the "Ones Who Will Succeed." I can almost guarantee it. We roll dozens of them out of the program. They are the ones who decided at some point to actually change their lives for the better and then followed through. Annoying as they can be if you are not one of them, they truly are the ones who have it together.
Then, of course there’s the other group out there too. You know them: they talk a big talk about how they "used" to be something special and looked awesome. They tell you about how they are "going to" do it again, someday -maybe this day. But, something just hits you all wrong about their sincerity. These folks show up strong -for a week or two. Soon the stack of excuses gets so high, nothing can overcome them. This happens, that happens and ultimately the only thing that we all KNOW and can SEE happens is that their back side gets bigger and bigger.
These people have "crutch foods" down to an art. You know, 100 calorie snack packs here, low fat something there, blah blah blah. Bottom line is they aren't fooling anyone, especially themselves. These folks are the same ones that have talked to you time in and time out telling you about this diet, that diet supplement, this boot camp or that new fat loss book and on and on and on until you just smile and feel bad about how pathetic these people have become.
Know who these folks are? You guessed it; they are the "Ones Who Won't Succeed." They are all over and at times you may wish, as I do, that you could just grab them and shake the nonsense out of them. But, you can't. The only thing that would come out of them is some Diet Coke and the few little chocolate candies that they snatched off someone’s desk when no one was looking, except themselves.
My question is this: Who are you? Seriously. Imagine me sitting right in front of you looking you straight in the eyes and asking, "Who are you?" This is a critical question and one that demands a straight answer. You see, I already KNOW who I am. But, DO YOU?
There is but one tiny bit of hope for you if you have found yourself in the lagging, horrible, self-hating, self-deprecating, depressed place of which I speak. Stop. Yep, that's about it. Freaking STOP. You are in either one of these groups by YOUR OWN CHOICE. Exercise that choice that God gave you and fix it. Right now, right here, before you hit the end of this silly little message. Say to yourself "That's it. It's over. No more nonsense." Then, live it. Like I’ve said before, no magical Disney music is going to start playing, no fireworks are going to go off, nothing. It’s just you, your soon to be skinny ass and this new decision. That’s it, but, that’s enough.
I would be more than happy if you were to go into your kitchen and throw away anything that you can't handle. I would be more impressed if you would go to someone you care about and someone who cares about you either in person or by phone and tell them what you just decided. Tell them with conviction. The healing starts here.
The article is almost over. Just a few more sentences and it's done. If you just decided to change from the bad to the good group, welcome to the rest of your life in a new way -healthier and happier than you could possibly have expected. If you decided not to change (which is a nice way of saying you read the article but didn’t actually do anything about it), then I hope there’s a Twinkee or two left. You’re going to need them.
Hello new you. Nice to meet you...
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
It's January. How Much Weight Have You Lost?
Hey, you. Ya, you. Sitting there reading this right now. I know you. Well, more importantly, I know ABOUT you. "Who am I then Mr. trainer?" Well, let me tell you. You are one of two people that I know. You are either perfectly content and happy with how you look and feel, or, more likely, you aren't. Let me tell you, if you are happy with how you look and feel, stop reading this now and instead, click on this link and enjoy a special just for you. On the other hand, if you are NOT happy with how you look and feel, then I am talking to YOU. Read on.
So tell me, how much weight have you lost? A fair amount so far, right? I mean, it is mid January. Actually more towards the end of the month. By now you should have pulled off at least 5 pounds; probably more like 12. You haven't though, have you? How does that feel? Really good? Make you want to jump for joy? Are you just thrilled with where you are headed? I thought not.
So it's really easy to sit here and bash you for failing to get your act together so far this year. But, truth be known, we are all really good at doing that to ourselves. No need for me to join the ass kicking that you either have or soon will have going on.
Actually I've got my mind set on something else. I want to help you overcome your biggest obstacle. Yourself. How do I know you are your own biggest obstacle? Because I am my own as well. We have that in common.
Now then, it's time to get serious. You've been waiting on someone to walk up and say "Hey man" or "Hey girl" shake off all the BS that you've collected and get your head our of your ass." Guess what. I'm here and I'll say it again. Hey, you, it's time to get your head out of your ass and let's get control of this thing, now!'
Seriously, do you like being overweight? Love that muffin freakin top? Are you a huge fan of dimples up an down your thighs? Heck no! You hate that crap. So do I. But somehow we want our cookies, chips, 100 calorie snack packs, wine, ice cream, cheese burgers etc. more. Right? Wrong. It's just that the junk crap is NOW and your results seem so far off. I know. I get it.
Let me tell you this. In order to overcome all these bad choices that keep us from our goal bodies, we have to draw a line in the sand. I mean a real, honest to God line in the sand and take off the boxing gloves. It's WAY past time to fight this fight. Way past. You know, if you had drawn this line back on your last effort just months back, you would be D-O-N-E done!
Know what you are about to miss? The swimming pool, cook outs, smaller awesome clothes, amazing health, much more energy, way less of the blues and depression, and most of all, just a better way to live your life. Ill put my size 31 jeans, my ability to take off my shirt at the pool in a few months and the compliments on how I look up against your glass of wine and cheese any day.
Please draw the line right now. Not later, not tomorrow, not next Monday, but NOW. I know, you may just die if you don't get your Hohos tonight, but I doubt it. Most likely, tonight will be the night that started the change that is currently just a dream.
In a couple of months I'm going to ask you again. "So, it's March. How much weight have you lost?"
Current client, former client, never a client: Call or text me now and just say hey, I need your help. If you are sincere, I will go to the ends of this little planet to help you. 214-783-5440.
Ron
So tell me, how much weight have you lost? A fair amount so far, right? I mean, it is mid January. Actually more towards the end of the month. By now you should have pulled off at least 5 pounds; probably more like 12. You haven't though, have you? How does that feel? Really good? Make you want to jump for joy? Are you just thrilled with where you are headed? I thought not.
So it's really easy to sit here and bash you for failing to get your act together so far this year. But, truth be known, we are all really good at doing that to ourselves. No need for me to join the ass kicking that you either have or soon will have going on.
Actually I've got my mind set on something else. I want to help you overcome your biggest obstacle. Yourself. How do I know you are your own biggest obstacle? Because I am my own as well. We have that in common.
Now then, it's time to get serious. You've been waiting on someone to walk up and say "Hey man" or "Hey girl" shake off all the BS that you've collected and get your head our of your ass." Guess what. I'm here and I'll say it again. Hey, you, it's time to get your head out of your ass and let's get control of this thing, now!'
Seriously, do you like being overweight? Love that muffin freakin top? Are you a huge fan of dimples up an down your thighs? Heck no! You hate that crap. So do I. But somehow we want our cookies, chips, 100 calorie snack packs, wine, ice cream, cheese burgers etc. more. Right? Wrong. It's just that the junk crap is NOW and your results seem so far off. I know. I get it.
Let me tell you this. In order to overcome all these bad choices that keep us from our goal bodies, we have to draw a line in the sand. I mean a real, honest to God line in the sand and take off the boxing gloves. It's WAY past time to fight this fight. Way past. You know, if you had drawn this line back on your last effort just months back, you would be D-O-N-E done!
Know what you are about to miss? The swimming pool, cook outs, smaller awesome clothes, amazing health, much more energy, way less of the blues and depression, and most of all, just a better way to live your life. Ill put my size 31 jeans, my ability to take off my shirt at the pool in a few months and the compliments on how I look up against your glass of wine and cheese any day.
Please draw the line right now. Not later, not tomorrow, not next Monday, but NOW. I know, you may just die if you don't get your Hohos tonight, but I doubt it. Most likely, tonight will be the night that started the change that is currently just a dream.
In a couple of months I'm going to ask you again. "So, it's March. How much weight have you lost?"
Current client, former client, never a client: Call or text me now and just say hey, I need your help. If you are sincere, I will go to the ends of this little planet to help you. 214-783-5440.
Ron
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
The Other Day
The other day it happened. Right there, sitting in the middle of the living room while I was watching another episode of Biggest Loser. It was amazing. In fact, it was like nothing you’ve probably ever seen before. One second I was sitting there thin, fit and healthy then BOOM! I gained 60 pounds, acquired high blood pressure and became a pre-diabetic all in an instant!
It was so cool that this happened because I remember when I was little I used to dream of growing up and being overweight. I would sit around and dream of the day that I would be able to hear my doctor say, ‘Ron, you have high blood pressure and you need medication.” Yes, those were the days. Often times my teacher would catch me daydreaming about one day shopping at the “big and husky” store. ‘Oh my!” I thought. “I can’t wait until I can fill up a pair of size 44 jeans one day!”
Sure, other kids were dreaming of becoming firemen or astronauts but I was different. I only wanted to live for the buffet and take 15 different medications every day when I grew up. My only goal was to get as big and unhealthy as I could and to nearly completely limit myself from ever enjoying life.
Ok, wait, maybe this didn’t really happen so fast and maybe it was never a dream of mine at all. In fact, it was more of a nightmare. And, if I’m being totally honest, it didn’t happen in an instant either. It actually took a few years. Either way, it happened.
The reality is that none of us grows up aspiring to be unhealthy, overweight and miserable. But, “life” happens (along with too many chips, salsa and margaritas) and next thing you know, we are everything we never, ever wanted to be. For me it was a gut splitting size 40 plus pants, two X’s in front of my L’s on all my shirts and a nice matching set of chins and one well rounded inner tube of a belly. Oh yeah, let’s not forget the anti-depression medication, the high blood pressure and the ridiculous cholesterol numbers. At one point, I found myself getting a stress test at the age of 27 because my chest hurt so bad. Sad wasn’t it?
Wait, “wasn’t it?” Yes, wasn’t it. Know why I say that? Because it AIN’T NO MORE. For me, I had a critical incident as a police officer and decided within just a few minutes of the incident that I was going to change my life or else die trying. And so I did. I made a huge commitment to myself and then, I followed through.
I began eating as healthy as I possibly could. I didn’t know every little detail of how to eat to perfection, but what I found out was that it isn’t necessary to be perfect, but rather to eat just as perfect as you know how to. The other thing I did was I started exercising, again, not perfect, just as perfect as I could! Within a matter of months I had undone years’ worth of damage from fast food drive-thru trips, late night ice cream festivals on my sofa and possibly thousands of potato chips.
Want to hear some good news? You can change too. Read that last sentence again, a few times if you have to, after all, I wrote it for YOU. I am living proof that a very fat, very unhealthy, very unhappy person can absolutely change their lives forever through healthy eating and exercise. Ironically, to this day I am still not perfect, but I am perfect enough. My size 40’s were traded in for 32’s and my shirts not only lost both X’s but also the L. Now there’s a good looking M sitting there in each of my shirts. I haven’t taken anti-depression medication since I lost my weight nearly 15 years ago. Today I feel great and I truly live a very blessed life full of trips to the pool, shopping where I want to and so much more.
What about you? Are you sitting there waiting for your own BOOM! To happen and all of a sudden you are going to be thin, fit and healthy? Don’t hold your breath. Instead, do what I did. First, make a commitment to yourself to change. Do it RIGHT NOW. Don’t wait. There’s no need to get this right or that right in your life first. No need to wait until you’re crazy schedule is better, it NEVER will be.
Drop all the excuses (along with the bean burrito) and let’s get started.
Find yourself a good, trusted program to get into. Eat clean and exercise every day that you can. In short order, your whole life will be renewed. How would you like that? Trust me; it’s amazing, -more amazing than I can possibly tell you. Soon you will have your own story to tell that goes like this, “The other day I was just sitting there reading THEUBBLOG.COM and BOOM! There it was my decision to change.”
I’ll see you at the pool!
Ron
+
It was so cool that this happened because I remember when I was little I used to dream of growing up and being overweight. I would sit around and dream of the day that I would be able to hear my doctor say, ‘Ron, you have high blood pressure and you need medication.” Yes, those were the days. Often times my teacher would catch me daydreaming about one day shopping at the “big and husky” store. ‘Oh my!” I thought. “I can’t wait until I can fill up a pair of size 44 jeans one day!”
Sure, other kids were dreaming of becoming firemen or astronauts but I was different. I only wanted to live for the buffet and take 15 different medications every day when I grew up. My only goal was to get as big and unhealthy as I could and to nearly completely limit myself from ever enjoying life.
Ok, wait, maybe this didn’t really happen so fast and maybe it was never a dream of mine at all. In fact, it was more of a nightmare. And, if I’m being totally honest, it didn’t happen in an instant either. It actually took a few years. Either way, it happened.
The reality is that none of us grows up aspiring to be unhealthy, overweight and miserable. But, “life” happens (along with too many chips, salsa and margaritas) and next thing you know, we are everything we never, ever wanted to be. For me it was a gut splitting size 40 plus pants, two X’s in front of my L’s on all my shirts and a nice matching set of chins and one well rounded inner tube of a belly. Oh yeah, let’s not forget the anti-depression medication, the high blood pressure and the ridiculous cholesterol numbers. At one point, I found myself getting a stress test at the age of 27 because my chest hurt so bad. Sad wasn’t it?
Wait, “wasn’t it?” Yes, wasn’t it. Know why I say that? Because it AIN’T NO MORE. For me, I had a critical incident as a police officer and decided within just a few minutes of the incident that I was going to change my life or else die trying. And so I did. I made a huge commitment to myself and then, I followed through.
I began eating as healthy as I possibly could. I didn’t know every little detail of how to eat to perfection, but what I found out was that it isn’t necessary to be perfect, but rather to eat just as perfect as you know how to. The other thing I did was I started exercising, again, not perfect, just as perfect as I could! Within a matter of months I had undone years’ worth of damage from fast food drive-thru trips, late night ice cream festivals on my sofa and possibly thousands of potato chips.
Want to hear some good news? You can change too. Read that last sentence again, a few times if you have to, after all, I wrote it for YOU. I am living proof that a very fat, very unhealthy, very unhappy person can absolutely change their lives forever through healthy eating and exercise. Ironically, to this day I am still not perfect, but I am perfect enough. My size 40’s were traded in for 32’s and my shirts not only lost both X’s but also the L. Now there’s a good looking M sitting there in each of my shirts. I haven’t taken anti-depression medication since I lost my weight nearly 15 years ago. Today I feel great and I truly live a very blessed life full of trips to the pool, shopping where I want to and so much more.
What about you? Are you sitting there waiting for your own BOOM! To happen and all of a sudden you are going to be thin, fit and healthy? Don’t hold your breath. Instead, do what I did. First, make a commitment to yourself to change. Do it RIGHT NOW. Don’t wait. There’s no need to get this right or that right in your life first. No need to wait until you’re crazy schedule is better, it NEVER will be.
Drop all the excuses (along with the bean burrito) and let’s get started.
Find yourself a good, trusted program to get into. Eat clean and exercise every day that you can. In short order, your whole life will be renewed. How would you like that? Trust me; it’s amazing, -more amazing than I can possibly tell you. Soon you will have your own story to tell that goes like this, “The other day I was just sitting there reading THEUBBLOG.COM and BOOM! There it was my decision to change.”
I’ll see you at the pool!
Ron
+
Friday, November 4, 2011
Kill the Messenger
I spend most everyday on the battlefield. No, not in some God forsaken third world country, but rather within the walls of the Ultimate Body Studios. Somewhere between the scuffed up floors, the taped up upholstery and the well worn weights, many a battle has been fought. This is my place, it's what I do. I come back to help people fight their battles each and every day.
Over the years, I've become very well acquainted with the enemy. It's the same one I've been helping people fight for years. Perhaps you've faced off with the enemy too? You know him, or her. Laziness, complacency, overindulgence, excuses, insecurity, just to name a few of the enemy's titles. Most of the time, we choose to live in a strange place with our enemies. In return for the ability to sit around and not exercise, we will take an extra roll of fat that pooches out over the top of our pants. If we will just agree to sporting a nice set of dimples on our butt, the enemy gives us the ability to avoid making healthy food choices! Each day we wake up and realize that we are standing just inches from our own version of the enemy. They are there constantly reminding us of our weakness and failures, yet allowing us to have certain small pleasures in return for our graciousness in letting them stay so close to us.
Sometimes, we get angry enough at the enemy to actually consider doing battle with them. You know the way it goes, "I've GOT to do something about this..." or "OK, Monday I'm gonna start P90X..." But don't underestimate your enemy. They have heard these words come from you before, many times in fact! All too often we "talk a good talk" but don't "walk a good walk" and end up becoming great neighbors with our enemies.
But hold on there! Don't go file for a homestead exemption on that little space next to your enemy just yet! Here's the deal: once you truly decide to do it, all those old empty promises to yourself take on a new life. They gain real meaning. You will know it when it happens. The first real shot is fired. Bang!!! Like a huge flash of lightening and the thunderous boom that follows! You are on. You have truly begun a fitness program, you are working out and eating healthy. And so it begins.
In no time at all you will start feeling really good about yourself. It is clear to you that something is different this time. Each day you pour your heart into your workout. You put tons of effort into eating healthy. Day after day goes by and your expectations grow with each one.
Every once in a while you suffer a little set back. Oh sure, you're working out like crazy and yes! every meal seems to be broccoli and grilled chicken. But in spite of your efforts, the mirror told you something today. Don't start thinking that I mean your mirror went all Disney on you and started talking about who's the fairest and all that. No, what I mean is that you looked in the mirror and "thought" that you looked like nothing had changed.
What? Nothing has changed and I'm putting in ALL this work and effort? Settle down Snow White. The mirror doesn't always tell you the truth. Well, actually it's that you don't always see yourself properly, but we will go ahead and blame the mirror. We could blame you but that would require seven little dwarfs and an apple to figure out, so we can just stick with the mirror.
So you see yourself and THINK nothing is changing. IF you accept this as your reality, then maybe you really are in a fairy tale. You see, from time to time we are all victims of our way of thinking. For example, if you have had a bad day at work or maybe just are not feeling great about some other aspect of your life, that can easily roll over into what you see in the mirror. It goes like this: finances are not well, AND neither am I. Get it?
So here's my solution. Kill the messenger. In this case, when you look in the mirror and see a non-improving you looking back, even in spite of your hard work and healthy eating, STOP LOOKING. Instead, say to yourself, "I am working hard. I am eating clean. I am strong, courageous and disciplined. I AM IMPROVING." Then, walk away and believe it. Lying mirrors don't lie forever, especially when your jeans, your friends and other onlookers start speaking the truth!
One more thing, while you're at it, don't listen to the lies of anyone or anything else either. I don't care if it's the scale, your mother or Pinocchio himself. If you want to hear more of the truth, call me and let's fight this together. 214-783-5440. Ask for Shrek.
Over the years, I've become very well acquainted with the enemy. It's the same one I've been helping people fight for years. Perhaps you've faced off with the enemy too? You know him, or her. Laziness, complacency, overindulgence, excuses, insecurity, just to name a few of the enemy's titles. Most of the time, we choose to live in a strange place with our enemies. In return for the ability to sit around and not exercise, we will take an extra roll of fat that pooches out over the top of our pants. If we will just agree to sporting a nice set of dimples on our butt, the enemy gives us the ability to avoid making healthy food choices! Each day we wake up and realize that we are standing just inches from our own version of the enemy. They are there constantly reminding us of our weakness and failures, yet allowing us to have certain small pleasures in return for our graciousness in letting them stay so close to us.
Sometimes, we get angry enough at the enemy to actually consider doing battle with them. You know the way it goes, "I've GOT to do something about this..." or "OK, Monday I'm gonna start P90X..." But don't underestimate your enemy. They have heard these words come from you before, many times in fact! All too often we "talk a good talk" but don't "walk a good walk" and end up becoming great neighbors with our enemies.
But hold on there! Don't go file for a homestead exemption on that little space next to your enemy just yet! Here's the deal: once you truly decide to do it, all those old empty promises to yourself take on a new life. They gain real meaning. You will know it when it happens. The first real shot is fired. Bang!!! Like a huge flash of lightening and the thunderous boom that follows! You are on. You have truly begun a fitness program, you are working out and eating healthy. And so it begins.
In no time at all you will start feeling really good about yourself. It is clear to you that something is different this time. Each day you pour your heart into your workout. You put tons of effort into eating healthy. Day after day goes by and your expectations grow with each one.
Every once in a while you suffer a little set back. Oh sure, you're working out like crazy and yes! every meal seems to be broccoli and grilled chicken. But in spite of your efforts, the mirror told you something today. Don't start thinking that I mean your mirror went all Disney on you and started talking about who's the fairest and all that. No, what I mean is that you looked in the mirror and "thought" that you looked like nothing had changed.
What? Nothing has changed and I'm putting in ALL this work and effort? Settle down Snow White. The mirror doesn't always tell you the truth. Well, actually it's that you don't always see yourself properly, but we will go ahead and blame the mirror. We could blame you but that would require seven little dwarfs and an apple to figure out, so we can just stick with the mirror.
So you see yourself and THINK nothing is changing. IF you accept this as your reality, then maybe you really are in a fairy tale. You see, from time to time we are all victims of our way of thinking. For example, if you have had a bad day at work or maybe just are not feeling great about some other aspect of your life, that can easily roll over into what you see in the mirror. It goes like this: finances are not well, AND neither am I. Get it?
So here's my solution. Kill the messenger. In this case, when you look in the mirror and see a non-improving you looking back, even in spite of your hard work and healthy eating, STOP LOOKING. Instead, say to yourself, "I am working hard. I am eating clean. I am strong, courageous and disciplined. I AM IMPROVING." Then, walk away and believe it. Lying mirrors don't lie forever, especially when your jeans, your friends and other onlookers start speaking the truth!
One more thing, while you're at it, don't listen to the lies of anyone or anything else either. I don't care if it's the scale, your mother or Pinocchio himself. If you want to hear more of the truth, call me and let's fight this together. 214-783-5440. Ask for Shrek.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Amazed
I was amazed the other day. "If you put half the effort into your situps that you put into eating at the buffet, you would have a heck of a six pack!" I told her. Funny thing is, she didn't deny it. She KNOWS that I'm speaking the truth. In reality, I'm always amazed by the lack of effort some people put into their weight loss program! Seriously, I am quickly getting over people who TALK a big talk but who don't WALK the walk.
I am begining to think that we are all just SOOOOO WEAK! It makes me sick and it would make people like my grandfather sad to see just how weak we have become as a "generation."
Here's what I mean. I ask people to perform in many ways, for example, let's knock out 20 more push ups... and I can pretty much tell you that everytime I suggest something like that I get a look from people like I just pulled a monkey out of my butt and asked them to hold it for me.
The part that gets me though is that these same exact people will polish off one heck of a dinner at Cheesecake Factory including chicken and biscuits, mashed potatoes made with tons of butter and gravy and several glasses of sweet tea. Oh, and don't forget the "Adam's Peanut ButterCheesecake with extra whipped cream" that they get too!
People! This is a 4,420 calorie Olympic event! Do you have any clue how much resolve and fortitude that it takes to eat like that? TONS BABY!(which is exactly what they are going to weigh) -That's more food than any living person should eat at one time. Period. So, 20 push ups are out of the question right Chim Chim? But, alas, somehow my fellow monkey lovers can put all that food away in one sitting.
"I'm amazed" is an understatement.
Now here's where you play into all this. First, if the description of all that food made you want to eat it, you're in trouble. If you just ate that food last weekend, you're in deep trouble. If you are eating that food right now while you are reading this blog post, Chim Chim is on his way to kick your ass!
You know another thing that amazes me? People who get it. People who used to eat like that and yet through their desire to change, have completely given up on the hell that is high fat and mega sugar foods! Do you realize that as challenging as it is to eat the loads of crap and garbage that we are faced with each day, it is even more challenging to turn away from that food, those habits, that lifestyle and yes, that person who you used to be when those foods domintaed your life?
Now that's amazing stuff. My question for you is "who are you?" Maybe a better question is "who do you want to be?" It's great that you are known for your amazing ability to eat tons of crap. It's more amazing to be a "used-to-be" though. Your choice. I made mine.
Here, hold my monkey.
Ron
I am begining to think that we are all just SOOOOO WEAK! It makes me sick and it would make people like my grandfather sad to see just how weak we have become as a "generation."
Here's what I mean. I ask people to perform in many ways, for example, let's knock out 20 more push ups... and I can pretty much tell you that everytime I suggest something like that I get a look from people like I just pulled a monkey out of my butt and asked them to hold it for me.
The part that gets me though is that these same exact people will polish off one heck of a dinner at Cheesecake Factory including chicken and biscuits, mashed potatoes made with tons of butter and gravy and several glasses of sweet tea. Oh, and don't forget the "Adam's Peanut ButterCheesecake with extra whipped cream" that they get too!
People! This is a 4,420 calorie Olympic event! Do you have any clue how much resolve and fortitude that it takes to eat like that? TONS BABY!(which is exactly what they are going to weigh) -That's more food than any living person should eat at one time. Period. So, 20 push ups are out of the question right Chim Chim? But, alas, somehow my fellow monkey lovers can put all that food away in one sitting.
"I'm amazed" is an understatement.
Now here's where you play into all this. First, if the description of all that food made you want to eat it, you're in trouble. If you just ate that food last weekend, you're in deep trouble. If you are eating that food right now while you are reading this blog post, Chim Chim is on his way to kick your ass!
You know another thing that amazes me? People who get it. People who used to eat like that and yet through their desire to change, have completely given up on the hell that is high fat and mega sugar foods! Do you realize that as challenging as it is to eat the loads of crap and garbage that we are faced with each day, it is even more challenging to turn away from that food, those habits, that lifestyle and yes, that person who you used to be when those foods domintaed your life?
Now that's amazing stuff. My question for you is "who are you?" Maybe a better question is "who do you want to be?" It's great that you are known for your amazing ability to eat tons of crap. It's more amazing to be a "used-to-be" though. Your choice. I made mine.
Here, hold my monkey.
Ron
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
I don't get it...
Seriously, I DO NOT GET IT... I have to tell you that each and every day I am in conversation with many people about health and fitness. Everyone want's to be fit. Everyone wants to be healthy. Everyone wants to look good. Right? Well, mostly right. There are a few out there that just don't give a flip, but, that's NOT you.
So, everyone has these big aspirations, right? And I have to say, there are several different "types" of people who want to change their lives.. ever seen the one who is the 'planner"? This person does tons of research & maps out every little detail. After thorough investigation of the options available out there, this person proceeds to call me and give me a beating with questions..."what is your certification?" "What makes you better than Bo and Luke Dukes Gym?" and so forth...Next, this person goes out to Academy Sports and buys the shorts, the tops, the shoes, the water bottle, the towel....OH MY GOD! Really? This person seems more likely to be preparing for surgery than for a workout. Long story short, this person fails to do one thing. Truly work at it. Sure, this goob has all the right equipment, but, SORRY JACK! YOU CAN'T BUY YOUR WAY FIT.
The next type that I see is the one who "used to be..." You know, I used to be a gymnast, I used to be a football hero, I used to be blah blah blah... These people spend so much time looking back that they absolutely lose sight of what lies ahead of them. They tend to believe that whatever they once had, they still have. You know, it's like a Rocky movie playing in their heads. All I can say is 'Yo, Adrian, this crap ain't no movie. If you's want it, ya gonna have to work your ass off for it." In the end, "used to be" won't even buy you a nickle piece of sugar free gum.
Another type I LOVE to see is the "I want it, but I want it MY way" diva. And by diva, I'm referring to both women and men. These folks crack me up the most. They come in saying that they want this and they want that...you know, like a tight butt, definition and better health. But, you let ONE TINY LITTLE PIECE OF NOT THEIR WAY pop up and it's all over faster than Oprah can eat an eclair. Again, these people want change, but they want it conditionally. It just don't work that way divas!
You know what I don't see enough of? People who just simply make the decision to change, then do it. And yes, damn it, it IS just that simple. Fill in the blank with tons of expetives right here then add "it is THAT simple" to the end of it and you'll know how I really feel about this.
For the love of God, please stop failing yourself. For once, and for all, stop. Stop buying crap food. If you don't like the way your butt looks, STOP. And that's not all...stop making excuses. I'm not buying them. No one else really does either. Sure, we act like we understand, but inside, we know it's just crap. It's you failing you.
Now, if your still with me and not crying into a tissue all offended, then there's hope! I want you to realize something. Inside you, maybe deep inside is the absolute, 100 percent complete, overwhelming power to succeed. It's not "maybe" there, it's not "there but kinda weak", it's THERE and it's STRONG. If you aren't harnessing the power within you to succeed, then maybe you deserve to be unfit and unhappy, because baby, YOU could change it if YOU wanted to bad enough.
Are you hearing me? If your mildly upset by my honesty and think I'm a bit of an ass for saying such things, then good! Now do something about it. I will write more truth in the future, but the difference is, next time it doesn't have to be about you. You could make this exact moment the moment you turned it all around. This could be the moment that you reinvent yourself. This could be the moment that you evolve into the person you were always created to be.
Do You get it? I do. Your turn.
So, everyone has these big aspirations, right? And I have to say, there are several different "types" of people who want to change their lives.. ever seen the one who is the 'planner"? This person does tons of research & maps out every little detail. After thorough investigation of the options available out there, this person proceeds to call me and give me a beating with questions..."what is your certification?" "What makes you better than Bo and Luke Dukes Gym?" and so forth...Next, this person goes out to Academy Sports and buys the shorts, the tops, the shoes, the water bottle, the towel....OH MY GOD! Really? This person seems more likely to be preparing for surgery than for a workout. Long story short, this person fails to do one thing. Truly work at it. Sure, this goob has all the right equipment, but, SORRY JACK! YOU CAN'T BUY YOUR WAY FIT.
The next type that I see is the one who "used to be..." You know, I used to be a gymnast, I used to be a football hero, I used to be blah blah blah... These people spend so much time looking back that they absolutely lose sight of what lies ahead of them. They tend to believe that whatever they once had, they still have. You know, it's like a Rocky movie playing in their heads. All I can say is 'Yo, Adrian, this crap ain't no movie. If you's want it, ya gonna have to work your ass off for it." In the end, "used to be" won't even buy you a nickle piece of sugar free gum.
Another type I LOVE to see is the "I want it, but I want it MY way" diva. And by diva, I'm referring to both women and men. These folks crack me up the most. They come in saying that they want this and they want that...you know, like a tight butt, definition and better health. But, you let ONE TINY LITTLE PIECE OF NOT THEIR WAY pop up and it's all over faster than Oprah can eat an eclair. Again, these people want change, but they want it conditionally. It just don't work that way divas!
You know what I don't see enough of? People who just simply make the decision to change, then do it. And yes, damn it, it IS just that simple. Fill in the blank with tons of expetives right here then add "it is THAT simple" to the end of it and you'll know how I really feel about this.
For the love of God, please stop failing yourself. For once, and for all, stop. Stop buying crap food. If you don't like the way your butt looks, STOP. And that's not all...stop making excuses. I'm not buying them. No one else really does either. Sure, we act like we understand, but inside, we know it's just crap. It's you failing you.
Now, if your still with me and not crying into a tissue all offended, then there's hope! I want you to realize something. Inside you, maybe deep inside is the absolute, 100 percent complete, overwhelming power to succeed. It's not "maybe" there, it's not "there but kinda weak", it's THERE and it's STRONG. If you aren't harnessing the power within you to succeed, then maybe you deserve to be unfit and unhappy, because baby, YOU could change it if YOU wanted to bad enough.
Are you hearing me? If your mildly upset by my honesty and think I'm a bit of an ass for saying such things, then good! Now do something about it. I will write more truth in the future, but the difference is, next time it doesn't have to be about you. You could make this exact moment the moment you turned it all around. This could be the moment that you reinvent yourself. This could be the moment that you evolve into the person you were always created to be.
Do You get it? I do. Your turn.
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