I was blown away by a post I read on Cordell Parvins blog titled 'Want to know what it takes, Here is a Great example". In the article he talks about his daughter Jill, a Jiu Jitsu practitioner who seeks to become the best Jiu jitsu player she possibly can be. I can scarcely add anything, as it fully encapsulates the attitude, focus and drive required by any person interested in achieving the highest levels of fitness, or any other life goals.
"Today, I want to share with you a concrete example. My daughter Jill posted something on Facebook that made clear to me she paid great attention to what I was teaching her when she was growing up.
I am very proud of Jill. I also feel she has expressed what I hope lawyers I coach take away from our work together. I asked if I could share what she wrote with you and she gave me permission.
I earned two stripes on my belt at jiu jitsu today. I was a little upset because my knee is messed up and I couldn’t roll. I just keep telling myself that God did not grant me with natural athletic ability so I have to work harder than most of the guys. I will show up and train every day no matter how tired I am. My goal is not to earn a black belt (although I believe that will happen) or win any tournaments ( got to enter them first), but to be better than the jiu jitsu player I was yesterday. I am not competing against other guys but against myself and my own self doubt and my fear of failure. I can’t bench press as much as RĂ©ne (her husband) and I do not have the skill of more seasoned players, but I will win in the long run because I am going to work harder through the tears, blood and sweat and I believe my passion will help me to overcome my physical short comings. I will be the best I can be. No excuses! I will be better than I was yesterday. It’s me vs. me.
"Things may come to those who wait, but only the things left by those who hustle."