Take 5 Minutes for Your Daily Jolt of Optimism

I’d like to share a little mental exercise that I like to do when I need a jolt of optimism.

1) Read the following quote and comments.

"The reason why people give up so fast is because they tend to look at how far they still have to go, instead of how far they have gotten." ~ Unknown 

This quote demonstrates a pattern of thinking that many people fall into. There is so much truth to this quote because me like many others have started out with certain goals or objectives in our minds only to find that at the end of the day we place more focus on what still has to be done as opposed to what we have already accomplishment. 

2) Now, for the Jolt. Re-write this quote and make it personal to you :

"The reason why I don't give up so fast is because I tend to look at how far I have gotten, and not on how far I still have to go." ~ Kyle Bingham aka The WildChild #WildChildStyle

Even as I read it right now I feel a Jolt of positive thoughts like:

- Optimism
- Confidence in my abilities
- A "Can Do" type of attitude
- Re-committing myself if I've lost focus
- Regaining trust in myself and not in what others say.

I know that this is a super simple exercise but you will be surprised how quickly it can affect your attitude. Next time you're feeling a bit down, find your favorite quote, saying, etc; Make it personal to you and then read through it several times for that jolt of optimism that you need! Good luck!

Picture courtesy of: www.migravent.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/ID-10021571.jpg

3 types of people you should have in your circle

 Let's face it, we are drawn to people like us, to remain in our so called "comfort zone." While I think that this is great and that most of these "comfort zone friends" will be some of your very best friends while other may not, is it possible that they may be holding you back from reaching certain goals in your life?? Kind of a tough question to answer, huh?

Well, take a moment to think about your closest friends, work colleagues, etc. Now, do they fall into one of these 3 categories?

1. Dreamers and the Doers

2. Believers and Thinkers

3. Those who see greatness within you, even when you don't see it yourself.

I'm glad to say that some of my friend would definitely fall into one or more of these categories and I can confidently say that these people are the one's that have had the most positive impact on me and my family. I've got to admit, there's nothing better than a true friend! 

Remember: "It's very important to surround yourself with people you can learn from." ~ Reba McEntire

Keep the dream alive #WildChildStyle ~The Wildchild

Learning to Leave Your Comfort Zone

Written by the Wildchild

Over the years, having worked and participated in the action sports industry I've had an opportunity to meet a lot of great athletes both Professional and Amateur. I've learned so much in terms of the mindset behind how these athletes become so successful in such a variety of very difficult sports to master in the way that they have. What’s even more interesting is what we all can learn from these athletes by applying some very similar concepts in our own lives regardless of our endeavors.

It all starts with stepping outside of your comfort zone and trying to accomplish something that was initially intimidating or scary for you or maybe even seemed impossible at one point in time. By testing those limits you are able to push yourself to a new level and in many cases discover talents and abilities that you never thought possible.

You must also have a passion for that pursuit of progression in an effort to move towards mastering your skills or reaching your goals. Without that passion it would be nearly impossible to ever have the courage to step out of your comfort zone and even more difficult to step out again and again if you encounter failure. But remember that failure is feedback and strength can be drawn from that source as well.

Lastly, remember that whether or not you succeed or fail, the only way to go forward is by taking that next step. Thomas Edison summarized this concept perfectly. I quote, “Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.”

So the next time that you are faced with a situation requiring you to step outside of your comfort zone, what kind of outlook and attitude will you have? Will you try to apply these concepts in an effort to have the strength to take that step forward and possibly enter into a new world of opportunities that you had previously never thought possible? Or will the fear of the unknown or the path less traveled be too overwhelming for you to see what could have been? As always, I wish you the best of luck with your passions, goals and endeavors but most importantly the strength to continue to move forward in a positive way in whatever you do!

Image courtesy of: seodesignpictures.blogspot.com/2012/05/action-sports-icons.html
Quote courtesy of: www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/t/thomasaed109004.html

The Nine Mental Skills of Successful Athletes

Well, when it comes to trying to be successful in life and action sports, I always look at the different ways to gain a mental edge over my competition  Clearly, successful athletes have mental clarity but more importantly have developed ways to constantly improve that mental edge needed to step outside of their comfort zone. Take a look at these suggestions by Jack Lesyk and see what you think. 

1. Attitude

Successful athletes:

• Realize that attitude is a choice.
• Choose an attitude that is predominately positive.
• View their sport as an opportunity to compete against themselves and learn from their successes and failures.
• Pursue excellence, not perfection, and realize that they, as well as their coaches, teammates, officials, and others are not perfect.
• Maintain balance and perspective between their sport and the rest of their lives.
• Respect their sport, other participants, coaches, officials, and themselves.

2. Motivation

Successful athletes:

• Are aware of the rewards and benefits that they expect to experience through their sports participation.
• Are able to persist through difficult tasks and difficult times, even when these rewards and benefits are not immediately forthcoming.
• Realize that many of the benefits come from their participation, not the outcome.

3. Goals and Commitment

Successful athletes:

• Set long-term and short-term goals that are realistic, measurable, and time-oriented.
• Are aware of their current performance levels and are able to develop specific, detailed plans for attaining their goals.
• Are highly committed to their goals and to carrying out the daily demands of their training programs.

4. People Skills

Successful athletes:

• Realize that they are part of a larger system that includes their families, friends, teammates, coaches, and others.
• When appropriate, communicate their thoughts, feelings, and needs to these people and listen to them as well.
• Have learned effective skills for dealing with conflict, difficult opponents, and other people when they are negative or oppositional.

5. Self-Talk

Successful athletes:

• Maintain their self-confidence during difficult times with realistic, positive self-talk.
• Talk to themselves the way they would talk to their own best friend
• Use self-talk to regulate thoughts, feelings and behaviors during competition.

6. Mental Imagery

Successful athletes:

• Prepare themselves for competition by imagining themselves performing well in competition.
• Create and use mental images that are detailed, specific, and realistic.
• Use imagery during competition to prepare for action and recover from errors and poor performances.

7. Dealing Effectively with Anxiety

Successful athletes:

• Accept anxiety as part of sport.
• Realize that some degree of anxiety can help them perform well.
• Know how to reduce anxiety when it becomes too strong, without losing their intensity.

8. Dealing Effectively with Emotions

Successful athletes:

• Accept strong emotions such as excitement, anger, and disappointment as part of the sport experience.
• Are able to use these emotions to improve, rather than interfere with high level performance

9. Concentration

Successful athletes:

• Know what they must pay attention to during each game or sport situation.
• Have learned how to maintain focus and resist distractions, whether they come from the environment or from within themselves.
• Are able to regain their focus when concentration is lost during competition.
• Have learned how to play in the “here-and-now”, without regard to either past or anticipated future events.

For the full article visit: http://www.sportpsych.org/nine-mental-skills-overview

Strengthening Your "Want To" as an Extreme Sports Athlete

Make Simple Tricks Look Cool

I really like this recommended ingredient for success which is referred to as strengthening your "want to." Everyone has a want-to list. If you are an extreme sports athlete your "want to's" probably include "I want to land that new trick" or "Win my first competition." Most times people's "want to's" are just lip service. They just say they want something but they don't work as hard as they can to get it. Plus, when they encounter a obstacle, they don't have the right attitude to view this setback or failure as feedback! I'm sure that we can all relate to this feeling or attitude at some point in time.

So do you think your "want to" is strong? Let's say your goal is to land a Tantrum to Blind on your wakeboard over the summer. One way to gauge the strength of your "want to" is by seeing how many times you give in to the little voice in your head. The voice that says, "I am too tired to hit the lake today. I don't want to get up early. My legs and arms are too sore to land such an advanced trick." If you let that little voice win, your "want to" is not strong enough. I know that this concept of mental toughness almost sounds too easy, but trust me it's not at first. But once your "want to" becomes part of your every day routine, you're just turned a huge mental road block that most never overcome and thus never truly reach their goals as amateur or professional action sports athletes.

So let me leave you with this.... "How strong is your "want to?" Do you really want something or just say you do?"

Quick mental tricks to keep you from burning out.

Let's face it, he all get burnt of from time to time, even in the awesome world of action sports. Check out these tips to help you to stay motivated an ulitmately help you to avoid burning out out which would significantly diminish my day to day progression whether it be skateboarding, wakeboarding, snowboarding or whatever action sport you participate in on a regular basis. Upping your skills to the next level drop dramatically the minute that you let burn out set in for too long.

Don't Let Burnout Take You Off Your Game!

Sometimes, you’re tired after work. Or you want to hang out with your buddies instead of team practice. All athletes—from the weekend soccer player to the pro action sports athelete—need motivation to remain engaged when it comes to training, practice and a full season of competition. Try these tips to keep yourself in the right frame of mind:

1) Set up a schedule: It’s simple physics—objects in motion tend to stay in motion. If you have a routine, the momentum of that routine is bound to keep you going. “In advance, set up a schedule for what you’re going to do that week. And check in with yourself, honestly, to see what you've accomplished,” says clinical health psychologist Dr. Jayme Albin. Commitment and motivation will come from holding yourself accountable. It’s that whole you-have-to-look-at-yourself-in-the mirror thing. 

2) Keep your eye on the prize: If you want to run a five-minute mile, it’s not going to magically happen after a few sessions. “You’ll need to remind yourself of the overall goal so you don’t get discouraged,” says sports psychologist Dr. William Wiener. Some professional athletes post motivating statements in their shower wall. Try writing down your ultimate goal and keep it in your wallet so you’re reminded of it every time you pay for something (like donuts). “You also want to make smaller goals so you can reach them and measure them in a timely manner.” So, make a smaller goal to run every day after work this week. Then, when you've done that, make another smaller goal that will help you reach that five-minute mile. 

3) Recognize you’re not perfect: “It’s hard to maintain perfect motivation,” says Dr. John F. Murray, a clinical and sports psychologist and author the Mental Performance Index. You may miss practice or skate sesh due to something out of your control but don’t let that stop you from getting back into it. “Most people do things to avoid failure or achieve success,” Murray points out. Recognizing that falling out of your sport could be a failure and getting back into it could bring you success. 

4) Make sure you’re happy: “You have to enjoy the sport, if you don’t then why are you in it?” challenges Dr. Michael Fraser, a clinical psychologist and chief of staff at Behavioral Associates in New York City. “If you’re doing it to meet someone, that’s fine, but make sure you’re being social. If you’re doing it for athletic reasons, measure the league and make sure the team’s ability matches yours.” You’ll be more likely to blow off practice if you’re in the wrong sport or league. 

(Portions of article courtesy of Lisa Freedman)

Face Your Fears... It's Good for You!

What almost kills you makes you stronger.Extreme sports and dangerous physical challenges boost your mental makeup, finds a new study in the Journal of Health Psychology.

Australian researchers defined extreme sports as those activities that involve “the potential destruction of the physical self”—basically, your ass is on the line. (Think BASE jumping, waterfall kayaking, and big-wave surfing.)

Travis Rice during the Art of Flight

Here’s the good news: You don’t have to jump off a building or surf Mavericks in order to experience the fulfillment outlined in the research. Whether you’re quitting your job to start a new business or simply signing up for a Tough Mudder, if the activity scares the hell out of you, fighting through that fear will provide psychological benefits similar to those observed in the study, Brymer says. Just don’t be reckless. “Do your homework, and make sure you’re physically and mentally prepared.” 

After a series of interviews with 15 experienced extreme athletes—that is, not dead—the study authors found that overcoming intense fear leads to “transformational” changes in confidence and sense of self. Put simply, overcoming physical terror increases life-fulfillment and psychological well-being, the study shows.

When you get down to it, fear stems from a lack of faith in yourself and your ability, explains study coauthor Eric Brymer, Ph.D., a psychologist at Queensland University of Technology. And so when you defeat your fears, you’re proving to yourself that you’re capable—an experience that has major psychological advantages that will ripple throughout your life, he adds.

(Courtesy of Markham Heid http://news.menshealth.com/why-extreme-sports-make-you-a-better-man/2013/04/14/) 

The 3 D's to Sports Motivation

Prime motivation means putting 100% of your time, effort, energy, and focus into all aspects of your sport. It involves doing everything possible to become the best athlete you can be.

Prime motivation begins with what I call the three D’s. The first D stands for direction. Before you can attain prime motivation, you must first consider the different directions you can go in your sport. You have three choices: stop participating completely, continue at your current level, or strive to be the best athlete you can be.

The second D represents decision. With these three choices of direction, you must select one direction in which to go. None of these directions are necessarily right or wrong, better or worse, they’re simply your options. Your choice will dictate the amount of time and effort you will put into your sport and how good an athlete you will ultimately become.

The third D stands for dedication. Once you've made your decision, you must dedicate yourself to it. If your decision is to become the best athlete you can be, then this last step, dedication, will determine whether you have prime motivation. Your decision to be your best and your dedication to your sport must be a top priority. Only by being completely dedicated to your direction and decision will you ensure that you have prime motivation.

To read the full article check out: http://drjimtaylor.com/2.0/sports/sports-motivation-to-succeed/

Big Wave Rider Laird Hamilton's Best Quotes on Surfing and Success

"The world doesn't need more conformists. If you don't fit in, celebrate that, and then get ready to stand your ground."

"Surfing's one of the few sports that you look ahead to see what's behind."

"The biggest sin in the world would be if I lost my love for the ocean."

"Wiping out is an under appreciated skill."

"For those searching for something more than just the norm. We lay it all down, including what others call sanity, for just a few moments on waves larger than life. We do this because we know there is still something greater than all of us. Something that inspires us spiritually. We start going downhill, when we stop taking risks."

"If you cultivate something in your mind, you give it a life. It's really that simple."

"A little adrenaline every day keeps the boredom away."

"Make sure you worst enemy doesn't live between your own two ears."

Read more at: http://www.quoteauthors.com/quotes/laird-hamilton-quotes.html

Bethany Hamilton - A True "Soul Surfer"

Bethany Hamilton has become a source of inspiration to millions through her story of faith, determination, and hope. Born into a family of surfers on February 8, 1990, on the island of Kauai, Hawaii, Bethany began surfing at a young age. At the age of eight, Bethany entered her first surf competition, the Rell Sun Menehune event on Oahu, where she won both the short and long board divisions. This sparked a love for surf competition within her spirit.

At the age of thirteen, on October 31, 2003, Bethany was attacked by a 14-foot tiger shark while surfing off Kauai’s North Shore. The attack left Bethany with a severed left arm. After losing over 60% of her blood, and making it through several surgeries without infection, Bethany was on her way to recovery with an unbelievably positive attitude. Lifeguards and doctors believe her strong water sense and faith in God helped get her through the traumatic ordeal.

Miraculously, just one month after the attack, Bethany returned to the water to continue pursuing her goal to become a professional surfer. In January of 2004, Bethany made her return to surf competition; placing 5th in the Open Women’s division of that contest. With no intention of stopping, Bethany continued to enter and excel in competition. Just over a year after the attack she took 1st place in the Explorer Women’s division of the 2005 NSSA National Championships – winning her first National Title.

In 2007, Bethany realized her dream and turned pro. Bethany has since participated in numerous ASP and World Tour Events with her major highlight being a second place finish in the ASP 2009 World Junior Championships. (See Career Highlights and Surf Related News for more results)
Since losing her arm, Bethany’s story has been told in hundreds of media outlets and she has been recognized with numerous awards, public appearances, and various speaking engagements. (See Awards & Appearances)

In October 2004, Bethany shared her life story in her autobiography entitled Soul Surfer. Seven years later, the book was made into a major motion picture bearing the same title which released theatrically in April, and for home entertainment in August, 2011. Other books Bethany has written include “Devotions for the Soul Surfer,” “Rise Above,” A “Soul Surfer” Bible, “Ask Bethany,” and “Clash,” “Burned,” “Storm,” and “Crunch.” (See Books for publishing information) Further, Bethany was the inspiration behind Becky Baumgartner’s 2007 documentary entitled Heart of a Soul Surfer.
From a young age, Bethany’s parents instilled their faith in Jesus Christ; and at age 5, she made the decision to have a personal relationship with Him. Bethany’s foundation of faith has been her backbone; her source of truth, hope, and strength.
Out of the water, Bethany has grown from a young teenage girl with aspirations of becoming a professional surfer into a twenty-year old professional surfer with aspirations of becoming a beacon of inspiration and hope. Through the platform of professional sport, Bethany has been able to touch a large number of people with her message, charitable efforts, and overall spirit. Bethany just launched her own foundation, Friends of Bethany, which supports shark attack survivors, traumatic amputees, and serves to inspire others through her life story, and is involved in numerous other charitable efforts. (See Give Back for more charitable partnerships)

Bethany’s story is continually growing as she strives to be the best at whatever God calls her to do. The future is truly wide open for this young soul surfer! (http://bethanyhamilton.com/about/bio/)

"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine as children do. It's not just in some of us; it is in everyone. And as we let our own lights shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others."

~Coach Carter~

Longboarding USA - Raising Awareness

I've been in touch with Caleb and Tanner Childs and had to spread the stoke on the longboarding trek that they are planning on making. He's their story:

On May 14, 2012, two brothers from Concord, NC plan to take off on a trip of a lifetime. Caleb and Tanner Childs are leaving from Wilmington, NC and are walking/longoarding to San Francisco, CA. The brothers’ main goal for the walk is to raise awareness and funds for three charities of their choosing and, of course, for the adventure aspect of it all.

Tanner Childs just turned 22 years old and is in his final year at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte, finishing up a degree in Criminal Justice. Caleb, the older of the two, just turned 26 and graduated from North Carolina State University in 2008 with a degree in Turfgrass Management of all things. The idea of walking/longboarding across the country came from Tanner, apparently the dreamer of the two brothers. Caleb, who just recently spent some time living in the mountains of North Carolina, which kindled his love for the outdoors, stated that he would accompany Tanner but that they should do it for a good cause of some kind. The good cause turned out to be the three charities they chose to support.

The three charities consist of The Semper Fi Fund, The Vickie S. Honeycutt Foundation, and the North Toxaway Food Bank. The Semper Fi Fund helps ease financial burdens for hospitalized or wounded marines and other military personnel who support the marines. Both brothers believe this to be an important charity to raise awareness for, as many of the wounded soldiers are overlooked upon returning back to the U.S. The Vickie S. Honeycutt Foundation is a charity that was started to honor Mrs. Honeycutt, and gives financial aid to teachers, and their family members, who are battling cancer. Lastly, the North Toxaway Food Bank is an organization that helps families meet their basic needs on a week to week basis in an area that is greatly affected by the economic downturn. 

The brothers plan on having an amazing journey, but are still lacking in a few areas. They are still looking for as much publicity as possible, and could still use some help in raising money or supplies/gear to help them with their budget. If you would be willing to donate, you can contact them at tanner@longboardingusa.com, or caleb@longboardingusa.com. The main thing to keep in mind is the charities though, because that's what it’s all about. Don't forget to check out their website at http://www.longboardingusa.com/, and "like" their facebook page, longboardingusa. They are shooting for 1,000 likes before they leave!!!

100% Committment Equals Success

Every single day we set attempt to set goals for ourselves, special those involved in sports.  Let's take a look at what you're up against.  It’s crucial that as you prepare to actually set your goals that you understand what we’re up against. I quote from Keith Shaw:

“There are numerous studies that prove the value of writing down and keep track of your thoughts and goals. A research study sponsored by the Ford Foundation discovered that:

- 23 percent of the population has no idea what they want from life, and as a result, they do not have much.

- 67 percent of the population has a general idea of what they want, but they do not have any plans for how to get it.

- Only 10 percent of the population has specific, well-defined goals, but even then, seven out of the ten of those people reach their goals only half the time.

- The top 3 percent, however, achieved their goals 89 percent of the time.

Wow, an astonishing 90 percent of the population has no ideas or plans for what they want out of life! Without a solid life plan to take a hold of, these "drifters" will not have direction or the peace of mind to maximize their lives.

When you have no goals and plans in your life, you fall victim to petty worries, stress, anxiety, fears, troubles, and self-pity. You become just like the proverbial driftwood cast about by the crashing waves on the sea. All of these are indications of a lack of strength in your life, which leads to failure, unhappiness, and loss. Without strength, you cannot persevere.”

Like I mentioned earlier, "the purpose of understanding this research is that you have to decide whether or not you are ready and willing to commitment 100%."

“There's a difference between interest and commitment. When you're interested in doing something, you do it only when circumstance permit. When you're committed to something, you accept no excuses, only results. (Author Unknown”)

3 Ways People Deal With Failure

Let's face it, failure is part of life especially in sports. As an athlete, it's important that you take the time to look at these patterns to see which one you are following. These patterns could be the very reason why you are not moving forward as an athlete or the lack of success that you may be experiencing.

What separates people who enjoy success from the majority who end up never getting what they want is how we respond to failure. It is what we do about failure that makes a big difference.

There are three ways in which people respond to failure.

Pattern 1: Give Excuses, Lay Blame & Give up

What do some people do when they don't get what they want? They will start giving themselves lots of excuses and blame everything and everyone around them. They say things like, 'it's not fair', 'I'm just not smart enough' 'It's just too difficult', 'I'm too young' or 'I'm too old', 'I just didn't have the luck', 'the depressed economy affected me'.

Feeling helpless and frustrated, this first group will stop taking action and give up! They will resign themselves to their goal being out of reach and live a life of mediocrity.

Pattern 2: Keep Trying the Same thing Over and Over Again
These are the people who have a lot more determination than the first. When they don't get their outcome, they will not quit. They will get themselves to take action again. The motto of this group is, 'I failed because I did not try hard enough' 'If I keep trying, I will eventually succeed'. So they keep taking action, putting in more time, energy and effort. No matter how many times they fail, they just keep trying harder and harder.
Will they eventually achieve their goals? It depends. If they set small, incremental goals, they may, with enough time and effort eventually succeed. However, if they set big and exceptional goals, like becoming the top in their field, they will never be successful by just trying again and again. They may experience a better result, but they won't reach the goals they desire. Why?

Because, although they keep taking action, they do not change their strategy. If you keep using the same approach, you are going to keep getting the same result. I have seen so many professionals and businessmen repeat this limiting pattern.

I know many businessmen who fail in their business only to start again and do the same thing. They keep putting in ads that don't work, they hire ineffective people or they use the same business model.

Pattern 3: Get Feedback, Change Strategy and Take Action until you Succeed.

So what is the pattern that all successful individuals exhibit? When they don't achieve their goals, they don't think of it as failure. Instead, they perceive it as feedback. Either feedback that the strategy they used was ineffective or that they did not take enough action. They then use this feedback to immediately change their strategy and take action again.

If they still don't succeed, they will get more feedback, change their strategy and take action again. They keep repeating this process until they get what they want. They do whatever it takes. So, remember, every time you don't get what you want, it is life giving you feedback. It is this continuous feedback you need to help you adjust your approach until you hit your target.

Thomas Edison took almost 10,000 attempts before inventing the light bulb. When asked how he did it, he said that he had to first find 9,999 strategies of how not to invent the light bulb. He then used this feedback to change his strategy until he got what he wanted.

Successful people re-look and change their strategy whenever they encounter 'failure'. They understand that failure is feedback. Understand this principle and you will overcome failure and achieve success in no time at all.

(Portions of article courtesy of Author: Adam Khoo)

Powell Peralta

Such an amazing quote by Stacey Peralta:

"I cannot overstate how important it is to learn how to get up off the floor when you’ve been knocked down. .. But if you come to realize how connected failure is to success then it eases the blows and you begin to realize it’s normal to fail. " 

                                                            

 – Stacy Peralta

Longboard your way to Success

I had to throw up another video of the WCS Crew bombin hills here in AZ. This is our playground... Enjoy!

"So basically it's up to you mentally whether or not you are going to up your game. If you want to land that trick  on your longboard or win more games, think it out and visualize every aspect from the approach, the takeoff, movements necessary during the trick or game and a perfect execution. It doesn't matter whether you compete in action sports or mainstream sports, mental imagery will increase your chances of success." ~Kyle Bingham~

And most importantly, remember:

"From every wound there is a scar, and every scar tells a story. A story that says, I survived."

- Fr. Craig Scott

How to get motivated - Go For It!

/mo·ti·va·tion/

1. The reason or reasons one has for acting or behaving in a particular way

2. The general desire or willingness of someone to do something

3. *My own definition: the art of getting off your butt and getting stuff done

Because here is the thing: you may have a burning desire to do something, you may have the best will in the world, you may even know all the reasons why you should do it… but if you haven't done it yet, don't be surprised.

Getting motivated doesn't happen by coincidence or by miracle. Motivation is not something that some people have and others don't either. It is something we all do, consciously or unconsciously, everyday!

Motivation is not something you have or don't have; it is something you do

Take training, for example, notice I say training, and not exercising! We want to do it, we know it is good for us, we know it is going to make us look better and feel better… but after a hard day's work, when tiredness sets in, who would blame us for wanting to slouch on the couch and watch some TV while eating our favourite treat?

Well, think of taking a shower for a moment. Most of us do it every day. We don't wait until we are all stinky to clean ourselves. We do it because it is the right thing to do; it is time to take a shower.
We are able to do this because we have built up this good habit over the years through repetition. We do it at the same time, in the same place, following the same routine, which is so ingrained in our unconscious that we are barely aware of the process.

If you want to get to the point where your training routine goes as smoothly as your shower routine, start following the following NLP rules:

1# IDENTIFY EXACTLY WHAT YOU WANT TO DO
Answer these questions:
What do you want specifically? When do you want it by? Where? With whom? What for? What will happen if you achieve that? What if you don't achieve that? Is it under your control? Is it worth it?
You see, when setting up goals, a lot of people do it wrong. They state what they want to have, not what they want to do; things like "I want to be slim", "I want a six pack" or "I want to have toned arms"… But, what do you want to do? Because it is as a result of you doing what you need to do that you will get to have what you want.

Your objective needs to be stated in a way that your brain understands it. And just like your computer, your brain needs 3 things: affirmative statements that are direct and very specific.
If you are just thinking it then it is not an objective, it is just a thought. So, put pen to paper and write your answers to the questions above.
If you don't know what you want, how will you know when you've got there?


2# MAKE A PLAN
Again, if you don't have a plan, all you have is a lovely thought. I suggest you get yourself a diary, an excel sheet, a calendar, whatever works for you, and devise your personal strategy. A strategy to suit your lifestyle, your working schedule, etc…

Keeping the end result in mind, what is the first step you need to take in order for you to do what you need to do? And after that? What's next? Do you have all the resources you need (resources are materials, books, money, people…), or do you need help?

If it's going to take you 12 weeks to get a six pack, set a date and work backwards from there. If you want to lose a stone in 3 weeks, do the same. Break your objective into smaller, more achievable chunks, so that this week you know exactly what you are doing with regards to training and nutrition, and you can focus on just that. As I tell my clients, it's one week at a time, one day at a time.

You see, now you have more than just a nice thought; now you have a plan of action. And believe it or not, this is what most people lack. It's hard to get motivated if you don't know what you want to get motivated for!
And what are you going to do when you are tired, sad, in a mad mood, frustrated…? You must put strategies in place, so when that happens, and it will, you know exactly what to do. You have to become a bit of a ninja!

3# FIND OUT WHAT FIRES YOU UP
There are a lot of things that we need to or should do, but that doesn't mean we do them. So I want you to try on the following sentences, simply add what you want to be able to do at the end.

For example, if you want to go to the gym every day at 6pm for an hour, try these on. Say them out loud:
I should go to the gym – I need to go to the gym – I have to go to the gym – I'd better go to the gym -
I could go to the gym – I can go to the gym – I will go to the gym – I'm going to the gym
Do this a few times and notice which one creates the strongest feeling within you, like you want to go do it. You've just unlocked your personal motivational language. Make sure you use it from now on!

4# IMAGINE YOURSELF SUCCEEDING
One of the main functions of the brain is to prove itself right. So, whatever you focus on is magnified, as the brain thinks it is an objective of yours. Also, the brain doesn't know the difference between a vividly imagined memory and reality. This is why if you want to do something, it's vital you imagine yourself doing it like this (read this NLP resource fully before you do it):

Think of yourself doing the thing you want to do, training in the gym, or whatever. When you think about it you may notice the thought to be at a certain distance from you, a certain size, and in a certain place. Just make sure you see yourself in it, looking happy, positive and really enjoying what you are doing.

Now, imagine the thought getting bigger and bigger until it's almost panoramic. Make sure it's big, bold and colourful, maybe add some sound to it, and notice how good you feel.

Now, imagine you can float outside of your body and into yourself in the image, so you can see through your eyes, hear through your ears and feel how good it feels to be doing what you are doing and loving it too! Intensify everything even more, so the colours are brighter, the sounds louder and the feelings stronger.

Now, tell yourself in your most motivating voice "Go For It!"

Now, take a deep breath through the nose and magnify the feelings so you feel even more motivated!

Repeat 3 times, first sitting down, and then standing up, and notice how you feel even more motivated!

It's vital that you build a propulsion system that makes you feel good and look forward to doing the things you want to do, so that you want to do them more and more. This is how you get to build up new more useful habits to last you a lifetime.

I've just shared 4 motivational strategies with you, that when you use them, they will help you get more stuff done and achieve more, faster. They can be applied in any area of your life. These strategies have helped transform some of my clients from couch potatoes into fitness freaks, so good luck to you!

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/motivational-articles/how-to-get-motivated-4-nlp-strategies-that-work-5109860.html

About the Author

Anna Aparicio is regarded as Ireland's top female NLP/Hypnosis Life Coach. A Self-esteem and Confidence Expert, she has helped hundreds of women all around the world feel empowered, super confident, and lead happier more succesful lives. With a unique blend of Neuro-linguistic Programming, cutting edge personal development tools, and a contagious sense of humour and zest for life, Anna is renowned for getting results fast. Now you can get her free report WHY YOU'LL NEVER GET WHAT YOU WANT UNLESS YOU DO THIS at http://www.delite.ie/

Mental Toughness in Sports - Up Your Game with Mental Imagery

How Mental Imagery Works

When an athlete imagines himself performing to perfection, he is physiologically creating neutral brain patterns that are similar to small tracks engraved in the brain cells. This enables the athlete to perform certain stratgies, moves, tricks, etc. by mentally practicing those tasks first in his mind. Mental imagery is intended to train the athlete's mind, thus showing the body exactly how to react or perform when during practice or competition

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Practical Application of Mental Imagery

It’s true that we move closer to what we focus on. If an athlete imagines missing a shot, or how good the other team is, or even fears injury, it harms his game concentration and affects the outcome. It’s absolutely essential that athletes visualize success and victory.  Steven Balzac, a psychology professor and former nationally ranked fencer says, “If we imagine success, we prepare ourselves for success because that’s what’s in our heads.” Remember that we if don't beleive in ourself and our abilities, no on else will for us.

It’s important to remember that athletes use imagery in different ways. Their imagery may not involve just visual images, but sounds, smells or touch. It really depends on the person. Another important aspect of mental imagery is for the athlete to watch and study his sports heroes and imagine that he is making those same shots with precision. Does this mean the athlete will always perform at top level? No…we’re human and we all have bad days on occasion. But visualization and mental imagery increases the chance of increased and sustained success.

Results of Mental Imagery

Of course physical practice is always the best way for an athlete to improve his skill level and race to the top of his game. However, mental imagery is better than no practice at all and, incorporated with physical practice, is the best way to see optimal results. Continuous studies are always being conducted to determine just how much mental imagery plays into the increased success of athletes. And, for the rest of us, imagining ourselves more successful is never a waste of time if we are also spending equal or more time physically developing our skill set. The time spent in mental imagery is beneficial not only to the athlete but to the business person, the student, the entrepreneur, and anyone else who desires to develop and increase their level of play. The more mental imagery is studied; more effective techniques can be developed and adapted by athletes…and the rest of us.

 

"So basically it's up to you mentally whether or not you are going to up your game. If you want to land that 1080 on your snowboard, think it out and visualize every aspect from the approach, the takeoff, movements while in the air and a perfect landing. It doesn't matter whether you compete in action sports or mainstream sports, mental imagery will increase your chances of success." ~Kyle Bingham~
 
(Portions of article courtesy of Michelle Hill http://www.winningproof.com/)

"Winners do what Losers won't!"

"Champions aren't made in the gyms. Champions are made from something they have deep inside them - a desire, a dream, a vision."
Muhammad Ali

Anthony Robles - Unstoppable

When I think about sports and motivation, without a doubt I can't take some time to discuss my fellow Arizona State University Alumni Anthony Robles. For those of you that my not be familiar with him, Anthony was born with one leg however despite this obstacle became a wrestler in junior high in Mesa, Arizona. Anthony's accomplishments in wrestling are many with his crowning achievements including 2011 NCAA National Wrestling Champion and 2011 NCAA Best Wrestler of the National Tournament Award! If you'd like to learn more about Anthony Roble's amazing life and career, visit his website at http://www.anthonyrobles.com/

"Every soul who comes to earth with a leg or two at birth must wrestle his opponents knowing its not what is, but what can be that measures worth. Make it hard, just make it possible and through pain, I wont complain. My spirit is unconquerable. Fearless I will face each foe for I know I am capable. I don't care whats probable, through blood sweat and tears I am unstoppable."- Anthony Robles

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Great Moments are Born from Great Opportunity

”How can you say that the door cannot be opened until your knuckles are bloody, till your head is bruised, till your muscles are sore. It can be done.”