“The great threat to success is not failure, it’s boredom.”

                                                                                                         - James Clear

Throughout my over five decades as a martial arts instructor, I have had the honor of teach literally thousands of students.  During this time, approximately 1,800 students have earned their Black Belts. 

Of those students, I can think of only two students who when I first saw them, I knew they had everything it took to become a Black Belt and eventually did – only two. 

Many others had naturally physical, mental and emotional...

“The moment you take responsibility for Everything in your life, is the moment you can change Anything in your life.”

                                                                                                                   - Hal Elrod

As a speaker, I am honored each year to share my Mind of a Champion message with wide variety of audiences.  Groups range from elementary school children all the way to corporate leaders. 

While it does take a diverse set of skills and strategies to be able to communicate with, and hold the attention of audiences of such a wide range, I believe that we are “all big kids anyway” and as a result the...

“It's very important that we re-learn the art of resting and relaxing. Not only does it help prevent the onset of many illnesses that develop through chronic tension and worrying; it allows us to clear our minds, focus, and find creative solutions to problems.”

                                                                                       - Thich Nhat Hanh

I am writing this blog for myself.  My logic in sharing this publicly with you, is I actually might listen to my own coaching (as well as help some others along the way).

Like all of us, I have been blessed with specific talents that have served me quite well.  However, I also have some very specific “areas of opportunity” that I could address to make myself...

"Commit yourself to life-long learning.  The most valuable asset you’ll ever have is your mind and what you put into it.”

                                                                                                   - Brian Tracy

As I am writing this, I am reminded of a conference of entrepreneurial business leaders I attended in Dallas, several years ago. I was honored to be a keynote speaker at the event as well as share my corporate board breaking experience with those looking to “breakthrough” their fears and limiting beliefs and create the life and businesses they desire. 

I have attended several business events like this during time as a professional martial arts...

“Focus 90% of your time on solutions and only 10% of your time on problems.”

                                                                                            -  Anthony J. D’Angelo

Today, I was sitting and reflecting on the many people who have crossed my path who have made a positive impact on my life. 

Some of these people have been with me my entire life and other times for a relatively brief period of time. 

Interestingly enough, there is no correlation between time and the impact made.  Even those who are in our lives for brief periods can have lasting impact.

One such person for me was Frank Jeffrey. 

Immediately after graduating from college, I began my career...

“I would visualize things coming to me. It would just make me feel better. Visualization works if you work hard. That’s the thing. You can’t just visualize and go eat a sandwich.”

                                                                                                         - Jim Carrey

Visualization combined with inspired action can be one of the most powerful tools in a leader’s toolbox for success. 

When you look at elite-level athletes, you will notice that the difference between them in athletic talent is oftentimes so minuscule it is almost non-existent.  It is the person who creates the trifecta of combining the power of their body, mind and spirit that...

“Today is a new day. Don't let your history interfere with your destiny! Let today be the day you stop being a victim of your circumstances and start taking action towards the life you want. You have the power and the time to shape your life. Break free from the poisonous victim mentality and embrace the truth of your greatness. You were not meant for a mundane or mediocre life!”

                                                                                       - Steve Maraboli

 Are you being a victim or are you an owner?  

I first heard this question posed several years ago by super coach, Steve Chandler when I was attending one of his great seminars.  

The concept is really quite...

“If people are good only because they fear punishment, or hope for reward, then we are a sorry lot indeed.”

                                                                                             - Albert Einstein

There is a classic story of Beatles legend, John Lennon as a young school-boy.  His teacher had assigned the class an assignment to answer the simple question,

“What do you want to be when you grow up?”

As expected, as his classmates shared their answers, typical careers emerged from the imaginations of young primary schoolers of that time, policeman, nurse, teacher, fireman, etc.

It then came time for young John to share, and the teacher asked, “John, what do you...

“Be the change you wish to see in the world.”

                                                                                  - Mahatma Ghandi

Today, many would say that we are living in a deeply divided society. 

The anger, irritation and resentment that comes from others not seeing the world the way we see it, can permeate our everyday life and is fueled by the constant images and reports we see on news and social medias.

So much of our frustrations come from wanting others to act, speak or think like we do.  If not in the absolute, at least in a willingness to listen to us and consider our point of view in a civil and empathetic way. 

But what about us?  Are we willing to do the same? 

This reminds...

“In life, finding a voice is speaking and living the truth.  Each of you is an original.  Each of you has a distinctive voice.  When you find it, your story will be told.  You will be heard.”

                                                                                                            - John Grisham

As human beings, I believe one of the most amazing...