STORY

As I assume is true in everyone’s life, there are always ups and downs. I don’t typically fall into the motivational trope, and I promise to try my best to avoid being preachy.

My mindset has always been, “Do the thing, do the work, and that’s how you get it done. If you don’t, it doesn’t get done.” Obviously, that’s a no-brainer. But the wall I personally run into is that I’m also a bit too relaxed with issues and tasks. I get stuff done but tend to hyperfixate on putting out one fire while three more are burning. Not because I want them to… I’m more of a one-to-two-tabs-open kind of guy. I like to make sure whatever I’m focused on has my full attention. That said, I tend to worry about the “big picture” stuff and don’t sweat the small things. To me, whether it’s finishing that project at work you haven’t started, debt comes knocking, or you said something rude to someone; I seem to pick one problem and act as if the others suddenly pause. Even knowing that these are all things that add up (quite literally in some cases).

Why am I telling you this?

Because, just like physical training, our mental state and approach are at times just as important. Anxiety and depression have been increasing, especially among the younger crowd. I’m sure you have your own ideas about why, as do I. But possibly, working on utilizing a bit more patience, holding your tongue, solidifying daily discipline, and making the right choice instead of the easy one could help.

The biggest takeaway from this article, though, is that a lot of the time, you should focus on a few of the small things to prevent them from becoming big things. Stop procrastinating on the boring, small, or seemingly irrelevant problems or tasks. That’s where the progress is made.

The key is not to overwhelm yourself. You don’t have to take on the boss and all the minions at once. Make a plan, then follow it.

The best part of this downer is that, ultimately, most issues can be dealt with and overcome, regardless of what stage they’re at, though the size of the price will vary. Sometimes a little sacrifice will lead to a better outcome.

MINDSET

The big reasons I so thoroughly enjoy heavy lifts and Jiu-Jitsu are the sheer facts that when I’m actively engaged, I have no choice but to address not only the big movements but also the small shifts. Take BJJ: I have to focus on the person entirely and what I’m going to do… on top of that if I don’t mind the subtle movements from my opponent, I’ll find myself submitted. Everything has to be taken in and dealt with in some manner.

Life’s always a grind. I’m not pretending I have it all together. But I do know that an object in motion stays in motion; and it doesn’t have time to dwell.

Figure out what needs to be done. Make a list. Then get to work.

There’ll always be pushback, especially at the start. From your mind, body, even others. But once you break through that wall, a whole new beast emerges.

Thanks for reading this week’s edition of Unmasked by The Weekly Standard!

If you found value in these insights, share it with a training buddy or post it on your social feed; let’s spread the knowledge and push each other to new levels. See you next time!