The Inevitable Wall
We all encounter moments in life when we face our true opponent (ehhmm – ourselves.)
A point where we realize that the obstacles we face are not external but internal. Then something else happens, and we have a choice: to give into weakness or keep moving forward with strength.
The Wall: Obstacle or Opportunity?
Hitting the wall is not an obstacle in our way; it’s an opportunity to get better. When things are going smoothly, it’s easy to maintain our course. But true growth happens when we face adversity, temptation, and difficulties – and overcome them. This is where we turn onto the path of greatness, and staying on that path for the long haul.
The Power of Reframing
Instead of wishing for an easier path, we must work to improve ourselves. Hitting the wall and pushing past it – the extra set, the extra thoughtfulness, the extra time – is where all the growth happens. Arnold Schwarzenegger talked about “cheat sets” – using additional muscles to eke out a few more reps when the target muscles were exhausted. The idea was to encourage more growth and better results. Where can we implement a cheat set in the purest sense?
Being Our Own Biggest Competitor
Competing with ourselves is one of the best ways to achieve the best results. Who can push us better than ourselves? We must push past the wall, past what others expect of us, and past our own limits whenever we can.
Finding the Multiplier Opportunity
Extra effort doesn’t require a massive investment of energy or money – just a little bit more, a commitment to being all-in. It could be as simple as:
- Cleaning up until the place is spotless, not just satisfactory
- Making a few more calls or emails to close out the day
- Praising loved ones for the little things they do
- Planning a nice date night for the honey
- Doing an extra set or extra reps
- Spending a few minutes talking to family
Popular is average. Common things get common results. But we can truly stand out when we take these small moments of truth and blow them out of the water with our actions, disciplines, routines, and determination.
Call to Action
Look for the multiplier opportunity in all areas of your life, where you can go a little further, a little harder, a little longer, a little better, a little bit more. Embrace these moments of truth, and let your actions guide you towards greatness.