Things That Matter...and Things That Don't

Collectively, we are more distracted than ever: emails, text messages, social media notifications, and YouTube video suggestions pop up all the time. The digital world presents challenges that most of us never had to face in our teens and twenties. These days it is very easy to lose perspective on what is truly important, and to give more weight to things that are outside of our control. It's time for a reality check: there are things in life that truly matter, and there are things that do not. How well we are able to distinguish between the two will have a tremendous impact on our success.

In a recent viral YouTube video, seven-time Super Bowl winning quarterback Tom Brady demonstrated the proper mechanics of throwing a football. The video wasn't really created for those that have a desire to play the position, but for anyone that simply wanted to learn. The lesson that Brady puts across is that in order to learn how to do anything the right way, there are three things one must keep in mind. First, start from the ground up. Second, everything is connected. Finally, don't get ahead of yourself. Brady pointed out that mechanically speaking and in terms of creating torque, throwing a football is very similar to swinging a golf club or hitting a hockey slap shot. Metaphorically, the three things Brady says to keep in mind can also apply to playing a musical instrument, running a business, and even high intensity exercise. Again, there are things that matter, and things that don't.

What are the important takeaways for exercise and what should we emphasize?

Effort. I describe effort as a commitment to a task and using every ounce of your momentary capability (such as reaching muscular failure). Effort is a large component of being process-oriented (as I have mentioned in previous articles), and it is something that everyone can improve.

Attitude. How do you approach a task? Are you dialed in and positive about what you are undertaking, or would you rather be somewhere else? Having a positive attitude requires no special ability and doesn't cost a dime.

Focus. I mentioned earlier that we are collectively more distracted than ever, but exercise success can be greatly enhanced by shutting everything else out for 20 minutes during your workout. Stay present (as Brady says, don't get ahead of yourself).

Knowledge of results. This is how you can objectively gauge your progress, and it is why we give clients access to their exercise spreadsheets so they can see for themselves how they are doing. It affirms if you are doing well or doing poorly, and it provides feedback for making changes if necessary.

Be a learner and a listener. You have two ears and one mouth for a reason, as the old saying goes. We often think of listening as a passive skill, but it is really quite active if you are doing it correctly. Total Results exercise is a new concept for more than 90 percent of people who walk through our door for the first time, and in order to learn you will initially make mistakes. Nobody gets it right the first time.

Now that we know what is important to focus on in order to achieve success, what are some things that we shouldn't waste our time worrying about?

Time under load. This is but one measurement of progress, and while it is great to see an increase in TUL from one workout to the next, it only tells one part of the story. Many of our clients are competitive, and if they don't see an increase in either weight or TUL they often think their workout wasn't effective. Don't fall into this trap! Focus on the process, effort, and form in order to achieve a favorable outcome.

Genetics. You cannot pick your parents. Some of us were born with certain advantages, while others were not. Work as hard as you can and play the hand that you are dealt. A genetic propensity for something doesn't guarantee anything. Be proud of and accept who you are! Don't waste time and emotional resources worrying about what you don't have, and be thankful for good health and the opportunity you have to maximize your genetic blueprint.

Natural ability or your starting fitness level. Some people over the years have hesitated in starting the Total Results exercise program because they "wanted to get in shape first." They miss the point. It doesn't matter where you start, it's where you finish. Talent is overrated, and you do not have to have an elite athletic background to succeed as a Total Results client. Taking the first step is the most important action.

Age. This is simply a number. You are never too old to start the Total Results program. Some of our hardest working and most attentive clients are in their 60s and 70s, and they may have the most to gain from strength training. We have a wide age range of clients, and while your goals may change as you get older, our philosophy with everyone is the same.

Focus on what you can control; these are the things that matter. Don't spend time or energy worrying about the things that take place outside of your orbit. Retired U.S. Navy Admiral and Top Gun fighter pilot Mike Manazir says, "You can create your own self-fulfilling prophecy by deliberately speaking with intent about the future you want." Successful people set goals and make a plan to achieve them. If they accomplish one goal, they set another. If they don't achieve that goal, they find out why and make adjustments. Be honest with yourself and practice accountability. Maintain a positive attitude and celebrate your accomplishments. We are here to help. Exercise smarter with Total Results.