Coach Your Mind

Egoless

2012-01-30T21:24:00.000-08:00

Ego has no place in growth. Learn to be egoless. It'll free you from self-consciousness.

Coaches and teachers, eliminate ego from the equation. Come together, help one another reach new levels.

Collaborate more, worry less about self.

To be egoless means giving up the need to say, "It was because of me..." Just let it be. Let the glory fall where it does.

When helping someone reach new heights, make it about that someone ... never you. If it has to be about you, the point of teaching has been lost.

As a student, erase ego from your lifestyle. It only holds you back from true improvement.

Ego makes hands squeeze together, not allowing for growth to land in your palms. It blames, deflects, and makes excuses.

To be egoless means giving up who you were, in order to become who you will be!

I DO Know What You're Going Through

2012-01-29T21:20:00.000-08:00

I just finished a great conversation with a student, who in college, had a record breaking emotional blowup. The day after being named a Junior College Tennis All American, he decided not to be focused in his next match. He had already qualified for State Championships and would be moving on to the next stage of tournaments, so in his mind, didn't need to mentally show up for this match.

As this particular match moved forward, it was obvious he wasn't focused on his routines and mental goals. Instead, he was paying more attention to his opponent on the other side of the net, who throughout the year, was a major rival. They didn't like each other much. As a matter of fact, this opponent would purposely cheat when matches got close. This day was no different, except for how my student would handle and react to the cheating.

Approximately 45 minutes into the match, the cheating began. Not caring so much about the outcome of the match, my guy started threatening the cheater, promising he wouldn't get away with it this time. The two jawed back and forth, so much so, that a referee was placed on the court. Unfortunately, this ref had no idea what was about to transpire. This match wasn't going to end in a hand shake and the customary "nice match" at the net.

Again, my student came into this match totally unfocused and concentrated on next week's State Tournament, so he was playing awful. Topped with the normal cheating from his opponent, the perfect storm was brewing. Before any coaches or players on other courts could see what happened, my man hit a perfect volley that was again called out, but this time wasn't going to take it. He instantly jumped the net with his racquet in hand, ready to crack the cheater with it. His doubles partner somehow jumped the net and tackled him before any blood could be shed. In a split second, coaches and players from the two teams were running to the court.

My student was subdued, but not before being ejected from the match, and kicked off the premises. Before leaving, he proceeded to break four racquets and his plastic water bottle, shattering them into pieces, saving one racquet for later. And when I say, "leaving," I don't mean calmly walking away... no, no... this wasn't his style at 19 years old. He took that one remaining racquet and sprinted far away from the tennis courts. He ran across the street, through a field, over a fence, across another street, finding himself at the base of a huge tree at a deserted park.

As he knelt beside the tree, barely being able to breathe from the mile sprint he just took, he noticed he was still clutching his last tennis racquet in his right hand. He looked at the racquet, then back at the tree, then again at the racquet. "Bye bye racquet," he promised. What seemed like 15 minutes, he smashed that graphite enemy into the thick bark until there was only a leather grip left, dangling from his fingers.

Finally, he could rest.

I have a conversation with this student in the mirror every morning and night. I look at his reflection and congratulate him for making an amazing transformation. Before he sits down to a mental session and teaches anyone anything, he must first look at himself, be honest, and admit he will always be the student.

Yes ... I DO know what you're going through!

K.I.S.S.

2012-01-26T21:27:00.000-08:00

Keep it simple, Sally!

The best teachers, coaches, and mentors I've ever had were masters at taking complex situations and breaking them down to their simplest forms. Too often, we talk to much, analyze to deeply, and think more than is needed.

In a tennis match, hit the ball over the net and in more than your opponent. Do this, you win. In basketball, take it away from opponents as much as possible, set a screen to free a teammate, put ball in basket. When trying to lose weight, eat healthy and exercise often. On the golf course, focus deeply on target, hit ball to target as best as you can, repeat.

Sports were made to be played! Knowledge, alone, isn't the key to our improvement. Knowing what to do, and figuring out the best ways to apply that knowledge is the key that will unlock performance. In my years of experience as a player and now a coach, I've learned one simple truth: The simpler we make it, the better we'll play.

Visualize it happening ... accepts all results ... go! Repeat over and over.

1% Mindset

2012-01-25T21:47:00.000-08:00

Do you have what it takes?

Not Many Could Do This

2012-01-24T20:52:00.000-08:00

Unbelievable willingness to battle. She made it look effortless.

I've Got 5 Words For You...

2012-01-23T21:55:00.000-08:00

Emotional intensity increases subconscious ability!

Imagine yourself on the tee box of your #1 handicap hole. OB left, hazard right, and a tight landing area. It's a long par 4, so you must take driver. If left on it's own, the mind will automatically focus on the trouble -- what it doesn't want to have happen. This is simply a defense mechanism the conscious mind goes to, in order to protect you from the pain associated with the trouble. In essence, it's saying, "I don't want you to hit O.B. because it will bring you a lot of pain. Don't hit it in there, ok?" Unfortunately, by creating such a focus, it unknowingly makes you hit there more often.

The conscious, "talking mind" will always do just that -- talk. So we must give it something to chew on while we attempt to feel and visualize what we want. The way we do this is by intensifying our emotions ... with words and thoughts. Since our conscious mind wants to talk, trick it into helping us. Allow it to give us specific words and phrases: "Attack," "Go now," "I love these moments," "This is MY time," etc. While we allow this type of so-called thinking, we're creating emotional responses for our subconscious to attach itself to. We kill two birds...

The tough part is INTENSIFYING the emotion on the tee box, as you stare down the tight fairway, knowing what's on your left and right. This takes practice, but by repeating whatever word or phrase over and over in pre shot and at address with strong emotion, the peripheral will disappear, leaving a detailed picture of what you want. Make yourself feel, with deep passion, the phrase you're repeating. Make the words more than words ... create the intense emotion your subconscious needs.

You can apply this technique to any part of your game, but with any type of change, massive repetition is the only way to attain what you want. On paper this technique seems simple, but the real life application needs discipline and a willingness to step out of your comfort zone.

The 1% Mindset is yours for the taking. What are you waiting for?! Take it!

What Do You Believe?

2012-01-22T21:22:00.000-08:00

I received an email recently from someone who didn't agree that self belief should take precedent over results. He didn't like that I teach my students to "just believe, regardless of (and especially before) results."

I normally don't respond to this type of email, but needed to in this case to "back" my current students' decisions to work their butts off, irregardless of outcome. I'm very passionate, believe deeply in my approach to the mental game, and especially committed to it's affects on our lives off the playing field.

Self belief and confidence is a choice we make, not a result of our wins and losses. The levels of belief will definitely increase when we succeed, but our foundation will always be a decision we consciously make. This person is upset because he thinks I'm creating a false belief in my students, telling them to "just believe." I'm not telling a 5 handicap to believe that he'll win the US Open this year, or asking a high school tennis player to drop his classes to chase a professional career ... but I AM telling them that with unwaivering self confidence, massive discipline, and committed passion for their goals, one day, they will have a chance!

I want each and every student I currently teach, and players I'll teach in the future to know their belief system is what separates them from the rest. This is especially true when their plans don't seem to be working as they visualized. The 1% Mindset is about sustaining a level of confidence through the difficult times, knowing the only thing that can stop you ... is you! Your mindset dictates your path, decisions, and reactions!

The strength and conviction of your self belief doesn't have to be a slave to outcome. You have two choices: Decide to believe in yourself, no matter what the result, or as my friendly neighborhood doubter would suggest ... only after concrete results appear. The 1% laugh at the latter recommendation. What do you believe?

Pressure Moment? Nope!

2012-01-19T21:22:00.000-08:00

Prior to this play, 100% of people would agree that this was the definition of "pressure moment." In my new reality, I now believe Laettner simply made a conscious choice to focus on the challenge of the moment, instead of the fear of missing.

Pressure isn't real ... Laettner's reaction to the moment of consequence was!

Workaholic ... Period!

2012-01-18T21:18:00.000-08:00

Love him, hate him, but you have to admire him. He turned talent into all-time skill!

Pressure, Part II

2012-01-17T21:09:00.000-08:00

I've received such a huge response about the Pressure video I made for the 1% Academy, I thought I needed to revisit the topic. This subject has created a stir, in my opinion, because my take on Pressure is very much against the grain, causing people to question their rooted definition of the word. Since most are instinctively against major change, you can imagine the conversations I've had on the topic.

From the time my memory began, the definition of pressure has been hammered into my brain. Growing up as an athlete, learning how to "handle" or "deal" with pressure better than my opponents has been logged into my daily practice routines. I've been told by coaches, parents, and all the so-called experts that the only way to separate from the pack was to play better than them under this monster they named pressure.

As a tennis instructor, I naturally taught my students the same principles about pressure that everyone taught me, but as I began creating my mental performance base, something changed. Before I could teach anyone else how to develop their mental and emotional game, I first had to take a long, hard look at my own, both current and past. I quickly started seeing patterns in the way I approached pressure situations, and realized my body's physical reaction to those moments were dictated by my perception of the moments.

I remember the day as if it was yesterday, when I first asked myself the question: Could it be possible that pressure didn't really exist? Could it be that what I called pressure was actually just my thoughts creating specific emotional and physical reactions?

Unfortunately, I didn't have the courage at the time to "buck the system." Being the young kid on the block, I didn't posses the confidence or awareness that I controlled my confidence. So, rather than trying to change the way other coaches and players viewed pressure, I kept my new views on the inside, waiting until "tomorrow" to approach the topic.

Well, tomorrow has come ... and it's today! Since I couldn't find any "experts" who agreed with me, I had to dive deep within, draw from every past competitive situation, and analyze in detail my reaction to this pressure monster. (Andy Morrison @AMGolfMindCoach on Twitter) is literally the only coach I could find who agrees with my viewpoint. That's o.k., because I understand how unwilling most are about such a major change in their mindset.

After countless hours of self analyzation, my opinion on pressure has taken a 180 degree turn. Pressure moments do not exist! What we call pressure is simply our perception of the moment, creating an emotional and physical reaction. These reactions are definitely real, but they are created by our thoughts of the specific occasion. We have two ways of viewing these moments: With fear or excitement. When we understand that the physical reactions to these moments are all self-induced, rather than produced by some tangible creature named pressure, we'll immediately bust free from our mental handcuffs.

Tiger Woods and Michael Jordan, maybe the two most mentally tough athletes of all-time, will say they love and thrive under pressure, primarily because they don't know any other term for this moment of consequence. What they're really saying is they love the opportunity to change fear of failure into excitement for the challenge. It's not pressure they love (because it doesn't exist), it's the 1% Mindset of choosing anticipation and fearlessness of the mental battle. They thrive on winning the fight that is process immersion vs. results thinking. Tiger and Michael learned at an early age that succumbing to the fear of "what if I fail" was death to their long term performance. They CHOSE to view each of these moments with enjoyment.

Change your mindset, change your life!

This Is The Point...

2012-01-16T21:27:00.000-08:00

Tiger's very last sentence says it all! I wish more lived it.

Decide

2012-01-15T22:12:00.000-08:00

This past week, the 1% Academy was more successful than I could've imagined, primarily due to the participation we received during the evening discussions on Twitter. We covered five topics: Excuses, Pressure, Jitters, Freeing The Mind, and Fear Of The Miss. No matter the topic, one fact held true, and is what I want to talk about today.

The biggest difference between physical and mental practice is the immediate gratification you get when you do it correctly. When working on your physical game, you get automatic positive feedback when you're improving. The mental game can be much different. Although you may be improving, very often, the results won't show until much further down the road. This is very frustrating, especially if you're putting in hours and hours of practice.

We all want IT right now -- improvement, success, and the win. The physical game takes care of this craving if you're doing it correctly, because you get that immediate feedback. When you hit a good shot, you see and feel it right away. Conversely, in the mental game, when you make a good decision and stay patient with your process, the result doesn't always show it's face until later... after many more hours of persistent practice. The mental and emotional game is primarily habit-based, specifically creating new habits, eliminating the ones that held you back in the past. The only way to accomplish this is daily repetition - more than most realize.

Whether we're talking excuses, pressure, or fear of missing, the main component of your improvement will always be the decision to commit to the long term process. The details of the "how's" mean nothing if you're not completely dedicated to everything that needs to take place along the way: Failure, struggle, pain, frustration, excitement, loss, hope, passion, and even more struggle. Most people don't fully commit to mental game achievement because it's not tangible, therefore making them constantly doubt their efforts. Know in advance that the process of this journey is more difficult and time consuming than anything you've ever faced prior.

We covered five topics last week, all different in many ways, similar in some, but all under the same umbrella: The decision to commit to daily practice. Make a conscious decision that you'll commit every fiber in your body to become 1% great!

Fear Of The Miss

2012-01-13T00:45:00.000-08:00

Day 5 of the 1% Academy is here. Join us tonight 5:30-6:30 PST on Twitter to discuss today's topic. #1PercentAcademy

Quiet Your Mind...

2012-01-11T22:17:00.000-08:00

Here's the latest from the 1% Academy. I'll be hosting a discussion on this topic 5:30-6:30p PST on Twitter at #1PercentAcademy

1st Tee Jitters

2012-01-10T20:44:00.000-08:00

The 1% Academy continues with our next topic. M-F evening this week, I'm hosting a discussion on Twitter, discussing the day's specific video. Join us 5:30-6:30p PST at #1PercentAcademy

Pressure ... It Doesn't Exist

2012-01-09T22:30:00.000-08:00

The 1% Academy is going strong! Each night this week, join us on Twitter from 5:30-6:30p PST to discuss the day's video. Your link to the discussion: #1PercentAcademy

1% Academy: Excuses

2012-01-09T00:37:00.000-08:00

I'm excited to bring you our first 1% Academy series this week. Each day, I'll present a new topic and host a discussion on Twitter, 5:30-6:30pm PST using #1PercentAcademy.

1% Academy

2012-01-06T22:40:00.000-08:00

Monday-Friday (1/9-1/13), I'll be discussing each day's topic on Twitter from 5:30-6:30p PST. Be a part of it at #1%Academy.

1% Success

2012-01-04T23:13:00.000-08:00

Only You Can Decide

2012-01-03T22:04:00.000-08:00

A student recently asked, "How do I choose excitement over the situation, rather than fear?" My answer: How did you choose your clothes this morning?

Decide ... period!

It doesn't have to be rocket science, but it does need to be chosen. I used to be a victim of this "waiting for answers" mindset. I began having next level success when I made a committed decision to keep making committed decisions!

The more you decide to be great, the easier it becomes to continue deciding. No one can teach you how to decide. There needs to be a burning desire inside your core to choose 1% over mediocrity.

Fear and doubt creep in, making it difficult for committed decisions to form, yet ironically, eliminating fear and doubt is also a choice. We're not slaves to negativity, as most believe. We control our decisions.

If not now ... when?

I Hate To Say I Told You So, But...

2012-01-02T23:00:00.000-08:00

You don't think what you do affects your opponents? You're only playing the course? Listen to what Tiger said about his opponent when they're coming down the stretch. He's paying attention to how his opponent is acting during crucial moments. What you do CAN increase your opponent's confidence!

SImple As This...

2012-01-02T21:36:00.000-08:00

Tiger's very last sentence says it all. Sounds simple ... not enough live it!

Resolutions Not Allowed!

2012-01-01T17:06:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! The question usually asked next is about new year's resolutions. This question will never come out of my mouth, because I don't believe in them. It's become such a watered-down, half-hearted exploration, they don't mean anything, long term. Instead of focusing on resolutions, put your energy towards commitments. What committed decisions will you make in 2012? What type of emotion do you want to feel on a daily basis this year?

Resolutions are like diets. They're exciting at first, but slowly fade because alone, they mean nothing. Let's get rid of the middle man ... in this case, the new year's resolutions. Instead, concentrate on your motivation and plan of attack you need to create. What does your map look like? Making this your focus will keep momentum flowing towards your goals.

If you need to adjust your 2011 plan to make 2012 more efficient, that's fine ... but starting over with a new set of resolutions is a waste of energy. This type of break in the action is what kills momentum. The new year should be time of adding to the already created momentum of the past year. If you approach each January in this fashion, you'll find a much smoother transition from December.

Committed, discipline decisions will always be your key to a successful new year.

Be A Dog!

2011-12-31T14:15:00.001-08:00

Don't be a cat..

Limitless Dreams

2011-12-29T20:31:00.000-08:00

Don't let anyone tell you it can't be done! YOU are in control of your goals!

It's Meant To Be Shared

2011-12-28T20:40:00.000-08:00

From the outside, 1% success looks like a selfish act, but it's truly one of the most selfless things you can do. On your path to this next level, be a role model... an example of what can be done when passion, discipline, and commitment come together. Teach others, by your own example, what it looks and feels like to achieve more than once thought possible.

Share this exciting time with those around you. Help them see their own hidden potential. Write about it, talk about it, video your steps. Your personal roadblocks, once shattered, may help a stranger's potential roadblock never come to existence.

Look at your picture from THEIR point of view. How will their experience change after witnessing your amazing breakthrough? Lives will be altered, most of which you'll never hear about. Know this, though: Your passion for greatness will spark others' motivation for more.

1% success isn't for your touch only ... it's meant to be passed along. So, remember, during your many selfish moments of struggle ... a life will be touched tomorrow by your actions of today. As sweat and frustration show on your face, know it's this process that will ultimately affect the next person who dares to strive past his comfort zone.

It's easy to get lost in your own moments of achievement, often forgetting how decisions and actions will affect those around you. Never forget. You ARE an example. 1% is meant to be shared!

Go Get It!

2011-12-21T21:49:00.000-08:00

It's Eric Thomas, the voice of "How Bad Do You Want It." I couldn't wait until Monday to post this. If you can't get pumped watching this, you never will. Listen to his words, feel his energy, and go reach your 1% success!

This Is Why We Compete...

2011-12-20T21:32:00.000-08:00

It's 6:00 p.m., and game time starts at 7:00. I'm in the locker room getting changed into my uniform. The smell of the freshly washed #10 jersey creates an instinctive excitement I've had since I began playing basketball in 3rd grade. 9 years later, here I am getting ready to play in a Southern California All Star game with some of the best players in this part of the state.

I finish folding my khaki pants and dress shirt that was mandatory to wear to game nights, and put them in my locker. After putting on my uniform and sweats, I look down and notice I forgot to take off my dress socks. The nerves have officially taken over. This specific locker room is especially hot ... or I'm especially nervous. Either way, sweat is already pouring down my face in anticipation of tip-off.

I find a quiet spot in the corner to stretch and collect my thoughts. A few minutes into my routine, our center, Don MacLean, the eventual UCLA all-time leading scorer and NBA veteran, asks me to stand up. "Every time you bring the ball up the court, give it to me," he barked. This was how he introduced himself to me. We hadn't had a chance to practice together prior to the game, but he knew I was the starting point guard, and would have the ball in my hands the majority of game. I nodded o.k. in shock, then continued to stretch.

All I could hear from inside the locker room was the crowd filling the gym. I was used to this type of pre game buzz, listening to the fans getting revved for the game, but tonight was different. Tonight's game is full of Division I college prospects, and a few NBA hopefuls. The crowd knows it, the coaches know it, and I know it. How will I handle it?

I Dare You...

2011-12-19T21:30:00.000-08:00

"I need a backup plan ... just in case I fail."

That way of thinking guarantees you won't make it. I achieved the most success when I had nothing left to "fall back on." This type of desperation created a focus for me that would've been unattainable if a safety net waited below. When I had no other options, I took action I never would've taken. The backup plan would've taken away all need to achieve.

Not having a safety net was a bit scary, but it awakened survival instincts inside me I never knew existed. It's counterintuitive, I know, to create a plan of action without having a backdoor, "just in case..." Trust that you'll respond with detailed precision you didn't know lived inside.

Before making this type of commitment, you first must totally commit to the process in front of you. Getting bogged down in "what-if's" will kill all action. Becoming immersed in the excitement of the journey will free you from worry.

Backup plans eventually become your 'now plan.' Wanting to achieve isn't enough. As prior posts have repeated... "You must want success as much as you want to breathe." There must be a willingness to sacrifice all that gets in your way of attainment. Failure is never an option. When you create a backup plan, failure not only becomes a possibility, but it also becomes a probability.

Risk it. Dive off the cliff, not knowing how you'll survive the fall. Develop a plan of action on the way down, knowing you'll land successfully.

Tell Him He Can't ... Watch What Happens!

2011-12-18T22:05:00.000-08:00

I wanted to post a day-in-the-life of Eric Magidson, a student and newfound friend, who's on a mission to qualify for the Nationwide Tour's Boise Open in late 2012. In this video, he replicates Tiger Woods' practice day.

He's not "hoping" or only talking about "how cool it would be if..." He's taking massive action toward this goal. He's working with an amazing swing coach, Joey Pickavance, he's hired a golf specific physical trainer, and I'm helping reshape his mental approach.

I asked Eric to "announce" his dream goal to the world on Twitter and post these type of videos, not only to make himself accountable, but also to face his past fears of naysayers' opinions. Confidence will grow every time he shares a piece of his journey. Follow his progress at http://twitter.com/@ericmagidson

It's Up To You...

2011-12-17T09:15:00.000-08:00

I've received so much positive feedback on this video, I wanted to post it again... give a little weekend pump-up!

Details Matter

2011-12-15T21:11:00.000-08:00

What does it look like? How does it smell? Is there a taste? Can you feel the texture in between your fingers? Is it painted with a specific color? Who will be the first person you call when it's achieved? Will there be tears or strictly laughter and excitement. Releif may take over, but will you forget how hard you worked?

Have you planned a celebration after you reach the end? Do you understand there's no such thing as the "end?" What needs to be done, that isn't now? Do you go to bed focused on what it looks, smells, and tastes like? When you wake up in the morning, is your mind consumed with attainment? What will you be wearing?

What strengths have become even stronger during this process? Have your weaknesses turned into strengths? Has your confidence graph shot upwards? How will your friends and family react when you give them the good news? Will you thank the naysayers for fueling your fire?

Right now, what's missing from the #1% equation? Why is it missing, and what will you do to change it? Are there excuses hanging around? If yes, when will they disappear? If no, congratulations ... that's a huge success in itself.

When you think about this amazing accomplishment, does your forehead sweat from anticipation? Do you need to wipe your palms off on your pants? Does your heart race and breathing get deeper? Are you losing sleep yet?

Details of your visual will either speed up the process, or create a holding pattern for your success. As always ... you choose!

To Want Isn't Enough

2011-12-14T21:05:00.000-08:00

Pay close attention to Kevin's answer when asked about the "big prize."

Who I Was...

2011-12-13T21:01:00.000-08:00

I was afraid ... not only of failure, but also of success. Yes, success! I didn't fear the successful outcome itself, I was afraid of stepping out of my comfort zone that would lead me to the outcome. The unknown, even if potentially successful, was more frightening than sticking with what I knew ... average and mediocre.

I was angry ... not of negative outcomes, but more about not challenging myself, knowing it would lead me to growth. This anger affected all of my decisions, often becoming cycles of negativity, angering me even more. This cycle felt like a tornado, impossible to escape.

I was insecure ... about what you thought, they thought, and what I thought of myself. I felt insecure about my physical and internal makeup. I knew that you were talking negatively about me the second I walked in the room, and would continue after I left. The mirror - oh that damn mirror! It made sure I never broke loose from my mental handcuffs.

I lacked confidence ... not of what I knew, but of anything I didn't specialize in. Good wasn't good enough - great was the only answer. And because great is difficult to achieve, that lack of confidence was felt daily. Unfortunately, it affected all that i did, very often keeping me from experiencing necessary growth. I never understood confidence was a choice. I was a slave to it's sense of humor.

I was selfish ... I only cared about myself and what would further my specific situation. Your feelings didn't matter, unless it helped my cause. Being a professional athlete is a selfish path, but I didn't know (or cared to learn) how to turn off the switch at home. Self-absorbed was my way of thinking, speaking, and acting.

Good news: Who I was then doesn't dictate who I am now, or who'll I become tomorrow. I changed due to my unrelenting need for growth. I am 1%, in all sense of the meaning. You?

Are You This Strong?

2011-12-12T21:26:00.000-08:00

Believe you can, period! The 1% don't need evidence before belief takes shape.

What's Your Motivation?

2011-12-11T21:36:00.000-08:00

What's going to get you out of bed at 5:30 to workout? What's going to give you the power to keep kicking in doors that continuously slam in your face? How will you keep throwing punches when it seems hopeless?

When I was training full time to become a world ranked tennis player, and my alarm startled me at 5:00 am, I would repeatedly ask, "Why am I doing this? It's 5:00 in the freakin morning." The only thing that got me out of bed and into my cross-trainers was my motivation. After reaching the top step of the local junior college stadium at sunrise, my muscles would tell my mind they couldn't take another step. My stomach would tell my mouth to get ready. Two legged squat jumps up countless number of concrete steps, sprint to the other side of the stadium, walk down, start over. 25 times up, over, and down. When that torture was done, I was still left with another 1 1/2 hours of a different, more difficult type of hell to live through. I was a professional athlete. Sacrifice, pain, and mental discipline was my reality. The only thing that kept me from quitting during these moments of fatigue and nausea was my motivation.

What kept me motivated was the opponent who was working harder than me, and who I would eventually have to compete against. I knew that if I quit, and he didn't ... I had no chance of winning. Every time I heard myself begging myself to stop, I visualized the 6'4" German stud who was waiting for me in the final round of the US Open qualifier, ready to take my head off. If I stopped my workout early, he would destroy me. I became so detailed with this visual, I actually cut out a picture of a German athlete's face, and taped it to my bathroom mirror. I had his sweaty mug burned into my memory. The fear of getting outworked at 5:30 in the morning was more motivating than the trophy and money that came from winning.

When I asked a student today what his motivation was, he couldn't answer. We quickly realized that his commitment wasn't taking shape because he hadn't tapped into that thought, emotion, or dream that would keep him working. He knows that he "wants," and "has to make it happen," but he doesn't know what drives him; what will allow him to kick the door open when it slams in his face. He hasn't created a detailed, emotional visual that will be his fuel when the inevitable pain strikes. He has some soul searching to do.

Your motivation for attaining 1% success needs to be palpable. It needs to elicit real life emotion and adrenalin the second you focus your attention on it. Maybe it's the frustration you felt growing up when THEY said you couldn't ever reach the highest level. Maybe it's the fear of failure. In an amazing interview Will Smith gave about the successful mindset (I posted it here http://CoachYourMind.com/2011/10/this-is-next-level-mindset.html), he talked about his fear of failing, and how this keeps him working harder each day. Motivation is different for everyone, but it's the glue holding your wants and actions together, and is what will keep you on that long term quest for 1% success.

Soar Past It All

2011-12-09T20:53:00.000-08:00

Rise above all the garbage you face on a daily basis - from peer pressure, to those who say you'll never achieve your goals, to family who sell you short. Let the 99% stay right where they are, as you strive for more ... with a smile on your face the entire way!

Invite Uncomfortable To Stay Awhile

2011-12-08T21:29:00.000-08:00

On the tennis court today with a student, I pushed her past her normal comfort zone."You have to learn this shot if you want to play professionally." Her response: "But it feels too uncomfortable. I can't get used to it."

On the golf course today with a different student, I was helping him on the greens."Your visuals need to get much more detailed. You need to see and feel every ounce of these putts. Track each into the bottom of the cup." His response: "You're right. It feels uncomfortable, but that's o.k. because I know it won't last. I'll get this."

Between these two athletes, who's more likely to reach the next level in their career? The tennis player knew she needed to change in order to play at the highest level, but resisted because of HOW IT FELT. The golfer also knew he needed to change, but he accepted it as part of his process, and embraced the challenge. Two exact same situations ... two totally different choices of mindset.

"Uncomfortable" is a fact of life, when looking to attain more than average. Learning to be comfortable with being uncomfortable is crucial during these sometimes frustrating times. There isn't an easy way to achieve greatness, which is exactly why 1% find that level. The one's who do find it have learned to love, accept, and invite the uncomfortable. They actually need it in their life, because it's the one aspect that will propel them past the 99% average who are afraid of it.

The way you view change, and the inevitable feeling of frustration, is a choice only you and the mirror can make. There are only two paths to walk: Denial or acceptance. Either continue with the excuses of why it's too difficult, or invite uncomfortable to stay awhile.

Your choice of mindset will determine which level you reach.

Separation By Inches

2011-12-07T21:41:00.000-08:00

The 1% who separate understand how small their margin of victory really is ... turn talent into skill.

Know The Facts!

2011-12-06T22:48:00.000-08:00

Fact (noun): Something that actually exists; reality; truth

Fact: I can't do it.

Fact: I can absolutely get it done.

Fact: It's too hard.

Fact: Nothing will stop me.

Fact: It costs too much money.

Fact: I'll figure out a way to afford it.

Fact: It'll take too much time. I don't have that kind of time.

Fact: I'll make time.

Fact: If it was a good idea, someone else would've already done it.

Fact: I'm going to lead the way.

Fact: If I fail, everyone will say, "I told you so..."

Fact: Failure doesn't exist, as long as I'm putting in the hours.

Fact: I need a backup plan, just in case.

Fact: The backup plan will ultimately become my plan. Not allowed!

Fact: What if...

Fact: What's next?!

Fact: It's safer following the pack.

Fact: The 1% NEVER follow the pack. Separate only!

Everything you think and say is a fact. Better get your facts straight.

Mental Toughness - 1%

2011-12-05T22:29:00.000-08:00

Love him or hate him ... he's unquestionably one of the most mentally tough athletes of all time, and is as close to M.J. as we've seen. The best-of-the-best separate themselves, not with their physical attributes, but with their minds - the ability to focus and persevere.

I'm Sick And Tired Of It...

2011-12-04T21:19:00.000-08:00

I want to share an email that a student sent to me after Tiger Woods won this weekend. Feel the emotion in his writing. It's this emotion that will allow his future to change. He's finally hit a place where the pain of mediocrity is stronger than the pleasure of that specific comfort zone...

Coach,

I'm so sick and tired of all the excuses! They do nothing for me. They're holding me back and not letting me be the player I want to be. I promise to never let those excuses take over my game again.

I can't. I would if. I'm too tired. I have too much homework. It's so unfair. I would've won if.

These all get in my way. I know, I know - I've chosen them by myself. I've chosen to make them #1 over just getting it done, but I'm done with all that now. I'm sick and tired of all the excuse-making (bleep)!

After watching Tiger Woods make birdies on 17 AND 18 today to win the Chevron, a light went on in my head. He could've thrown in the towel after getting down by 1 with 2 holes to play, but he didn't. He stayed focused, didn't make any excuses for why he was losing, and drained two huge putts to win. If that was me, in my current mental state, I would've definitely lost. I'm sick of it!

From this moment on, coach, I promise to totally commit to the work we're doing, and never speak another excuse. If I'm playing bad, I'll face facts as to why, and fix them. If something unfortunate happens to me while I'm playing, I'll refocus myself, and stay in the moment. I now understand why you always say "It's never over, even if the fat lady does sing."

Sincerely,

(Golfer, Division I college)

1% Mindset from this moment on!

There's Only One Way...

2011-12-01T21:16:00.000-08:00

The 1% Mindset is always earned, never deserved. Reaching the next level in sport or life means sacrificing along the way, specifically the way we "used" to think. Focusing on Realistic goals or Backup Plans will keep us from achieving what we want. Being realistic and creating a plan, "just in case we fail," sounds smart, but is actually a killer of dreams.

1% is attained by risking what we're most afraid to lose: Our comfort zones. We must be willing to risk utter failure and embarrassment. Our comfort zone is our worst enemy, and does the most damage to our future.

Make a habit of setting daily goals that stretch your comfort levels. Doing this will prove that you're capable of much more than you realize. Self confidence will be enhanced, eventually establishing a deep hunger to continue leaping from that place of safety.

The 1% Mindset is created from our perception of situations. We're constantly faced with a choice to keep stepping towards success or stop and wallow in our short term setbacks. The perceptions of our individual situations will test the commitment of those steps, often making us feel inadequate. Our priority should always be focused on what we're thinking during these moments. Our thoughts propel the rest of the chain...

Thoughts > Emotions > Actions > Results

Every result is manifested through this link of events. The beauty of this equation is it never falls apart. It's always in order, and works perfectly. Unfortunately, we often unknowingly skip around, hoping to create desired outcomes without following the proper steps. Everything attained begins with one single thought.

The 1% Mindset is a way of living - a total immersion in the every day process of separating from the majority.

Imagine Yourself Without Fear...

2011-11-30T21:26:00.000-08:00

If you eliminated fear from your every day...

Can You Handle The Pain?

2011-11-29T21:18:00.000-08:00

Short term pain must come before the long term success arrives. The 1% have learned this is a fact, and will do whatever it takes to battle through these moments. Rather than feeling sorry for themselves, they work even harder. Instead of quitting, they make a conscious decision to do more. This short term pain is what separates the good from the elite.

Tiger Woods' career has been all about sacrificing the short term, in order to achieve more in the future. He's never been afraid of struggling through today's pain, because he's mastered this process. Everyone from media to the public has labeled him finished during these difficult two years. He's about to prove everyone wrong!

Michael Jordan is the best of all time, mainly because he'd never settle for mediocrity. He went from the sophomore who was cut from his high school team, to the all time greatest. He used this short term "failure" as fuel to become the best. If his NBA teammates didn't subscribe to this mindset, they were going to hear about it ... and FEEL it. He was known to fight players in practice if they gave less than 100% effort.

In the beginning of Roger Federer's career, he was mentally weak, succumbing to the pressure. He fought through the short term struggles, and learned to dominate. I'd say he won the mental battle.

What's Your Answer?

2011-11-28T21:40:00.000-08:00

When you close your eyes and stare into the future...

What do you see?

Complaining Is Not An Option

2011-11-28T01:11:00.000-08:00

It's all about our mindset. How we perceive our challenges will always determine our future!

Time For Thanks...

2011-11-24T00:11:00.000-08:00

I am thankful.

I am humbled.

This is the first Thanksgiving weekend without my grandma. She will be missed, but thought of every second. Thank you, grandma.

Thank you, God, universe, karma, and every other force that isn't fully understood. I'm grateful for the gifts you have given me, but especially for the doors you have closed.

Thank you to my gorgeous wife and angelic daughter. You both are the inspiration and motivation behind everything I do.

I am thankful.

I am humbled.

Lose Your Excuses

2011-11-22T20:50:00.000-08:00

I talked to a student tonight, who I'm lucky enough to call my friend. He's going through some very difficult times -- tougher than I've ever seen up close. Not one time, has he ever used his situation as an excuse. He only talks about why he'll succeed, when it will happen, and how he's going to make it happen. He admits losing sleep, but always uses that loss as fuel for his eventual achievements. He's as tough as they come, and fights with every last punch. I'll definitely be sharing his entire success story with you in the future.

"You'll only succeed when you want it as bad as you want to breathe..."

-Eric Thomas (the hip hop preacher)

Lose your excuses

Never Say Never

2011-11-21T21:10:00.000-08:00

You don't need to be an athlete to know who Tiger Woods is, and the "situation" he created for himself in the last couple of years. When the bottom dropped out from underneath him, everyone (including myself) instantly became judge and jury. I was as quick as the next person to throw him under the bus, judging his personal life and decisions he made. It took some time, but I eventually jumped down off of my soapbox, viewing him as the golfer I grew to love and regularly used as a positive example. His personal life is just that - personal! I won't teach my daughter to emulate his off-course lifestyle, but I will absolutely help her understand the importance of his work ethic.

During this down-time for Tiger, I continued to Tweet, blog, and preach his eventual comeback to anyone who would listen. I contended that he became the best we'd ever seen, primarily due to his unmatched self belief and relentless practice habits. As long as his passion existed, these strengths would also still live inside him. My positive Tiger opinions were definitely in the minority, leaving me open to the naysayers' hammer-drop ... and it was being dropped regularly.

"He's finished. He'll never win again. He looks like he's never played before. You're crazy to think he'll ever make it back..."

They were correct. He did look awful! And if this was a normal human being with average mental toughness and an unwillingness to sacrifice, I would've agreed with the majority. This was Tiger freaking Woods, however. He changed his swing three times while he was dominating the world of golf, because he always believed it could improve. Obviously, it's valid to aruge that he shouldn't have changed anything if wasn't broken, but Tiger doesn't think like 99% of the population. He believes that it's never good enough, and won't ever settle for less. As we've seen, he'll go through these holding patterns until he finds a better way, but as he's proven time after time, he always finds that better way. The last couple weeks in Austrailia have shown us that he's on his way back, and will undoubtedly be a force to reckon with again.

Ignore his personal life decisions, but put a microscope up to his work ethic and ability to continuously find a way to believe in himself. A year ago, while playing the worst golf of his life, he was asked who he thought was the best player in the world. He stared at the interviewer, paused, took a deep breathe, cocked his head to the right, and didn't say a word, as his body language said it all. His non-answer said, "Me!"

When you look at your reflection, do you see belief or reasons why it can't happen?

Impossible What?

2011-11-20T21:37:00.000-08:00

Self limiting beliefs are the only things holding you back. Impossible is what YOU say...

I Am Happy Of Myself...

2011-11-19T08:36:00.000-08:00

This little guy is already on his way to 1%.

It's Up To You...

2011-11-17T21:55:00.000-08:00

Doubt. Fear. Pain. Hesitation. Negativity. Can't. Won't. Why should I. Too tired. Too tough. Too much work. Failure

Love it. Opportunity. Fearlessness. Decide. I will. No one can stop me. Practice. What sleep. Destination. Goal. Success. Definite Action. Now ... right now

You choose

1% Mindset!

Ray Lewis Mentions The 1%

2011-11-16T21:19:00.000-08:00

Ray admits he was never the biggest, fastest, or strongest ... but no one would ever out-work him. He's one of the best linebackers in NFL history, all created from effort!!

Talk To Me

2011-11-15T22:47:00.000-08:00

Dear you,

I'm still here, waiting - it's been awhile. You used to call on me all the time, but have recently stopped. Why? Every time you talk to me, I help. Each time you write, I give you everything you asked for. Yeah, sometimes it takes longer than you want, but I always come through. You used to be more patient, maybe?

Talk to me.

Remember when you were younger, and you shared me with all your friends and family members? What's changed? Who told you to stop? At night, the last thing you did before falling asleep was call on me. In the morning, you couldn't wait to write me, and often tell your Facebook friends about our relationship. Now that Twitter is a big part of your life, you'll tweet about me, but not often enough. Why?

I made a promise to you a long time ago, that anytime you were serious about me, I'd give you what you wanted. If you proved your passion and discipline, I'd guarantee your success. Has fear of failure lessened our conversations? Has someone told you I was full of crap, or I couldn't fulfill my promise? Tell those naysayers to kiss my ...

I'm yours to have, but you first must commit to me. What do you want from me? Why haven't you made the decision to take me? Don't worry about being greedy or immersed in the process of creating more of me, it's what your life is all about. Talk about me, write about me, and make yourself accountable for reaching me. Tell the world that you expect nothing less than making me live with you full-time.

Let the negative people in your life disappear. Actually, the more of me you see on a regular basis, the quicker they'll go away on their own. They hate me, because they've never committed to having a relationship with me. Let them talk about us. You become focused on taking as much of me as you want. Understand the naysayers are jealous, and can't imagine risking what it takes to build me. They live to tear you down. The last thing these people want is for you and I to create a long lasting relationship.

Call on me at night. Write to me in the morning. Talk to me.

I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely,

Your Future

Just Play!

2011-11-14T21:26:00.000-08:00

Children play effortlessly, rarely over-thinking the situation. Notice how automatic Luke is during his putts. There's no reason why we all can't find that child inside again.

She Had No Idea What It Did To Me

2011-11-13T21:12:00.000-08:00

Last week, I wrote about a defining moment I had in 7th grade, where my dad gave me a spirited lecture on my lack of effort. This specific moment immediately changed my perspective on the control I had to change outcomes. Today, I want to share an experience I had at an early age that also affected my entire life. This one, unfortunately, had a negative influence on me ... one I never shook.

Remember, what you say to kids can have a life changing affect on them, good and bad.

It's third grade, my best friend, Shane and I hand in our math quiz to the teacher, Mrs. Soviezcek. I'm excited, because I thought I did well, and can't wait to get praised for my work. Soon after we handed it in, she gave it back to us with a grade on top of the page. I don't remember the exact grade I received, but I'll never forget what she told me as she handed it to me:

"You didn't do well on this quiz, but it's o.k., because math isn't for you. Shane is really good at math, but your strength is writing. You're a very good writer, but you're not good at math. Some things come naturally to all of us. Math just isn't natural for you."

Those words are burned into my brain, as if she said them to me yesterday. When I read them back, I find it impossible that a teacher ... a third grade teacher, especially, would say that to a student, but she did. Before this moment, I remember enjoying math, and looking forward to figuring out the answers. After these harsh words, I forever linked negativity and weakness to every math class I took.

"Math isn't for you."

Is it a coincidence I remember her name? I don't remember many of my teachers before high school, but I'll never forget Mrs. Soviezcek's name. She unknowingly linked such a negative emotion into my subconscious, I became exactly what she told me I'd become - an 'A' student in English, and below average in math.

I'm not blaming her for every bad grade I received in math, because I had a choice to study more, but the strength of emotion she created at such an early age absolutely had an affect. I was in third grade, looking for self esteem and confidence, and she was my teacher who was supposed be helping me in those areas. When you're that young, adults are all-knowing. Everything they say "must" be true, right? Wrong!

We must be very aware of what we're telling our children. Our self-limitations mustn't influence their possibilities. Our words can change the path they choose to walk. Choose those words carefully!

Thank You!

2011-11-11T21:58:00.000-08:00

I apologize for not having this up all day. I'm going to keep it posted throughout the entire weekend.

Veterans, thank you for all your sacrifice. I have deep respect for everything you do for us. I don't take my freedom for granted, as I know it wasn't handed to me ... it was fought for, and protected ... by you, our veterans!

Everything I Do Is Normal

2011-11-10T21:46:00.000-08:00

David Blaine is one of top illusionists in the world. He's famous for his televised street magic, blowing people's minds with his slight-of-hand. But unlike other top magicians, he has also committed his life to pushing his body past normal limitations. He's studies the power of the mind, and continues to test it's ability to overcome extreme situations.

Where most say impossible, he says probable. He's another example of taking "realistic," and destroying it into a millions pieces. He understands realistic and possible is what we say it is.

"I think that everything I do is actually normal, and I think what's interesting about what I do is that if you take the competitiveness out of it, we're all capable of doing the same things. If I asked you to stand in one spot for 35 hours or a certain length of time, you could do it. I think the reason people come up with alternative methods of how it's done is because if they accept I can do it, they have also got to accept that they are able to do it. People haven't even begun to tap into the potential of what the mind is possible of doing. I think everything I do is normal, not paranormal. It's using the power of the mind to achieve whatever we can endure."

-David Blaine

He buried himself alive for one week in 6' plexiglass

Spent 7 days submerged in water, and attempted to hold breath for the last 9 minutes while handcuffed. He made it over 7 minutes before having to be rescued

Stood for 35 hours, 90' in the air on a beam 22" across

44 days suspended in a box over London, with nothing but water

Take The Charge

2011-11-09T21:55:00.000-08:00

There's a moment in all of our lives that define who we become. I've been lucky enough to have a few of those moments, but one in particular shaped me, growing up.

7th grade, Dos Pueblos High School gym, Saturday morning:

It's late in the fourth quarter, we're winning by one point, and Todd Ewing, my rival, is flying down court on a fast break. The only thing between him and the basket is my defensive skills. He faked left, went right, but I was quicker. I remained on balance, waiting for him near the hoop. He was headed directly at me, full speed ahead. If he scores, they take the lead with little time left on the clock. As he got closer, now moving even faster, I hesitated. He actually looked a little out of control. I remember thinking, "Crap, how am I going to stop him?!" This hesitation was all he needed. Instead of jumping in front of him and taking the charge, I let him go to the basket, untouched, scoring the go-ahead layup.

The crowd went crazy, but all I could hear was my dad yelling at me from the sidelines. "Take the charge! How could you let him go by without any effort?! Take the charge!" My dad wasn't the unathletic father that didn't have a clue. He knew exactly what he was talking about. He excelled in all the major sports, including basketball. He was a fighter on the court when he played, and there was no way he was going to allow me to be any different. At that specific moment of my life, as I let Todd casually dribble by me, and score an easy layup, it was no longer about basketball. In my dad's eyes, this was about effort, toughness, and a mindset that wouldn't settle for less.

I'll never forget the drive home. He preached like never before. He wasn't spitting fire, telling me how useless I was. Rather, it was simply a disciplined reminder that we, in life, and on the court, never allow an opponent to "score" without a fight. "Make them earn it," ringed in my ear. This 15 minute speech was titled, "Your last name is Gingrich, and don't ever forget it." Gingrich was synonymous with fight, tough, and fearless. His son was going to learn how being fearless would affect the rest of his life ... and dad was going to teach him on this car ride home.

That moment changed my basketball career forever. Prior to that game, I was the All-Star point guard, averaging 22 points. Post "You're a Gingrich" speech, I became the toughest, defensive stopper on the court. I still got my points, but I also took pride in stopping the opposition's best scorer. I quickly learned that effort was always in my control, and could be a determining factor in the outcome of every game. My scoring fluctuated, but my determination, passion, and effort never would.

As I developed my teaching style, this 7th grade layup, and my dad's willingness to show me some tough love, became my base. Never again, would anyone dribble by me without a fight, on or off the court. My 1% philosophy was born on that day!

Settling for less is failure. Take the charge.

Become The 1% ... Now!

2011-11-08T21:51:00.000-08:00

Your thoughts dictate belief

Belief in yourself creates an unstoppable workhorse & risk taker

Risk often ... fail often ... succeed

He's Already Lived It

2011-11-07T21:40:00.000-08:00

Before any goal can be reached, it must first be realized, mentally. You must see and feel, with unwavering belief, that it will take shape. Eric Magidson is on a mission to make a dream come true. I'm proud to call him a student, but he is also a friend! He'll do whatever it takes to attain his goals. This is what he sees, and has decided will happen in the future:

My Vision for The 2012 Nationwide Boise Open

It is 6:00am, I just woke up from a really great sleep and have stepped out of my hotel room to welcome the day and assess the weather. The clear sky and rising sun indicate that this will be an average September day in Boise, Idaho. However, as far as I am concerned, today will be everything but typical. As I breathe in the morning air, I feel anxious and a bit nervous, but I have prepared for this day and the moments that are yet to come. At the same time, I recognize that these current emotions are confirmation that all my hard work for the past 12 months has been worth it. You see, today is my day! No matter the results, I have once again proven that I can truly commit and practice with all the intensity, dedication, and belief it takes to truly succeed.

In an instant, I gain a huge sense of confidence by reviewing my work from the past year. I have been able to effectively balance family, full-time work, and all the requirements my team of coaches have set forth to prepare me for today. These coaches definitely put in much more time than the billable hours I have been able to afford. But their dedication has led to countless hours spend on body, mind and swing instruction in preparation to meet my goal. I am quickly reminded of the:

• late night gym sessions, after a full day of work.
• stolen moments doing intense cardio, pushup and sit-up/crunch routines behind the closed door of my office
• countless rounds spent practicing my pre-shot routine and learning to accept that occasional bad shot
• thousands of words written in my blog as a means to discover my mental weaknesses and document their transformation into strengths
• tens of thousands of balls hit during all four seasons (even shoveling snow from the hitting mat when needed)
• short-game and putting sessions that only ended when the range went black.
I again get a bit emotional when I think about all the time, commitment, dedication and sacrifice my supporters have invested, and how Thank You will never be enough. There is no pressure from them however, somehow no matter my performance, today will be reward enough.

The fact is the day has begun and it’s time to GET IT ON! As I head back into the hotel, I am focused on nothing but the present. The nerves are still with me but I accept them as just a reminder, to myself, of how important my goal is to me. These feelings may be with me all day but will NOT affect the outcome. I am in control. As I meet up with my caddie and best friend, Justin Thayer, for a healthy breakfast he asks me how I am feeling. He’s not asking as a question but to let me once again reiterate to myself what he already knows. I am prepared for today, I am confident, and I have the game it takes to compete at this level. Once finished with breakfast, I head into the musty hotel gym to fully stretch and do a bit of cardio to get my heart pumping. This is not the time to shortcut any part of my routine. I have practiced this day in my mind and during previous rounds of golf, so that I am comfortable in the moment.

As we head to the course, I get a final call from Coach Dayne, my mental coach. He reminds me that the work has been done; I am prepared, to have fun, and go through my pre-shot routine on every shot. He can sense I have just one more question, ok the final ‘one more question’ before we make it to the course. I have had just ‘one more question’ for a week now. So I ask it. “What happens if I exceed the goal of shooting 72 and actually have to play on Thursday?” He responds quickly, “We will have that conversation after your round but that has nothing to do with today.” Go through your routine!

Justin and I reach the course and surprisingly a sense of calm and intense focus comes over me. As we make our way to the registration table, I realize my first advantage over the competition. I am not here to make a living or get on tour. I just have to shoot a 72 today to reach my goal. Justin gets the pin sheet and local rules; we make a few notes in our yardage books, and then head to the putting green.

This is the first time I notice that some of my family and friends have come to support me. I get a few hugs and good luck wishes but quickly excuse myself to the job at hand. I drink in the positives of my supporters and remind myself that they are not here to judge the outcome just be involved in the process. As I step onto the green and smell the fresh cut grass, I have entered my favorite place, my world on the putting green. The world where nothing exists but the ball, myself and the hole. Justin throws me a couple of balls and I begin with a short putting drill to instill alignment and increase my confidence. With every putt, I hear that lovely sound as each ball drops one after another into the hole. Justin and I share a private joke about the flat stick as I continue to move further back with each putt, producing more of the same.

We head to the driving range and squeeze in, to claim our space to warm up. Although I notice the other players, my focus has not decreased. I complete a few key stretches and shoulder warm-ups, as the breeze carries forth a unique scent that I have associated with Hillcrest Country Club, from my previous visits over the past few months. It relaxes me and reminds me of the last time I stood on this range, and the successful round that followed. Today will be a good day. I begin my warm-up routine by dialing in a steady tempo through a few dozen swings that are not hindered by the requirement to connect perfectly to a ball. As I work through the bag, my swing is confident, the balls go where expected, and my focus remains steadfast. Toward the end of warm-up, I execute my pre-shot routine and mental strategy while hitting various shots that I will need to accomplish throughout the day. All of which builds additional self-confidence that I will take to the course.

Justin throws me one last ball and asks to see a preview of the drive I will hit off the first tee. I again go through my focused routine; I tee up the ball and step behind it in line with my intended trajectory. I take a deep relaxing breath, and imagine the shot. The vision begins with the ball leaving the clubface; I sense the feeling and hear the sound of a perfectly struck ball. As the ball raises into the air it begins to turn slightly right to left, a perfect draw. The ball finally begins its descent from well above the trees as it heads toward the exact piece of grass I had chosen as its landing spot. It lands and rolls out - a bit further then I had envisioned - that must have been the adrenaline. I open my eyes and initiate the script I have practiced and believed a thousand times before. I will ACCEPT (this shot). I feel the calming sense of acceptance. I will TRUST (myself, my abilities and my swing). I feel the assurance that comes with trusting oneself. I will COMMIT (to attacking the shot, the whole shot)! I am excited like a kid opening a present knowing that what is inside is exactly what he wants (yes I peeked!). I inhale one more deep relaxing breath, confirm my alignment, and step beside the ball. I take my posture, make a couple of very deliberate, short, tempo based practice swings and step in to execute my vision. Before the ball even reaches the pinnacle of flight Justin simply says, “Ya just like that!”

We head back to putting green to keep my mind busy, in an effort to not allow it to question prior outcomes or consider the future. Again laughter ensues as I tell Justin that my mental cue to stay in the present has been hearing Ben Crane say, “I am speaking to you from the now in the middle of the now.” Once again I confirm the speed of the greens and focus on my putting routine as we wait for our tee time. After what seems like just seconds, Justin picks up the bag and says, “Let’s go have some fun.” I eat my favorite protein bar as we walk with a deliberate and consistent pace to the first tee. I am conscious of what is going on around me but not focused on my surroundings. All the work is done, my mind is prepared, my routine is solid, and I am confident. Today is my day! Today, I will demonstrate the result of committing, practicing and living my goal. I AM 1%.

Side note: I got a bit emotional as I wrote this and each time I re-read it. Emotions filled my heart, and I can only image what my competitors or naysayers might think as I admit these facts. Let them think I am soft, let them think I am emotional; let them form the wrong impression. This is the vision of my goal and frankly, I will completely and utterly crush their theories when I succeed in accomplishing it.

-Eric Magidson
http://twitter.com/@ericmagidson

What's Your Perception Of Reality?

2011-11-06T20:42:00.000-08:00

"When you grow up, you're tend to get told the world is the way it is, and you're life is just to live inside the world, trying not to bash into the walls too much..."

"Life can be much broader, once you discover one simple fact: Everything around you, that you call life, was made up by people that were no smarter than you. You can change it ... you can influence it ... and build your own things that other people can use. If you just learn that, you'll never be the same again."

-Steve Jobs

She's Already Separating From The Pack

2011-11-04T21:47:00.000-07:00

You SURE You'll Do What It Takes?

2011-11-03T21:55:00.000-07:00

He Definitely Decided

2011-11-02T16:19:00.000-07:00

In my last post, I linked a radio interview I did, where I talked about Luke Donald's back nine success in his last event, securing the #1 spot on the PGA Tour. I believe he made a conscious decision on the 10th tee box to take his game to another level, knowing he needed an incredible nine hole stretch to win. It was this decision that propelled his game past the field. He was more intent on making it happen, then he was focused on being afraid to fail.

I've received a few emails, asking how one decision can elevate a player's game so quickly. This is what I talk about all the time -- this is how the elite, 1% separate from the field. For the first time since Tiger Wood's downfall, someone "Tigered" the field. Luke had to win, or finish in solo second, in order to stay #1 on Tour. He knew this goal was in trouble after an average front nine on Sunday, and was left with no other choice but to record a "career back nine."

On the 10th tee, I believe he had a conversation with himself: "This is it! I need to find a way to focus more intensely than I ever have. I will take my game to another level... right now!"

Obviously, those weren't his exact words, but I have no doubt that he looked at himself from the inside-out, and made a conscious decision to find greatness! I don't believe in coincidental success, where somehow it just happens. Luke put in the hours, physically and mentally, and made committed decisions to attain his goals. On the back nine of this specific tournament, he simply intensified those decisions.

I work with a player on the Northwestern team, who was lucky enough to have Luke show him his golf log book. It was filled with the tiniest details of his goals, progress, and improvements needed. He logs every day, and because of this attention to detail, it's no coincidence that Luke shined under the massive pressure.

Don't sit and wait for success to find you ... make it happen. Decide that it absolutely WILL take shape. Create a fearless attitude that won't settle for average. Become the 1%.

These Are My Opinions...

2011-11-01T21:33:00.000-07:00

In a recent interview with Danielle Tucker (http://radiogolfclub.com), here were my thoughts on Luke Donald, Dustin Johnson, why there isn't one player dominating the PGA Tour, and of course... my Tiger Woods prediction!

My segment starts at 35:33.

http://www.hernco.com/golfclub/radio/2011/102911gc.mp3

I DARE You To Complain...

2011-10-31T22:01:00.000-07:00

The next time you feel like whining, watch this inspiring video. We all need to focus more on our current blessings, and less about what we're lacking.

His words of wisdom, talking about achievement: "All impossible becomes possible ... only belief!"

It's Going To Cost You

2011-10-30T21:33:00.000-07:00

What are you willing to sacrifice to get It? Sleep, food, friends who don't believe, "realistic" family members? Until you make this committed decision, success will remain illusive, glued to the tip of your fingers, unable to fall into your palms.

Will you sacrifice your Plan B, replacing it with an unwavering belief that your Plan A is your destiny? In a video I posted couple days ago, Will Smith talked about the slightly delusional quality all highly successful people share...

"I believe things don't have to remain the same, even if they've been a certain way for 50 million years," he said. "You have to know that, if you're committed enough, you can change any path..."

At first glance, this sounds crazy, but without exception, the most successful 1%r's share this mindset. Belief before outcome! Helping my students believe in themselves prior to the successful result is my top priority. It's this mindset that will propel them past their current comfort zones.

I speak from a place of improvement, not mastery. I believe mastery may be impossible, yet I continue striving for it. We never get it, only get closer TO it. I walk a daily path of fear, doubt, success, and unwavering belief... all in the same pair of shoes. I've lived a life of self critisim and lack of belief in my abilities, but years ago, made a committed decision to end that mindset. My days are now spent changing what I see in the mirror, and what I feel in my core, all while helping others change their own.

How badly do you want It? What will you sacrifice?

Introducing My New Assistant!

2011-10-28T22:43:00.000-07:00

Whenever I start taking myself too seriously, I watch this...

You'll Only Become Successful If...

2011-10-27T22:15:00.000-07:00

Are you THIS determined to reach your goal?

The 1% are!

The Only Thing Holding You Back Is...

2011-10-26T22:16:00.000-07:00

In my last video post, Will Smith hit it on the head:

"Just decide," he said. "The moment I decide, it's done... I've already made it real. Now all that's left is waiting to see what's it's going to look like."

It's not about whether you want it or not, it only comes down to whether or not you make a committed decision to get it! After that decision, you'll find a way of attaining that goal, no matter the obstacles.

Another piece of the video that hit home was Will's explanation of Talent vs. Skill:

"Talent comes from the inside- it's already there. Skill comes from hours and hours of hard work. It's this skill that will separate you from the rest. I'm not the most talented, but I will outwork anyone."

This is a huge factor that must be understood, thoroughly, in order to achieve your next level. God given talent is wonderful, but without putting in massive time to hone your craft, you'll find yourself sitting in the same chair, year after year.

"If we get on the treadmill at the same time, only two things will happen: Either you quit first, or I'll die on this treadmill!"

His mindset will NEVER, EVER allow him to quit. He'll die trying, before he stops working. Again, the success he's tasted isn't about his talent ... it comes from his relentlessness; his ability to only see future triumph.

The only thing holding you back is ... you! Believe, decide, become the 1%.

THIS Is Next Level Mindset

2011-10-25T22:01:00.000-07:00

Will Smith is tremendously successful, not because he has a lot of money, but because he's mastered the 1% mindset. I was floored watching this video! He's such a next level thinker!

Paint Your Own Picture

2011-10-24T13:01:00.000-07:00

I'm sitting on the couch, Ipad on my lap, icing my sprained ankle after a morning trip down the outside steps. My two year old daughter decided to listen to her daddy for once, and wait for me on the top step, in order to walk down together. As I turned around from the locking the front door, there she was, standing directly in front of me. Naturally trying to avoid knocking her down, I swerved out of the way, falling to the 2nd step, only to hear my ankle "pop" and twist, knocking us both to the bottom of the steps... golf clubs and her school bag strapped to my shoulders. Clubs went flying, Logan fell on her stomach, car keys flew into street, and both of us left wincing in pain. Not my finest moment.

My entire day (maybe the week) is now left in a scramble. Clients to call, times to move around, and ways of salvaging my scheduled sessions needing to be figured out. There was two minutes of panic, as I focused on how screwed my day just became. As those brief two minutes ended, my two favorite words took over: "Now what?!"

Instead of worrying about how long I'd be out of aciton, or how many clients I was going to need to call, answers became the priority. It'll be these answers that shape my day, week, and the rest of my life. It doesn't matter what happens, only the questions I ask myself after it happens.

By no means is this post about comparing my little ankle sprain to others' more challenging experiences. Rather, the focus is on finding answers, no matter the situation. It's these answers that will dictate who we become.

Reading different articles on all the social media outlets and personal blogs, it seems as if talking about the negative that's happening in life has become habitual. There's so much complaining and whining about one's experiences, yet at the same time, wondering why change isn't taking place. Or even worse, blaming others for their own unfortunate circumstances.

Let me share a secret that's not really a secret: The more we talk about the pain in our life, without focus on changing it's future, the more pain we'll experience!

Sympathy is a strong emotion, and can become addicting. Sure, it feels wonderful to have others patting our backs, and telling us everything will be o.k. (and may even be healthy, short term), but long term, it's paralyzing to our goal setting passion.

No matter what's happened, or happening to us, stay focused on the future goals we've set. Depending on our challenges, the time it takes to achieve those goals will differ, but the passion, discipline, and action needed will always remain the same.

Choose the picture. Paint it with every last ounce of fight you have.

Now What?!

2011-10-19T22:11:00.000-07:00

I often get asked where to begin when trying to create the 1% Mindset. In theory, it's easy, but the real life application is where the elite separate from the mediocre.

The first thing that must be accomplished is making a committed decision, promising yourself that nothing will stop you from reaching your goals. The difference between a regular decision and the committed decision is one simple word: Sacrifice! You need to be willing to sacrifice everything that may stand in your way, potentially blocking your achievement. I've made countless number of decisions, but only a handful of committed decisions. Without exception, every committed decision I've made has turned into a successful attainment of my goals.

The next thing that must immediately take place is eliminating "try" from your vocabulary, substituting "I will, no matter what it takes..." in it's place. There's no room for try. It only leads to doubt and hesitation, ultimately bringing failure.

1% isn't outcome based. You don't have to become number one in the world ... but you must become number one in YOUR world. It's a way of thinking, leading to a specific way of acting. This specific type of action will eventually lead you to anything you want to achieve.

Success is relative, and means many different things, all individual to your motivations. It mustn't be compared to anyone except your own reflection. Look deep within, ask yourself if 1% is really worth the dedication and sacrifice. If the answer is yes, look back at that reflection, stare into it's soul, make that committed decision, and write on a piece of paper: "Now What?!"

The answer will reveal itself, day-by-committed-day.

Is This Self Sabotage?

2011-10-17T12:43:00.000-07:00

I regularly teach and write about creating a 1% Mindset -- separating from the pack of average thinkers and doers. In order to attain this goal, we must push past our comfort zones, risk failure, and take massive action.

A student recently reminded me that we could be achieving all of this, yet still be unaware of our progress. What if, after hours of disciplined, passionate effort, we reach this next level, but fail to draw from it's success? I've rarely focused on this part of the equation, because I've assumed the achievement would be so obvious, failure to feel it's power would be impossible.

Chris, my student, has reached this plateau, yet is still choosing to feel unworthy... as if his accomplishments didn't exist. He's choosing to close his eyes to all the past success he's achieved these last two years, but why?

It's a self protection and fear of failure issue. In his warped sense of reality, if he acknowledges his improvement, he'll then be held to a higher standard, and expectations of him will be launched to another level. These pressures can be suffocating, if not viewed through positive, opportunistic lenses. He's currently choosing to see the possible failure of the new expectations, knowing many would be left disappointed. The last thing he wants to do is disappoint anyone, including himself, so by standing still in his current mindset, this will remain a non issue.

Instead, he must view these new expectations as an opportunity to propel himself to an exciting future, where boundaries don't exist. Use the pressure he feels to fuel his 1% Mindset.

Everyone feels fear ... but the elite have learned that it's this fear that drives them. They turn the fear of failure into an opportunity to achieve. They choose to see successful outcomes, and understand that failure may be a part of the process, but it's not what defines them. They know they're defined by the actions they take immediately following setbacks.

Be fearless as you move forward. Make sure you're moving forward.

Take Notes From The Best

2011-10-11T22:19:00.000-07:00

1% is all about stepping away from the norm in order to stand out. Steve Jobs and Henry Ford are incredible examples of separating from the pack. Be fearless. Take risks. Act now.

Henry Ford & Steve Jobs from Tier10 Marketing on Vimeo.

You Sure You Want It?

2011-10-03T15:01:00.000-07:00

It doesn't forgive or feel sympathy. The difficulty it subjects you to is a test of your passion and discipline. Many talk about achieving it, but very few ever do. It knows this, loves this, thrives on this. You sure you want it? The last guy thought so, too ... until he found out how tough it really was to attain, and the pain it takes to grab ahold.

It doesn't care about your past or future. It only knows now, and what must be done this second. It knows you better than you know yourself, and uses this against you at every turn. Your weaknesses become gaping holes that it uses to mentally torture the very fabric that keeps you sane. It hears you talk-the-talk, and even silently watches you walk-the-walk for a few steps ... but knows it's only a matter of time before you fall to your knees.

You sure you want it? The last guy thought so, too ... until 5:30 am, when it was time to wake up and run his sprints before breakfast. It loves the snooze button, because it knows this is where most come up short at ever achieving it. It listens to all the wannabes talking about how passionate they are about reaching it, secretly laughing out loud at the arrogance ... or is that ignorance?! It doesn't care. It only knows failure will be the result.

It hides in your mind, knowing it will eventually be shown the way to your muscles. If it's allowed to grab your flesh unchecked, defeat is guaranteed. Conversely, if it's trained properly, it will allow you to go places 99% never go.

You sure you want it? 1% is waiting for you to step-up, look it in the eye, and challenge it to a lifelong battle. It's daring you to make the commitment needed. Stop talking. Start doing. Go.

1% Success Is A Mindset

2011-09-20T13:26:00.000-07:00

Everything we say, do, and believe is a direct result of our mindset. In order to improve in any facet of our life, priority must first be put on our everyday belief system. I was taught at an early age that how I practiced would dictate my outcome, yet never told that the way I practiced stemmed from my thoughts. I was a slave to my thinking, never knowing the role it played in the outcome I achieved.

Focus on your mindset! Concentrate on what you choose to think and believe, as this will instantly affect the action you take.

"John" recently left me a desperate voice mail, explaining the different reasons he played poorly in his last tournament. He chose to put on his "negative lenses," focusing on the trouble in front of him. During play, he viewed all that could go wrong, and when it did, his inner conversation sounded like this:

"I knew it! I knew I would hit a bad shot. It never fails... whenever I'm faced with pressure, I always find a way to screw it up."

Most believe the solution is practicing more, and fine-tuning those bad shots. In this type of mindset, they believe that if the bad shots are fixed, they won't be subjected to the above type of self-talk. Unfortunately, this isn't how it works. To insure better results, we must improve self-talk. Thoughts first, outcome second.

John chose to view pressure as an opportunity to make mistakes. This is absolutely a choice! When he chooses, instead, to view pressure as an opportunity to create a 1% Mindset, his thought patterns will be geared towards the positive outcome. Because this type of thinking creates confidence, his actions will become more aggressive and definite. His inner conversation will quickly change...

"I love these moments-- they allow me to separate from the pack. What a great opportunity to improve. Right now! This shot! Attack fearlessly!"

Place just as much attention on your mindset as you do your actions, and you'll instantly notice a change in those actions. What you do is attached to how you think. During your next personal challenge, make it a priority to concentrate on how you're looking at the situation. If you hear yourself going to that negative place, without judgement, switch it to what you'd like to have happen... what you know will happen.

This type of mindset change is a constant battle between fear and confidence. Stay discipline, continually switching the doubt into belief. Greatness is a choice that is born from your thoughts!

Such Incredible Strength

2011-09-12T13:17:00.000-07:00

I received a call last week from my mom, informing me that my grandma was in the hospital, and may only have a couple more days to live. After a quick packing of the car and canceling of the rest of my week, I was on the road. I was only an hour and half away, but if felt like a lifetime. My mind was all over the place, reliving the fun times I had with her, as well as the opportunities I let slip by, due to my own selfishness.

When I walked in her hospital room, I immediately noticed how big it was, and how alone she must have felt. This saddened me, immensely. No one should have to go through this time alone. She was laying on her back, hands crossed over her stomach, with a large oxygen mask blowing air into her lungs at a rate necessary to keep her alive.

She looked asleep, but as I loudly said hello into her right ear, she immediately opened her eye. Her head turned to me, allowing her left eye to make contact with my face. She wasn't asleep at all, she was waiting... waiting for a familiar face to say, "I'm here. You're no longer alone." She immediately recognized me, letting out a sigh of relief, and what seemed to be excited glee in her eye. Because of the mask, she couldn't talk, but her eyes and body language said it all. She knew I was there. She knew her once lonely room would never be that big again.

Not knowing how much she was going to understand and communicate back to me, I just talked. I talked about her gorgeous granddaughter, the Lakers (she loved the NBA), and how my arm was still sore from throwing the football with her when I was 6 years old. She was focused directly into my eyes, making sure I knew that she understood everything. When I told her my mom (her daughter) would be there the next day, both eyes opened with anticipation. It instantly struck me: This is what she's been waiting for!

Her body was broken, but her mind was alert and strong. She was going to hold on as long as it took to say goodbye to her daughter. No matter what her physical shell was telling her, or how much pain it was sending through her nerve endings, her commitment and passion would win-out! Nothing was going to beat her before her goal was achieved. I knew it would be 24 hours before this would happen, as my mom's flight didn't land until the next night. This next full day was going to change my life forever.

The next morning came too fast. As I arrived back at her bedside after a rough night's sleep, she was laying in the same position. I gave her a kiss on the cheek, and she responded immediately. When she turned her head to see my face, I instantly felt as if I could read her mind. She was happy to see me, but wanted to know when her daughter would be by her side. "Mom will be here tonight. Until then, you're stuck with me," I jokingly said.

The remainder of the day was spent talking with her, and taking mental notes on how strong the mind can be under incredibly stressful times. Her hands moved quite well, but for such an active woman, not being able to move much more must've felt tortuous. She also communicated with her eyes, eyebrows, and shoulder shrugs, but even during this incredibly frustrating time, she remained tough as nails. At one point, I began reading her favorite passages from the bible, but she made it quite clear she wanted me to stop. With every ounce of strength she had left in her arms, she reached up to my face, gestured me to stop, and waved me out of the room! Through her oxygen mask, we whispered, "Sleep. Head back." This was the first time I heard her speak. I didn't even think it was possible for her to verbally communicate. This was my grandma, though - she was as strong as they came, and always let you know how she felt. She didn't care that I was there to comfort her ... she just wanted me out of the room so she could take a nap. I laughed as I shut the door behind me.

When my mom arrived, and grandma heard her voice, it was as if a long, tedious marathon had finally ended. Grandma locked on to mom's eyes, and wouldn't let go. She attempted to pull that overgrown oxygen mask off her face, but didn't have the strength. Words weren't necessary. They both knew how much they loved, and would miss each other. The love my grandma had for her daughter was so intense, she somehow found a way to give her a hug. They held on for what seemed like an eternity.

My grandma didn't know it, but during the two days I spent with her in the hospital, she taught me the true meaning of the 1% mindset. From this day on, when I talk about "separating from the pack," I'll compare all others to her strength, passion, and commitment.

Say hi to grandpa for me!

They Can't Tear You Down

2011-09-06T14:59:00.000-07:00

My next Lesson Post comes from someone who wants to remain anonymous (I'll call him John). He asks,

"How do I deal with all the negativity coming from those who want to tear me down? I'm working harder than I ever have, which is giving me more success than I've ever experienced. I'm finding it difficult to stay focused in the midst of all the negativity."

Unfortunately, this type of challenge is more prevalent than you'd expect. Striving for bigger and better sounds exciting, but it does come with a price to pay. Sometimes, the price is a lack of time with family or friends, but too often, you'll find yourself defending more than acting. You'll feel as if your positivity and need to separate from the pack is abnormal. The people who are trying to make you feel this way are doing so because they won't commit to pushing themselves past their own comfort zones. It's almost instinctive for them to feel the need to grab your foot as you pass, ripping it down to their level. The fact is, they do it because they lack the self confidence to reach for a higher plateau, themselves. Their jealousy of John's success leads them to verbally pull him down, hoping to cause him the same pain they feel inside. In their mind, his success only reaffirms their failure.

While we're being torn from our climb, it's natural to want to attack back, and defend our actions. The best thing John can do is ... NOTHING. He needs to understand these negative, "self-pity talkers" are hurting on the inside. Instead of feeling anger, have empathy for them, realizing it's most likely not a personal attack on his journey. They feel powerless to do this type of growing, so in their warped sense of reality, mustn't allow anyone else to feel success. If John can eliminate his ego from this equation, he'll quickly realize he has all the power. They need him to continue his climb towards the top, because without him, they'll have nothing to complain about.

No matter the situation in our lives, we have the choice to spin it into power and confidence. We choose our reactions and how they'll ultimately affect our daily path. Our thoughts create emotion, leading to specific action. It's this action that hands us our results. Focus, not only on what we tell ourselves, but how we communicate with others. If they're tearing us down, instead of becoming defensive, understand it's coming from a place of inner pain. Have sympathy for them, but keep moving forward. Keep fighting for your next level!

1% is a mindset that doesn't allow anyone or anything to dictate our journey. We're in control of how we choose to think. Choose wisely!

Shaken Confidence - The Answer

2011-08-30T22:04:00.000-07:00

Continuing the series of Lesson Posts, this one is an extremely common challenge for everyone, athlete or not. It was submitted by @RandleGolf on Twitter.

"How do I stay confident while I'm not performing well?"

This is a question I receive every day, and if practiced consistently, can be game / life changing. The short term answer is simple in theory, more difficult in practice. Because of our emotional nature, staying calm and focused during these rough times in our first priority. Being able to see a clear picture of what's taking place is an important piece of this puzzle.

When things aren't going our way, and we begin to lose confidence, it's vital to look back to a time where we were playing our best. Draw from that experience(s), and bring it into our current situation. The key to this isn't the picture of past successes, but instead, the EMOTION that's linked to it. Our bodies react to emotion, so by attaching a positive and confident feeling to our past performance, it'll immediately bring a sense of restored confidence to our mind. Most fail when attempting to "draw from past experiences," due to this lack of visualized emotion. Visualizing a detailed picture of confident actions, and linking the powerful emotions to it, is absolutely critical!

For a long term solution, we must understand there are different types of confidence, but only one we should be striving for.

Fake Confidence

We pretend to act confident in all that we do, in order to hide how scared and insecure we truly are. We puff out our chest, talk about the wins under our belt, and make sure everyone knows that we know how special we are.

Dependent Confidence

Unfortunately, this is where most of us live, and is why this specific topic is discussed so often. We only feel confident and believe in ourselves when we're playing well. When we perform less than we think we should, all confidence disappears, and we begin to doubt all aspects of our our game. We hear it all the time, whether on t.v., from coaches, peers, or family:

"He's gotta find that confidence he had in the past... the type of confidence he had when when he was winning."

"When he starts playing better, he'll regain his confidence."

Sure, confidence can definitely be built upon when we're performing well, but doesn't have to be the only tool in our bag. The all-time greats understand that Dependent Confidence is a trap, inevitably leading to a loss of self belief.

True Confidence

This type of belief was there when we were born, and never leaves us. This intense confidence comes from deep in our core; a level of certainty that can't be taken away by anyone or anything. It's there during our highest level of performance, and remains after our most heart breaking defeat. It's an assurance that makes us feel invincible. Rather than a slave to our outcomes, we understand the true meaning of our steps, and belief in our process. We know we belong because of who we are as people, our preparation, passion, and dedication to our craft. This true confidence can't be shaken, no matter the result of our short term journey. It stays strong, and always reveals a true inner champion.

This is our goal. This is what we should be striving for in our every day preparation for greatness. This is the true definition of 1%!

I Keep Losing It...

2011-08-24T16:53:00.000-07:00

Continuing my series of Lesson Posts, I was contacted by golfer, @breadchick on Twitter, wanting to know why this continues to happen to her. Unfortunately, this is prevalent among all athletes:

"I seem to lose focus towards the middle/end of my round, holes 11-15, specifically. How do I stay focused longer?"

There are three things that immediately come to mind when asked about loss of concentration in sports.

1) Proper food and water intake.

This is crucial for long term, intense focus during competition, but can often be overlooked. Decision making is directly affected by lack of hydration and nutrients, especially over a 5 hour round of golf.

2) Having short term goals to focus on during play.

Very often, we get "mentally lost" during the round because of so much down time in between shots. I'm a huge advocate of breaking down each round of golf into 6 sets of 3 holes. This allows the player to stay intense for a longer period of time, and stay mentally present on the task at hand. Creating short term goals within every 3 hole span is the perfect way of keeping the mind focused and present. Mentally, 18 holes can feel overwhelming, and is easy to become overly concerned with the outcome of the round. By allowing the mind to focus on short term process and results goals, it enables you to stay focused on right now, eventually connecting to long term concentration.

3) Embrace the competitive moment!

This may be one of the most important lessons an athlete can learn. It becomes very difficult to lose focus during any event if you truly love the challenge of the situation. In fact, concentration levels of the all-time best athletes increase during these pressure moments. If you look forward to, and embrace this time, your focus will automatically intensify.

Every challenge you encounter creates an opportunity to take your game to the next level. Become the 1%!

Where's The Switch?

2011-08-16T21:14:00.000-07:00

I'm beginning a series of Lesson Posts, focusing on YOUR challenges and/or issues you're working through. Let me know what you want addressed.

Email me at dgingo@cox.net or send me a message at http://www.Twitter.com/@CoachDayne

The first topic comes from Paul on Twitter (@whywegolf). He's having a difficult time separating his conscious mind from his subconscious, "playing mind" on the golf course.

Here's a piece from his latest blog post, Where's The Switch? http://www.whywegolf.wordpress.com:

"...According to everything I've read, I'm supposed to do the following as I evaluate my next shot: Check my lie, the wind, maybe even the ambient humidity, measure or estimate the distance to the target taking, into account any changes in elevation, and factor in how I've been hitting a particular shot or club. If I'm in a match, take into consideration the situation facing my opponent and/or partner. This sequence makes my mind sound like a television. I'm supposed to flick a switch, and leave the rational/analytical mode behind, and become more like the Dalai Lama... Where's the switch? How do I go from one mode to the next?"

This is a great question, and a challenge many golfers face. We tend to learn this game with our conscious minds first, learning how to incorporate our subconscious, "feel mind" later as we progress.

On the course, Paul needs to know the information he described above, as it helps the mind put the pieces of the puzzle together. His challenge is coming from his inability to separate those detailed pieces with his need to let go and pull the trigger. While behind the ball, he needs to train his mind to "play in pictures," rather than thoughts (how he's currently approaching every shot). Take those details he described, and turn them into a detailed picture of how it will manifest.

Taking the picture he created to address is done with Feel Triggers - specific words or a short sentence that will make his mind focus on a powerful and positive emotion. Our bodies react to emotion, so what we make it feel will be given back to us in the form of results. If, for example, we make our body feel fear, we'll take a timid, passive swing, resulting in a poor outcome. Conversely, if the last thing we allow our body to feel is confidence and power, it'll respond with a relaxed and aggressive swing, giving us a better result. Emotions are created by the words we choose to use, which is why paying attention to our specific self-talk is extremely important.

Examples of Feel Triggers: "Attack." "Trust it." "Commit and accept." "Right now." "Go." "I love these opportunities." "This is why I practice." Use your imagination, and choose whatever type of language that resonates with you. Again, the way in which you talk to yourself will evoke a specific emotion, producing an outcome that will match. Choose wisely!

After you've given your mind an opportunity to see a definite picture and use it's feel instincts, it's time to address the ball. At address, it's common for the conscious, thoughtful mind to want to become a part of the shot again. This split second can be the determining factor between a successful shot and one that goes astray. When the conscious part of your game is fighting for attention again, make sure and repeat your Feel Trigger(s) before take-back, as this will help the mind stay quiet and feel the emotion you've chosen.

Taking the conscious mind out of the shot is difficult to do, primarily because this is how most golfers learn to play. Unfortunately, the mechanical nature of the game only reinforces this type of thinking. Change starts with the way you choose to practice. Taking the time to practice the feel and visual aspects of the game is absolutely critical for long term success on course. Make the time spent on the range 50% mechanical and 50% visual / feel. If you become discipline enough to work on your pre shot routine and Feel Triggers while hitting practice balls, you'll better connect the two on the course.

1% will do whatever it takes to reach another, more successful level. Are you that 1%?!

What Time Is It?

2011-08-07T21:23:00.000-07:00

It's not about whether you can or can't in the future ... it's about what you commit to doing right now!

Don't worry about the end game, focus on the strategies needed to get you there. The final piece to your puzzle will be dictated by the many smaller pieces put together along the way. It's natural to be concerned about whether or not you're good enough, worth it, or even deserve it, but the true secret to success is mastering this second. The future details will align themselves, based on your passion, discipline, and commitment to achieving this goal, right now.

You need the "carrot," but you don't need to know how it's going to taste until it's in your hands. The long term motivation is definitely necessary to help you stay on path, but the short term goal-setting is what allows you to keep moving forward on a steady pace.

Many fall short of reaching their long term goals because they get caught up in thinking about how "long" really could be. Others want it to be easy, unwilling to feel the inevitable pain of struggle or part time failure. Those who grab that carrot are the ones who understand it's this pain, sometimes often and consistent, that leads them to the prize. They've learned to keep it simple.

"Don't explain how the watch works ... just tell me the time"

- (Lance, http://www.zoomboomgolf.com).

When you look at your watch, train yourself to focus on the seconds ticking by. It's those seconds that will determine your future!

Become the 1%.

What's It Gonna Be?

2011-08-02T21:03:00.000-07:00

A student's mom recently emailed me, asking why her son wasn't fighting when things became tough. She thought it was my responsibility to make him battle, and love the pressure. I agree that I'm responsible for teaching him why he should fight, give him tools to make that fight easier... but only HE can make it happen!

I can't teach heart. I can't make you do anything you're not committed to doing. The 1% mindset is exactly that - a mindset, created by you, fulfilled by you. When you ask for my help, I'll give you my opinion on the best strategy that will maximize your chances of reaching goals ... but only you can take the necessary action.

When you hit three bad shots in a row, I'll suggest ways of keeping you focused on the next shot ... but you must be committed and discipline enough to make it happen.

When you walk two batters in a row, I'll give you mental tools to keep you focused on the very next pitch, helping you to stay in the moment ... but you must be fearless enough to attack the next batter, as if you hadn't walked anyone.

I'll create specific visualizations to help train your subconscious to learn a desired outcome ... but you must take the time to close your eyes, concentrate on your breathing, and see it all happening.

I can't teach heart. That's up to you! The fight is in your hands; in your control. It's your choice. What's it gonna be?

Whether They Agree Or Not

2011-07-19T15:51:00.000-07:00

Growing up as an athlete, I was taught, and instinctively believed, that 100% intensity and focus should be applied to everything we attempt.

I've always had high expectations for myself, and as a coach, have these same expectations for my students. If you want to be truly great at anything, being committed to sacrifice, no excuses, and a willingness to do what they're not, is critical for success. To separate from the pack means to do more, sometimes do it differently, but always work harder than your opponents.

This can be difficult for some to understand, as it often feels and sounds a bit "cut throat." Many view this type of intensity and sacrifice as unnecessary for success, and damaging to self. By definition, sacrifice means to give up in order to receive. Sometimes, we may have to let go of the things we wish to hold onto the tightest. This is how we separate - knowing most won't sacrifice what's needed to achieve their goals.

I recently shared my opinion on a few professional athletes, expressing my disappointment with their mental toughness. Some agreed with my assessment, but many didn't. Those who disagreed believed I was either too hard on them, or just flat-out didn't think I knew what I was talking about. I respect and appreciate all opinions, but what I DO know is competition at a national level, and pressure strong enough to make you gag on your own breathe. I've felt it, many times overcoming, and other times falling victim. Now, I study this sometimes paralyzing pressure full time, teaching how to react positively and confidently to it's affects.

When I'm assessing an athlete, whether a student or opponent, I instinctively look into their eyes, looking for an intensity that can hardly be described. It's a look that shows no fear, and an arrogance that believes they will succeed no matter what obstacles arise. When the great ones are at their highest peak of concentration, their eyes can burn a hole through you, and all peripheral vision becomes non existent. Pressure situations makes these hyper-focused athletes perform at a higher level ... they actually want and need the pressure to excel.

I was critical of a few professional athletes because I didn't believe they showed this intense focus on a regular basis, which has resulted in far too few championships. I don't know whether it's because they haven't been taught, or simply choose to believe it's not important enough, but something's not clicking for them under pressure. I tend to compare all athletes, professional or not, to the two greatest of all time: Tiger Woods and Michael Jordan. They were on top of the "mental food chain," and are still the best examples of how to take your game to another level when pressure is at it's most extreme.

You don't have to be a pro athlete to give the same effort and attention to your craft. Be willing to sacrifice and become totally dedicated to propelling your skill past your competition. Work harder and longer than THEY do.

Teachers, never be afraid to voice your concern if you believe more can be done where less is currently taking over. It's my opinion that more can always be achieved, and we shouldn't ever, ever settle for less! Push past comfort zones, and help others fight through theirs... whether they agree or not.

I'm An Illusion

2011-07-13T21:34:00.000-07:00

My name is Fear, and I dominate you. I control your every thought, and manipulate your daily actions. Because of me, you're unable to move forward towards your goals. Actually, due to my hold on you, you don't even set many goals. You view short term failure as guaranteed long term failure.

I have you handcuffed to the type of thinking that keeps you stationary - often times moving, but always standing still. My name is Fear, and I make sure you think of me the moment you awaken until the second you fall asleep. Many nights are filled with dreams of me, unable to find a way out of my grasp. I make you believe you don't have any control over your future. I hold you to a truth that, in reality, is a lie. I own you ... or so you believe.

Because of me, you view new experiences as opportunities to fall, unable to step past comfort zones. It's these comfort zones that I use against you. I make you believe that outside your natural comfort awaits insecurity and eventual failure. I am Fear, and you are holding on tight. We have a love / hate relationship. You know, deep down, I'm holding you back, yet you still love my familiarity. Fear is a crazy thing, isn't it. I make you feel comfort, knowing you're too weak to take a leap of faith.

I paralyze you to the point of giving up. You want more, but don't know how to pry my fingers from your wrists. Maybe you try once in awhile, but I've grown strong. My strength comes from your inability to fight. You quit, I win.

Thank goodness you don't understand I'm an illusion. I'm the power of your imagination. The same way you've allowed me to own your actions is, ironically, the way you'll get rid of me. My name is Fear. Do you believe in me?

Let Them Live

2011-07-10T22:03:00.000-07:00

"I am not a role model." -Charles Barkley

In my opinion, he's half correct. Off the basketball court he wasn't, but on, he definitely was! Kids watched him in person and on television, and all they knew was how he reacted to challenges, treated the fans, and how hard he worked during games. This is what they knew, so for this, he was their role model in that small part of their lives. Off the court is a different story. The internet and media make us think we know these athletes, but we know nothing about them, their personalities, how they treat their family, and their moral beliefs.

My Twitter account has been blowing up about Tiger Woods, the media's unfair bashing of him, and the fans' relentless attacks on his personal life. And recently, more allegations of Tiger's use of Human Growth Hormone has sparked talk about whether or not he's "who we think he is." @GolfSchott, specifically, has been passionate about his defense of Tiger, believing the media has unfairly targeted his off course mistakes, and haven't given him a break, allowing any forgiving to take place. (I hope Brad doesn't mind me using his handle, but he's been very articulate and open about his beliefs... and I greatly respect his opinion. Thanks, Brad).

Tiger Woods is not a role model off the course, and never should be considered one. When my 2 year old daughter is old enough to understand his amazing physical gifts on course, we will discuss THAT part of his game in detail. I'll teach her the importance of his work ethic, mental toughness, and his ability to never settle for less. This is what's important to me, as a teacher and father, not his choices off the course. Again, we don't know him as a man, we only know him as a golfer ... perhaps the best of all time. Now, if the HGH rumors are ever proven to be true, I'll be forced to adjust that talk with my daughter, as it directly affects his on course play, in one way or another. @GolfSchott and I have debated how it affected Tiger's performance, but the bottom line, in my opinion: He's an on-course role model, it's cheating, and he should be judged harshly if he has ever taken these drugs.

I'm not here to prosecute Tiger, only to make it clear that my belief is simple: We, as fans and parents need to understand that all professional athletes are human beings, living their lives, and making mistakes, just as we do. The media has made us believe they aren't human, they shouldn't make mistakes, and when they do, we shouldn't forgive them. We definitely should forgive, but more importantly, we shouldn't fall into the trap of thinking we need to know every detail of these people's lives. Watch them on t.v., cheer when they do well, and let them live!

What Are You Waiting For?!

2011-07-07T21:45:00.000-07:00

Mentally grab ahold of what you want.

Mentally know that it will happen, and you'll do whatever it takes.

Mentally create fearlessness and a hunger unmatched.

Mentally allow yourself to fail, knowing it's the only way to succeed.

Take it!

Mentally climb. Climb higher. Keep climbing. Never stop.

Mentally punch out any negative thoughts that attempt to handcuff your progress.

Mentally fight, and love the sweat building as you battle.

Mentally wipe away the inevitable frustration that shows it's face along the way.

Take it!

Mentally ignore all nay-sayers.

Mentally know and believe without evidence.

Mentally laugh at those who critique your passion, knowing it's only jealousy they spew.

Mentally never doubt your abilities.

Take it!

Take it, dammit!

What are you waiting for?!

It's A Delicate Balance

2011-07-04T22:48:00.000-07:00

Know your strengths, develop them into weapons, but also be aware of when they're turning into weaknesses!

My biggest strengths are my aggression and my intensity. I've learned through years of competing, the more aggressive competitor wins a higher percentage of the time. I've developed the ability to take this aggression to another, more explosive level when needed. I always feel I can "out-aggress" my opponents under pressure, which in the long run, gives me a huge advantage over them. This aggression, if not watched carefully, can backfire and turn into recklessness. I must be aware of when I'm crossing this thin line, and be able to reel it in. This is a skill set in itself, but knowing how to achieve this delicate balance can be the difference between achieving my goals, or falling short.

Since I was very young, I've had the ability to become super intense and take focus to the extreme. During competition, these qualities can be huge weapons, especially during pressure packed moments. I'm able to quiet my body and mind to the point where I have complete tunnel vision. I, literally, can't see or hear anything in my peripheral. I only see my target, and mentally calculate the best way of getting there. This process is best achieved when I focus all my attention inward, leaving many opponents viewing me as cocky or arrogant. When I'm competing at my best, I don't talk, and especially never give compliments. Compliments make my opponents feel comfortable... why would I ever want them feeling comfortable?! During highly competitive situations, these are my biggest weapons, creating instant advantages, BUT become weaknesses outside the competitive arena. If I'm not careful, this focused intensity can turn into solitude and selfishness.

We must fully understand our strengths, and the potential they have to turn into major weapons, all while being hyper aware of when they begin turning against us. While you're competing, never be afraid to take these qualities to the maximum level. Attempting to stretch past your normal comfort zone is the only way to achieve greatness!

It's Mandatory For Next Level

2011-06-28T22:32:00.000-07:00

"I want to take my game to another level, and reach that 1% mindset, but I don't want to seem cocky or arrogant in the process." -100% of the students I've worked with.

To take our game to the next level, we have to know we're the best, and believe no one can touch our skills. Without this belief, we're vulnerable to opponents who do think this way.

As Rory McIlroy said in his press conference, prior to the final round of U.S. Open: "I have to find a cockiness and arrogance tomorrow (in order to win this tournament)..."

To be arrogant doesn't have to mean being an ass to your opponents or fans... it simply means you have a deep, personal understanding of your skill level, and believe you will defeat anyone who stands in your way. To many, this sounds rude, but to the elite in their field, it's a simple fact. They believe it's absolutely mandatory to think this way, as it creates an important mental edge over their opponents.

On the court, Michael Jordan was as fierce a competitor as there ever was. When he put on his Bulls jersey, he knew with every competitive fiber in his body, that he was the best, period! No matter the situation, he knew he could single-handedly take over a game. 6 championships later... Was he cocky? Yep! Was he arrogant? Yep!

During his dominant years, when Tiger Woods stepped onto the first tee, in his mind, there was no doubt he was going to win! No one on the planet could touch him if he was playing well. He knew it, we knew it, and his opponents definitely knew it. His swagger down the fairway showed everyone, as did his blistering, focused stare on the greens, that he was the best. This was a man who, with 100% certainty, knew he couldn't be touched! Is this cockiness or arrogance? Yes to both.

It's more than a simple confidence. Everyone who's experienced a fair amount of success can create, and play with confidence. The type of belief I'm talking about comes from a burning desire to separate from the pack, and not care what anyone thinks about us as we strive for this goal.

This attitude is healthy, as long as it stays ON the playing field. There's nothing wrong with believing we're the best. In fact, without these thoughts, it would be impossible to excel at anything. The problem with arrogance is when it spills into personal lives. Unfortunately for Tiger, he didn't learn how to keep that belief inside the ropes, leaking it all over his life, leaving him where he is today. The arrogance, itself, didn't cause the problem... his inability to control it was ultimately the issue.

This is the "million dollar puzzle," isn't it? How do we become cocky and arrogant while we're competing, yet not allow it to spill over into our personal life? It's taken me over 20 years to figure out, but I finally have the answer. I learned that we, as intense competitors, must create two separate buttons to push. Without these buttons, the line becomes blurry, cockiness becomes a grey area, eventually affecting everyone around us. There's nothing wrong with competing with extreme confidence. Ie: Cockiness / arrogance... as long as we understand it's potential destruction off the playing field.

Hold Yourself To A Higher Standard

2011-06-22T22:41:00.000-07:00

I wake up every morning, repeating four simple words:

Never Settle For Less!

If there's more time to practice... then practice.

When you begin to feel average... look for the uncomfortable.

When you think you're finished... do more.

If complacency opens the front door... slam it shut.

Mental fatigue is guaranteed... accept this fact, and ask yourself, "Now what?!"

Strive for perfection, knowing it may not exist.

Never settle for less... you deserve more!

What Can We Learn From Him?

2011-06-20T11:54:00.000-07:00

He's poised. He's articulate. He's thoughtful. He's willing to speak honestly about his shortcomings... and now he's a US Open Champion! He's Rory McIlroy, and he's 22 years old!

We don't have to be golfers to understand how pressure affects our thoughts and actions. Just two months ago, Rory allowed that pressure to dictate, ultimately getting the best of him. The media frenzy that followed his mental collapse at The Masters would've destroyed most people, and definitely all 22 year olds. Somehow, he found the confidence and maturity to stand in front of the microphone, head held high, and, in front of the world, confront his weaknesses. He was sincere, unapologetic, and promised internal change would result.

This post isn't about winning the Open, but instead, the mental toughness, fearlessness, and discipline it took to make such a quick comeback. All of us can relate to falling on our face, and having to make a decision whether to stay down, or stand and risk more failure. We haven't had to look at those crossroads in front of the world, though... making his mental comeback even more miraculous.

The microphone from The Golf Channel was shoved in his face, tape recorders from ESPN, and an infinite amount of global reporters, all asking if he'd ever recover from his Augusta meltdown. How did Rory answer? By literally destroying US Open scoring records, quietly and confidently swaggering down each fairway.

His physical actions mirrored genius, but I'm more impressed with his emotional domination of the field. He made a conscious decision to mentally command his every thought. In his words, he "lost himself in the process of every decision." He focused on his mindset, and the results that would manifest from his thinking. THIS is the genius that was Rory McIlroy.

Some say he's the next Tiger Woods, others believe it's too early, and no one will duplicate that type of mastery. I'm of the opinion that if he decides the reward at the end of the grind is worth the mental discipline, his trophy case will be overflowing with Major wins. The power of the mind is infinite. Unfortunately, not many attempt to tap into it's ability, leaving us with many physical talents, most underachieving. Rory has proven his mechanical perfection, and for a four day stretch, the potential of his mental performance. Will he look in the mirror, smile, and feel the need for more?

When we stare at our own reflection, what's looking back? Are we living up to our potential? Are we pushing through our comfort zones, willing to grimace through the pain of growth? What can we learn from this amazing 22 year old?

K.I.S.S.

2011-06-15T22:21:00.000-07:00

Back in high school during a basketball game, I remember trying to make a fancy play, Magic Johnson style, when my coach yelled across the floor, "Keep it simple, stupid!" I'm not a big fan of calling my students stupid, but I do agree with my former hot-headed coach that simpler is better.

One of the biggest traps coaches unknowingly fall into, in my opinion, is making it more difficult than it has to be. As I was recently reminded by a wise teacher, Lance McWilliams (http://www.ZoomBoomGolf.com): "You don't have to explain to me how the watch works... just tell me the time." That statement is as true as it gets. As a student, it's instinctive to think your coach must tell you everything he knows about the subject in order for you to learn. The opposite is true -- the less he tells you, the more you'll comprehend in the long term.

As I was working out, practicing for a tennis tournament years ago, I was interrupted by a coach on the court next to mine, who was barking out instruction after instruction to his teenage student. "Do this, then that. Then after you finished that, make sure you remember not to forget to do this. When you're done with all of that, remember to check position (A), making sure it's not in position (B)..." I wanted to scream! The kid was struggling, and getting very frustrated.

I literally walked over to the fence, in the middle of my practice session, and asked if I could add one simple instruction to his lesson. Back in those days, I didn't understand how much of a cocky, inappropriate move it was to interrupt another teacher's lesson. I was young, arrogant, and knew it all. I believed it needed to be done, as this coach obviously didn't understand the concept of K.I.S.S. I suggested that his student try focusing on (X), rather than getting bogged-down in everything else. The coach told me the problem was more complex than the one, simple fix I was offering, but he'd allow his student to try it (probably thinking it would fail miserably, and he'd be shoo-ing me back to my court). As the teenager began working on my suggestion, I went back to my practice session, but making sure I kept an ear on the teaching court. "Nice shot, Scott... you got it" was all I heard for the next 1/2 hour.

No matter what your goals, make sure to focus on the simple path. It may look more exciting to walk along a complex, more detailed direction, but more isn't always better. Actually, it rarely is! Listen to everyone who wants to help you, but be diligent when trying to decipher who's "talking big" vs. who's talking simple. I've learned the hard way -- the one who constantly talks about how good he is, and the guarantees of instant success, is the one who's the most insecure. The teacher who wants you to focus on less, concentrating on a patient, long term process is the person you should trust.

In order to achieve anything, action must be taken. Simple, detailed action is the key! If you're feeling confused, look for another way. It doesn't have to be complicated.

Take a peek at your watch. Forget how it works. What time is it?

Letting Go...

2011-06-13T22:01:00.000-07:00

When we try, we don't. When we let go, we do!

Growing up playing sports, this was a common theme. The harder we tried to win, the less likely it would happen. The tighter we squeezed the bat or tennis racquet, the less relaxed our muscles became, not allowing for a relaxed swing. This same concept plays an important role in every part of our lives, as it relates to achieving something out of our comfort zones.

When we're passionate, our instincts tell us to "try harder" to grab ahold of that goal. Instead, we need to create a new instinct that instructs us to "let go." Let go of the outcome, and hang on to the details needed to achieve the outcome. Let go of the stress associated with the end result, and paint a mental picture of how it will manifest. Let go of the expectations of such lofty goals, and step consistently towards that next level.

When we squeeze that driver, wanting to hit it 310 yards, our muscles tighten, our breathe becomes shallow and constricted, and relaxation becomes an afterthought. "I'm going to crush this ball" is the last thought our mind hears, ultimately producing a drive that my 2 1/2 year old daughter would laugh at. Instead, let go of desired results, see and feel the shot, and accept all possible outcomes. This type of thinking will create and instant relaxation of the muscles, allowing the body to produce the shot visualized.

"I'm going to try and lose 25 lbs" is another common theme among my students. This also creates a focus that doesn't allow long term relaxation. It may produce short term results, but it rarely lasts, and the process can be mentally painful, to say the least. Instead, concentrate on enjoying the long term, daily actions that will create a healthier and freeing lifestyle. Rather than "trying to lose weight," love the opportunity to become a new person, inside and out, and create new habits that will change lives forever. When we think like this, the negative pressure disappears, and shifts the focus from possible failure to probable success. Let go of losing weight. Relish the steps that will create a new future. Let go of knowing you have to eat better and exercise more. Embrace the happiness that will ultimately flow into your life.

Surrender to the process of every challenge, letting go of the pressures attached with results. When we try, we don't. When we let go, we do!

True Story - I Live It With You.

2011-06-05T22:17:00.000-07:00

"It's not what happens to you that matters... it's what you THINK happens to you."

Think of a time in your life where something negative occurred, and instead of changing the perception of it's reality, you allowed it to dictate your next actions. What if, rather, you took the specifics in that moment, and created your own picture of reality? How different would your outcome have been?

13 years ago, 5 years after I began teaching mental techniques, I experienced this exact situation... one that completely changed my life forever! My doubles partner and I were scheduled to travel to Germany to continue our professional tennis careers; a strategic move that would've catapulted our world ranking. A week prior to leaving, I received a message from him, explaining that he'd no longer be playing due to a potential career change. At first, I was obviously upset, very upset! Didn't he understand the opportunity he was throwing away?! I mean, c'mon... we'd undoubtedly be top ranked doubles players within the year.

After two days of extreme anger and self-pity, I decided it was time to take my own advice. I made the conscious decision to embrace my partner's decision to quit, and EXPECT better things to arrive. I spent the majority of the next week visualizing and feeling an intense celebration of some kind. I didn't pretend to know what I'd be celebrating or why, just that I'd be throwing my arms in the air, jumping up and down, and thanking God I wasn't able to travel to Germany. I did this when I woke up, a few times in the middle of the day, and again as I went to bed.

Literally, 7 days to the day he quit, I was invited to a members party at the tennis club I was teaching. These parties took place at the same time I'd be finishing with my day on the courts, so I'd be exhausted when they began. After nine hours of teaching, I always looked forward to kicking my feet up, most likely with ice on both knees. I was tired, and wasn't looking forward to this specific party. However, I'd be pleasantly surprised this night. My life was about to change forever!

Two hours into the party, and after playing with a few of my favorite members, I was sitting down, two ice packs attached to my knee caps, when SHE walked up. A friend introduced us:

"Dayne, I'd like you to meet Liane. Liane, this is Dayne."

Two years later, Liane and I were married, and now have a gorgeous 2 year old daughter!

It's not what happens to you, it's what you THINK happens to you. If I had left for Germany...

Whatever road block hits you in the face, consciously make the decision to switch it's reality. You always have a choice. The 1% separate with their mindsets, realizing it's always in their control. With control, comes opportunity and definite success!

The Canvas Is Waiting

2011-05-31T11:13:00.000-07:00

It's too easy to fall into the trap of rolling out of bed, going through our daily routine, and accomplishing nothing of true meaning. We may even wake up, focusing on what we want, yet never achieve anything due to the lack of commitment needed.

Wanting vs. Commitment to doing: Night-and-day difference!

Recently, I found myself walking along this same, simple, habit-formed path... working hard, yet resultless. The amount of hours I was putting in masked the fact I wasn't achieving what I wanted. Something was missing from my daily equation. That "something" was a detailed, long term picture of what I needed the results to look like. I fell into the quicksand of hard work. The more I thrashed, the quicker I sunk. Long hours, staying up until 2 am, just weren't going to be enough. I needed to refocus my mind on the picture I was trying to paint.

I WILL...

It looks like this...

We've all been taught that long hours will beget positive results. "The more I practice, the better I'll play." This advice is flawed. It's true, we do need to work at our craft in order to improve, but more efficient practice is the key, and actually reduces the time needed to practice. Taking it a step further, when practicing correctly, we won't be able to put in an over abundance of hours because we'll be too fatigued, physically and mentally.

The most important factor in achieving anything out of our comfort zone will always be our mindset. What will we create from this day, and what are we willing to sacrifice in order to grab ahold? This detailed picture will ultimately affect and construct the long term result we're searching for.

Make a conscious decision to commit to a detailed mental picture of your desired outcome. Before attempting to make improvements, this mindset must be locked in place in order to maximize your potential. Having a fuzzy, "it would be nice if" attitude will never allow your greatness to surface. Next level success lives in all of us, but it's waiting for a specific path to walk along. It needs this passion and discipline to be visualized before it can materialize.

Tonight, when you go to bed, take a few minutes to see exactly what you'll have in the future. Feel the sensations that come from achieving those goals. Make it real in your mind. When you wake up the next morning, repeat that mental picture, making it a habit of success.

Design a path for yourself. Don't allow your day to be shaped by thoughtless steps. Take back the control you have over your passions! Paint a picture in your mind, and watch what the canvas gives you in return.

Trust Me... It Is!

2011-05-23T21:16:00.000-07:00

"It can't be this simple."

"It IS this simple."

"What if..."

"No what-ifs. Only do's. Do when you wake up. Think about doing when you go to bed. Wake up and do even more."

"It can't be..."

"It IS!"

Pressure... Don't Believe The Hype!

2011-05-17T11:15:00.000-07:00

What is pressure?

Pressure: Verb
To force (someone) towards a particular end; influence.

Pressure: Noun
The exertion of force upon on surface by an object, fluid, etc.

Where, in any definition, does it say that pressure is a negative or something to be afraid of? We've been taught to believe that we must fear pressure; avoid it as much as possible. And if we DO face it head-on, we must do our best to "handle" or "deal" with it.

Last night on Twitter, I was asked what comes first... pressure or anxiety? For 99% of us, pressure is always first, as anxiety is the result of one's definition of pressure. My goal as a teacher is to completely eliminate all anxiety and fear linked to pressure, simply by redefining the word. Pressure, and the emotion associated, are completely separate from each other.

Pressure's simply a moment of potential consequence... a moment we've been taught to connect negativity to. Unfortunately, we've had years of unconscious linking, selling the "truth" that pressure is a naughty word. Why is it bad? Why do we look at these moments as times of potential failure?

Pressure is not an emotion. It doesn't create a reflexive, physical reaction in our bodies. What causes this physical and emotional backlash is our mental reply to the pressure. Fear, anxiety, doubt, and hesitation aren't synonymous with pressure, yet most connect them all, combing them in one lump sum.

Pressure is a point in time, giving us two options:

1) Embrace the potential positive outcome, understanding these times will ultimately define us.

2) Focus on the negativity that may or may not result.

It's literally this simple.

I can name countless number of people who have fallen victim to the pressures of their specific situation. Why? Because they've allowed the imagined negativity of the moment to overtake their thinking. If, instead, they focused on the power and success that could result, maybe their outcomes would've been different. Concentrating on the "negative what-ifs" during stressful situations is instinctive and habitual. Our brain does this as a defense mechanism. It doesn't want us to feel the pain of failure, so it focuses it's attention on fighting it, ultimately making it manifest. By definition, a habit is something we cement into our unconscious by repeating over and over, so conversely, creating new habits must be accomplished in the same fashion.

Redefine pressure, and consciously engross yourself in the process of creating this new habit. Make these occasions of pressure work for you. They don't have to make you feel anxious, scared, or doubt yourself. The 1% know how powerful these moments of consequence are, and only focus on the success of the situation.

Pressure... what does it mean to you?