Inside The Mind of a Man Fast Approaching 40
How is it that some people use pain and suffering as a springboard to achieve great success in life? And yet, others use it as a ball and chain that weighs them down and keeps them from pursuing their goals in life? Is it mindset, influence, or simply that we’re all biologically different? Quite often, the bullied go on to become bullies, and the abused go on to become abusers themselves. Yet for others, the very same experience inspires them to do the complete opposite. To embrace a mindset that steers them to make a positive impact in other people’s lives. Why, when faced with adversity, do some people go on to achieve amazing feats in life and others simply squander their life away and fall into despair and destruction?
As I fast approach the big 40, I find myself constantly asking myself questions.
I believe, as humans, we possess the answers to most of the challenges we encounter in life. The difference for most of us is how we process and internalise these challenges. Some see the world in a totally different light than others and that’s what makes us all unique. Some people see a problem in every situation whereas others see an opportunity - it all comes down to belief and perspective. Habitual traits that ultimately form our unique character and personality.
How many times do we hear people say, ‘I’d love to do this or that, but…’, but what? You have a disability that will encumber you from achieving your dreams? For 99.9% of people, they will come up with every excuse possible as to why something can’t be done, rather than reasons why it can be done.
Lose weight - simple, eat less and exercise more.
Be richer - simple, work harder and earn more money
Live your life - simple, take action and pursue your passion
So, what are the questions I’ve been asking myself as I approach my milestone birthday?
How old am I likely to live to?
Do other people talk to themselves as much as I do?
Am I too old to be wearing the latest Nike Air Max?
Will I ever rediscover my six-pack?
Am I past my prime?
What questions do you ask yourself regularly?
I want to use hitting 40 as a springboard to achieve something special. To make one huge fucking impact and prove that age ain't nothing but a number. I have been looking for inspiration from people who have defied the odds. I have been inspired by people who have encountered huge setbacks and used it as their future story.
I follow a number of guys who have lost limbs and overcome terrible tragedies and yet have used the experience to create a positive future for, not only themselves, but also for others who follow their journey. My hat goes off to Mark Ormrod, who is ex-military and a triple amputee. Today, he is an author of Man Down, a performance coach and host of his own podcast show.
Then you have Nick Santonastasso, who was born with Hanhart syndrome, a rare birth defect that left him with no legs, an underdeveloped right arm, and a left arm with one finger. The crazy mother fucker is in the gym more often than most fully able guys I know. He has competed in wrestling and a bodybuilding competition. Not bad for a guy who was told by doctors mobility was going to be an issue for him. A great example of proving the doubters wrong!
Seeing what these guys have achieved despite their setbacks, makes me realise that 99% of men (me included) really have no excuse as to why they don’t follow their passion and pursue their goals.
What's your excuse?
I am currently reading Finding Ultra by Rich Roll, who went from being an unhealthy and overweight lawyer, to an ultra-endurance athlete at the age of 40. Completing an Ironman is one thing, but completing 5 Ironman races in five days is beyond comprehension.
Then theres, Eddie Izzard, who went from being an overweight crossdresser, who had never run more than a mile in his life, to running 27 marathons in 27 days - I mean how the fuck is that humanly possible?
And then, you have the remaining 99% of men who come up with every excuse imaginable as to why they can’t… can’t quit a job they hate, can’t make time for the gym, can’t end a toxic relationship, and can't pursue what genuinely makes them happy.
My question to you is, why the fuck not?
Actually, I do have one last question - am I too old for the Nike Air Max’s?