So there I was; on the rings at a Division 1 NCAA gymnastics meet, in the middle of a great routine…and it happened. While doing a press to handstand, I farted! In front of what felt like millions of people- even though there was just a couple hundred. How embarrassing! So what do you do in that moment? Do I run into the locker room and never come out in public again? Do I quit gymnastics so I won’t be in that situation again? Or do I acknowledge what happened and continue on? We’ve all been in embarrassing situations and it’s definitely not a fun place to be - that’s why it’s embarrassing. When I was up in the handstand and I … [Read more...]

During my keynotes and retreats on college campuses, I talk a lot about commitment. I even have an audience member break an arrow with their neck [without using their hands] as a demonstration of being truly committed. I recently took on a big commitment. I started P90X. It’s an extreme home fitness video series that’s a 90-day commitment. My commitment to the program is tested daily because the workouts are so extreme and I push myself to the limit every time. When you add to the mix raising two boys, being a husband, running a business with traveling and speaking… that’s when it gets really challenging. The other week I was on … [Read more...]

In Star Wars, Luke’s ship just sank into the swamp . Yoda tells him he could raise it out using the Force. Luke looks very doubtful and says, “I’ll try.” Yoda says, “Do or do not, there is no try.” And, of course, Luke is unsuccessful. Luke didn't get how powerful that work can be. Occasionally, when I’m facilitating a collegiate leadership retreat, a student will be on the verge of a major personal breakthrough and they might say...“I’ll TRY to take action when I’m afraid... I’ll TRY to stand up for what I believe in... I’ll TRY to have more confidence in myself.” I’ll coach them on the word “try” and … [Read more...]

The other day, my 5 year old was having a hard time tying his shoe. He said, “I can’t do this, Dad!” With a smile I reminded him we don’t say, “I can’t.” Instead we say, “Help please.” “Can’t” is a word that takes all your power away. It leaves you with no options and feeling defeated. If you must say “can’t” then add the word, “I can’t, yet” There’s hope in that; things can change and you can and will do it eventually. Here’s a phrase I don’t allow myself to say; “I can’t afford it.” Again, it takes my power away and leaves me feeling hopeless. I feel defeated and my life revolves around … [Read more...]