Don't Judge A Book By Its...

Here's something that many people don't realize...

Well, hang on, first of all let me say that what I am going to share with you today is another key to really excelling in Life...really living life as a Champion. Whether it is in Martial Arts, Family, or in other passions and pursuits you are driving toward, each of us has something on the inside that wants to break out and really FLY...to succeed, to accomplish, to live life to the fullest in every way.

Here's a key...

Ready...?

YOU ARE NOT SIMPLY WHAT YOU SEE ON THE OUTSIDE.

That's right, there is much more to you than meets the eye. (Sounds simple, doesn't it? Then why do so many people miss this?) This is why you can't "judge a book by its cover" so to speak. The "cover" gives us SOME insight, but it doesn't tell the whole picture.

Beyond the physical, we have our "mental" layer, and our "spiritual" layer. Ever hear the term, "Mind, Body, and Spirit"? There's something to that. There are even separate layers to each of these main layers. For example: the body is not just the outside you see, but also internal organs, blood, lymph system, nervous system, bones, etc. Likewise, the mind is not simply "one-sided" either, there are both conscious and sub-concious minds in the mix. We could talk all day about the different layers of each part of us, but I want to give you something a little more practical to walk away with today.

How do you take care of each of these "parts"? This is where the BIG key comes in when learning how to "go the distance" in anything in life.

Each day you must take care to nurture and cultivate each "part" of you. Here are a few ways (there are so many!) to help you...

Part of You: Mind
Strategy to nurture: Read. Pick up a book and start reading. At first read deeply and widely, then learn to narrow your reading each month to things that are really significant to helping you grow. I read on four main topics each month, and I keep an ongoing reading list of books I want to pick up in the future. I have developed a system of reading. I need that. I won't be faithful to expanding my mind through reading if I don't have a plan.
Bonus Strategy: Imagine! That's right...take some time to imagine...dream BIG...think about all the things you would like to accomplish and imagine yourself doing those things. You will be amazed at how this nurtures the mind!

Part of You: Body
Strategy to nurture: Exercise. Well, duh! That one is easy...I think. Mix up your exercise routine and make it fun. Do more exercise outside in the sun...or the rain (trust me it's a blast...just don't do it when lightning is striking!)
Bonus Strategy: Take a refreshing salt bath or get a full 8 hours of sleep (your eyes will thank me!)

Part of You: Spirit
Strategy to nurture: Pray. Studies show that when people pray, they are significantly more relaxed and are usually healthier than those that don't.
Bonus Strategy: Forgive someone. We all have people in our lives we have grudges against, or harbor some hurt from...write them a letter (you don't even have to send it) and forgive that person. You could talk with them if you feel you can. Regardless, let go of the hurt, forgive and move on!

Like I said earlier, each day you MUST take care of "ALL" of you. Do a little bit each day. Take care of the "parts", and you will understand what it feels like to be "whole".

Have An Extraordinary Day!
Doug McGannon
Kickgen.com username: KGDoug
http://www.twitter.com/dougmcgannon