The inward journey is often one of the last adventures men will go on. For some reason, we find it easier to take on the world than we do to take on ourselves. The danger for us is not going on the inward journey. When we don’t we become men who obey our low-level appetites, this has been obvious throughout history.We must build our inner character as men or we will allow outside influences to control and dominate us. Our strength begins on the inside; to tap into it, we must go on the inward journey.Defining the Inward JourneyThe ability to understand what we think and feelThis takes work=reflection.It moves us past our animalistic tendenciesReflection can also help us wrestle with our purpose and our meaningWhy the Inward Journey is HardReason 1: It takes time and effort which is why so many men don’t do itThere aren’t quick wins, but long protracted strugglesWe tend as men to think outside things will change us on the insideReason 2: It’s not very flatteringIgnorance is bliss. (Procrastination)Reason 3: It isn’t laid out for us clearlyWe like structure. Whether it’s sports, video games, or playing music; we want to know the rules so we can win.Because every person is different, the inward journey will look different for everyone. Even how we start will vary.The Key Word is JOURNEYThe inward journey isn’t something you can do in a sessionIt is a practice you have to make a habit. Think of it as a skill that takes time to build and maintain.Reflection isn’t something we often feel like we have time to doReflection is a learned habitYou are never done but you get to new levels of understanding and opennessThis makes your life more meaningful and your relationships deeperCHALLENGE:Start doing something to learn how to reflectA time of prayer each day, reading the daily proverb and then praying over it to see how it appliesJournaling a few times a week - not a diary, but a place to put what is happening in your mind, writing is processingGet a group of guys together for deep discussions (friends who are connected and want to do the same thing)RESOURCES TO HELP YOU THRIVE AS A MAN========================Thriving Man Coaching Resources4D MODEL FREE PDFLearn about the 4 fundamentals of a Successful LifeDiscover OUR SPEAKING AND HOW WE HAVE EMPOWERED THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE ACROSS THE WORLD

One of the things you notice about great athletes and businessmen is they often take things personally. Whenever Michael Jordan felt disrespected by someone, he would become a beast and dominate. Why was this? Because he took it personally.We need to learn a lesson from this. Our growth won’t happen unless we internalize it. We have to take it personally if we are going to do something about it. We will talk about how to do that on today’s show.Changing the FocusWe must change our focus on ourselves and quit worrying about others and what they do.There are many ways to achieve a goal. But which one is YOUR way?There are many things people value, but what are YOUR values?Knowledge is Useless Unless AppliedWe have to make sure we don’t become collectors of ideas who never implement those ideasWe won’t grow if we don’t apply the things we learn into our livesPersonal Growth Relieves Pressure of ComparisonThe pressure to be everything to everyone is something many men deal withWhen you aren’t growing, you start many things but never finish because you aren’t making them personalWhen you are picking and growing in something, you can focus and not get distracted by other thingsSeasonal growth makes growth sustainable for the long-termCHALLENGE:Pick an application and do it this week for something you already know you want/need to do. What is one area you know you need to grow in but you haven’t done it yet?Exercise, nutrition, reading, sleeping, mobility work, praying, bible reading, etc….Pick one and for the next 7 days apply it each dayThis helps you start to internalize and make growth personalRESOURCES TO HELP YOU THRIVE AS A MAN========================Thriving Man Coaching Resources4D MODEL FREE PDFLearn about the 4 fundamentals of a Successful LifeDiscover OUR SPEAKING AND HOW WE HAVE EMPOWERED THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE ACROSS THE WORLD

Have you ever had something you wore that fit perfectly? That feeling is like no other. You are confident and you feel great every time you wear it. Why is that? Because it fits you perfectly. When you get clothes that are tailor-made or feel like it, you feel incredible.The same thing happens with our minds. When we build a mindset that fits us, we feel more confident and can positively move through life no matter the circumstances.This week’s show discusses how to create our own tailored mindset. A mindset that isn’t someone else’s but is ours and we take ownership of it.Start With Honest Measurements: Evaluate the Life You’re BuildingIs the life you’re living yours or someone else’s?Be honest about your motivationOutside success shouldn’t define us“Success is when those that are closest to you love you and think the most of you.” -John MaxwellWhat will I be happy about at 75?Use Great Materials: Quality InputsWhat do you read, and watch? Who do you follow?Our input mattersHow are you stretching yourself?Trying new things, pushing yourself in some wayPut the Suit On: Turn Planning into ActionMany men learn stuff but they don’t implement itWe want to practice what we are learning in every area of our livesUnderstand that practice helps you get better, but it isn’t perfectionThe only way you do something right is to practiceFootball teams practice, Golfers practice, Singers practice, etc…Build a practice mindset in your lifeCHALLENGE:Where are you in your life?Are you creating your life or surviving?Start by defining what a successful life isWhat will you be happy you did at 75?Then build backwardsRESOURCES TO HELP YOU THRIVE AS A MAN========================Thriving Man Coaching Resources4D MODEL FREE PDFLearn about the 4 fundamentals of a Successful LifeDiscover OUR SPEAKING AND HOW WE HAVE EMPOWERED THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE ACROSS THE WORLD

What do kids want in a family? The interesting thing is they are too young to know. They will come up with all kinds of answers that are often hilarious. However, if you dig deep, you find out that kids want parents who are constant, consistent, and calm.This is the coolest thing you can do for your family. Too many parents today want to be “liked” or focus their whole lives on their kids. This isn’t good because it puts the kids in charge and they become the center of the family. Their mindset will get messed up and they will think they are the center of the universe.What kids want and what they need are two different things and it's up to you to work to give them what they need instead of what they want. Yep, this means we have to do the work, but we are men and that’s what we do.ConstantKids want constant predictable parentsThis doesn’t mean boring, but not full of dramaTheir life has good routines and the kids are includedThey want parents who love them and love each otherThis constant love feeds their lifeThey want parents who act consistent and don’t “change” when the kid’s friends are around or when they get around other adultsConsistentWe should be present at our current age and love life where we are as adultsOwn the fact that you are a dad and embrace itIf all you talk about are the “good old days” you are communicating that becoming an adult stinksLet them know that as they get older they gain wisdom and that is better than being youngThis means we may have to do things to work on our lives and fix itIf you need help in areas of your life, get the help, and don’t expect your child to “fix” you or to live through themCalmLet them see that you are not living on emotional highs and lowsYou should not act like a middle schoolerHelp them see the long-term view of lifeBe empathetic but also help them see the things you have learnedThese stories help them get perspective on where they are atTell the stories before they need them so they can remember themBe the adult. They need your love and empathy, but they don’t need you to jump on the emotional roller coaster with themCHALLENGE:Do you need to be more constant, consistent, or calm?Pick one area to focus on so you can grow and improve as a parentRESOURCES TO HELP YOU THRIVE AS A MAN========================Thriving Man Coaching Resources4D MODEL FREE PDFLearn about the 4 fundamentals of a Successful LifeDiscover OUR SPEAKING AND HOW WE HAVE EMPOWERED THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE ACROSS THE WORLD

What would you consider a successful child? What if your child was a well-known child star making millions of dollars, is that a successful child? Well, if you look at the history of child stars, I would say probably not. Many of those kids get messed up. The problem is often not them but the parents living through them.As dads, we are responsible for raising successful kids, but how do we define that?On today’s show, we talk through what real success looks like for our kids and it has nothing to do with money or jobs but has to do with each child having a strong inward foundation.Security Focuses SuccessSuccess with security is something that kids can enjoy, but it doesn’t control themInsecure kids (and adults for that matter) “need” success to prove who they areSecurity helps success develop positive fruit and not mess a kid upSuccess without Security is DestructiveWhen kids need success, they will always feel insecure even when they have successThey will be willing to change who they are and what they do if they think it will make them more successful and accepted2 Keys to Building Security1) Let them be Secure in Your LoveYour love should never be conditional or based upon their behaviorLove is part of discipline and rulesLove speaks life into them and doesn’t manipulate or control them2) Let them be Secure in Your SupportSupport your kids in who they are more than what they doGive them opportunities and support them in their areas of interestDon’t live through them or make them love what you loveCommunicate that their activities or performances do not earn your loveYour goal is for them to be the best version of themselvesCHALLENGE:How are you building the security of your children?Are you success-based and teaching them that accomplishments are the purpose of life?Pick one area to build your kids up in and focus on itRESOURCES TO HELP YOU THRIVE AS A MAN========================Thriving Man Coaching Resources4D MODEL FREE PDFLearn about the 4 fundamentals of a Successful LifeDiscover OUR SPEAKING AND HOW WE HAVE EMPOWERED THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE ACROSS THE WORLD

One of the toughest things to go through for many marriages is when the kids leave the house. Too many couples struggle because the marriage got put on the back burner and the kids were the center of the marriage. Unfortunately for many of these couples divorce happens. Why is that? It is often because the priority of the marriage got lost.One of the best things we can do as men to have a strong family is to work on our marriage. The marriage is the foundation of the family. When a marriage is healthy and strong, the kids will be more secure and stable. When the marriage is weak, the kids will often suffer for it.On this week’s show, we talk about the importance of marriage and what we can do to make it stronger. It is one of the best things you can do to be a great father.Securing the Marriage is Securing the FamilyYou and your wife are the familyYour kids are a welcome part of the family, but they will leaveYour relationship with your wife is the key to being a good dadThe more secure your relationship is the more secure your children will beRelationships Never StopYou must be a dad who constantly pursues the relationship with your wifeThen you pursue the relationship with your kidsDads are the instigators of relationshipsPursuit isn’t control it is bridge-buildingEvery man should be a student of his wife and his childrenGet to know them as individuals and you can connect with them betterCHALLENGE:Write out 5 things you can do to start building a better relationship with your wifeGet creative and don’t be lazyRESOURCES TO HELP YOU THRIVE AS A MAN========================Thriving Man Coaching Resources4D MODEL FREE PDFLearn about the 4 fundamentals of a Successful LifeDiscover OUR SPEAKING AND HOW WE HAVE EMPOWERED THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE ACROSS THE WORLD

If you look on TV or in the movies you see that dads are not often presented in the best light. They are often idiots or jerks. They do this because of the reality that dad issues drive many problems in people's lives. This is why being a good dad is so important.Many men think being a great dad is something that “other” guys do but it is too hard for them. The truth is very different! Every man can be a great dad, but it will take work. Being a great dad doesn’t happen by accident.Today’s show focuses on the number one decision men can make that helps them be a great dad.Take ResponsibilityBefore you can be responsible for others, You need to recognize that you are responsible for yourself.Your growth isn’t something you can push off on othersYou can’t blame a schedule or jobIt’s a matter of priorities.The Core 4Growing in the 4 fundamentals: Physical, Mental, Emotional, and Spiritual is importantYou can’t be lopsided in your lifestyleYour commitment to your growth is a commitment to your loved onesLack of emotional growth = less connection with wife and kids as they get olderFailure Isn’t FinalEven if you’ve blown it, you're still here to overcomeGrowth is a matter of direction, not arrival.Intentions vs IntentionalityTalking doesn’t help, start doing one thingCHALLENGE:Being a Great Dad takes you committing to be a great manQuit waiting for perfection and get movingRESOURCES TO HELP YOU THRIVE AS A MAN========================Thriving Man Coaching Resources4D MODEL FREE PDFLearn about the 4 fundamentals of a Successful LifeDiscover OUR SPEAKING AND HOW WE HAVE EMPOWERED THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE ACROSS THE WORLD

We have been traveling a lot this month and thought playing a popular episode again would be good. This episode deals with one of the key ways we avoid the uncomfortable. We escape. Escapism is a way of actively giving up and we help you deal with it in this episode. When things are hard or uncomfortable many of us give up but in an active way. We don’t quit but focus on other areas of our lives to avoid the hard areas. This happens especially when we feel confused or insecure.In this episode, we talk about what actively giving up looks like and how we can change our focus to achieve success. What Actively Giving Up Looks Like:-Busyness-EscapismHow to Overcome:-Truth-ChallengeWhat areas of your life are you avoiding?Pick one area to lean into and start working on.Don't try to fix every area in your life but focus all your energy on one area at a time.This will build up endurance for future areas.Enjoy!David & Reese Maxwell RESOURCES TO HELP YOU THRIVE AS A MAN========================Thriving Man Coaching Resources4D MODEL FREE PDFLearn about the 4 fundamentals of a Successful LifeDiscover OUR SPEAKING AND HOW WE HAVE EMPOWERED THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE ACROSS THE WORLD

We are nerds in many different ways. One of the big things we do is get into long discussions about anime and movies. We discuss the character arcs and how they develop as people and what they do to show that in the shows. After the movies, we talk through our favorite parts and what made it memorable for us. This makes shows and moves more interesting to us.The Bible is designed to be something you can dig through your whole life and keep finding amazing things. God gave us the Word so we would dig into it and mine out the truths and wisdom it has for us. When we approach the Bible with the attitude of digging into it, we discover greater truths and develop the way God intended us to.We should approach the Bible with a sense of wonder, like digging for Gold. Proverbs says to seek wisdom as for silver and gold We are digging for treasure as we dig into the Bible.Read for the Face ValueFind the obvious truths and lessons the Bible contains.See how all the books of the bible work together.The Bible is meant to be read and reread over our entire lives.The more knowledge of the Bible, the more we can grow in God.We can’t grow in God without knowing His Word.Prayer and the Bible go together.Dig for the Deeper WisdomWe must understand that there is more for us in the Bible rather than the surface.The Bible isn’t just for professionals, it's for all of us.As men who lead, we need wisdom for life and the Bible offers it to us.Misinterpretations of the Bible often come from people only reading for face value without digging, praying, and understanding the context.Challenge:Be patient with yourself as you start the processPay attention and look for the deeper truth.Get study materials to help you along the wayBe willing to reflect and take the time to think about it.“Knowledge comes quickly, but wisdom grows slowly.”RESOURCES TO HELP YOU THRIVE AS A MAN========================Thriving Man Coaching Resources4D MODEL FREE PDFLearn about the 4 fundamentals of a Successful LifeDiscover OUR SPEAKING AND HOW WE HAVE EMPOWERED THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE ACROSS THE WORLD

Recently I learned a hack for my iPhone that I never knew. It’s one of those things that had probably always been there but I didn’t realize it. Now that I do I use it all the time.Have you ever had something like that? You use something and then later realize some new aspect to it or something about it you never knew, making it even better for you to use. The Bible is like that. We can casually read the Bible and learn some things but when we look at the intricate ways it fits together and the amazing messages it communicates, it comes alive to us and impacts our lives.This week on the show we are discussing why God gave us the Bible. We are looking at the main messages that the Bible communicates to us. Once you understand these, the whole Bible will come alive and help you thrive in your life.The Bible Reveals the Character of God and the Nature of HumanityConsistently shows how good God is and how messed up we are.God creating the world shows his generous and creative nature.God creating man and giving man life and community with the creator.The Bible shows us how messed up we are.Throughout history, we see the messed up nature of humanity.This story is repeated throughout the Bible timeline.The Bible’s Purpose is to Show Us Jesus“The Bible is the unified story that leads to Jesus” from The Bible Project.There were many good people in history before Jesus, but none were perfect.The Bible shows us why Jesus coming was so important.He did for us what we couldn’t do for ourselves.Jesus’ teachings fleshed out the teaching of the OT.He showed us who God is, he fleshed Him out to us.The Bible Shows Us that We aren’t the Center of the UniverseLife is not about us, it’s about God.Our world is messed up because people want to be their own God.Look how that turns out.Hedonism (Slave to their appetite)Nihilism (Bitter against life)Atrocities against othersPeople who are the center of their universe often mess up everyone else’s lives.CHALLENGE:Continue to read the Proverb of the day and look at it with the lens of “What does this say about God?”Then ask “What does this say about humanity (me)?”RESOURCES TO HELP YOU THRIVE AS A MAN========================Thriving Man Coaching Resources4D MODEL FREE PDFLearn about the 4 fundamentals of a Successful LifeDiscover OUR SPEAKING AND HOW WE HAVE EMPOWERED THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE ACROSS THE WORLD

Have you ever had a misconception about someone and then when you met them you found it to be wrong? We all have done that at some time or another. Many people are like that when it comes to the Bible.The Bible is very different from any other book and too many people don’t read it for themselves or try to understand it. They often go off of things they heard or saw in a video but they don’t find out for themselves. This week’s show will dive into some of the common misconceptions people have about the Bible.The Bible is a Rulebook:While the Bible does contain guidelines for living a moral and ethical life, it is much more than a rulebook.It offers wisdom, guidance, and inspiration for navigating the complexities of human existence.Every law in the Bible is not a copy and paste for our lives today.The Bible has many narrative stories that teach us truths to apply to our livesThe Bible Should Be a Scientific Book:The Bible is not a scientific textbook and should not be read as such.It was written in a pre-scientific era and uses metaphorical language to convey spiritual truths.The scientific lens is not always the best lens to apply to the Bible because we often have chronological snobberyGod spoke through the worldview of the people of the dayThe Bible was not written as a self-help bookThe Bible’s Irrelevant in the Modern World:While the Bible was written in a different time and cultural context, its messages and teachings are still relevant today.The Bible addresses universal human experiences and offers timeless wisdom for navigating life's challenges.The Bible is known as wisdom literatureIt’s goal is not to give you the video footage of every detailBy dispelling these misconceptions, we can approach the Bible with a fresh perspective and open ourselves to its transformative power.CHALLENGE:Don’t try to see yourself all the time as you read the Bible.Ask God to reveal Himself and His timeless truth to you as you continue reading ProverbsRESOURCES TO HELP YOU THRIVE AS A MAN========================Thriving Man Coaching Resources4D MODEL FREE PDFLearn about the 4 fundamentals of a Successful LifeDiscover OUR SPEAKING AND HOW WE HAVE EMPOWERED THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE ACROSS THE WORLD

We want all men to be Thriving Men. They thrive when working on the 4 fundamentals of their lives: Physical, Mental, Emotional, and Spiritual. We include the spiritual because as men we are spiritual creatures. God created us this way and we flourish when we live His design.The spiritual side of us as men is the foundation of all the other fundamentals. One of the best ways to build our spiritual side is to engage with the book designed to do that: The Bible.Join us as we talk about the greatest book ever written and how incredible it is that God gave us a way to grow and get to know Him through it.Why Read the Bible?You must take out the assumptions that many people have about the Bible.The Bible is God’s communication to usThe Bible is the greatest teacher of how to liveThe Bible is the guide and pathway to REAL spiritual truthWithout the Bible, we make up our spiritualityThe Uniqueness of the BibleIts a Library of books not just a bookIt is like a museum with different exhibits curated to communicate a single powerful messageGod used different authors in different periods with multiple styles of writingWe read the different styles of books differentlyThe Bible has shaped the Western worldThe Bible shaped many of the positive parts of the Western worldThe Bible is historically accurateThe Bible is bigger than we are and will outlast usIt is the key building block to a life well-livedOur founding fathers saw the wisdom of establishing the country on the BibleCHALLENGE:Read the bible yourselfRead the Proverb of the day based on the date for JulyRESOURCES TO HELP YOU THRIVE AS A MAN========================Thriving Man Coaching Resources4D MODEL FREE PDFLearn about the 4 fundamentals of a Successful LifeDiscover OUR SPEAKING AND HOW WE HAVE EMPOWERED THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE ACROSS THE WORLD

Overcoming procrastination is hard because it seems like the world is working against you! Try looking at the checkout line at Wal-Mart. They don’t have protein shakes or healthy snacks, do they? No, they put candy and other stuff that makes you want them and buy impulsively.But don’t worry, we have more tips to help you build up your procrastination muscles in this week’s episode. If you haven’t listened to last week’s episode, listen to it first and then check this one out. Both of them have tips that can help you get better at overcoming procrastination.Remember the point is not to try everything we mention. You want to start by picking the one that resonates most with you. Get better at that one and then add another one. Using that method will help you get better quicker than trying to do them all at once.Build Your StrengthsLearn your strengths and what you are good atWe often get into trying to do things that we aren’t good at because we are “supposed” to be good at itSometimes we have to do the “suck” stuff, but if you don’t have to why are you doing it?It’s foolish to try to do more of what you aren’t good at if you don’t have toThis doesn’t mean you don’t try to grow“Never worship your uniqueness at the expense of your growth”Build Routines“A good well-developed routine is an onramp to productivity”Find things that get you in the mindset to be productiveLarge tasks can feel overwhelming and lead to procrastination so try breaking them down into smaller, more manageable steps.This allows you to make progress and experience small wins along the way, which can boost motivation and reduce the tendency to procrastinate.Build CelebrationCelebrate progress: Acknowledge and celebrate each milestone you reach.This can help maintain motivation and reinforce positive habits.Use your Calendar - Plan a celebration after a big event or projectFind people to celebrate withBuild TeamsSometimes, overcoming procrastination requires external support and accountability.Procrastination is easiest when you are soloSurround yourself with motivated individuals:Find an accountability partner:Join a study or workgroup:Collaborating with others can help you stay accountable and provide opportunities for learning and growth.Consider professional help if procrastination is significantly impacting your life and you're unable to overcome it on your ownCHALLENGE:Build an on-ramp in ONE area to grow in it: Weight, health, yard work, relationshipsPick a couple of people to be a growth partner in an area for you Maybe a small group that meets regularly Recruit guys to be in it with youRESOURCES TO HELP YOU THRIVE AS A MAN========================Thriving Man Coaching Resources4D MODEL FREE PDFLearn about the 4 fundamentals of a Successful LifeDiscover OUR SPEAKING AND HOW WE HAVE EMPOWERED THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE ACROSS THE WORLD

We have worked to better understand procrastination and its negative effects over the last few weeks. Now we will explore some practical tips and techniques to overcome procrastination and boost productivity in our lives. This is a mixture of practical things we can do each day along with some mental shifts and changes that can help us beat procrastination in our lives.Creating a Productive Work EnvironmentHow you behave is deeply influenced by where you are and what you’re surrounded by.The environment in which we work can have a significant impact on our ability to stay focused and motivated.You want your environment to be a tactical advantage for you.Start by removing any potential distractions from your workspace.Minimize the distractions.Find a separate place to do deeper workMake your workspace comfortable and visually appealing.Setting Realistic Goals and DeadlinesGoals are a tool to help you focus on moving in the right direction, not an intimidating barrier to keep you from taking a first step.Clear goals give directionWithout a clear sense of direction, it's easy to get overwhelmed and lose motivation.Realistic Goals Give motivationYour goal can be specific, but impossible.We can’t mistake goals for dreams. Your goals are stepping stones toward achieving God-given dreams.Dreaming is good, but when it comes to focusing your actions today, you need something a bit more practical.Great goals are scalableBy breaking down your larger goals into smaller, more manageable projects and tasks, you can bring a sense of urgency and purpose to the behavior of today.When setting deadlines, be honest with yourself about how long tasks will take.It can be helpful to use a planner or digital calendar to schedule your tasks and deadlines.Prioritizing Tasks and Managing Time EffectivelyAs we said in episode 211, prioritizing your goals and tasks is not the same as procrastinating.Life will always want more from you, so you have to learn to develop a way of filtering between worthwhile pursuits and distractions.Effective task management is crucial for overcoming procrastination and maximizing productivitySimple Task Management: The Eisenhower MatrixStart by listing all your tasks and then categorize them into one of four quadrantsImportant and urgentImportant but not urgentUrgent but not importantNot urgent or important.Focus your energy on important and urgent tasks, and delegate or eliminate tasks that are not important or urgent.Simple Time Management when there’s no Motivation: The Pomodoro TechniqueThis involves breaking your work into timed intervals, typically 25 minutes of focused work followed by a short break of 5 minutes.After 4 rounds of this, you take a 25-minute break.CHALLENGE:Implement one of the 3 things first:Clear and Realistic Goal Setting (For if you lack clarity in what you’re going for)Scalable Goals (semester goals, weekly goals, daily tasks) (For if you’re having trouble connecting your goals with your daily activities)Implement a task management or time management system and see how it works for youEisenhower Matrix (If all your tasks are on the same level of importance in your mind)Pomodoro Technique (If you have trouble starting or pacing yourself during intense work.)Prototype and have fun experimenting!RESOURCES TO HELP YOU THRIVE AS A MAN========================

There’s always more to the story. There’s always more than meets the eye. Procrastination is no exception. We often think of procrastination as some fundamental character flaw- “Well procrastination must mean I’m a lazy bum. That’s just who I am.” The reality is very different. Procrastination is often an outward symptom of inward issues. It’s the fruit, not the root. It’s not self-contained, it's linked to other parts of our life.When we dig deeper, we will discover that there’s a lot more to the story, and there are some surprising ways we can address procrastination without the same old mantra of “trying harder.” On today’s show, we dig deep into procrastination and look at some of the root causes behind this problem.Fear of FailureOne common cause of procrastination is the fear of failure.Unrealistic expectations often drive our fear of failure: comparing ourselves to someone online our friend, or even our dreamy ideals.These expectations can paralyze us and prevent us from taking action.Antidote: Failure is normal and everyone goes through times when they fail at something.Don’t take yourself too seriously. We all mess up, and the first time we try new things is often the worst.By understanding that failure is a normal part of the learning process, we can overcome this fear and move forward with our tasks.Lack of MotivationAnother factor that contributes to procrastination is a lack of motivation.If we don't see the value or importance of a task, we often don't find the motivation to get started.Antidote: Connect your action with your why and connect the small picture to the big pictureBy finding meaning in the task, you can increase your motivation and reduce the tendency to procrastinate.Instant Gratification AddictionAnother psychological explanation for procrastination is the concept of instant gratification. This is probably one you’ve already suspectedAs humans, we are wired to seek immediate rewards and pleasure.When faced with a task that requires effort and delayed gratification, we are more likely to procrastinate in favor of more immediately rewarding activities, such as scrolling through social media or watching TV.We are surrounded by easy, appealing, and often free forms of instant gratification. In this environment, we have to be intentional about not just following our short-term cravings.The answer doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing, it just has to be intentional.By understanding this tendency, we can implement strategies to minimize distractions and increase our focus on important tasks.Be systematic with your boundariesWorking Outside Our Natural ZoneGod wired you with things you are good at and things you enjoyWe often procrastinate in areas that are not our natural zoneThis doesn’t give us an excuse, but it is a reality we should seeThis is something we should keep in mind when making commitmentsCHALLENGE:Review the sections we talked about and figure out which one is affecting you the mostFear of FailureLack of MotivationInstant gratification addictionWorking outside your natural zoneDon’t just accept guilt over procrastination. Figure out why you are procrastinating and you’ll be able to deal with it the right way.RESOURCES TO HELP YOU THRIVE AS A MAN========================Thriving Man Coaching Resources4D MODEL FREE PDFLearn about the 4 fundamentals of a Successful...

Procrastination seems to be a common theme for many men today. We’ve been coaching a small group of men from different backgrounds but all had the same issue: Procrastination!We all procrastinate in different areas of our lives and sometimes feel the bad consequences, but procrastination isn’t always bad. In this week’s show, we talk through what procrastination is along with some of the negative side effects of it. Plus, we deal with misunderstandings about procrastination that affect many men today.What is Procrastination?Procrastination is the act of delaying or postponing tasks or actions to a harmful degree.Many people believe that procrastination is simply a matter of laziness, but it is often a symptom of deeper underlying issues.We shouldn’t just accept procrastination but should look at it as a sign of something going on insideIt could be big or small, but procrastination often shows us insight into ourselves that we shouldn’t ignoreThe Negative Side of ProcrastinationProcrastination can significantly affect us and the people in our lives.Procrastination feeds itself. Once you start, it becomes a cycle of feeling overwhelmed and unable to manage your time effectively.One of the main consequences of procrastination is decreased productivity.Procrastination also takes a toll on our mental health.The Misunderstanding of ProcrastinationOne of the biggest problems with procrastination is that it becomes a catch-all category for any time we don’t take action.We have this assumption: “If I’m not doing something I could be doing right now, I’m procrastinating.”There is an important category we are missing: prioritizingPrioritizing: putting less important things on the back-burner on purpose so you can do something more valuable now.We have to prioritize our lives. That’s a good thing.Productivity isn’t our purpose the goal isn’t to cram as much as possible into the 16 hours we have awake. It’s to place the best things into the 16 hours you have awake.CHALLENGE:As you go throughout this week think about this question: What times am I procrastination and what times am I prioritizing?Look at the fruit of what you are choosing and why.RESOURCES TO HELP YOU THRIVE AS A MAN========================Thriving Man Coaching Resources4D MODEL FREE PDFLearn about the 4 fundamentals of a Successful LifeDiscover OUR SPEAKING AND HOW WE HAVE EMPOWERED THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE ACROSS THE WORLD

The Art of Rest and Recovery: The Key to Recharge and Optimize Your PerformanceIn today's fast-paced world, it's easy to overlook the importance of rest and recovery. We often fill our days and nights with activities and we pay the price by losing sleep and never resting to recover. This hurts us and can harm our ability to live the life we were designed to live.Let’s do a deep dive into rest and recovery and why it is so important to us.You can also get more details on our blog at www.thrivingman.comCommon Misconceptions about Rest and Recovery1. Rest is a Sign of Laziness:2. Rest is Time Wasted:3. More is Always Better:4. Rest is Only for the Weak:The Physical Benefits of Rest and RecoveryWhen we rest, our bodies repair and regenerate, leading to numerous health benefits.One of the primary physical benefits of rest is improved muscle recovery.Rest also plays a crucial role in our immune system function.Quality sleep is essential for physical recovery.The Mental and Emotional Benefits of Rest and RecoveryWhile the physical benefits of rest and recovery are well-known, the impact on our mental and emotional well-being is equally significant.Rest and recovery also contribute to improved cognitive function and mental clarity.Rest and recovery give us the mental and emotional capacity to make connections with others.Rest and recovery help prevent burnout.The Impact of Rest and Recovery on PerformanceRest and recovery have a direct impact on our performance( whether it's in sports, business, or any other area of life.)In the business world, rest and recovery are essential for productivity and creativity.In the relational world, rest and recovery are a key to making memories, building emotional connections, and growing more intimate.We often have to be as intentional about rest as we are about work.Strategies for Effective Rest and Recovery1. Prioritize Sleep: Sleep is the foundation of rest and recovery.2. Take Regular Breaks: Throughout the day, take short breaks to rest your mind and body.3. Incorporate Active Rest: Active rest involves engaging in low-intensity activities that promote recovery without causing additional strain on the body.4. Practice Reading: Take time to read real paper books, not a device.5. Schedule Rest Days: schedule dedicated rest days in your routine.Tips for Making Rest and Recovery a Priority1. Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life.2. Plan Ahead3. Practice Self-Care: Make time for activities that bring you joy and help you relax.4. Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to your body's signals and needs.5. Seek Support: The importance of a support systemChallenge: Embracing Rest and RecoveryEmbracing your rest and recovery is key to living your design. We weren’t created to work all the time and never rest. Our bodies need consistent rest and recovery to function at their best. Here are some questions to ask yourself to help you focus on your rest and recovery:How much sleep am I getting each night?What can I do to improve my sleep environment?What hobbies do I engage in besides something that involves media?Who...

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle over the long term means understanding and dealing with your food. We have some practical tips to help you navigate away from the strange nutrition advice you may hear and focus on what works over the long haul.Calories are a reality that we must embrace to have a balanced and sustainable approach to nutrition. On today's show, we dive into the reality of the calorie.Understanding calories and their impact on weight managementCalories are not evil- they are units of energy that our bodies need to function properly.We need calories to fuel daily activities, including breathing, walking, and sleeping.To lose weight, you must create a calorie deficit, which means consuming fewer calories than your body needs daily.To maintain your weight, you must consume roughly the same amount of calories as your body requires.To gain weight, you need to consume more calories than your body needs.The importance of tracking your daily calorie intakeTracking your daily calorie intake is the most powerful tool for managing your health journey and achieving your health goals.Smartphone apps or online tool that allows you to log your meals and provides you with an estimate of the calories consumed. (Many are free)The habit of paying attention is the real key, we often get unhealthy because we don’t pay attention.When we are intentional about our eating, we can make better choices and choose the foods that we like and that are better for us.Calculating your daily calorie needsThis can vary depending on age, gender, weight, height, and activity level.Don’t worry about getting everything perfect.The key is to start and have a baseline.Effective strategies for reducing calorie intakeReducing calorie intake doesn't mean depriving yourself of delicious food. It's about making smarter choices and finding healthier alternatives.Find your favorite fruits and vegetablesGet more proteinFocus on FiberBe mindful of liquid caloriesCook at home more oftenPortion control tips for managing caloriesPortion control is a key ingredient for managing your calorie intake.Use smaller plates and bowlsMeasure your foodAvoid eating straight from the packagePlan your meals and snacksBy practicing portion control, you can enjoy a wide variety of foods while managing your calorie intake. Remember, it's not about depriving yourself; it's about finding the balance that works for you.The role of savoring in controlling caloriesFood should be something you savor and enjoy.Take the time to be present in the moment and fully engage your senses when you eat.Slow downEliminate distractionsTune into your hunger and fullness cuesUse your sensesBe Thankful for the MomentRecognize emotional eatingWhen you learn to savor your food, you can develop a greater awareness of your body's needs and make conscious choices that support your long-term health journey. It's not just about the calories you consume; it's also about the quality of your eating experienceChallenge: Find Your Calorie RealityStart tracking - Suck it up if you want to changeMy fitness pal is free (for the calorie-only version)Carbon is more effective for next-level tracking (Calories, Macros, and an algorithm that changes your calorie intake to your needs)Doing what you’ve done hasn’t helped youThis is a key process because you are taking responsibility for your food yourself

We are continuing our focus on movement when it comes to having a beach-ready body. In this episode, we dive into the practical realities if we want to increase the movement in our lives. Too many of us think it is impossible with our crazy schedule. The truth is it can happen with some specific focus.Reality One: You’ve Got to PlanThe movement required to live with a beach-ready body does not happen by accident.Planning your exercise time and how you add more movement to your life is something that you have to prioritize.The reality is no one can do this for us. We must take personal responsibility for ourselves and our bodies.We can blame society and our schedules but we make time for what’s important.If we aren’t making time for more movement, we need to be honest and realize we don’t prioritize it enough.Reality Two: Consistency is KeyLong-term success is something that we can do regularly.We also want to take into account what is fun.We all tend to stick with things we enjoy more than things we hate.We should look for things we enjoy doing or at least, we enjoy the feeling we have afterwards from having done it.Reality Three: Variety and ChallengesOne of the great things about different types of exercise is it works our bodies in many ways.This keeps things fresh and can help stop the boredom of doing the same thing all the time.We recently challenged men to focus on getting under 30% body fat as a starting point.Challenge: Beach-Ready Body Movement PlanStep 1: Decide the WhatStarting begins when we decide what we will do to add movement into our lives.The best time might be the early morning or at lunch.We may need to experiment to find the best time and process but avoiding the issue won’t get anything done.The key point is to start with something. Adjustments will come, but if we don’t start we won’t be able to figure the rest outStep 2: Forget Past Failures & VictoriesTwo biggest mindsets that hurt us.The first one is where we beat ourselves up for getting so out of shape.We also can’t allow our past victories to influence us.The goal of a beach-ready body life is to have a process that we enjoy and can stick with for sustained health.Step 3: Get HelpSometimes the best thing we can do to develop consistency is to get help.Paid coaching, something online, or a combination of the two.Coaching also helps to bring more fun and confidence to our movement plans. When we know what we are doing from our coaching we can enjoy it more.We have a special course Physical Health 101 that is a deep dive into making fitness a reality in our lives. Find it at www.thrivingman.comStep 4: Find CommunityOne of the best ways to make movement part of our lives is to join a community.Many people go to a class at a gym because of the sense of community and fun it brings.We could even get a friend to join us in our new plan. This can bring a challenge and a sense of accountability to both of youMovement-Focused Final ThoughtsThe beach-ready body is something every one of us can have long-term.The key is to develop healthy habits over the long run.This isn’t a quick fix and we cannot expect weight to drop off overnight.Start this week! Don’t wait until things are perfect or you have a perfect plan.You won’t regret it and you will be stronger because of it.RESOURCES TO HELP YOU THRIVE AS A MAN========================

When it comes to our health, it is easy to look for the “one trick” to bring a beach-ready body, but there isn’t a trick. There isn’t some “magic formula” that fixes our health and keeps us in shape. It always comes down to the little daily decisions in our life.The idea for this series came from a quote that Dr. Layne Norton put on X: "STOP stressing over every single health topic. The majority of ‘optimal’ health can be achieved throughRegular exerciseControlling caloriesEating enough protein & fiberPsychological stress managementAdequate sleepDon’t smoke or drinkThe amount of stress you spend on individual ingredients in food, meal timing, fasting windows, fad diets, special exercises, etc is killing you faster than getting these small things ‘wrong’"Implementing these priorities is the key to having a beach-ready body year-round. Plus they aren’t weird or super complicated. On today’s show, we are covering the first of two parts about Movement and its importance in our livesBeach-Ready vs SedentaryWe are a sedentary society.Most jobs today involve sitting in front of a computer.Even jobs that don’t involve an office often involve a lot of sitting. This is a reality that we have to understand and work with.The Sitting NormMany of us sit at work and look at screens most of the day.When we get home, we often find ourselves sitting (with our feet propped up of course) and watching something.Sitting is not evil, but the truth we have to recognize is how much sitting we do is excessive.When we go from a sitting job to sitting at home, that can cause us to get used to the sedentary lifestyle.Walking is something we don’t do often and our bodies begin to lose their muscle tone. If we don’t use muscles, they get weak.A sedentary life won’t help us be beach-ready it only helps us be couch-ready.Watching vs DoingWe have a spectator society and that is a bad thing for our health.Instead of doing something or trying something new, we often sit and watch the “experts” do it online.Armchair quarterbacks are a classic example of this.Trained SedationMany of us have grown up and live in a sedentary environment and we need to recognize this and fight against it.As kids, many of us grew up with all kinds of digital games and devices where we could spend hours playing but never move.This gives us a sense of activity while not doing anything active.Our devices don’t help us because at any time we can watch videos and be mentally stimulated.We can’t let the digital world consume us and force us to become sedentary.Mental Fatigue ReactionThe digital world we live in often drives us to end the day with a lot of mental fatigue.This is real and we do want to learn how to deal with it but we often confuse mental fatigue with physical fatigue.We can be tired mentally, but our bodies will often still need some type of movement.The amazing thing is as we work our bodies, it often stimulates our minds and energizes us mentally.RESOURCES TO HELP YOU THRIVE AS A MANThriving Man Coaching Resources4D MODEL FREE PDFLearn about the 4 fundamentals of a Successful LifeDiscover OUR SPEAKING AND HOW WE HAVE EMPOWERED THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE ACROSS THE WORLD