Over the past few decades, writers and psychologists have been focusing on the specific amount of time it takes to become a "master" at any given discipline. The answer that was widely debated, with many alternative points of view being released, was 10,000 hours. I don't believe this is the be all end all, but as a whole I believe it helps to give most people a solid jump off point to any new hobby or skill they would like to undertake. My point is not to deter people from taking up a new path in life simply because it seems like a tall order. For if that were the case, I would be pigeon holed into a job that didn't suit my personality or my dreams. For if that were the case, I would have listened to all the people that advised me to take the road most traveled. For if that were the case, I don't believe I would truly understand or value the ideas of hard work, dedication and overcoming adversity. My point is, anything in life worth doing takes time, effort and practice; especially a personalized fitness journey.
My life up until this point has been quite a roller coaster of amazingly positive experiences coupled with hardships that I would not wish upon my worst enemy. The one thing that has held the test of time over the last 15 years has been my undying love for fitness and all it has done for me and the people around me. Not only has it taught me things about myself, but it has given me tangible proof that there is no substitute for hard work, discipline and consistency. This work ethic is true in all facets of life and to be honest I wouldn't want it any other way. Whenever anything came easy to me or was given to me, I never really appreciated it for all it was worth. But when I had to work hard and grind through something by digging deep into my soul, then and only then, did I feel as if I deserved it.
Over the next few months I will be releasing a series of articles to highlight
my personal journey through life, fitness and overcoming adversity. In all of our journeys, situations will arise that we did not fully plan for. This is a fact of life and is something that no matter how hard we try we are not able to change or control. However, what we can control is how we respond and react to these situations as they present themselves to us. There is something to be said for being able to look ourselves in the mirror and take ownership for all aspects of our lives - good or bad. It wasn't until I stopped pointing fingers and blaming other people for my circumstances that I felt as if I was the true author of my own story. Then, and only then, was I Always Strong.
" Nick's story over the next few months will be chronicling through his past battles with addiction and his ongoing battle with improving himself everyday, not only in life but in the gym. His discipline is poetic and his determination is breathtaking. Always Strong Fitness was created on the premise that everyone has their trials and tribulations. Addiction hits everyone, whether it be our own families, friends or just some guy you may have worked with once. To common are the stories of heartbreak and sorrow, but There is Strength, There is Success and There is Always Hope!"- Ross Hardaway