New Article release for You from Natalie Pyles and Fitness Elements Express!

How to Overcome Your Disappointments, Fears and Doubts

Learning techniques that will help You to face Your Setbacks will release You of Your Fears and Doubts

Lets face it our minds are so darn powerful and are thoughts can easily sway us one way or the other. It is an absolute jungle out there of bombarding information that can easily shake us up for good or for bad. I am a firm believer that thoughts are things and we absolutely become what we think about. If we constantly doubt ourselves about trying to overcome a major addiction that has taken over our lives then it will. Doubt and fear is a traitor and the evil within us. Have you ever noticed when you do all the right things and make good choices great things start to show up in your life? Yes my friend I am here to sway you to think differently and to realize the power of your thoughts and what your putting into your mind. You need to know You are a three part being that is made of Mind, Body, and Spirit and all of these must remained nourished of good things and protected. Remember it is Your life and Yours alone so the who and the what You allow in is Your responsibility. Be careful what you listen to and especially be aware of your thinking about and focusing on at all times.

Technique # 1 is simply letting go of the past, you need to be sure you have dealt with this area before taking the next step to living up to your true potential in life. Let's get real; we all face disappointments from time to time. I know I have had my fair share and I'm sure you have had your fair share as well. I also know I will have more in the future and so will you, but I will always try to learn from my mistakes and have the wisdom not to keep "Going around that same mountain repeatedly", my great friend April Jones once told me quote. The fact remains it is how we overcome and go through it. Life is tough no one ever said it was going to be easy we have to fight the good fight of faith, hope, glory, and honor. Your thoughts are one part of Your life You do have control over are you aware of that? Applied knowledge is absolute power and so exhilarating. I realize change is scary, but sometimes very necessary. I can't tell you how many circumstances have come up in my life personally that were totally out of my own personal control and so defeating mentally, physically, and spiritually. I will not ever become a victim to circumstances and stay stuck forever because I know if one thing is for certain nothing lasts forever and change is certain to happen. So try to be ahead of it my friend and remember we reap what we sew in life don't ever forget. Hope for the best and plan for the worst and please be careful of your thoughts and the words you speak over your life and others. There is massive power in your thoughts and words.

Technique # 2 disappointment possesses the potential to derail you and wreck your faith. This is vital to life survival and coping mechanisms. You must recognize in advance that disappointments and setbacks will come, and that you learn how to stay on track and deal with them as they come and believe me when I say they will come as they always do. Often, defeating disappointments and letting go of the past are the flip sides of the same coin, especially when you are disappointed in yourself. When you do something wrong don't dwell and stew on it. Admit it, seek forgiveness, forgive yourself and move on. Be quick to let go of your mistakes, hurts, pains, and sins. I don't know about you but the more things you try and risks you take there will be lots of trial and error. Lets just hope the errors become fewer the more wiser we become. Focus on New beginnings and quite re-opening old wounds. No matter the disappointments, unfairness, and what we have gone through we must release them and let go of them. The quicker and faster the better is for certain. Remember that physiologically your body doesn't know the difference between whether it is happening now or already happened two years ago so to constantly relieve it day in and day out is extremely debilitating emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Protect those little ears and thoughts my friends.

I hope you have enjoyed this article and I would encourage you to rethink and refocus certain areas of your life. Sometimes by redirecting what you are focused on and setting New goals and New direction can actually end up being a lot of fun. If you like what I have had to say please let me know and I will release more articles on this subject and offer more techniques to you. Have Yourself a Mentally, Physically, and Spiritually healthy and happy day!

By, Natalie Pyles

Author, Speaker, Holistic Health, Fitness, Nursing, and Nutrition Expert, Medical Exercise and Post Rehab Specialist

New Article Published! How to get into the Action Habit

Discover the difference between Mr. Activationist and Mr. Passivationist


Here's something leaders in every field agree on: There is a shortage of top-flight, expertly qualified persons to fill key positions. There really is, as the saying goes, plenty of room at the top. As one executive explained, there are many almost-qualified people, but there is one success ingredient often missing. That is the ability to get things done, to get results. Which one are you? Are you an activationist or a passivationist?

Every big job- whether it be operating a business, high-level selling, in science, the military, or the government-requires a man who thinks action. Principle executives, looking for a key person, demand answers to questions like "Will he do the job?" "Will he follow through?" "Is he a self-starter?" "Can he get the results, or is he just a talker?" I know I have been tested many times being a Physical fitness trainer, Nutritionist, and Wellness coach where results and success are the bottom line. I always have to perform and go the extra mile to help my clients and customers succeed with their health and fitness goals and needs. I know the committment that takes on my side and on their side. Afterall, we are a team even when things get tough we have to push through those plateus and possible backsliding days or weeks. It is the end result that really counts.

All these questions have one aim: to find out if the fellow is a man of action.

Excellent ideas are not enough. The thought of getting healthy and fit are not enough. An only fair idea acted upon, and developed, is 100 percent better than a terrific idea that dies because it isn't followed up by action.

The great self-made merchant John Wanamaker often said, "Nothing comes merely by thinking about it."

Think of it. Everythingwe have in this world, from satelites to skyscrapers to baby food, is just an idea acted upon.

As you study people - both the successful and the just average - you find they fall into two classes. The successful are active; we'll call them activationist. The just average, the mediocre, the unsuccessful are passive. We'll call them passivationist. Again which one are you when it comes to your health and fitness goals are you a activationist or a passivationist? A doer or a "don'ter"? You can only be one or the other you choose.

We can discover a success principle by studying both groups. Mr. Activationist is a doer. He takes decisive action , gets things done, follows through on ideas and plans. Mr. Passivationist ia a "don'ter." He postpones doing things until he has proved he shouldn't or can't do them or until it's too late.

The difference between these two groups shows up in little and big things in life my friends. To aquire new good habits takes time and continuous action. Whether your having a good day or a bad day you still need to follow through with your committments to yourself and others. Remember we all have the ability to lead within us it is a choice in life no matter whether it is to become a business owner, a doctor, a priest, a teacher, or to tackle our health and fitness goals. Are you going to be a activationist or a passivationist? You decide! Have a healthy and happy day!

References: Dr. David J. Schwartz, Ph.D

By, Natalie Pyles

Health and Fitness Expert, Nutrition Specialist, Wellness Coach, Author, & NSA Speaker

By, Natalie pyles

New Article Published! Transforming Your Inner and Outer Self Successfully When Your in Over Your Head

Are you a Goat Or a Tiger?


Consider the Oriental fable about the little tiger orphaned immediately after birth, raised by a friendly herd of goats. The little tiger played with the goat kids, drank milk from the nanny goat, and slept secure in the goat's cave. Quite naturally, the little fellow came to think of himself as a goat. He did his best to bleat like a goat. He tried to cultivate a taste for grass and paper, but something inside didn't always feel quite right. Have you ever felt like this when you've approached changing your behaviors and habits when it comes to your inner and outer self? Could it be that maybe it does not align with your true values and beliefs in life? You might want to search a little deeper and find out why by asking the right kinds of questions especially when it comes to your health and fitness long term goals and sustainable outcomes.

One day a huge Bengal tiger came bounding into the clearing where the little tiger was playing with the goats. As the tiger roared, the goats ran for cover. The little tiger was the only "goat" who didn't race away. Instead, he felt strangley drawn to the huge, magnificent creature. Do you ever feel like this when you first set out for your health and fitness transformations, programs, or New year goals? You feel big, bold, courageous, and have an I can do mentality right. Then what? Read on about this brave little tiger.

The big tiger led the little fellow down the hill to a nearby river and urged him to take a close look at his reflection in the water. Whenever he had looked in the water before, he had seen his reflection as an odd - looking goat, because that was what he expected to see. But now he saw his reflection differently, as a tiger. When people lose weight for the first time sometimes they can't handle it because they have not excepted the new image of themselves from the inside out and they don't know how to accept it. I have watched this so many times in my career over the years how people yo-yo and self- sabotage their hard work and efforts. It is truely a matter of the inner work period! Keep reading to learn more about the little tiger.

The big tiger let out a tree- shaking roar. "Why don't you roar like that?" " Never tried," thought the little tiger. He sat back on his haunches like a big tiger did, took a deep breath , and tried to roar. To his surprise he felt a rumble deep within his stomach. It grew stronger. He opened his mouth wide and the most amazing roar came out, cascading over the the jungle. From that day forward he knew he could never be a goat again. I know change is so scary at times and most of us don't want to really change we are attached to our ways, thoughts, behaviors, and habits, but for those of us who are still searching for the right answers keep reading.

You can be tiger, not a goat. A lion, not a mouse. Your big self, not your small self. You may have never tried to roar, and that's all their is to it. If you feel you are in over your head, you probably aren't. You've probably just never tried going their before. Most people have more talent and ability than they give themselves credit for. Go ahead and throw back your head and roar as loudly as you can. You'll probably surprise yourself! I believe in you even if you feel you really are in over your head literally. Have a healthy, happy, and prosperous day!

References: Dr. Maxwell Maltz, M.D., F.I.C.S.

By, Natalie Pyles

Health and Fitness Expert, Nutrition Specialist, Wellness Coach, Author, & NSA Speaker

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NEW Intelligible Nutrition, Fitness, Wellness, and Performance Coaching programs. These new services are done by phone, email, e-news, and webinar format. You get FREE video phone as a FREE Gift! This is a limited special offer and available to the 1st 17 responders!

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Do You Think It’s Possible?

Co-authored by Natania Goldberg

“Do you think it’s possible for a little girl to fly?”

In 1970, Coach Béla Károlyi asked this question to the young girl who was sitting silently behind her school desk. With a fire blazing behind her eyes, she stared back at him and answered his question with a nod of her head. He replied, “So do I!”

As we write this, Michael Phelps is making Olympic history by becoming the greatest Olympian who ever lived. Over three decades ago, another Olympian made history by demonstrating that what was previously believed to be impossible was in reality quite possible.

Most of us may never feel the weight of a gold medal hanging on around our necks and hear the thundering applause of a gracious and reverent crowd. Yet, in each of us is the heart of a champion. The only difference between those who allow their inner champion to fully express itself and those who live vicariously through the accomplishments of others is a decision. Champions are champions because they think, act and therefore perform as champions. The moment you decide to step out of the stands and into the arena, you are a champion.

Greatness leaves clues. Out of the seeds of greatness come the distinguishing fruits of character, the clues that are left behind by every inspiring achievement so that it can be built upon. Within every achievement is the blueprint that, when studied, enables us to not only replicate preceding accomplishments but reach those goals we set for ourselves even higher.

You must emulate that which you desire to become. With another Olympic games recently behind us, we thought it was appropriate to share with you the six qualities of a champion we have observed over the years in the top performing trainers, managers and professionals worthy of emulation. How better to do that than through the story of one of the greatest Olympians who ever lived, an individual who overcame her own adversity, so that she might help others to break free from the limits of their own.

Quality #1 - The Courage to Imagine the Unimaginable

Nearly six years later at the 1976 Montreal Olympic Games, this young girl, Nadia Comăneci, performed her legendary gymnastic routine. Her body effortlessly danced through the air in harmonious movement while she flipped, turned and flew from one uneven bar to the next. The sheer beauty, elegance and fluidity with which she performed her routine looked as if she was breaking the bonds of gravity as she soared above the ground and, in fact, looked like a little girl flying.

Nadia completed her final somersaults and landed with her two feet planted firmly on the ground. Her head was held down at first. Slowly she lifted her torso, then her head and then fully extended her arms towards the sky while staring with intensity into the layers of spectators. The hundreds of spectators from every country on the globe jumped out of their seats while clapping and cheering with praise for the performance they had just witnessed.

The judges handed in the final scores. The crowd waited silently as they stared at the scoreboard. The lights lit up on the board as 1.00. Only one? The crowd was confused, as this was the lowest score possible. Then a voice from the loud speaker said, "There seems to be a problem. The judges are conferring, one moment please.... Yes! Yes it is!!! For the first time in the Modern Olympic Games, a perfect 10.00!”

The scoreboard was only set for three digits and did not have enough spots to display the four digits of 10.00. Nadia made Olympic Gymnastic History by changing what was considered at the time by the masses to be impossible. She was the first gymnast in history to score a perfect 10.00.

Nadia was a girl no more that six years old turning cartwheels in the schoolyards of Romania when asked if she believed it possible for a little girl to fly. She was found as a carefree little girl who believed she could accomplish the unimaginable. “Many never experience breaking the bonds and flying because they lack the courage to believe beyond what others suggest as possible," said Nadia. "The lack of courage to break boundaries is not a consequence of cowardice but rather conformity. Just as the numbers on a scoreboard were set based on what others felt at one time to be possible, it also suggested the limits to which others should conform as well.”

Conformity is following a script for your life that you did not write. If you have ever heard that quiet yet persistent voice in the back of your head telling you that you can do more then has been realized, if you have ever had a feeling that you were capable of far more than has been demonstrated in your life so far or have seen yourself going further then others thought possible, this by itself could be evidence of the fact that you were meant to break through the bonds and fly.

Quality #2 - Decide to Be a Champion... No Matter What!

At one of Nadia’s first performances, before her perfect 10 was accomplished, many had hopes to watch this young girl perform her routine at a gymnastic competition. Coach Károlyi had promised everyone she would be a future champion for the Romanian team. He instructed Nadia to “perform exactly as you did in practice, and don’t let us down.” If Nadia performed as she demonstrated in practice, she would succeed.

Nadia slowly walked over to the balance beam. She stared over the balance beam not with her usual fire but with hesitancy for what she was she was supposed to do, with a look of fear from the expectations set by others. Nadia proceeded with her routine and fell several times off the balance beam. Many looked on with disbelief and disappointment. Was this was the young girl who was promised to be a champion?

All too often many of us stand in our own way of making our dreams and goals come to fruition not because of who we think we are, but rather, who we think we’re not.

On the trip back from the competition, Nadia stared out of the window of the bus in the back seat. Bela sat next to her and said, "The tragedy is not that you fell. It was that you were the best and didn’t live up to it! You’re not serious about gymnastics! You should quit! Did you ever see anyone as bad as you were today? Go back to the schoolyards where you came from!”

“NO!" Nadia yelled back at him. "I WANT TO BE A CHAMPION!"

Quality #3 - Keep the Company of Other Champions

How many times have you fallen? How many times have you missed that one step and stumbled? Nadia had within her the talent to be a legendary gymnast. At no more 13 years of age, Nadia was told she was a champion and yet she still fell. And not just once but several times. How many of us know we have more within us but yet continually fall short of our fullest potential? As a result, we never truly allow our talents and gifts to be harnessed. Nadia was surrounded by people who believed in her. Coach Károlyi believed Nadia had the potential for greatness and expected nothing less. It was this uncompromising belief in Nadia’s potential that was perhaps one of the strongest determinants in her success.

Your reference group is one of the most powerful determinants of your success in any area of your life. We all have the potential to be champions and break the norms of what is believed to be possible. It takes just one person who unconditionally believes in your abilities to help you become more than your personal history.

Look at three people in your life who you share most of your time and thoughts with and ask the following questions:

• What are the words they say to you? Do they believe you are remarkable?
• Do they continually point it out your unique talents?
• Does your reference group allow you to stay where you are, or do they continually push you to go were you were meant to be?
• Do they stay quiet when you fall back, or do they not accept anything less than your best? How do they communicate this to you?
• Do they question you as a person, or do they question the behaviors, decisions and actions you take that aren’t consistent with your highest potential?

Your reference group is one of the most important things in your life because they have the ability to shape and define who and what you become. Think hard about the above questions. Every day you are at work in your club or business setting ask yourself:

• Who do I choose to spend my time with at work? Is this consistent with who I aspire to be as a professional?
• Do the people I surround myself with continually discuss new ideas and thoughts?
• Are the people in my reference group at work attending seminars and pursuing continual education and professional development?
• Are the people I talk to positive, or do they consistently complain about all that is wrong? What you allow to be put in to your mind can eventually shape your thoughts as well.
• Do I surround myself with the best in my club (or whatever environment you work in)? People/Clients/Members notice everything. Even when you think it is not important, they see who you talk to and how you spend your time at the club and use this as a determinant when choosing a trainer.
• Is my reference group at work supportive of my success, or do they feel comfortable when I don’t succeed at a task or goal? Competition and threat are two totally different things. Healthy competition can help in boosting your potential while those who are threatened by your success might seek to pull you down.

Quality #4 - Self Reliance

After making Olympic history by achieving a perfect 10, Nadia lived her life growing up in the eyes of society. She was always referred to as the champion, the legend and the best. She was constantly being watched, judged and criticized by the masses. The story of the champion comes with greatness, and with greatness comes adversity. It is the challenge that leads you further towards your unrealized potential. The potential would never had been known if the challenge had never been experienced.

Nadia was separated from her family and coach. She was sent to another team and coach. In her separation from the familiar support group she had for many years, her life shifted. She gained weight, was mocked by her team and lost her best friend in feuds of jealousy. Nadia was alone for the first time in her life. She was used to a structure, a support group and voice believing in her and setting the parameters with which she lived. When she was without this, she had nothing left but time by herself. Nadia was isolated to her room by her new coaches and given strict orders to not see visitors so she could focus on gymnastics and lose the weight she had gained.

In her room alone, Nadia was forced to think, reflect and question. Her ego kicked in. The ego is the dark, shadowy side of us that wants to believe we are capable of not being loved by anyone. The ego keeps us in shame, guilt and confusion about our true identity. The ego keeps us resistant to telling the truth, and then uses our internal and external display of honesty to breed fear in our hearts. Nadia attempted to end the silence and fear by self destructing behaviors and attempted suicide.

Quality #5 - Perseverance

In her hospital bed during her recovery from attempted suicide, Nadia was told to leave gymnastics and lead a simple life. "Take walks," they said, "Get a job and start a family." Nadia could not do it. She responded, “I must be the best! I must train harder than I have ever done before!”

The difference for champions is they go one more round. Regardless of how many times you are “down,” you are not beaten if you rise to your feet just one more time. Nadia went back to Bela. She trained harder then ever. She ran miles, trained intensely and restricted her diet to lose the weight.

On your journey through life, there will perhaps be many experiences, roles and environments that will contribute to who you are. There will also be times where the patterns that have made you succeed in the past may be futile in the future. Because change is constant, you must have the ability to be flexible in your environment. Always have the ability to hear different opinions and viewpoints and adapt to different patterns to lead to the same result you desire. The professional who does not have the ability to adapt and change is the professional who will stay in one place and eventually be obsolete.

As you grow and move towards your goal, always have the ability to:

• Stay true to your values and beliefs.
• Stay aware of your strengths and weaknesses.
• Be aware of your “why” in the industry and the contribution you wish to make.
• Always have the ability to be flexible enough to learn and be open minded to change your patterns and adapt to new environments, all leading to the goal you desire.

Life can move fast when we are on a rise towards greatness. Because of this, we might look back and not realize how we got there. We question the accomplishments we make, the praises we receive, and we fear the next step. One night during her training, Nadia ran to the kitchen and grabbed some food to secretly take back to her room and eat. Bela ran in to her room, grabbed her, threw her over his shoulder and took her back to the kitchen. As he was throwing food at her, he screamed, "Can’t stand the pressure of being a star? Do you want to self destruct so no one will recognize you? Don’t know what to do when the going gets rough? From now on Nadia, it is up to you. You can’t depend on me anymore. I will teach you what to do, but I can’t make you do it, and I won’t do it for you!"

Quality #6 - Re-imagine

At the 1979 World Gymnastic Championships, after rigorously training, Nadia was to perform once again after many years in hopes of regaining her crown and leading the Romanian team to victory. However, she was suffering a wrist injury which she had never attended to in her past weeks of training. Bela angrily looked at her and said, “You are no use to us like this.” Nadia was taken out of the competition.

Nadia stood outside the arena as she listened to the judges announcing the scores of her teammates and competitors. Her one-time best friend, the one who had turned on her in jealousy during Nadia’s times of glory, now walked over to her and said, “Nadia, gymnastics has changed. We are the ones who changed it. What was once special is now ordinary. Nadia, I am sorry. I am sorry for being jealous. You deserved all of your wings.”

We fall and we get up, and perhaps we fall again. Each of these experiences can teach us more about ourselves. You learn a little and then put it in to practice. There is always more for you to learn, but after a while, you notice that what you are practicing no longer works. That’s the blessing. It does not allow you to stagnate. It forces you to grow, and grow some more. In order to grow, we must work and continue to work. It is the work we must do on ourselves in order to experience our greatness that makes it so challenging.

Nadia walked back in to the arena, took off her jacket and said, “I will compete.” Bela stared at her and said, “I can’t let you do that.” “What do we need to win?” Nadia asked. The response was, “9.9.” Nadia stared at Bela and said, “I understand now. I can do it on my own.”

Nadia walked with confidence over to the balance beam. The crowd looked on with excitement at her on the gymnasium floor as her name was announced over the loud speaker. She stared over the balance beam. This was a place she had been before. This is where she began, yet this time it was different after all of the years of trials, glories, defeats and struggles. This time, Nadia stood staring over the balance beam with a confidence that came from within her, a confidence that was not based on the beliefs of others.

Nadia believed she could do this routine magnificently because she was doing it. She performed her routine on the balance beam with a badly injured wrist. The judges and spectators watched silently, remembering the last time they had witnessed this performance. Her movements were beautiful. Her presence was magnificent.

Champions are champions because they have within them the ability to realize their inherent talents. The greatest blessing one can have is the realization that it is not a circumstance, company, role or another person that helps to develop a talent. It is the realization that the talent was, is and and always will be within you.

Nadia completed her final somersaults and landed with her two feet planted firmly on the ground. Her head was held down at first. Slowly she lifted her torso, then her head and then fully extended her arms towards the sky while staring with intensity into the layers of spectators.

The judges announced the score “9.95.” They won the championship.

“And in the end of all of our exploring, will be to arrive where we started, and know the place for the first time.” – T.S Elliot

References: Robert Cappucio

Call Me For Your FREE Consultation Today! 1-800-681-9894 or e-mail fitnesselementsassociates@yahoo.com

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"Do You Think It’s Possible?"

“Do you think it’s possible for a little girl to fly?”

In 1970, Coach Béla Károlyi asked this question to the young girl who was sitting silently behind her school desk. With a fire blazing behind her eyes, she stared back at him and answered his question with a nod of her head. He replied, “So do I!”

As we write this, Michael Phelps is making Olympic history by becoming the greatest Olympian who ever lived. Over three decades ago, another Olympian made history by demonstrating that what was previously believed to be impossible was in reality quite possible.

Most of us may never feel the weight of a gold medal hanging on around our necks and hear the thundering applause of a gracious and reverent crowd. Yet, in each of us is the heart of a champion. The only difference between those who allow their inner champion to fully express itself and those who live vicariously through the accomplishments of others is a decision. Champions are champions because they think, act and therefore perform as champions. The moment you decide to step out of the stands and into the arena, you are a champion.

Greatness leaves clues. Out of the seeds of greatness come the distinguishing fruits of character, the clues that are left behind by every inspiring achievement so that it can be built upon. Within every achievement is the blueprint that, when studied, enables us to not only replicate preceding accomplishments but reach those goals we set for ourselves even higher.

You must emulate that which you desire to become. With another Olympic games recently behind us, we thought it was appropriate to share with you the six qualities of a champion we have observed over the years in the top performing trainers, managers and professionals worthy of emulation. How better to do that than through the story of one of the greatest Olympians who ever lived, an individual who overcame her own adversity, so that she might help others to break free from the limits of their own.

Quality #1 - The Courage to Imagine the Unimaginable

Nearly six years later at the 1976 Montreal Olympic Games, this young girl, Nadia Comăneci, performed her legendary gymnastic routine. Her body effortlessly danced through the air in harmonious movement while she flipped, turned and flew from one uneven bar to the next. The sheer beauty, elegance and fluidity with which she performed her routine looked as if she was breaking the bonds of gravity as she soared above the ground and, in fact, looked like a little girl flying.

Nadia completed her final somersaults and landed with her two feet planted firmly on the ground. Her head was held down at first. Slowly she lifted her torso, then her head and then fully extended her arms towards the sky while staring with intensity into the layers of spectators. The hundreds of spectators from every country on the globe jumped out of their seats while clapping and cheering with praise for the performance they had just witnessed.

The judges handed in the final scores. The crowd waited silently as they stared at the scoreboard. The lights lit up on the board as 1.00. Only one? The crowd was confused, as this was the lowest score possible. Then a voice from the loud speaker said, "There seems to be a problem. The judges are conferring, one moment please.... Yes! Yes it is!!! For the first time in the Modern Olympic Games, a perfect 10.00!”

The scoreboard was only set for three digits and did not have enough spots to display the four digits of 10.00. Nadia made Olympic Gymnastic History by changing what was considered at the time by the masses to be impossible. She was the first gymnast in history to score a perfect 10.00.

Nadia was a girl no more that six years old turning cartwheels in the schoolyards of Romania when asked if she believed it possible for a little girl to fly. She was found as a carefree little girl who believed she could accomplish the unimaginable. “Many never experience breaking the bonds and flying because they lack the courage to believe beyond what others suggest as possible," said Nadia. "The lack of courage to break boundaries is not a consequence of cowardice but rather conformity. Just as the numbers on a scoreboard were set based on what others felt at one time to be possible, it also suggested the limits to which others should conform as well.”

Conformity is following a script for your life that you did not write. If you have ever heard that quiet yet persistent voice in the back of your head telling you that you can do more then has been realized, if you have ever had a feeling that you were capable of far more than has been demonstrated in your life so far or have seen yourself going further then others thought possible, this by itself could be evidence of the fact that you were meant to break through the bonds and fly.

Quality #2 - Decide to Be a Champion... No Matter What!

At one of Nadia’s first performances, before her perfect 10 was accomplished, many had hopes to watch this young girl perform her routine at a gymnastic competition. Coach Károlyi had promised everyone she would be a future champion for the Romanian team. He instructed Nadia to “perform exactly as you did in practice, and don’t let us down.” If Nadia performed as she demonstrated in practice, she would succeed.

Nadia slowly walked over to the balance beam. She stared over the balance beam not with her usual fire but with hesitancy for what she was she was supposed to do, with a look of fear from the expectations set by others. Nadia proceeded with her routine and fell several times off the balance beam. Many looked on with disbelief and disappointment. Was this was the young girl who was promised to be a champion?

All too often many of us stand in our own way of making our dreams and goals come to fruition not because of who we think we are, but rather, who we think we’re not.

On the trip back from the competition, Nadia stared out of the window of the bus in the back seat. Bela sat next to her and said, "The tragedy is not that you fell. It was that you were the best and didn’t live up to it! You’re not serious about gymnastics! You should quit! Did you ever see anyone as bad as you were today? Go back to the schoolyards where you came from!”

“NO!" Nadia yelled back at him. "I WANT TO BE A CHAMPION!"

Quality #3 - Keep the Company of Other Champions

How many times have you fallen? How many times have you missed that one step and stumbled? Nadia had within her the talent to be a legendary gymnast. At no more 13 years of age, Nadia was told she was a champion and yet she still fell. And not just once but several times. How many of us know we have more within us but yet continually fall short of our fullest potential? As a result, we never truly allow our talents and gifts to be harnessed. Nadia was surrounded by people who believed in her. Coach Károlyi believed Nadia had the potential for greatness and expected nothing less. It was this uncompromising belief in Nadia’s potential that was perhaps one of the strongest determinants in her success.

Your reference group is one of the most powerful determinants of your success in any area of your life. We all have the potential to be champions and break the norms of what is believed to be possible. It takes just one person who unconditionally believes in your abilities to help you become more than your personal history.

Look at three people in your life who you share most of your time and thoughts with and ask the following questions:

• What are the words they say to you? Do they believe you are remarkable?
• Do they continually point it out your unique talents?
• Does your reference group allow you to stay where you are, or do they continually push you to go were you were meant to be?
• Do they stay quiet when you fall back, or do they not accept anything less than your best? How do they communicate this to you?
• Do they question you as a person, or do they question the behaviors, decisions and actions you take that aren’t consistent with your highest potential?

Your reference group is one of the most important things in your life because they have the ability to shape and define who and what you become. Think hard about the above questions. Every day you are at work in your club or business setting ask yourself:

• Who do I choose to spend my time with at work? Is this consistent with who I aspire to be as a professional?
• Do the people I surround myself with continually discuss new ideas and thoughts?
• Are the people in my reference group at work attending seminars and pursuing continual education and professional development?
• Are the people I talk to positive, or do they consistently complain about all that is wrong? What you allow to be put in to your mind can eventually shape your thoughts as well.
• Do I surround myself with the best in my club (or whatever environment you work in)? People/Clients/Members notice everything. Even when you think it is not important, they see who you talk to and how you spend your time at the club and use this as a determinant when choosing a trainer.
• Is my reference group at work supportive of my success, or do they feel comfortable when I don’t succeed at a task or goal? Competition and threat are two totally different things. Healthy competition can help in boosting your potential while those who are threatened by your success might seek to pull you down.

Quality #4 - Self Reliance

After making Olympic history by achieving a perfect 10, Nadia lived her life growing up in the eyes of society. She was always referred to as the champion, the legend and the best. She was constantly being watched, judged and criticized by the masses. The story of the champion comes with greatness, and with greatness comes adversity. It is the challenge that leads you further towards your unrealized potential. The potential would never had been known if the challenge had never been experienced.

Nadia was separated from her family and coach. She was sent to another team and coach. In her separation from the familiar support group she had for many years, her life shifted. She gained weight, was mocked by her team and lost her best friend in feuds of jealousy. Nadia was alone for the first time in her life. She was used to a structure, a support group and voice believing in her and setting the parameters with which she lived. When she was without this, she had nothing left but time by herself. Nadia was isolated to her room by her new coaches and given strict orders to not see visitors so she could focus on gymnastics and lose the weight she had gained.

In her room alone, Nadia was forced to think, reflect and question. Her ego kicked in. The ego is the dark, shadowy side of us that wants to believe we are capable of not being loved by anyone. The ego keeps us in shame, guilt and confusion about our true identity. The ego keeps us resistant to telling the truth, and then uses our internal and external display of honesty to breed fear in our hearts. Nadia attempted to end the silence and fear by self destructing behaviors and attempted suicide.

Quality #5 - Perseverance

In her hospital bed during her recovery from attempted suicide, Nadia was told to leave gymnastics and lead a simple life. "Take walks," they said, "Get a job and start a family." Nadia could not do it. She responded, “I must be the best! I must train harder than I have ever done before!”

The difference for champions is they go one more round. Regardless of how many times you are “down,” you are not beaten if you rise to your feet just one more time. Nadia went back to Bela. She trained harder then ever. She ran miles, trained intensely and restricted her diet to lose the weight.

On your journey through life, there will perhaps be many experiences, roles and environments that will contribute to who you are. There will also be times where the patterns that have made you succeed in the past may be futile in the future. Because change is constant, you must have the ability to be flexible in your environment. Always have the ability to hear different opinions and viewpoints and adapt to different patterns to lead to the same result you desire. The professional who does not have the ability to adapt and change is the professional who will stay in one place and eventually be obsolete.

As you grow and move towards your goal, always have the ability to:

• Stay true to your values and beliefs.
• Stay aware of your strengths and weaknesses.
• Be aware of your “why” in the industry and the contribution you wish to make.
• Always have the ability to be flexible enough to learn and be open minded to change your patterns and adapt to new environments, all leading to the goal you desire.

Life can move fast when we are on a rise towards greatness. Because of this, we might look back and not realize how we got there. We question the accomplishments we make, the praises we receive, and we fear the next step. One night during her training, Nadia ran to the kitchen and grabbed some food to secretly take back to her room and eat. Bela ran in to her room, grabbed her, threw her over his shoulder and took her back to the kitchen. As he was throwing food at her, he screamed, "Can’t stand the pressure of being a star? Do you want to self destruct so no one will recognize you? Don’t know what to do when the going gets rough? From now on Nadia, it is up to you. You can’t depend on me anymore. I will teach you what to do, but I can’t make you do it, and I won’t do it for you!"

Quality #6 - Re-imagine

At the 1979 World Gymnastic Championships, after rigorously training, Nadia was to perform once again after many years in hopes of regaining her crown and leading the Romanian team to victory. However, she was suffering a wrist injury which she had never attended to in her past weeks of training. Bela angrily looked at her and said, “You are no use to us like this.” Nadia was taken out of the competition.

Nadia stood outside the arena as she listened to the judges announcing the scores of her teammates and competitors. Her one-time best friend, the one who had turned on her in jealousy during Nadia’s times of glory, now walked over to her and said, “Nadia, gymnastics has changed. We are the ones who changed it. What was once special is now ordinary. Nadia, I am sorry. I am sorry for being jealous. You deserved all of your wings.”

We fall and we get up, and perhaps we fall again. Each of these experiences can teach us more about ourselves. You learn a little and then put it in to practice. There is always more for you to learn, but after a while, you notice that what you are practicing no longer works. That’s the blessing. It does not allow you to stagnate. It forces you to grow, and grow some more. In order to grow, we must work and continue to work. It is the work we must do on ourselves in order to experience our greatness that makes it so challenging.

Nadia walked back in to the arena, took off her jacket and said, “I will compete.” Bela stared at her and said, “I can’t let you do that.” “What do we need to win?” Nadia asked. The response was, “9.9.” Nadia stared at Bela and said, “I understand now. I can do it on my own.”

Nadia walked with confidence over to the balance beam. The crowd looked on with excitement at her on the gymnasium floor as her name was announced over the loud speaker. She stared over the balance beam. This was a place she had been before. This is where she began, yet this time it was different after all of the years of trials, glories, defeats and struggles. This time, Nadia stood staring over the balance beam with a confidence that came from within her, a confidence that was not based on the beliefs of others.

Nadia believed she could do this routine magnificently because she was doing it. She performed her routine on the balance beam with a badly injured wrist. The judges and spectators watched silently, remembering the last time they had witnessed this performance. Her movements were beautiful. Her presence was magnificent.

Champions are champions because they have within them the ability to realize their inherent talents. The greatest blessing one can have is the realization that it is not a circumstance, company, role or another person that helps to develop a talent. It is the realization that the talent was, is and and always will be within you.

Nadia completed her final somersaults and landed with her two feet planted firmly on the ground. Her head was held down at first. Slowly she lifted her torso, then her head and then fully extended her arms towards the sky while staring with intensity into the layers of spectators.

The judges announced the score “9.95.” They won the championship.

“And in the end of all of our exploring, will be to arrive where we started, and know the place for the first time.” – T.S Elliot

References:

Robert Cappuccio

Natania Goldberg

Forwarded By, Natalie Pyles

Fitness & Nutrition Expert, Author, Speaker

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