Opening Space

It has been a long time since I've written anything here. I have been focusing on my new book "Racing Death A Radical Pursuit." The writing has ben going great and I'm close to my schedule for getting er done. I've been a little neglectful of some other things though. Because I have been so focused on that project I have closed of other spaces. Especially in my mind.

Its has been a crazy last two weeks for me on many levels. I did a book signing for "Nobody Can take It Away From You" last Thursday November 21. It was a huge success and there were great conversations and I met some really cool people. Since that day I have been on a rollercoaster of emotions around myself and my mental state. I have found through introspection and doing an Archeological dig on myself that I have been playing small. I haven't fully embraced what I could be doing for others through my work because of my own fears.

What's really crazy is how this revelation and energy came about for me. I opened some spaces in my mind by simply reaching out to a couple of different people in simple ways. I put myself out there. It wasn't on some radical scale that I did these things. (I certainly wish there was some incredibly radical story behind it all.) No I simply walked into one place to speak with someone and in another case I used Social Media. Boom...the next thing I know opening those spaces has lead to some really cool stuff and opportunities for me. I shut down some of the filters in my mental space and walked through some open doors.

There is work to be done and I am excited about that. The work is never really done but that's why I am on this path. Someone I recently discovered in a really cool moment of Synchronicity has inspired me to move in a different minor direction. Over the years that I have been an Author, Coach, and Athlete I have never fully defined myself in all those areas. I was afraid of fully committing to opening the spaces of my inner world and allowing that energy to flow. So this week there has been a shift in the way I think about myself and what I have been called to do.

How are you being called to open spaces in your life right now? We are all afraid on many levels when it comes to opening our inner spaces to the world around us. We don't want to get hurt. Maybe its just that as I've gotten older I don't care as much about being hurt. Yet it is still a little weird to lay bare my soul for others. By nature I am an introvert so I sometimes have an awkward outward way of being open. However my objective in life is to inspire and motivate others to really pursue life. So I have learned to find a balance between the closed off spaces I need to protect, and the opening of spaces that will help others move out into their full light.

Today is not just another day. Today you have immense control over all that is you. Don't try to control others because that is not possible. You can encourage, guide, inspire, motivate, and love those people with all your might. You can never control them so open yourself to that and move to free yourself from those spaces. Today you can free your energy on so many levels that will turn the course of your energy to flowing out in all directions that will open new doors for you. Whatever the state of your weather, sunny, foggy, rainy, cold or hot. Today you have the power to walk in whatever weather you are experiencing in wide open spaces. Wide open spaces are waiting for you.

God Bless

Daniel

"Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart."

The world needs more of you.

You've got work to do. You've got good works in you. Please share them. The world needs you.

That's why you're so special. Your special can change a life, can make a difference. that's true power.

The world needs more of you.

You've got energy. Energy like no other. Don't withhold that energy from us. Share it with others. Your energy can change the world.

The world needs more of you.

You've got love. Love to give and love to receive. Your love can create peace, harmony, and joy. Allow that love to flourish.

The world needs more of you.

You were created, you're not a random accident. You're art of the Creator, within you is a unique art. We need you to shine through for all to see.

God Bless

Daniel

"Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart."

What If?

There is a lot of sad news today in the world. I sometimes just don't understand, and it can be tough to have optimism. But there is so much good as well. So What If we just decided to not allow hatred and race determine how we live our lives? Seriously, What IF?

What IF today you didn't judge? What IF you loved instead?
What IF today you saw their lives with a heart filled with compassion, with empathy?

What IF you decided not to be afraid? What IF you followed your dream!
What IF today you allowed yourself not to judge your own ideas and just followed your heart!

What IF you served others without wanting something in return? What IF it changed their lives!
What if you could impact the world with a simple act of kindness!

What IF today you didn't care what other people thought about you? What IF they admired that!
What IF we didn't believe all the media portrayal of what successful is and defined it on our own terms!

What IF you could take back those actions and change things? What IF you didn't focus on the past but instead on changing the future? What IF you succeeded!

What IF the limitations you believe weren't actually true! What IF you went out and broke through those limitations! What IF you finally understood they were not real, you created them!

What IF you didn't wait any longer? What if we didn't wait any longer?

I'm not going to let fear, hatred, or lack of knowledge stop me from changing the world. One small action at a time. One small act of kindness each day. One smile at a stranger who needs one regardless of their race, religion, or ideology. What IF that smile was a sign that we can all coexist together in peace. Smiles are cheap. Hugs are cheap. Nothing is impossible if your WHAT IF is big enough.

God Bless

Daniel

"Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart."

Hope, because I can ride

Well the 2016 Tour of Hope supporting the Kids With Cancer Society was last week from June 11th to June 19th. In total I rode 905.48 kms, in just over 36 hours through rain, sun, hail, snow, and at one point 100 km/h winds. And it was a blast. There were a lot of other riders who did the same and for the same cause.

I can't cure cancer, however if I can give hope to a family whose child is diagnosed with cancer then I'm going to do what I can. Riding a bike through the weather I did last week and over that distance is easy. Compared to stories I have heard about children and their families battling cancer it was easy.

One of the greatest gifts we have as humans is the ability to show compassion. I can ride a bike and a great community of people helped me raise over $8000 dollars for the Kids With Cancer Society. This society provides over fifty programs to help families with their battle to beat cancer. What the staff of the society does is beyond my comprehension of compassion. I am in awe of the amazing love, compassion, empathy, and hope that these people bring to families every day.

To be a small part of this Tour and have the opportunity to make a difference is a life altering experience. The other riders are amazing people who have become friends. They inspire me every morning when they get on their bikes to ride for the kids. Riding with them is an honor and being a part of this team has become something I cherish.

There are amazing sponsors who donate to the Tour of Hope so that the money raised by the cyclist goes directly to families in need. Unfortunately there are families in need. With the kindness of the sponsors we can make a difference for those families.

We heard the story of seven year old Brayden who was first diagnosed with cancer at two and a half years old. The Kids With Cancer Society didn't just help Brayden's family, they became their family. I can't tell you how big the lump in my throat was as I hung my head and heard Brayden's mom and dad talk about the difference the Kids With Cancer Society makes. Brayden has beaten cancer twice in his seven years. On Sunday we rode into Emily Murphy Park for the wind up to the 2016 Tour of Hope. Brayden was on his two wheeler leading us in, that makes every kilometer, every crazy weather pattern we faced worth it.

I rode with cancer survivors, There were volunteers whose grandchildren had been helped by the Society. And there were stories of the children who didn't survive. The Kids With Cancer Society was a beacon of hope for them all.

Hope is a hug when you need one because you're afraid for your child.

Hope is financial aid because the burden of costs is so high.

Hope is a Society that wants to make a difference through all the programs they offer.

Hope is Sponsors who donate to make the Tour a reality.

Hope is all the support of volunteers and staff who support the Tour riders.

Hope is facing the elements because riding a bike is easy to make a difference for the families.

Hope is seeing a child ride his two wheeler ahead of the group with a huge smile on his face.

Hope is our compassion to make a difference because we can, and we will.

The Tour of Hope is hope that families can stay together and beat cancer.

I want to personally thank all of you who donated to my ride. Your generosity is HOPE.

God Bless

Daniel

"Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart."

Leveraging the New Wave

The New Wave is up around every corner. Its a new wave of seeing the old way. A new wave of working on the solution. A New Wave of bringing value to all you do, without selling your dreams and visions. There are two types of activities attached to the New Wave.

High Level Activities (HLA's,) and Low Level Activities or (LLA's.)

LLA's are activities that distract you, they keep you locked in old patterns and habits.

HLA's are the bomb diggity. they move you constantly in the direction of your objective.

HLA's are that New Wave energy growing with each and every day.

HLA's keep you grounded and focused on the desired outcome.

HLA's are the art of deliberate practice that compounds your daily effort and evolves in to greatness as you define it.

HLA's don't sleep, they are always in motion.

Take that New Wave energy and move it. Don't wait for the right time or perfect storm, they often aren't going to happen. Make them happen by identifying your HLA's and move, now.

God Bless

Daniel O'Neill

"Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart."

The New Wave

New wave music took us by storm in the late 1970's changing the landscape of music, fashion, and pop culture. There will always be a New Wave coming from many different directions. The Status Quo will always respond the same way. With fear, control, and the inability to change.

The New Wave is energy, sometimes unfocused but rolling forward.

The New Wave is the young saying no more of the lack of change in society.

The New Wave is leadership not from on high in management, but from anywhere in any organization.

The New Wave isn't polarized along political lines.

The New Wave isn't determined by money.

The New Wave doesn't require training, education. or position.

The New Wave can't be put into categories.

Are you the New Wave? Do you stand up and be accounted for? Have you said no to the Status Quo.

Change isn't hard when you catch the New Wave. Time isn't on the side of the old ways of doing things. Time is on the side of the New Wave. The New Wave is coming and we have a choice. Fight to stymie its energy, growth, creation, and coalescence of world human will. Or we can be an open page, waiting to write our chapter in the New Wave. Our energy can help to create the powerful community of the New Wave and change the world.

God Bless

Daniel O'Neill

"Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart."

The Prevailing Way

There are two types of business styles, the Dinosaur style (prevailing way), and then there is the Leverage Management style. The old Dinosaur style is based on when the factory was instituted and worked well for that century. That century is long gone, so enter the Leverage Management style. This is introspective, willing to admit mistakes, flat hierarchy, and Kaizen (continuous improvement)based style. One is based on statements like, "This is not a democracy, it's a dictatorship." In the other you'll here statements like,"What do the customers, internal and external have to say that will help us grow?" In Leverage Management energy flows, grows, and creates a culture of mutual responsibility.

In the prevailing system power is given and horded by few.
In Leverage Management all levels in the flat hierarchy create growth.

In the prevailing system you have managers.
In  Leverage Management you have leaders.

In the prevailing system just enough is good enough, mediocrity is good enough.
In the Leverage Management system excellence is the objective.

In the prevailing system accountability is determined on high.
In the Leverage Management system leaders set the example and hold themselves accountable.

In the prevailing system fear of change allows managers to control others.
In the Leverage Management system change is rewarded.

In the prevailing system lying, cheating, and incivility are acceptable due to lack of transparency.
In the leverage Management system cooperation, trust, and mutual respect are fostered by presenting common goals and a clear direction for the team to be working towards.

I call it Leverage Management because organizations hire people to perform. In order to perform what they were hired for they have to be free to do so. Free to make mistakes, to explore, to color outside the lines as long as it is safe. People are what make the organization successful, they are the vision and mission. Leverage their skills and gifts so that your organization grows and flourishes.

God Bless

Daniel O'Neill

"Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart."

Standing Alone

A couple of months ago I stood on the Pyramid Lake Fire Road in Jasper Alberta. I was looking at Pyramid Mountain and its beautiful surroundings when my attention was brought to a tree. This one tree stood alone on a hill higher than every tree around it. Powerful, majestic, strong, and alone.

I used this quote from the movie Vision Quest in my book Nobody Can take It Away From You.

But all I ever settled for is that we're born to live and then to die, and...we got to do it alone, each in his own way. And I guess that's why we got to love those people who deserve it like there's no tomorrow. 'Cause when you get right down to it - there isn't.'      Louden Swain

I have struggled on and off with this quote, I love it and it's meaning at the end of the movie. Seeing that tree and having some personal experiences I've had lately made me revisit this quote.

We can love all we want, as many people as we want, all through our lives. Ultimately though we are alone. As an introvert I love my alone, away from the constant noise of some people time. No matter what I have experienced or how many times, when it comes down to the truth, we face the majority of life alone with our own thoughts. Many cannot stand to be alone with their thoughts or in a room with other people and sit in silence. They visibly become uncomfortable and have to break the silence or go become occupied.

I'm not a loner, however I can be alone, comfortably and in complete silence.
I can meditate and enjoy the noise in my brain.
I can travel alone, go to movies alone, bike, and run alone and be happier than you can imagine.
I recharge when in a room with other people who don't have to talk mindlessly just to have noise.
I'm fine with sitting and reading for hours without having to talk.

I'm facing the world my way. I include people but I include solitude and silence as well. I'm mirroring that tree,

powerful, majestic, strong, and alone.
I'm posting this out of selfish reasons and don't care, I'm fine with that.

God Bless

Daniel

"I am an Indomitable Spirit radically pursuing my Vision and Purpose from God."

Narrow it down

There are many paths we can take as we walk our journey. There are wide, varying, and confusing paths. There are narrow, focused, and purpose filled paths. This is laid out well in Matthew 7: 13-14 for those inclined to check it out.

This world can be a distracting and enticing place. We can start on a path we know is right and purposeful only to get sidetracked by the unnecessary. We lose much energy as we try to control all the possible options for distraction.

Our attention and focus when we are on a narrow path allow us to be more in tune with what is important right here and now.

When the path before us is wide our attention and focus can wander. We can become uncertain about the things we are truly feeling and meant to be doing.

We have so many possibilities we can accomplish but spread ourselves to thin. Mark those things that make you feel passionate and pursue them. That is where your path will lead you. Choose your own path, not the one you think others will want you to follow.

A Narrow path leads to plenty.
    A Narrow path is an attitude.
        A Narrow path allows your mind to fully function.
            A Narrow path creates channeled, functional, and exuberant energy.

Narrow it down as you walk out your journey. The narrow path is leading you to the right gate.

God Bless

Daniel

"Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart."

Shedding the Comfort

Just recently I mad a decision to quit, something I don't usually do. It was a tough decision to make for me. I had to ponder long and hard what it would be like to quit. There was a lot of discomfort. However, when I eventually decided to quit a large burden was lifted from my shoulders. I felt free, calm, and still with my decision.

I'm talking about my decision to no longer race Triathlons. I started competing in triathlons in 1987. In that 29 years since that first race I have completed almost every distance there is to race, including being a three time Ironman Finisher. I was signed up for a Half Ironman this year. As I started to really get into the training I started to think about the race itself. More like I started to think about the reasons I was doing the race. I realized I was doing it for all the wrong reasons. I was also breaking my own code in doing it for those reasons. Yet there was still a lot of fear in not doing Triathlon anymore.

What I was experiencing was a lack of comfort. Plan and simple I am comfortable doing a Triathlon because I have done them before and succeeded. There have been failures and disappointments, but there have been great personal victories. Those victories create a comfort zone. Time to shed that comfort, step deeper into my vision and pursue the other limits of my dream. I wrote this in my journal as I pondered not racing. "I can't be sitting on the fence hoping I can get it done. I need to jump onto the most uncomfortable side of the fence and express my energy in the way of my Vision."

I have other disappointments to overcome. I can either accept the known comfort or step into the unknown and live a higher vibration of my energy and self-expression. Pain is better then comfort when you are happy instead of just getting by. There is a measure of satisfaction in knowing that your heart races, your palms get sweaty, and your breath gets shallow because you are afraid. It can be scary and oh so invigorating all at the same time.

No fear of failure, only fear of never having lived.
No time for mediocrity, only the pursuit of higher purpose.
No days wasted wondering, days filled with full on energy directed at the edges of my limits.
Can't isn't a word, its a limitation.
Pain is temporary, quitting lasts forever.
New challenges and suffering in the physical realm to live my Spiritual Quest.

Shedding the comfort for the unknown, and smiling at the opportunity of growing more each and every day.

God Bless

Daniel

"Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart."

The Rope and Your Responsibility.

Pat Riley has a saying he uses to not allow his players to feel they have an excuse for mediocrity and losing. Riley says, "You need to be an active participant in your own rescue. You need to grab onto the rope." If you don't know who Pat Riley is google his name. He's a basketball dude.

Man, why is it that we have so many cool expressions and examples from the sporting world we can't use in daily life. Where I work this is the common saying. "We have an obligation to help them be successful." I agree whole heartedly. However, doesn't the person who can't stop having conflicts with the customers have an obligation in there success as well? You know, the person who is continually late for work, don't they have an obligation in there success as well? That person who is continually sick on Fridays and Monday's, should they not have a hand in their own success?

Get my point? Good, because political correctness is not my gig. If I'm not living up to my obligations, expectations, and responsibilities I can cry all I want about how hard life is. WAAA! Build a bridge and get over it Daniel. No one, I will repeat that. NO ONE is more responsible for your success than you. Life does through us some weird obstacles. but the rope that everyone is throwing you is something you need to grab onto.

If I want to write my next blog, or book, run my next race, who is it up to? The establishment? Oh here is my favorite scapegoat, the top 2%. Yeah, that's who I blame for my lack of success in doing what I agreed to, Yeah I don't like the contract I signed so your to blame. Ill find anyone who can take the fall for my lack of success, because they are obligated to help me succeed.

Get over it already. Your responsibility is to be successful how ever you define it. I don't care how you define it, that's your gig. Just shut up when it doesn't go right and either move on or find a new way.

Every time I've failed in my work, writing, racing and living it comes down to one dude, me. So I grab the rope and look for a new way. I thank the people who stood on the shore and tossed the rope, I don't expect them to take the blame when I don't succeed.

Your obligation in life is this, be awesome. Be awesome enough you can throw a rope to someone they can grab. Be awesome enough to show them how to succeed so they don't have to depend on you. Be awesome for awesome's sake. Define awesome and carry the rope to pass it on.

God Bless

Daniel

"Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart."

Energy Revolution,

Revolutions start for a reason, some good, some bad, some even unknown. The status quo preached that revolution is dangerous, bad. That's because the status quo needs to be in control. As an introvert I can fly under the status quo revolutionizing my own energy, functioning on a higher level while co-existing.

The badness of the revolution. It is considered a negative word, the status quo is a master of twisting perceptions.
The personal power of the word, self directed, intentional, mindful, and hopeful revolution of our energy is uplifting to the world.

Educating oneself on the subject is revolution.
Deciding to lose weight through healthy eating is revolution.
Making a difference where you can is a revolution.
Deciding today is the day to stop whatever addiction is a revolution.
Saying no to the workplace status quo is a revolution.

Don't make it bad when it has the power to be good.
Energy has a purpose and can be used for so much good.
You have the power of energy and make a difference.

Small steps everyday lead to major changes and growth over time. Take time each day to filter and understand your energy. Process the way the world around you impacts your energy, then create an environment and culture where your personal energy can thrive. Be exuberant about the power of the energy within you. Pursue the path of your energy and live according to its truth.

God Bless

Daniel

"Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart."

Insights from 24 Hours on a bike 2016

It's taken a couple weeks to process this years ride and some of the things that took place. Here are some of the insights I garnered from the ride this year and the overall experience.

Working hard, digging deep, acting on behalf of others, and the rewards for all of those things are sweeter than stealing what is not yours. We have a limited time on this earth, mistakes will be made. Work hard and chase your purpose, it will pay off in the end.

I am surrounded by an amazing community. I had an idea to help raise money for the Kids With Cancer Society. This organization does so much for hurting families. I wanted to make a difference. I rode a bike for 24 hours, so many beautiful and caring people created an energy that energy lead to the success of this idea.

Forgiveness is freedom.
Trust can be broken quickly and easily.
Gratitude will overcome all.
Family and friends are wonderful treasures, I'm so blessed.
Ordinary people are extraordinary, they are the difference makers.
Money used for good creates a refreshed and new world outlook.

Energy is an open and vast expanse we can all enter into. When we work together and have an attitude of helping we change society. I am amazed at the life this ride has taken on because of the people who have come to my side in support of it. WE raised the money from this ride. I won't minimize the effort it takes to ride for 24 hours. However it is the ideal of the people who stand behind the ride and donate that makes this thing fly.

Others will join you in crazy ideas. Others will support you when you have a crazy idea.
One can always push a little further, dig a little deeper, and learn a lot about their nature.
We all have choices to make on how we will live our philosophy. Daily we can walk it and witness it in our words and actions.
Our legacy is to serve, that is the highest achievement we can attain.
There is always an opportunity to serve.

The destination is not the ultimate goal, the journey is the true objective. During the 24 hours there were struggles. I knew that going into the ride. When you are in the midst of the struggle it can take away perspective. I had one particular struggle that lasted a long time. Yet it couldn't take away the joy I feel because of all of you. Each one of you who rode, helped out in some way, showed up to support, donated, you're the reason this ride has become a success. The journey continues, kids still get cancer, I can't change that. I can continue to raise funds for their families. We can continue to make a difference in their lives. I am grateful to you all for being a part of my 24 hour journey.

God Bless and thank you

Daniel O'Neill

Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart.

Make new rules if you have to.

Sometimes things we do for good get taken away because of bad actions. It is disheartening. Following the right path of action can lead to more hurt, even betrayal.

There can be no good without bad unfortunately. Like there can be no light without darkness. Playing by the rules is sometimes difficult because people who don't play by them are rarely penalized. So to heck with it, make up your own new rules.

Silence doesn't have to mean you are passive aggressive, it just means that you choose to remain quiet in a messy, loud, and noisy world. Why add to the noise clutter? Inner calm and peace come from not reacting.

Follow your own golden rule, whatever it may be.

If you have to do it without support, just do it without support.

If it is painful, change the playing field to a place that makes you feel happy. Go to your happy place!

When something you have created is made into a negative by no fault of your own. Its alright to feel bad and negative. Forgive and do what you need to do, not what others want or expect you to do.

You're able to break rules that keep you from living according to your true nature or stymie your vision. Quest hard and pursue that which is your gift, your purpose.

Make a mess. Fall down and even lay there for a bit. Never regret trying. Never stop trying. Don't let others dictate who you are, how you behave, or why you are doing what you do. Make faces on the inside if it makes you feel better. Live you're truth, not the societal crud. Live to be the best you can be for the reason you ought to. Who knows you better than you? Therefore don't allow others to dictate anything that you are living.

God Bless

Daniel

Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart.

24 Hours, a Bike, and HOPE

I don't like Cancer, its taken people from my life I love. It has tried to take others but lost. When kids are diagnosed with Cancer I get mad. I have words with God, I don't understand how it can happen to kids.

I can't cure Cancer, but I can offer HOPE. I can offer help as well. I am riding 24 Hours to raise money for the Kids With Cancer Society. http://www.kidswithcancer.ca/ they offer HOPE now and for the future.

HOPE is possible, it is something to fight for.

HOPE is raising money to fund programs that directly support families who are facing this disease.

HOPE is riding a bike because I am healthy, I want to make a difference.

HOPE is you riding with me, or donating, or buying some raffle tickets.

HOPE is knowing that your donation makes a difference to a family. A family who loves their child, and you offer them HOPE because you can.

Together lets create support for people we may never know or meet. They will know that you cared. With each donation you are showing that you believe in HOPE.

Kids will overcome, they are resilient, they are determined, they are our future, they will play, and learn, and they will grow up and survive. That is my HOPE.

Thank you, God Bless

Daniel

"Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart."

My heart is filled with love, so grateful

I wasn't preparing to write this yet but I can't wait.

I am two weeks away from my 24 Hour Ride in support of the Kids With Cancer Society. Last year I had an idea for a charity fundraiser and came up with the 24 Hour Ride.

With the help of Jamie and Shelly at Exist Cycle in Sherwood Park I was able to raise over $8500.00 for Kids With Cancer. I have said many times since that first ride last year, I had the easy part. I had an idea and rode a bike for 24 Hours. The community around me came to life and did the rest. I was blown away by the community and all the people who came and supported my idea.

Today I was out picking up raffle items for this years ride. There are familiar businesses from last year and some new ones for this year. I'll be honest, I was getting a little emotional today speaking with people and thanking them for their generosity. My heart is filled with love and I am a grateful man.

I couldn't do this without all of the help from family, friends, local businesses, and the Exist Cycle owners and TRIbe (Triathlon Club.)

An idea is energy, if you take that energy and share it with the world you will be surprised at what the world may give back.

I am grateful to whoever reads this and shares it. Kids right now are battling cancer. Through this ride we can make a difference, not me, we.

March 18th at 4pm I start to ride and will be done by 7pm March 19th. Stop by Exist Cycle in Sherwood Park and say hello. Ride if you would like but you don't have to. Bring cash to get in on all the great raffle items.

Together we can create an opportunity for families to benefit from all of the programs put on by the Kids With Cancer Society. Let's help them face this disease with our energy and support.

God Bless and Thank You

Daniel

"Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart."

The Truth About NO PAIN NO GAIN.

If it was easy, everybody would be doing it. That was on an Ironman Canada Bumper sticker I bought my first time there. It speaks a lot of truth. Sometimes you just have to understand that things will hurt. Not just in athletics, but in life.

Experience has taught me life's greatest lessons and leaps ahead have come from the tough times. Where there was pain, there was gain.

Comfort limits growth and promotes the status quo.

NO PAIN is taking the easy way, the safe way. (It lacks excitement and adventure.)

NO GAIN is a by product of no risk, playing it safe. (A life lived having regrets.)

Creatively accepting that pain is essential leads to higher life value.

Understanding that calculated risk is the door opening in your mind to release fear is freeing.

One move against the flow can shift your entire perspective.

A shift in perspective is the way to quality experiences and opportunities.

If you wonder how it would work, try it. Wonder is a magical mindset.

NO PAIN NO GAIN has great value. You define that value, and reap the benefits of the effort.

God Bless

Daniel

"Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart."

Living Awe

When we strip away all the coverings, the jobs, the homes, the unnecessary worry, we can live in awe.

Awe is the gap between the mundane and exceptional. With awe we can rise above the status quo and create our life. Yes, I mean our life by design. Our own design.

Awe is wonder taking our hearts and asking us to leap.

We may leap and fall, that is better than wondering without action.

When we live in awe we open doors in our minds that allow our fears to walk out and then we move. We move to design, to create, then we can flourish in all areas we have dreams in.

Stand in awe of your life. Take this gift and experience it through every sense and with every breath you take. There is wonder around every corner, With each decision we can invest our energy in the pursuit of our life, by choice and with gratitude.

God Bless

Daniel

"Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart."

On that Day.

On that day I decided I was in control. There was no more doubt about whether I was interested in life or committed to life, I was committed.

On that day I began to live.

On that day I wanted to make a difference for my daughters, for others, and for God.

On that day I took a leap of faith and believed.

On that day energy flowed.

On that day I created my life through His vision.

On that day I began to see the world with awe, I was alive.

On that day my life was not about a selfish pursuit, I opened my eyes to humanity.

On that day the pain didn't stop, I just decided I was bigger, stronger, and more capable than the pain.

On that day I chose to pursue life rather than allow it to just happen.

On that day I began to love myself, the good, the bad, and the ugly.

On that day I opened a new page in my life. Thank you depression for the lessons, however I no longer need your interference. On that day I wrote the book, I wrote the new beginning and the ending was already recorded in God's greater plan for me.

God Bless

Daniel

"Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart."

Hard Selling

Your sitting enjoying reading that great book when the phone rings. You don't even look who it is and answer, low and behold its a Telemarketer.You politely say no three times but they will not give up. Ultimately you can continue to listen to the hard sell or firmly tell them to get lost.

What if we were to sell ourselves on our goals and vision that way. Maybe we should learn to hard sell ourselves in such a way. But its easier to give ourselves the soft cell isn't it? It makes the let down of not achieving the goal or vision easier on us. We can complain and bitch a little but its still easier to forgive ourselves.

When we hard sell ourselves on what we are trying to achieve we are more accountable to ourselves. We muster more energy and focus when we are pushing that image or idea so viscous mentally. I'm talking not taking no for an answer, not allowing your mind to rule the roost. Your mind is an Allie in that project, make it obey your heart.

I use a formula to achieve my most passionate goals and to fulfill my vision.

Heart = Mind
             Matter

If you have a heart filled with passion, your mind will over come the matter.

God Bless

Daniel

"Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in you heart."

Getting down to the Grit.

Grit is what we need when we have a dream or a vision. Grit takes our passion and elevates it to a higher level so we can take continuous action to achieve the desired outcome. One thing Grit isn't is complicated.

Grit is cultivating and protecting your energy.

Grit is training.

Grit is never compromising on your dream or vision, period.

Grit is sacrificing entertainment and distraction.

Grit can be tough but its what toughens us up.

Grit is not politically correct so get over it.

Grit is accomplishing things no one else will or can.

Grit is going the opposite direction of the conventional way or conditioning.

Grit is dirty, ugly, frustrating, and will make you scream sometimes.

When you've decided its worthwhile enough and that your passionate enough to pursue it, then it's time to get your Grit on. Be bold in your pursuit and allow the Grit within you to carry the day.

Oh I almost forgot, Grit doesn't have to be acceptable to the masses or all your friends. Its not rude or arrogant but it is effective for your dreams and your vision. (Heavy emphasis on your!)

God Bless

Daniel

"Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart."

Give them something different to think about.

You can try to change the way someone thinks or you can give them something new to think about. It's always cool to find a new perspective or idea and follow the thread to new inspiration, motivation, and ways of thinking.

New versus the same old same old. Being bold is simply being willing to try something new, something different.

New ways of thinking are not as risky as we think, they are just new. If you try an idea and it doesn't work, oh well you tried. However, what is the possible flip side of that coin? Brand new health, more vitality, better systems in place, serving your customers better and more efficiently. The possibilities are endless.

We can step out of mediocrity and boredom with a new thought, a new idea.

God Bless

Daniel

"Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart."

Creating it all in this simple moment.

In this simple moment we can make the change or create the vision we see. Seeing is believing, and believing is looking at the power of this moment. Understand this, we create the moment. Intentionally being focused and disciplined comes easy. Where the power comes from is deciding that in this simple moment you are capable, designed for, and willing to follow what is written on your heart.

You have the ability to consciously make changes to your body and brain through the power of thought. Yet we aimlessly watch, listen to and tap into mind altering information daily that is designed to take away the power of thought from you. There are numerous big players in life who don't want you to think, they want you to respond and follow.

You create energy and it becomes habitual with each moment that passes in your life. You can take control of every though and every action, if you want to. Guess what? Sometimes it is going to take some time and some pain. That's is the choice you will have to make. If the vision is strong that time and pain are worth it.

Take a moment in the morning to turn on your brain as opposed to tuning out. Make the thoughts that you have conscious choices, not programmed consumerism. Create an environment and culture that works for your style and pursue your lifestyle. Your brain is the most powerful thing ever created. Science can't figure it out because it is so complex in design. You on the other hand own that brain. Take it out and use it, converse with it, learn about it, make notes about all that it can do.

And now here is the key point you need to understand. The mind is an Allie that will work for you. It will serve you. Don't allow your mind to over run your life so that you become a slave to it. You are the programmer and that is where your power lies. It's not rocket science. The old saying "Garbage in garbage out" is your jump off point. That's the operators manual that will guide the journey.

Simply create it in your brain and take the corresponding actions to make it real.

God Bless

Daniel

"Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart."

Life is about execution.

Execution is the art of getting things done. The things are what you the artist define as having value. Important to note that all you create is of value.

The target will be a moving one when it comes to execution. Some pieces of art have a longer term, some a shorter. The value of the piece of art will often determine how much time and energy are required.

Don't forget to ship some art that won't take the world by storm. It could impact one soul and that alone is worth the time spent on the execution. The personal growth you experience will help in all your other art projects. And maybe it will take the world by storm!

Art can be simply smiling at every person you encounter today. It can be opening a door for someone who needs the help. Its writing that book or song you've had in you from birth. Its creating for others to help improve their lives. Art is endless as are the styles of art we can create.

Please be bold for your community and the world. We need your art, by executing it in your way it can create a better world.

God Bless

Daniel

"Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart."

The Ritual Habit of Energy

We can sometimes let the world around us or others dictate our energy. Deadlines, commitments, the hectic pace all impact our energy. The secret is easy and we need to understand we have more power over this than we think. Let's turn this upside down and move the needle where we want it to be.

Energy is in abundance in creation all around us. Plug into a different energy source and focus on your habits and perceptions.

We are energy and tapping into our own abundance and unique source is where we need to focus. Instead we want things around us to motivate us. I define motivation as, 'An internal system of energy that is self directed." You've got it, move it and use it. Mental, physical and spiritual energy are all in there.  Make a habit of looking inwards to cultivate what is already within. Small habits instilled daily become the big radical changes we make in our lives.

Make time daily to sit in silence and listen to your heart. Move with intention and a desire to harness the powerful energy in your body. Pray for more energy and understanding about how to move and create it from within. Balance life in a way that you have your rituals and then when life happens and gets hectic, you have the rituals to fall back on and guide you.

Your vibration of energy is unique and will never run out. Build it, mold it, hug it, and allow it to flow out into the world. Remember, the world needs what you have to offer. Your energy is important and you can make it a habitually powerful and positive force in life.

God Bless

Daniel

"Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart."

The Blues

Hows the energy for those resolutions? Have you already got those resolution blues? If you have stumbled get back up. At any point in time when you wrote out that resolution did you write the word perfection? I hope not.

You're human, and that is exciting. Forgive yourself and step back into the game. Begin again and move a little further along the timeline of your resolution. What can you learn from that little stumble? Take notes and put into action the lessons you have gained.

Maybe you need more support. Enlist friends or family to help you be more accountable. Is there a social group doing what your trying to accomplish? Join them, having a social component to look forward to can be  a big help getting over hurdles on your way to awesome.

And yes you are awesome. Be awesome in your way everyday and you will accomplish what you set out to do. And one last thing, smile.

God Bless

Daniel

"Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart."

All day in a non ordinary way.

There are no ordinary moments, never. From the moment we wake until the moment we sleep, it is all an opportunity to live in the extraordinary. 

Don't erroneously believe that life is shaped by what happens out there around us. Life is shaped from within. Perception either illuminates or darken the gift of life. Light it all up!

Every moment is your chance to express you're own unique brand. Don't believe anything other than you are a unique brand. Never allow anyone or anything to change or try and take that brand away from you. Make every effort and attempt to release that amazing brand into the outer world.

As long as you have breath in your lungs it is an extraordinary moment. Grasp it and live it. Live it as though you will never experience this one moment again, then move onto the next amazing moment of your life.

God Bless

Daniel

"|Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart."

In the Silence

In the silence of life there are many wonderful moments. Inner journeys and learning take on new meaning and offer clarity in the silence. Long runs and walks bring peace and joy when done in the silence. Sitting in a room with other people in the silence can be very rewarding and spiritual.

Silence is a fleeting thing in society. Loud, constant noise and talking has become the standard. Some people can't just enjoy the simplicity of silence because it is to complicated for them. They need to be the center of attention, and in a room that is silent they become visibly uncomfortable.

Silence is a gift, a treasure of time to spend in contemplation, prayer, or any activity that furthers your connection to creation. Noise pollution is real and it has an impact on humans. Noise for the sake of noise is just annoying and serves no purpose.

The weekend is a great time to recharge and connect with the things you don't have time for during busy weekdays. Curling up with a good book. Taking the dog for a nice long walk. Doing that hobby that helps you feel more alive. And in those activities silence can lead to clarity. Clarity of purpose, clarity of direction, clarity of belief, and clarity of intention.

Take time for in the silence. Being busy isn't necessarily being productive. Being silent and still is often more productive than simply being busy for busy sake. Slow down the pace, talk a little less, turn off the smart phone. Breathe in the silence and allow the wisdom in it to teach you.

God Bless

Daniel

"Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart."

The Honey Badger doesn't give a ....! Well you know the rest.

Tenacious, audacious, relentless, and indomitable. Nature has some pretty bad ass stuff in it. We have the ability to be tenacious and be  compassionate at the same time. It is what sets humans apart. Don't be afraid to be tenacious and hunt down the life you want.

Be front sighted and on target, while at the same time not being a bully.

Work hard, don't back stab.

Lift up the culture, as opposed to whining about it.

Act in an attitude of service instead of entitlement.

Be more interested in education than in escapism.

Bring someone into your energy rather than repel them with your attitude.

Walk with purpose and practice what you preach, don't just preach.

The perfect time, circumstances and financial situations may never appear. If you are waiting for them the life you desire is running down the road a lot faster then you are. Don't play catch up, play big and run as hard as your vision does.

You were crested for a purpose and what you have to contribute is needed. Be like that little Honey Badger, tenacious, audacious, relentless and indomitable. This is a really cool side effect of being all those things, your energy will pull others along and build them up. Leadership isn't about a position or title, its about you following your heart.

God Bless

Daniel

"Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart."

If it doesn't exist, create it.

Get your Crayons out, it's time.Time to start or finish that project. Now here is the most important question. What stage of the project are you at? And the answer should be? It doesn't matter! What matters is I have my Crayons out.

Take the Crayons and color the image in your mind. I will repeat, the image in your mind. Not what you think people will accept and not judge you on. Don't listen to the inner critic and judge. That is a skeptic, it's not you.

Maybe this project of yours will be the difference in one persons life. It could save or change their life. Maybe a child somewhere is waiting for just this project to inspire or motivate them. Isn't that enough to make it worthwhile? Be brave and ship what you create, it doesn't have to be perfect.

The most beautiful thing about your project is how your crayons and project can never be duplicated. That's because the color of your crayons create a kaleidoscope of creation no on else ever could. You are unique and as the uniqueness that you are can only create this project. That is an incredible energy that with your permission has more power to change the world.

Create something from that vision in your mind and watch what can happen.

Ship the project and allow others to experience it. There will be people who don't like it, and that's alright. Remember no critic every created anything.

Color outside the lines if it feels good.

Smile when you hit send.

God Bless

Daniel

"Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart."

It's Big, why give it small energy?

I define radical as anything that makes your heart skip a beat and makes your mind race with excitement. Goals and Visions are things that should be radical. By my definition I mean. Your goals and vision should make your heart skip a beat and you mind race with excitement. Or how about this definition I stumbled across from Dictionary.com:(in Chinese writing)one of 214 ideographic elements used in combination with phonetics to form thousands of different character.

I really dig how this took hold of my imagination. Your goals and vision have many elements and those can and should define YOUR character. Don't think small and timid with your goals and vision because it doesn't meet the societal norm. It took me ten years to get "Nobody Can Take It Away From You" published. Yeah there were times I wanted to quit. My vision was bigger than the publishers and people who rejected my book. I made it so big in my mind it took on a life of its own. I couldn't stop because I had created such a big vision I was already living it before my goal of being published occurred. It was radical because it made my heart not only skip a beat but it swelled with compelling energy every time I thought about my vision.

Some days you just need to crank it up and swim against the current. 

Less entertainment and more action.

Less planning and more radical thinking.

And then there is being UNreasonable. Being UNreasonable is what gives you permission not to compromise. Life isn't about compromising, its about full on passion for those Big goals and that vision. If you goal or vision is yours why give it small energy? Play big, think big, act big, walk big, talk big, have big compassion and empathy, have a big heart and a big picture in your mind.

Remember the mainstream isn't always where the value is, get out on the fringes where the masses aren't. Jump up into the corner of your thinking boxes instead of the dead center. Risk doesn't have to be scary, it can be done on small scales which add up to massive growth and change. Mismatched socks can make you feel radical.

Take your radical out of it's hiding place and release it into the world, we all need your character and elements.

God Bless

Daniel

"Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart."

Mind Over Matter

The mind and all matter we see around us are made up of the same energy. Yet the mind creates obstacles that are not based on this truth. When we can overcome the mind, we can become the goal, dream and vision we see in that same mind.

Fear is a killer of mind over matter. We can justify not moving or trying because the obstacle appears to be real. We will pay large sums of money to try and change the obstacle. Change the perception and you will change the fear.

Action is the energy that will create mind strength and forward thinking. Sometimes we need to move even if it means failing. Energy wants to move, was designed to move and that energy comes from creation. So, think in terms of creating. Disassemble the obstacle with action. It doesn't have to be big or extreme, gradual and continual work well. (Every now and again though I encourage taking radical or extreme measures to alter the fear and charge straight forward into what really matters in your life.)

When thoughts start to get scary move back into more basic thought patterns. "I am not going to focus on the entire problem right now, just a small part I know I can change." I have the skills and just need to trust myself." "So what if I try and fail, it beats being scared." The mind is a powerful Allie, not a foe.

God Bless

Daniel

"Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart."

Rocky wasn't pretty and your gym shouldn't be either!

Have you ever noticed the gym Rocky worked out in? It was a real gym, not pretty, not flashy and here is the key. Fitness, like that gym is about real results.

Why do you need a flashy bike studio to workout in? Do you ever do any of those workouts outside on a real bike? Nope, if something has to be flashy to get you through the door its a fad. If you want results get to a studio that actually teaches good quality basics and will give you a safe and effective workout.

Rocky actually worked hard. He didn't post his picture on Facebook, he was too busy training. Rocky didn't have to have the most high quality and upscale clothing. He was too busy making sure that his workouts were actually effective. If the gym has a lot of flashy, colorful and trendy stuff, you're paying for that, not results.

Rocky didn't hang out with coconuts on the corner, He was more interested in getting smart by hanging out with smart people. He didn't workout like a yo-yo because he didn't want yo-yo strength. Rocky worked out in a way to get functional strength and endurance, not some flash in the pan system that gets results by taking your money. Results aren't in the looks, they are in the feel.

Rocky took a shot and made the best of it. Rocky was more realistic than some of the fluff floating around out there impersonating gyms, fitness and health. The more complicated it is the less likely you'll stick with it. If it takes a scientist to explain it to you then you'll never understand it enough to get results.

YO! The battle cry of true results.

God Bless

Daniel

"Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart."

2016 Year of the...?

2016 is is the year of

A CAN do attitude. Move and think, new directions, new ideas, new blank page.

A new perspective. Just because its reality doesn't mean you can't rise above it. Mind over matter. (This can be a reality. Doing an Ironman you often have to have the mind over matter attitude.)

Service to others.One of our highest callings is to serve others. It doesn't have to be big and grandiose. Smile at a stranger who needs it. Hold a door open for someone. Actively listen when someone is speaking with you. If it comes from the heart it is from the service of love.

Courage, take that course you have always said you would. Learn a new language or to play an instrument. Write that book you have always wanted to. Maybe this is the time to take that leap of faith! Buy an adult coloring book just because, then color outside the lines.Taking action is courage. Take small steps daily in the direction of your dreams and goals.and others beliefs.

Peace and joy. Rest well daily in peace and hug your loved ones. Look past religion, the color of skin, Get to know the real person, have compassion and empathy. Who knows you may need them one day to show you the same. Love yourself and the true gift you are to this world. Love and be loved.

2016 is the year of action. The sidelines are for spectators. Life is a full on participation sport. Life is a gift. Open that gift with savage passion and enthusiasm. The wrapping paper is only for decoration, whats inside you is where the wonder, excitement and value lies.

2016 is the year of living, breathing with intention, a full heart and open mind. Write your story how you want it to go.

God Bless

Daniel

"Live remarkable and follow the Spirit in your heart."