StrengthCoach.com member Keith Simmons asked me to answer a few questions that were based on the Tim Ferris book Tools of Titans. After I did, another site member, Robbie Bourke, suggested we make it into an article so that those who aren't frequent Strengthcoach.com forum readers could read it.
Interestingly enough, the previous week, I had set up an interview with Anthony Renna for something he is calling The Success Series for his new website, CONTINUE. It's in depth audio interviews on Success in the Fitness Business with myself, Alwyn Cosgrove, Don Saladino, Ron McKeefery and Geralyn Coopersmith.
The only way to access them is to sign up on his site.
Here is my answers from the forum, slightly expanded now that I have a bit more time:
- When you think of the word “successful,” who is the person that comes to mind and why?
It might be me? I'm financially stable, I have a great, healthy family, and wonderful businesses. Is it cocky to say me? I love that I've succeeded, I love that MBSC is succeeding. I love seeing my young coaches succeed.
- What is something you believe in that other people think is insane?
I believe in spirts. My son Mark is named after Mark Bavis, one of my former athletes who was killed on 9-11. 9-11 comes up a lot in my life and, I don't think it's random. When I see 9:11 on a clock I always think of Mark and, I always think of my family and how lucky we are. Loss is hard but, it also makes you appreciate what you have. I try to text my wife and kids at 9:11 and tell them I love them.
- What are your morning rituals? What do the first 60 minutes of your day look like?
I get up early and love to read the paper. I try to do my Gratitude Journal first. I use Craig Ballantyne's Perfect Day. After that, I either go out and buy a cup of coffee or, I make one at home. I really like store bought coffee vs the Keurig. I like to read a real newspaper, and then answer emails. After that, during the school year I really enjoy helping to get my kids off to school, breakfast, rides etc.
- Do you have a quote you live your life by or think of often?
I think I'm a Golden Rule guy. “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you”.
- What advice would you give your 25 year old self?
Don't change a thing. You've made great decisions that were based on friendship and loyalty and although there might seem to be some missed opportunities, it will work out great in the end. And yes, marry Cindy. She is younger than you but she's the right one.
- How has a failure or apparent failure set you up for later success?
There were many. At 30 I thought I had the New England Patriots job. At the last minute, a management guy overruled the head coaches decision and, the job went to someone else. I was really disappointed but, not getting that job might have been the best thing that ever happened to me. Had I got it, I would have become a strength and conditioning gypsy, moving all over the country, instead of being able to live in the Boston area my whole life.
- If you could have one gigantic billboard anywhere, with anything on it, what would it say?
Pay It Forward. Give much, expect little.
- What have you changed your mind about in the last few years and why?
Karma. My wife always said everything happens for a reason. I'm not sure I believed her. However as I watch our life unfold, I think I've changed my mind.
- What book have you given most as a gift, or recommended?
How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
- Last parting words?
Try to do all the good you can. Help as many people as you can. We live in such a selfish world. I think the more you give, the more you get. As I've increased my giving, everything else in my life has gotten better.
If you want to hear my interview on the subject, plus 4 others in the Success Series, make sure you sign up on Anthony's site, CONTINUE.
