I’m a very dedicated individual. Once I put my mind to something, very little can sway my focus. In fact, some would say I would slightly obsess over making this possibility into a reality. However, that being said, there are times when I, myself, get tired of beating my head against a brick wall.

Growing up, I wanted nothing but to become a professional football player. I was good, I was told I was good and that I had all the potential to play division one and beyond.

But, it didn’t happen.

And after 18 long years of chasing this dream, I decided to let it go. I was broken, depressed and disappointed. Then, something amazing came my way.

I discovered bodybuilding and, in that moment, my life had changed forever. I was able to create a success out of what most would consider a failure of chasing my football career.

Here are a few things I learned along the journey

1. Never stop chasing your dreams

You have two options. You can give it your all or you can give. I would have much rather chased my dream and gave it everything I could possibly give and come up short than give up at the first rough patch. Now I know for a fact, this wasn’t going to happen and I can move on to something better. It’s a lot better than having regrets.

2. Believe your goals are achievable

Goals are a must to have, but you must believe you can achieve them. If you don’t, they’re pointless goals to have.

3. Work your absolute hardest. If it doesn't work out at least you know you did everything you could

Hard work will always beat talent, genetics and status. Just because someone was ahead of you for whatever reason doesn’t mean they’ll stay there. Keep pushing.

4. Less talk More walk

Let’s be real, everyone talks but few people walk the walk behind it. You can say all day long you want this, want that, etc. However, if your actions aren’t matching your words, you’re just bullshitting yourself, your peers and everyone you’re talking to. If you want something bad enough, you will do whatever it takes to get it.

5. Love who you are and be clear on what you want to put out in the world

If you’re trying to get ahead and separate yourself from everyone else, you have to realize that you’re your own billboard. What you portray and what you feel about yourself is projected out there for the world to see. Check yourself before you get checked by reality.

6. You only have a limited amount of time and energy invest it properly

Tomorrow isn’t guaranteed and yesterday is gone. Right now, this moment, is all you have to work with that’s guaranteed. Use your time wisely.

7. Set yourself up for financial stability and success

Whether you’re taking care of your dream, your family or yourself; no one cares about your finances and your struggles. We’re all struggling in some way and we all work together to help each other when we can. However, at the end of the day, you are responsible for your finances and success.  

8. You will fail

Don't be scared to go all in. It's the only way you'll learn what works and what doesn’t. I don’t see failure as the end of a journey, I see it as a lesson to be learned.

9. Treat everyone the way you want to be treated

No matter where you are or what you do or what you've accomplished. Be nice to everyone and, when they treat you like crap,  still treat them they way you want to be treated. Spreading love is by action not words and we need more love in this world.

10. Have faith in yourself

If you believe in God have faith in him too. It will give you an inner strength in your weakest moments and it’ll not only fortify your spirit, it’ll give you something more to believe in. We’re human and far from perfect, but we’re capable of amazing things. Use this gift.

This is how I did it and how I got to where I am today. This may not be for everyone, but that’s okay. We’re all different and that’s a beautiful thing. At the end of the day,  if you can look in that mirror and like what you see looking back at your; in my mind, you’re winning. Keep that going and never stop

Jonni Shreve

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