Thoughts on the Run

Each time I watch any of the Rocky movies I get inspired. It’s not always inspiration to go out for a run or workout. The movie speaks beyond the athletic world truly speaks to human motivation. From overcoming a difficult moment in life to battling back from a defeat, it’s a story of moving forward. Even when things are going well, it’s about remembering to enjoy time with those you love.

As a consultant and speaker, I get to see the internal workings of many organizations. At times, it amazes me how a group of people can be unaware what each other are doing in the same building. While Rocky had to do the work and lead himself, he had a team around him encouraging him. As a leader of a company, you need to be the Rocky. Everyone on your team needs to know what the goal is so all efforts can be put towards planning, training, and making progress.

Just as in Rocky, it also means you need to make sure there is celebration when the goal is achieved. Take the time to raise a glass, reflect on how you achieved the goal, and point out just how far you can go together. When everyone realizes they just changed what they believed was their limit, start dreaming of the next target. Whether it be Rocky or another movie, find a reference that everyone can understand.

My kids, young as they are, know that playing Eye of the Tiger gets me going. I can picture Rocky running through the streets. Waving to friends and strangers that connect with him. They only run with him for a moment, but in that moment, they feel his energy. Channeling that energy into a visual goal when you need to power through a moment.

Surround yourself with people that make you feel that energy. Find those that dream and want to move forward. Before you know it, you’ll be conquering tasks and goals you never thought possible.

Let me tell you something you already know. The world ain’t all sunshine and rainbows. It’s a very mean and nasty place and I don’t care how tough you are it will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently if you let it. You, me, or nobody is gonna hit as hard as life. But it ain’t about how hard ya hit. It’s about how hard you can get it and keep moving forward. How much you can take and keep moving forward. That’s how winning is done! Now if you know what you’re worth then go out and get what you’re worth. But ya gotta be willing to take the hits, and not pointing fingers saying you ain’t where you wanna be because of him, or her, or anybody! Cowards do that and that ain’t you! You’re better than that!
– Rocky Balboa