
I sit here and know that there is something special and different about this day. Years ago, I started writing, exactly like I am doing here right now, with the intention of putting down my thoughts for 30 days and trying to become a better man. Each time I read my book (http://amzn.to/13MH39d) this year to edit, I was reminded of that first month of confused honesty and from where I once began.
I remember the anxiousness I would have, one that still exists, when I knew I was ready to write something down. Whether it was happiness, pain, confusion, or motivation…I would still sit down at my desk and put my heart on the line. I remember those days…in fact, I remember the past 499 days of writing clearly. Any post could be brought to my attention and I could tell you what was going on in my life at that time and why I wrote what I did. I don’t know if that’s normal, but that leads me into this post and what I want to talk about today.

That’s right. Normality is the most commonly traveled path to mediocrity. And for me, mediocre is precisely what I don’t want to be. I don’t want to be second place…third place…top 10. No, I want to be the best at something. And I am starting to figure out what that something is. And here’s the thing, you have to do things outside your comfort zone to even possibly start to understand what “your best” looks like. And when you get to that point, you must start reinventing yourself again, and again, and again…and do the things that other people will not do…so you can become a person and maverick like no one else has ever seen. The Better Man Project has taught me that lesson over and over emotionally, physically, and spiritually. It has taught me how much work it actually takes to improve your life. Trust me, it’s rough. Developing standards for yourself and living up to them can be exhausting at times. But those standards came deep within your heart and they are part of your internal plan on how to become a champion. You can’t ignore them.
500 days of writing. It blows my mind a bit. But it closes a very long chapter in my life and has given me the opportunity to write a completely new story off of the one that I am very proud of. I am proud of where I have been, how far I have come, and how much my life has changed for the better. It was grueling at times, but I suffered through those times and turned out on top. If you suffer the pain of sacrifice today, you will feel the warmth of victory tomorrow.
So what can you look for from me in the next 500 days. Innovation and reinvention are coming. Change is going to be present. The launching of an incredible journey. There will be an ongoing push to achieve this dream that I have. And for a good reason I am not telling you what it is. I am going to show you.
Evan Sanders
The Better Man Project
You too!
You’re welcome! Where do start? Hmmmm I loved the honesty and vulnerability of it and how I relate to all that you are saying. Basically the whole second paragraph spoke to me the most. I recently moved from Arizona to Maryland and I’ve never been so out of my comfort zone. I’m learning so much about myself and I’m forced to deal with who I am and that’s not easy. Also, the post where you talk about expectations really hit home because that tears me down all the time.
Being better means being shaped by others. Mentoring speeds the process of insights. Many times mentors choose us first! We may not even know it. Scan your environment: who is always there offering support and giving advice when you choose to ask?
Dead on! Be something totally unique and different. And yes, that is one of the coolest quotephotos I have ever seen. I hope all is well with you and look forward to hearing from you more!
Also, I just like the word “fuck”, and I like that its in your title. π It’s just represents your passion for what you’re relaying.
I like that you wrote that “normality is the most common path to mediocrity.” I think sometimes we strive to “fit in” when really it’s when we think and act outside the box that we see greatness. It’s something I strive to instil into my children: he who is different stands out. Why be a wallflower, when you can be YOU? Love it. xo
And humble … Carry on then! All the best
In progress. Will always be in progress π
Im glad I have! I can’t wait to see more comments from you.
Absolutely. We have to walk the walk because if we just talk all day…nothing ever gets done!
You’re welcome! What did you like so much about it?
Such a fantastic comment. Especially the part about being hammered into something much more beautiful. I am going to check out your website. Very profound comment once again. Thank you so much.
Awesome! So stoked we are on the same page
Thank you! So glad you liked it!
You’re welcome! What did you like so much about it!
Awesome π I am so glad there are other people out there who are familiar with this. Hope all is well with you π
I know *exactly* how you feel, my friend. You are not alone in this.
You really are The Better Man now. Congrats.
Amen! Thank you for sharing your thoughts, this is awesome!!!
Amazing and inspiring.
Agree!! 100%
Usually people don’t change and grow unless they have to. It’s hard work. Joy and sorrow. Growing means being pushed over the edge of your personal limits. Its scary. Being hammered into a more beautiful and resilient form or your current self. To try, fail, learn, and try again. I’m 53. I’m still being created by this life I’ve chosen. But now I get the benefit of all the previous lessons and all the mentors ive developed. Read more about it at http://www.mentoring-project.com. Claimed as your mentor. I’m offering. It’s free.
I loved this post, and it’s message. Thanks for the inspiration!
I like your message. Don’t just “talk the talk” but also “walk the walk”. Actions speak so much louder than words.
You’ve captured my attention and inspired me. I’ll be tuned in.
Thanks for stopping by my blog.