Motivational Monday: Do what Walt says

By Kevin Hunsperger

@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents on Twitter
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Disclaimer: I am not an expert, but the advice dispensed here has been researched or is something that has worked for me in the past.  Proceed at your own risk...

Since I'm currently spending my Spring Break at Walt Disney World, I thought it was only appropriate to share some of the inspirational words of one of the greatest businessman of all time.  Walt Disney without a doubt changed the world with his imagination and hard work.

Walt & Mickey 

In last week's post I mentioned that Disney was fired from his job at a newspaper because he "lacked imagination and had no good ideas."  I'm sure that boss ate a nice plate of crow years later.  Walt had a good idea in creating what would become a dynasty.  He didn't give up on his dreams.  From Oswald the Lucky Rabbit to Mickey Mouse to finally bringing Snow White to the big screen, he changed the entertainment world.

There are now Disney theme parks and resorts around the world.  The empire continues to grow with the expansion into other forms of entertainment.  Disney now owns ABC, Marvel and the Star Wars brand.  It's amazing how one man's vision and determination lead to all of this.

Cheers!

Many times we have a good idea.  But often we keep those thoughts to ourselves.  We may tell some people about it.  How much work goes into making the idea a reality?  Admittedly I've had plenty of ideas that have never seen the light of day partly out of fear, partly out not making the time for them.  I'm working on a new project with my buddy Tom Harness.  Details will be released soon and while we're not going to have a theme park named after us, we will be making a splash online.  If you want success, hard work, dedication and a positive attitude are required.

Motivational Monday: Start with the man in the mirror

By Kevin Hunsperger

@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents on Twitter
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Disclaimer: I am not an expert, but the advice dispensed here has been researched or is something that has worked for me in the past.  Proceed at your own risk...

I saw this quote "If you're searching for that one person that will change your life, take a look in the mirror."  and immediately thought of the Michael Jackson song Man in the Mirror.  I've pondered the quote and the words from the song over the last few days and really if anyone is going to save you, it has to be you.

No matter what element of your life you want to change, the most important thing is doing more than just WANTING to change.  And make sure you really do want to change and understand the challenges involved.  Set up smaller daily goals to help reach the ultimate prize.  For example if you want a promotion or a new job, don't wait for someone to call you.  Be your own advocate.  Apply for at least three new jobs a week.  Follow up and continue to update your resume.

Running through the snow...

Over the weekend I was a part of the Southern Illinois Men's Expo.  One of the speakers is a marathon runner.  He said during his discussion if you really want to be a runner you have to train all the time.  If it's raining, prepare to get wet.  If you don't feel well, run anyway.  Too busy?  While you're waiting for your kid to finish soccer practice, run around the field.  

The point is you can make excuse after excuse for not achieving a goal.  Stop doing that and get started now.  When things get tough, trudge through.  Change isn't easy, but your life may be after change is made.  Believe in yourself more than anyone else and make the people who do support you proud.

  

Motivational Monday: Fall seven times, get up eight

By Kevin Hunsperger

@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents on Twitter
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Disclaimer: I am not an expert, but the advice dispensed here has been researched or is something that has worked for me in the past.  Proceed at your own risk...

"Fall down seven times, stand up eight," is a Japanese proverb that should really be taken to heart by all of us.  I recently saw an example of this come into play.  

I was at a cheerleading competition waiting for my daughter's team to perform.  Another squad was on the floor, when one of the fliers tumbled from her stance.  As she fell, she took down two other girls with her.  All three hit the mat with a thud.  Despite gasps from the crowd, the trio sprung back into action.  I was impressed with their determination to keep going.  Whatever uneasiness or fear they felt, they hid it.  

You don't have to literally fall to get back up.   Falling isn't failing.  We all get off course from time to time.  If you miss a day or two at the gym or decide to eat a doughnut instead of an apple,  don't dwell on it.   You may have to tweak and adjust goals along the way.  Just don't make excuses.  You'll never see results if you do.  Fall down, get up, dust yourself off and keep going.  Repeat when necessary.

Motivational Monday: Presidential quotes

By Kevin Hunsperger

@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents on Twitter
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It's President's Day and in an effort to honor the day I've decided to post quotes made by Commanders in Chief.  Please note that in an effort to avoid negative comments or general whining about sharing a particular quote, I've left the names out.  That way you can still be inspired by someone you can't stand politically speaking.  :)

Enjoy...

"The only thing we have to fear is fear itself."

"It's easier to do a job right than explain why you didn't."

"One man with courage is a majority."

"I walk slowly, but I never walk backward."

"We did not come here to fear the future.  We came here to shape it."

"We grow great by dreams.  All big men are dreamers."

"An error doesn't become a mistake until you refuse to correct it."

"An honorable defeat is better than a dishonorable victory."

"It is better to be alone than in bad company." 

"If you don't feel something strongly you're not going to achieve."

"It is amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit." 

"The best way to predict the future is to create it."

"The only man who makes no mistake is the man who does nothing."

"We cannot build our own future without helping others to build theirs."

"If you can't make them see the light, make them feel the heat."

"Always give your best, never get discouraged, never be petty; always remember, others may hate you.  Those who hate you don't win unless you hate them.  And then you destroy yourself."

Motivational Monday: When you feel like quitting...

By Kevin Hunsperger

@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents on Twitter
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Disclaimer: I am not an expert, but the advice dispensed here has been researched or is something that has worked for me in the past.  Proceed at your own risk...

I came across that quote this morning as I was scrolling through Facebook.  It’s by no accident I’m sure.  The original post came from the Southern Illinois Men’s Expo page and was put there by Harness Digital Marketing.  I think most of us can relate to the words, whether it’s with a fitness plan, career choices or relationship goals.

If you’re reading this on Monday, then you know it’s the day after the Super Bowl.  Like many people in this country, I overindulged at a party Sunday evening.  I stayed up later than usual for me (I get up at 1:30 a.m. daily) and as soon as my alarm went off I instantly told myself “you get to take a nap today.  Skip the gym and come home and sleep.”

One of many plates. 

 But then as I got some caffeine flowing and came across the Motivational Monday quote of the week, I knew going home and napping wasn’t an option.  I really needed to get to the gym for a couple of reasons.  I had lost five pounds last week and I celebrated that fact by having an epic cheat day at the Super Bowl party I attended.  While I know I can’t undo the cheese and bacon filled mini potatoes, guac and chips and buffalo chip dip I indulged in, I knew that I would feel better working out.  Also daily frustrations had already built up and Gold's Gym is a more effective stress reliever than eating a bowl of Cocoa Pebbles like I used to do.

I’ve started and stopped working out more times than I can remember since graduating high school nearly 25 years ago.  I often think where I’d be had I stayed the course.  Now at nearly age 43, I’m determined more than ever to reach my fitness goals.  I hope when you feel like quitting you’ll think about why you started.  I know I will.  Good luck on your quest.

Motivational Monday: Taking on February

By Chad Smart

@chadsmart & @my123cents on Twitter
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About three years ago, I ordered the DDP Yoga workouts and was determined to beat Kevin in the “Operation Find My Abs” faux challenge. Once I got the DVDs, I wrote a blog to publicly announce my intentions to get in shape in hopes that if I put it out there I would have to go through with the plan. Even with getting a call of encouragement from “Diamond” Dallas Page, the initial euphoria of working out only lasted a few months before I fell back into old habits and let the DVDs collect dust. 

Last December when the DDPYoga Now app was released, I figured if I bought a year subscription then I’d have to use it. Otherwise, I’d just be wasting money. This time however something was different. Previously, I was doing the workouts but that was about it. This time, I knew I had to make changes to my lifestyle. The big question was would I be able to make those changes and stick with them. 

The first step was getting into the habit of doing the workouts. I had started looking at the new workouts on the app. These would be the first pieces to change my mindset. Previously, one of the excuses I used was “the workouts are too repetitive” because I was watching the same DVDs every day. Now there were new workouts to try out. However, I will admit that after a month of working out daily, I’m starting to slip into the old mindset. I need to refocus. 

Second step involved eating. I have been living in fast food joints for the better part of twenty years. Now was time to learn how to use the big white box in my kitchen that produces fire. I waited until after I finished my last job on January 8 before starting this step. Since January 9, with the exception of this past weekend when I wasn’t home, all my meals have been home cooked. So far, I have successfully changed my mindset. I don’t look at fast food as food I can’t eat. Instead, I view it as food I DON’T want. If you’d told me at the beginning of the year, I could go three weeks without Taco Bell and not be craving it; I would have thought you were crazy. Now though, I’m looking forward to improving my culinary skills and seeing what new things I can try in the kitchen. 

Something that has helped me over the past month was being unemployed. It’s not a thing that I’d recommend. In fact, if anyone reading this knows of anyone hiring, I could use a job. Anyway, being unemployed gave me more time to integrate more cardio into my daily activity. In the past, when I would be unemployed I’d usually go see a movie either daily or at least three times a week. In addition to sitting in a theater for 2-3 hours, I would always get a pizza and either a water or large Cherry Coke. Not exactly the best decisions if you’re trying to get in shape. 

The past three weeks though, instead of sitting in a theater, I spend the 2-3 hours walking. I try to average at least seven miles a day and on really good days, walk 10-12 miles. Again, it comes down to mindset. I would rather be doing something active to pass the time than simply letting the day pass me by while I sit. 

My goal when I started, or re-started, was not just finally finding my abs before Kevin finds his. I knew I wanted to lose 20-25 pounds and get into better shape. After the first month, I am well on that path. I’ve lost 10 pounds and feel much better. Unfortunately, I didn’t get a chance to take my 30-day progression photos before writing this blog. You’ll just have to take my word that there’s been a noticeable change. I will get photos before the next installment of the Accountability Blog. 

If you’re reading this and either are on a path to better yourself, or thinking about it, Kevin and I are here to help cheer you on your way. I know Kevin has been hitting the gym more. I stand by the DDP Yoga app. Whatever you choose, try to stay positive and keep pressing on. Success isn’t judged by one day and neither is failure.

Motivational Monday: Be burgundy

Hospice of Southern Illinois
35 years of service

By Kevin Hunsperger

@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents on Twitter
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Disclaimer: I am not an expert, but the advice dispensed here has been researched or is something that has worked for me in the past.  Proceed at your own risk...

The directors of the Gala
Photo courtesy: Jennifer Lee 

For three years now I've been privileged to be a part of one of the biggest and best fundraisers in my community.  The Hospice of Southern Illinois Red Carpet Gala may very well be the premiere event here. Each year it grows in size and in 2016 more than a thousand people attended to support this great cause.

Hospice of Southern Illinois provides end of life care for people in our community.  They also provide support to the family and loved ones during and after the difficult time.  They do all this at no cost. That's why fundraisers like the Red Carpet Gala are so important.

Here's Johnnnnnny & Ed McMahon
Photo courtesy: Heather Fear

The 2016 theme was Late Night Tonight and dozens of volunteer performers became personalities like David Letterman, Jimmy Fallon, Ed Sullivan and Johnny Carson.  Also taking the stage, Kenny Rogers, Dolly Parton, Joan Rivers and dozens more.  

The Blue Collar Comedy Tour
Photo courtesy: Heather Fear

In the previous two years I've danced and sang (both poorly).  This year I was asked to be a part of the Blue Collar Comedy Tour.  So I delivered a few "Here's Your Sign" jokes in the likeness of Bill Engvall.  The reaction was very positive, so I think we did a good job.

Mick Jagger and his backup dancers
Photo courtesy: Heather Fear

The inspiring part of the evening is seeing all the volunteers come together after months of practice and putting on a truly great performance.  From top to bottom this was an exceptional show.  There's also countless unsung heroes behind the scenes making sure those of us on stage look and sound good.  It made my heart feel good seeing so many people in southern Illinois there to support the cause.  

Photo booth fun
Leigh Bedokis Photography 

I don't have a lot of money to donate to causes like Hospice of Southern Illinois, but I do have time.  That's why I volunteer at functions like this.  Find a cause near and dear to you and get involved.  We can all make a difference, no matter how small it may seem. A few dollars, a few hours or just sharing information on social media can go a long way.  #BeBurgundy 

Motivational Monday: Find your dream and live it

By Kevin Hunsperger
@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents on Twitter
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Disclaimer: I am not an expert, but the advice dispensed here has been researched or is something that has worked for me in the past.  Proceed at your own risk...

When it comes to someone motivational, it's hard to overlook the words from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.  And since today is MLK Day, I thought it would be nice to honor and remember the man who made such a huge difference in this country more than 50 years ago.

Of course when Dr. King delivered his "I Have a Dream" speech in 1963 he was talking about racial equality. King, like so many during the Civil Rights movement, wanted a better life for future generations.  They wanted to "not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character."  It's something I believe is still a work in progress in this country.

Since then, the speech has been used to help others explore their own dreams., no matter what others may think.  The movement was about equal rights for men and women of different colors and religions.  But I think Dr. King's legacy also has empowered all of us to make a difference.  That change begins one person at a time. 

If you pursue your dreams, you're taking a step in the right direction.  Even if you don't achieve success right away, it's important to keep moving forward.  That positive action can help change others too.  Never underestimate the influence that a few positive (and unfortunately) negative actions or comments can have on others.  Find your dream and live it, no matter how foolish it may seem to others.  Believe in yourself first and others will follow.  

Motivational Monday: Your vibe attracts your tribe

By Kevin Hunsperger
@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents on Twitter
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Disclaimer: I am not an expert, but the advice dispensed here has been researched or is something that has worked for me in the past.  Proceed at your own risk...

I saw that quote on Facebook earlier today and it gave me inspiration for this post.  I truly believe that surrounding yourself with positive people who are on the same mission as you is the best way to get through the obstacles and roadblocks you encounter when attempting to achieve your goals.  Whether you want to be a better person or quit smoking or exercise more.  Find people on similar missions and work together.  Look for those who are doing well for motivation and inspiration.

Courtesy: Harness Digital Marketing

I've met a lot of positive people in my 42 years on this planet.  But I'm tying in one of my friends, Tom Harness, with this post today.  This morning he presented a check for more than $3,400 to the veterans group Team RWB (Marion chapter).  He raised the money in December by wearing an ugly (fugly) Christmas sweater.  

The fugly suit on News 3 This Morning

He visited businesses in our region of southern Illinois for a photo opp and a donation.  His original goal was a thousand bucks, but he quickly surpassed that.  Tom's passion to help others isn't limited to veterans.  I know he's reached out and helped countless other groups and individuals.  He and his team at Harness Digital Marketing are making  a difference in the lives of people not just here, but around the country and I'd venture to say even the world.

Courtesy: Harness Digital Marketing & Team RWB

I aspire to be more like Tom not just as an influential person in our community, but also as a person in general.  His friendship (and love of craft beer) is something I truly value.  Find those people in your community who stand out and do good things.   Step out of your comfort zone and make new friends.  I think that's sometimes harder for adults, but it's definitely rewarding in the long run.