Hey guys, Nate here. I'm proud to announce that I'm now the Program Director of Scrawny To Brawny. From now on all of my blogs and articles will be posted on the brand-new Scrawny To Brawny Blog. So if you enjoyed what you read here, please go check it out. (It's awesome, if I say so myself.) I'm keeping the NGE website alive for resource reasons, but will no longer be actively updating it. The best way to get in touch with me is through leaving a comment on the Scrawny To Brawny blog or by posting on the S2B Facebook page. See you guys over at the new blog!
How Will You Become Your Own Hero?
That guy on the platform? Yeah. He's his own hero.
Despite the self-serving name, The Nate Green Experience has always been about you, the reader.
I thought it was time to change the layout of the blog to reflect that. It's no coincidence the tagline "Become Your Own Hero" is gigantic, front and center.
This blog is for heroes in training.
What Is A Hero?
hero |ˈhi(ə)rō: 1 a person with an athletic, powerful body, and a strong open mind 2 one who lives according to their values and ambitions
What You Can Expect From The New Site?
While the layout, comment system, and general feel of the site have changed, the content hasn't. If anything, it's gonna get better.
Here's what you can expect me to talk about:
- How to gain muscle, lose fat, get stronger, and generally perform and feel like a badass.
- Strategies for improving or "hacking" your life.
- Rants about whatever the hell I feel like ranting about.
- Seeking, preparing, and enjoying the finer (and sometimes weirder) things in life such as food, beer, coffee, and other delicacies.
- Business strategies to make more money and have more control over you life, productivity, investing, and entrepreneurship.
I'll also have more videos about everything from workout programs, cool exercises to try, delicious recipes, crazy adventures, and whatever else I feel will make for good video (and a good laugh).
Finally, it's my goal to do more "experiential blogging" and put myself in cool situations where I can learn something life-changing, fun, or perhaps just freakin' weird or awesome for your entertainment and benefit.
So look forward to that.
QUESTION: How Will YOU Become Your Own Hero?
I get no less than 10 emails per day from people who read my blog; the stuff they write is motivating and humbling.
I feel incredibly privileged to meet so many motivated people and make a small impact on their lives. And I love hearing about success stories and ambitious goals.
So if you're game, here are two questions:
1. How will you become your own hero this year?
In other words, what kinds of things are you going to do to make your life better?
2. How have you become your own hero already?
Post your comments below and write as little -- or as much -- as you like. I always read every single comment.
Me in my limited run HERO shirt, waiting for the train in Amsterdam.
Post your answers below and explore the new site. I hope you like it as much as I do.
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Coming Soon: The Hero Handbook
My newest project, The Hero Handbook, will launch on this site on Tuesday, February 15th. Mark it on your calendar.
More details in the next few weeks.
Comments for This Entry
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How will I become my own hero this year?
I have two quite simple goals, eat more and work harder.
I know they sound quite easy but I find it hard to fit food in around my work load and tend to have two meals a day, I'd like to get that up to around five so I'm taking most of my food in on an evening. Working harder, well as a university student studying law most of my time is taken up with that and so by working harder I'd like to get more free time to read and visit places I haven't been to before.
How I've already become my own hero?
Cut out the bad foods, microwave-able things, embraced running- now I can do 5 miles a day, stuck to a training schedule for the gym and most importantly I realised I was making some bad choices so after a wake-up call readjusted my thoughts and took steps to ensure I stay on the right side of the tracks.
I'm liking the now style, pretty crisp, keep up the great work Nate.
Bobby. -
Hey nate,
I really appreciate your work and am really grateful.
Sounds kind of gay, I know, but for becoming my own hero, I will become more like you.
Dude, this sounds really weird.
I think I will adopt as much as I can from your blog as well as from blogs like the one of Tim Ferris, Tynan, etc.
And after reading the 4-Hour body, I now know how I will become my own hero this year.
I will learn to swim better and gain enough confidence to swim across the Rhine. Not longthwise - hell no - only from Germany to Switzerland and back again. This isn't really far but if you could imagine how fucking scared I am about free water swimming(I'm really not proud of it...) you would understand me.
There are a lot other thinks to tackle this year, but if I can make it across the Rhine, I will feel like a real hero!
How have I become my own hero already?
I fucking made it.
I never had a better life.
I am in a relathionship with the best girl on earth.
I have the best college place, I could think of - this was a really tough fight.
I live in the best, most declutterd room, I ever lived in.
I have the healthiest and fittest body, I ever had.
Last year, I made it to play in the first team of my football club (soccer).
And much much more.
Dude, I sound really arrogant. Lots of "I"s in there.
So much for that.
Nate, keep on the great work.
I'm really curious about The Hero Handbook.
Kind regards
AdrianGood luck with the swimming, Adrian. That's something I could definitely get better at, too.
Nate Green
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The new layout looks fantastic, Nate. Looking forward to all the great stuff you have planned!
1. For starters, I'll begin my first semester of Ph.D. coursework next Monday (I'm already stocking up on strong Vietnamese coffee), and I plan on flying through the program with lightening speed. I'm finally going to start working smarter instead of just harder and kick my productivity into high gear.
I've also (finally) started the process of registering my own domain name and getting a site up and running. I have a few articles in production that will soon be ready to submit AND I've finally worked up the guts to apply for one of my dream jobs in the health and fitness industry (even though it's located in another country AND I'm pretty sure I'm under-qualified at this point). If they turn me down, I'll just keep bugging them until they bring me on to write freelance! Keep shouting loud enough and long enough and SOMEONE will take notice.
Oh, and one more good cut cycle should get me to my body fat percentage goal -- not too shabby for a little girl who didn't know the difference between a squat and good mornings just a few years ago.
2. I'm my own hero every day when I look in the mirror and remind myself that I beat disordered eating and finally took control of my life.
I finished my BA in English in three years, graduating Summa Cum Laude, and I managed to get into a pretty competitive Rhetoric and Composition graduate program. Yes, I'm a nerd and certainly not your typical gym rat--but I've been told it's a pretty big trip to watch the short little girl with glasses out-lift some of the guys... and that in itself gives me reason to smile.
Bring it on, 2011! -
The new design rocks Nate.
1. How will you become your own hero this year?
-I will actually follow a programme....focus+consistency.
-Do a set of pull ups
-Get a double bodyweight deadlift.
-Get on top of my finances.
2. How have you become your own hero already?
-Started to lift heavy, learning powerlifts and olympic lifts and moved away from the cardio+machines I used to do. The results have been massive, I feel strong.
-Nutrition is the best it's ever been.
-10 years after uni, I still make an effort to carry on my education in various subjects.
-Finding ways to be creative every day. -
How will I become my own hero? First off, I plan on throwing my Masters Degree papers in the closet as soon as they come in the mail as they do not accurately reflect a way in which I want to live my life. As of this moment, I’m not sure if the path I’m taking will be the one that will ultimately serve me for the rest of my life, but I’m keeping an open mind about it. It’s more of doing that which I feel is right in my current life rather than planning for “x” amount of years down the road. I will become my own hero by setting my own rules and working how I want to work.
How have I already started to become my own hero? I trashed all of my old blog posts and I’m redesigning it from stage one. I want the New Year to be a fresh start. As far as meeting the goals that I want to accomplish, I’m about 50% done on a book that I’m currently writing that deals with nagging knee pain for athletes. Also, I meet with friends once a week to outline our potential t-shirt business, proofs are being ordered and initial designs are being finalized.
Couldn’t have done it without you, Nate. Appreciate the blog and I’m anticipating the book. -
Love the new layout of the blog, Nate!
I'm going to become my own hero this year by waking up every day at 6:00am to ensure that I get proper fuel, exercise, meditation, and playtime with my dog before I start the "work day". I'm also going to focus on creating at least one new stream of passive income this year.
I've already become my own hero by quitting a secure job as a government lawyer and pursuing my dream of opening a martial arts and fitness business. However after six years of busting my ass, I went out of business last year. But I'll never have to look back and wonder "what if?" and I'm happy I took the risk even though it was not a roaring success.
Many thanks for all that you do, Nate!It's great that you tried something and learned a lot in the process. The next time you launch a studio, program, or product, you'll be on top of it for sure.
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Happy New Year Nate,
The new site looks great.
I'm old school and although the concept of "becoming your own hero" sounds harmless enough TO ME it sounds a bit narcissistic and self aggrandizing. Something this generation, in my opinion, is not ingreater need of.
That being said, I'm more comfortable saying that I strive to "become a man of good character."
1. How will I become a man of better character this year?
I try to practice what I preach. My blog post this past week at Fit True was on using Simplicity, Moderation, and Perseverance in setting fitness goals. I intend to live that out personally by
- cleaning up some of my excessive foul language (you know what I mean - the completely unnecessary stuff),
- move my dedicated inspirational reading from my bed to sitting up at the table and taking notes, and
- learning to speed read by the end of this month.
It might not sound like much, but trust me, for me, it's pretty ambitious.
2. How have I already developed my character?
God has blessed me with an extra healthy dose of self awareness. I know my strengths and weaknesses. He also has blessed me with the guts to get up and go do something about my shortcomings. It has taken hard work, effort, and tons of grace (call it "luck" if you don't think there is a God who intervenes in our lives from time to time). That has meant that
- I've had to go through more counseling/mentoring than I wanted to,
- more apologizing than I wanted to, and
- more self-discipline than I have wanted.
The rewards have been that I seem to be able to enjoy a healthy level of self-confidence and an uncanny ability to "keep my head when all about me others are losing theirs" (Rudyard Kipling).
Thanks Nate,
Tim -
How will you become your own hero this year?
- By setting business, physical, relational and spiritual goals for 2011 with deadlines.
(stole this one from Vince Del Monte)
How have you become your own hero already?
- By deciding to start my own business, seriously take care of my health and start living my
live as I want to instead of doing what others want/expect me to do. -
Not going to do anything special, just continue working to improve myself, same as every year. read more books, learn new things, work hard in the gym.
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I'll start by saying that I genuinely enjoy the vibe of the new site; very unselfish and inspirational.
As for my becoming a hero this year... I recently read an excerpt from the book 5-3-1: How to Build Pure Strength by Jim Wendler from T-Nation, "You’ll be strong, healthy and in shape. You won’t make New Year’s resolutions because you’ll be living it every day." This line really struck a cord with me because as of late every thing's been on track for me (the one to success that is). I just made Dean's List my first semester studying exercise physiology at UM, I gained 12 pounds of muscle, I've fallen in love with Crossfit training, and I've made progress on my own personal fitness blog.
So in essence, the above answers both questions 1 and 2, as I've already made the strides toward becoming my own hero and I plan on continuing the motions until I've achieved that goal.
Thanks for the push toward Heroism, Nate and cheers to another fantastic New Year,
Noah -
I already started in the past couple of months. An infestation of bedbugs in late October forced me to clean house, sometihng I've neglected in the past 5 years. Then I took your decluttering blog to heart, and worked on one room at a time, starting with the bedroom. I was amazed at the accumulation, things like a stack of unread magazines over 6 ft high, when I gathered them up from all four corners of the house.
I realize what people go through mentally, I hadn't reached the dreadful state seen on Hoarders, but I was sure headed in that direction. With moral support from a friend on-line, I gave him almost daily updates with photos of progress, I was able to cut out the junk and clutter. So far, I have taken over 30 large heavy bags of paper for recycling, and gave away at least a car load full of stuff.
When I decluttered a room or two the results were instant. I can think better now that I can walk into a bedroom I actually want to sleep every night and stare in a spotless fridge where I only kept the stuff that matters. I don't feel sapped as I hopelessly try to sift and sort through clutter.
2011 will be the year I complete that job over winter (it is necessary because in the Spring, I want to go on motorcycle trips, not continue to sift through junk).
It is important to stress that when all said and done, I will have a strategy for preventing future clutter to enter my life, otherwise I'll have the same problem in 2016.
What's more, 2011 will be the year I get all those repairs and maintenance done around the house - 5 years of neglect will do that to you. A friend of mine is out of work right now, and has the time to do these jobs so he can get my cash while I get more valuable free time and continue on with my life.
Naturally my gym life was sapped over the past 2 months, but I plan to get that back too. I found a simple "Less-is-more" program at T-Nation focussing on compound lifts and coupling that with a couple back targetting exercises to balance out my shoulder-pinching problems, I should be good to rock and roll.Thanks for sharing, Joe. It's amazing how much mental clarity comes from getting rid of shit.
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1. How will I become a better hero this year?
It's easy to say what I want to do...but the bottom line is this: Every day i'm going to wake up, thank God and go to work with whatever potential I have that particular day. If I can only bring 70% that day, then I'm going to maximize that 70%. Whatever the amount, then I've got to use it all. Also, I'm going to become a better hero this year by continuing to pay it forward and by living my life in accordance of those who've been my mentors and shown me the path and the light.
2. How have you become your own hero already?
This New Years Eve I sat with my mentor and he told me some amazing things about being a hero, so I'll write what he told me: "You're a hero because at 26 you've battled odds and won. You're a single father who's devoted your life to your son. You're a college coach at a young age and gained the respect of those above you by your humbleness and willingness to get better. No matter what anyone says defeating those odds is heroic." Those are the greatest words i've ever heard, and in my fight they were words I needed to hear. -
Im planning to be my own hero this year by getting published as a side project. last year I was published on a website with a great deal of help from this sites namesake and this year I am teaming with a former student of mine in a book writing business project. I am seeking to progress through the ranks at my new job as a tutor and develop the best trainers the UK fitness industry has seen.
Last year I became a hero by accepting a job and moving myself and my other half to London to become a tutor for a fitness provider. I wanted to spread the word and was not getting nearly enough atention in my small town. -
Hey Nate,
first off I just want to say that the site is looking good. I'm really digging the new design. Things for the coming year sounds interesting as well.
1. How will you become your own hero this year?
Well timed question, since I recently decided to change some things in my life, starting this new year.
First off I want to stop being so lazy in the kitchen, and start to enjoy preparing my meals instead of rushing through it.
Secondly I am planning to tighten up at my University, I have been slacking a lot this past year due to a disease, where I forced myself into a hole.
Last but not least, I have decided to commit myself furthermore to working out and making sure I have my diet planned, which compliments my first goal.
Its not a lot, but it's a plan.
2. How have you become your own hero already?
Overcoming a chronic intestinal disease. The past year I have had 3 giant surgerys because of this disease. I dug myself down a hole, as i realized my life would never be the same after this. Instead of digging myself further down, I decided that what I do with my life is for me to decide. Which is why I am committing myself a lot more to my training and nutrition. Stepping up, from all this, is something I am proud of.
Upgrading my kitchen with a nice knife set, good pans and a blender etc., and getting rid of my microwave so I won't get tempted to use it. -
Nate, you’ve been something of a muse for me these last two years. I disagree with you as often as not, but I respect your drive and your focus, and so I commit myself to hearing what you have to say.
I have a request to make of you with this everyday heroism concept of yours.
The guy who pulls his marriage back together so his kids grow up with a dad? That’s a hero.
The entrepreneur who lives hand-to-mouth in December so he can make his Christmas payroll? Hero.
The addict who breaks his chains and gets on with life? Hero.
The people who become their own heroes may not feel good about it. They won’t get any “likes” on Facebook for it. Probably no one else will even be aware of their sacrifice. And for the love of God, it won't have anything to do with their lagging rear delts. But then, real heroism means being strong enough to make hard decisions with a smile on your face. Wherever your career takes you, Nate, don’t lose sight of that, and you’ll always been worth listening to.
What did I do to get stronger this year? I got out from in front of the mirror and off the damn internet. I was at the gym at 5 a.m. one morning, awake early with anxiety attacks, and I saw some 300-ish pound woman panting through her walking laps in the pool, and I thought, there’s more strength in that pool than on a whole “rate my physique” forum summed together. So I resolved to get over myself. It’s a start.
I’ve got a big year coming up in my career and in my life; I’ve got to take inspiration from the sacrifices my family made for me. I don’t pretend to know how it will require me to be my own hero, but I know I’ll be able to tell by how tough the choices look.
“Do not wait to strike till the iron is hot; but make it hot by striking.” -Yeats
God bless, everybody. Happy New Year. -
I will be my own hero by completing my goals for 2011, and inspiring other to do the same. As a trainer its really easy to cheer lead, but I want to teach. Teach how one can become strong not just in body, but in mind.
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I am not my own hero, not yet. Proving to myself that I can succeed in this new year, and help other succeed, will make me my hero.
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1. How will I become a better hero this year?
I'm going to travel this year, which is something Ive never really done in my life thus far. I'm going to start off by making a trip to the East Coast. I've lived on the west coast all my life so I'm curious to see the differences between the two coasts. I am also going to be a better hero by enjoying and living life; especially since I only have 2 semesters before I graduate from College. And last and more importantly, I am going to lift heavier this year. Those Ice Baths have been helping.
2. How have you become your own hero already?
I have taken the path less traveled thru in my family. Both my brothers have careers and I am the only one without one yet. I too have career goals and aspirations in life, but I am not about to conform to something that counters my values and dreams. I would rather be satisfied with what I do everyday than to be pissed-off and stressed-out about my job. Theres more to life than $$$.
-Thanks for being an inspiration Nate. -
On a physical front, I'm on week 3 of the Slow Carb Diet from the 4 Hour Body. I am continuing on the two day a week template of 5/3/1 during my beer league hockey season. My goal for 2011 is to finish the year leaner and stronger than I started it.
On the personal side, I'd like to be a better goalie coach for my oldest son this year, my younger son's soccer coach, and get a side business going that can help my family's financial situation. -
Nice site Nate
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Wow! Love the new site!
Hope for you this site get's even more popular this year.
1. How will you become your own hero this year?
I will really work on my back pain, nagging me for 10 years this year. Stop with Martial Arts(which I love), get focused on it, seek out a professional (Boyle or Cressey; see 2) and resolve it once and for all!
2. How have you become your own hero already?
I have managed to be able to write my master's thesis in Harvard this summer! The biggest achievement in my life yet.
Greetings from Europe ;)
Ernie -
I have been a good father to my two small ones.
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Hi Nate,
Great redesign!
I will become my own hero this year by finally breaking out of the norm and status quo and "recreate myself" into who I want to become - and who my 8 month old son would want to look up to!
I have already become my own hero by recognizing I need a change and committing to that change not only for myself, but for others around me as well - family, friends and new aquaintances. To offer something more than just for myself. -
1. How will you become your own hero this year?
-I will continue to help clients get into the best shape of their lives, so they will have the energy and the confidence to change their owns lives and the lives of those around them. (It's hard to change the world when you are tired, sick, and out of shape). Being successful in all aspects of life starts with your health, energy, and mindset.
-I will reach out to more people through high quality blog articles and video blogs.
2. How have you become your own hero already?
-I have made friends and developed relationships with some amazing people through my blog and through my training business.
- I left my job training at a big box gym and now have the time, energy, and freedom to help significantly more people reach their fitness goals in a better setting. -
im gonna continue to strive to do bigger and better things.
Its very easy in college to sit on the couch, pound brews and stalk chicks on facebook.
Its tough to break out of that mold and do something amazing...
I think i will, -
Hi Nate,
Love the new site theme. I became my own hero when I decided to stop living for everyone else and start living for me. After I had my children, I oscillated around the needs of everyone else. Always adapting and fulling needs and never addressing my own. Then I realized that if my needs weren't getting met, everyone around me suffered.
Once I had this epiphany, things starting looking up. I am now in the best shape of my life, have my energy back, and enjoy being active with my family again. Giving to yourself before everyone else is a hard lesson to learn. But the end result is that you then give more than you ever thought possible to the world around you.
As far as new hero goals... This year I am starting my own organic garden and want to become as close to self-sustaining as possible. I plan to order all of my protein (meat, poultry, eggs, dairy) from local beyond-organic farms and grow as much of my own food as the desert allows. In essence, I am giving food back to nature and getting away from industrialized eating.
Thanks so much for allowing me to share.
KellieRaising your own organic garden sounds rewarding, fun, and frustrating all at the same time. I like it!
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Dear Nate,
1. How will you become your own hero this year?
I’m current applying to spend a year in an Australian University from July 2011, between my second and third year at University. However to have a chance of this I have to score consistently at a 2:1 grade in my exams coming up this month. Therefore, for me to become my own hero this year I have to kick my ass in gear, get that solid 2:1 and enjoy the trip of a life time to a country I’ve always dreamed of visiting!
Also, for the last three years I’ve been attempting to get the body I want and failing despite making some great gains at the start of my training. So for me to become my ultimate own hero I need to get past my terminal lack of motivation and whip myself into shape. :)
2. How have you become your own hero already?
I find it hard to motivate me for something I don’t enjoy, so for me to envisage myself at the top University in the country, maybe even the world for what I study might to some have seemed a far off target. But despite some setback, namely having to spend an extra year in school to make it, I got accepted into Loughborough University to study Sports and Exercise Science, and a year and a half later I’m still going strong! This is something I am immensely proud of, and something I consider makes me my own hero.
Thanks for all the great work Nate, I look forward to reading ever blog you post, and am forever checking my email to see if you have done!
Tom -
The new site looks great, Nate!
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GREAT redesign! Love the new focus...
How will you become your own hero this year?
My focus this year is on relationships. Building them, taking them to another level. If you boil it all down, the quality of one's life is found in quality relationships.
How have you become your own hero already?
I've handled a bunch of 'stuff'...literally....I went through all my closets, cupboards, drawers, shelves and have made a conscious choice about everything. I asked myself "do I really need this?" I literally gave away an SUV (or two) FULL of stuff. I've never gotten so many phone calls from people who have been the recipients of 'stuff' that I no longer used, but held onto (waiting to use it 'someday'). One woman told me that my visit was literally like Santa Claus coming...and that her family thinks of me every morning when they use the pan I gave them to make breakfast (I had two). I became my own hero by taking things I no longer use and making someone else's day! -
Graduate high school (I'm 19 - this should have happened when I was 17 - but I was a foolish boy.), go to college, train Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, learn about training people. These are my highest priorities. This is my path. I want it, now I'm going to do it.
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Nice redesign.
As far as 2011 goes....remain sober (24+ to date) and work out 5-6 days week (currently) and be a BETTER person -
Great site Nate. All the best in 2011 you are one of the reasons that Stephen (husband) is in such great shape. You helped and encouraged me to make fitness a bigger part of my life, yeah the bulgarian split squat, wow! See you soon. Lindsay
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1. Do what I'm doing now on an even larger scale, write about the things I'm passionate about every day, and help others live happier and healthier lives. I want to get published in print, and do everything I can to get my previous articles seen by as many people as possible. I want to keep doing what I love, and never work a job that I dread getting up for every morning. I want to avoid working at a desk that isn't in my own apartment. I want this to be the year I fully realize my potential.
2. I paid rent by writing the last couple of months, something I never thought I could possible do. -
1) How will I become my own hero?
I think the biggest hurdle for me entering this new year will be overcoming my bulimia and depression -- this ain't no so story, so for those of you ready to hurt your sympathy at me, don't. I think I've gotten in my own way of living and I want to reclaim my life. With all due respect, Nate, I'm going to do it my way -- your site is good inspiration and lends insightful and great tips, but I'm not going to carbon copy everything you've done, if that's how it works I'm sure we would millions of Nate Greens.
2) How have I become my own hero already?
By acknowledging my problems, writing them down, and doing everything I need to tackle them -- one of which just being waking up early this morning. I think that is going to be one of the biggest challenges for me this year, being prepared. I think if I can consistently wake up early on a daily basis, I will have more time to address myself and day, thus bettering myself. -
1. How will you become your own hero this year?
I started taking lifting/school/life a lot more seriously the past 6 months and it has paid off. I plan on continuing this path with surrounding myself with a positive environment of good people, useful books, enlightening blogs and a healthy lifestyle.
I'm going to become my own hero by being other's hero. By helping others and going out of my way to do what I can, I am truly helping myself.
2. How have you become your own hero already?
After I discovered your blog and bought "Built for Show" last Spring, my life went through some modernization. I've slowly and progressively streamlined my life. I am a junior at Univ of WA in Seattle and with applying your techniques of becoming more efficient (whiteboard, notecards, etc..) I pulled a 3.52 gpa this past quarter after having a 2.7 cum gpa. Made the Dean's list for the first time while also working for the first time during the school year.
Over Winter break, I compiled a 5 page pdf of basically lifting 101 to share with my 70 fraternity brothers. The pdf basically outlines Mark Rippetoe's 'Practical Programming.' I feel am blessed to have read and learned from some of the greats from Tmuscle and i should share the wealth of knowledge and help others. My resolution for 2011 is to help others find strength, and not just physical strength.
I owe you a ton and look to you as a role-model and for fitness inspiration.
Thanks Nate,
-Aaron -
Nate,
Very much enjoy the website and new format.
I will become my own hero by leaving a life that is filled with negative energy and seek a life and life partner that gives the essence of unconditional love.
In some regards I am a hero now. When your children come running to you when you come home at the end of the day; you are their hero and that is what matters the most. -
Short and "simple" way of becoming my own hero;
Secure a starting position on my team
Lose whats left of my spare tire
Be able to do a respectable amount of pull ups (3 or 4 at the moment)
Beat my current deadlift record (145kg) by a substantial amount, maby 30 or 40 kg
Hook up with more women, what can i say... -
I will become my own hero by changing my lifestyle so that my son will have me as his father for as many years possible. My father had his second heart attack January 1. His first was two years ago. He will be gone soon and is only 56. I already miss him. I don't want my son to feel the way I do at 32. I'm afraid the next time I'll see him will be in a funeral home.
What I've done to become my own hero as of yet is to wake up two years ago. When he had his first heart attack he was dead for over an hour. During that hour I realized that I was just like him. My heart was his, and it was unhealthy. Since that first hour I have dropped 50 lbs, lowered my cholesterol by 40 points, read a few good books, and spent three quarters of the last year in the gym. I ran more than 200 miles just last year. I apparently am a very motivational person. I have taken many of my friends and families advice and I am saving to register for courses in group training and personal training. I not only want my lifestyle to continue, I want to share what I've learned with others.
I don't want anyone to miss me like I'm already missing my dad.
(Site looks kickass, Nate)Keep it up and you'll definitely be around to see your kid grow up. Nice work, man.
-
Nate,
How will I become more of my own Hero?
I am going to make a radical improvement on how I view everything in life and just start letting the chips fall and not try and rearange them too quickly. I am a very people friendly sort of person but I never go out of my way to meet new people or try new things. However as of late I come to find that doing these are very rewarding on multiple levels and can be very fun and full of stories. I will also make an even larger effort at quiting chewing tobacco because even though all my football buddies still do it doesnt mean i need to ask a pinch off them everytme we sit down to play XBOX (and plus thats just cheap).
How have I already become my own hero?
Well this past mid-summer I started coaching for Northern Michigan and was still at 275 lbs and acting like i was still playing. I decided that if I were to expect my players to to eat and train right than so should I. I actually read your book and started following the workouts and nutrition and now I am down to 235 lbs and still seeking to loose a little bit more of that flab and get on that LGN program. I have also been reading a lot more and have become a lot more diverse in my taste of, well, everything. Beyond this being for a free t-shirt I wrote this more to thank you for your book and helping me get more out of life. Truely the better reward. Have a great New Year!Thanks Mark; I'm glad you enjoyed the book. 40 pounds of fat loss is no joke.
-
I've always looked to others to be my inspiration, and to model my life after. And while it's okay to have role models, I know that to be own hero, I have to start making small changes in myself. At the end of the day, I believe that I should be able to look at myself in the mirror, and be satisfied with the guy looking back.
Did I work hard today to deserve the paycheck that so many are without right now? If the answer is yes, did I take the time to be thankful for it?
Am I the husband that I am supposed to be for my wife? She gives up so much for me, considers me in everything she does, out of respect. Am I taking the time to turn the TV off, or just to show her what she means to me?
Am I the friend that deserves friends? Have I considered those that are close to me, and made sure they know that they're relevant in my life?
The above are just a few things that would qualify me as a hero in my eyes. You can be certain that these will be the goals I (re)set for myself every day. I know there will be setbacks, and I frustrations with them, but the hero inside realizes them, and moves ahead. -
I will tell my parents that I will drop out of university to live my life on my terms. I don't want to disappoint them or hurt them, but I need to do that in order to be happy. It's looking dark right now but I know that this feeling is temporary and that I can do it if I give my all. I hope that I can make my parents proud some day with the life I choose now.
I'm scared and I might fail sometimes, but hey, who said it's going to be easy? -
Great new look for the site, Nate.
This year I want to devote 110% to my relationship with the most incredible girl on the planet. I realized that who I want to spend this life with is a much bigger decision than what I want to spend this life doing, and I'm planning on making it this year.
I think I can only be so satisfied with where my life is now because of the contributions of others, from my parents and friends to supervisors at work and Crossfit Level 1 trainers. They, and God, must receive all the credit for my "my own hero" status. -
1. How will I become my own hero this year?
I will continue becoming my own hero by never taking no for an answer from life. I constantly look for ways to say "screw you" to the status quo. American culture bekons us every single day to eat the cheap and easy food, take short cuts and be sedentary. Becoming your own hero means to smash the norm and never look back. It means finding the best nutrition protocol and workout style for you and putting it to work. This year, I will continue to be a part of the small percentage of people that refuse to lay down to the lazy culture we are a part of.
2. How have I already become my own hero?
I have already become my own hero by making a decision to change my life and achieving it despite any and all obsticles. I grew up sedentary, never playing sports and never being active. As I worked towards my goal I educated myself by seeking out information from books, websites and credible blogs, like this one. I started my journey and never looked back, I never tried to fall back on excuses like "this isn't worth it" and "I don't have the genetics for this". I am my own hero because I did what an increasing percentage of this countries population cannot do: better themself. -
How will I become my own hero?
I found that I have a passion for teaching others about fitness and health, so I am taking my goals further and working on getting my training certification and making it official. A hero is one who brings something unique to the table and offers their skills to others with no expectation of reward, this is my philosophy when it comes to teaching others, both in science or in fitness. This is why I always take someone up when they come to me asking for direction, no matter if they only come once.
How have I already become my own hero?
I have never given up. Everything I do I do for me, not because others want me to, not because society tells us that the big fit guy always wins. I do it because I WANT IT, and I want it more than anything else.
I don't do it because it is easy, I do it because it hurts, because it is a challenge, because I WANT IT. No one can be their own hero without wanting something so bad you would do anything to have it (short of cheating.) I never thought that I would have this drive about anything, but through the focus I've gained from my desires I have applied it to everything else I do.
I am my own hero, and because of this, I am a hero to others. -
1. I will become financially independent this year. I'm currently capturing all ideas that come to mind, and later I will add to those whom pop more often in my head. From there I will develop products that can be monetized and become a passive stream of income. I'm a developer, so probably I will be delivering web applications, but I'm keeping my options wide. Whatever comes to mind will be written down, and trough thought iteration, the ideas that self-develop most will be developed into real things.
2. I lost 200+ pounds in the last two years. I'm rediscovering quality of life, and slowly dropping old habits and limiting beliefs. That's major... Regaining belief in my capabilities and possibilities is literally life-changing. Also, I finally went to college, juggling that with work and personal projects. There's no limits for what I'm able to do. I just have to learn to prioritize and focus. -
I'm pretty sure 7 year old me would be proud of who I am now. That's all I need to feel like a hero.
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Awesome redesign.
Last year I became my own hero by stepping up and taking what I wanted from life, getting stronger and faster were two major goals.
This year I will do the same. -
1. How will you become your own hero this year?
Keep up my training, which was the best it's ever been this year. Be stronger, faster, more powerful and healthier than ever before. Read, learn and try out new training techniques and programmes. Marry the most beautiful girl in the world in July - couldn't be more psyched about that!
Keep working hard and enjoying my job (languages teacher). Continue learning Spanish (both for personal satisfaction and also for work).
2. How have you become your own hero already?
Gone from a skinny-ish student whose only exercise was playing hockey (still do), to a strong, much more muscular and confident man. Survived a near-fatal allergic reaction to some food, in part due to my level overall fitness. Met the girl of my dreams, and found a great place for us to live. (Trying to) inspire kids at work every day! -
1. This year i plan to experiment. I am going to mix up my workouts with new and more diversified stuff instead of getting into the same workout routine. I also am starting to really get into cooking my own healthy delicious meals. I am only 20 so i am just beginning but so far its worked out great and I'm really into it. I want to be a more balanced person focused on health and longevity rather than burning myself out.
2. I have become my own hero this past year by transforming myself. I went from 180 pounds and overweight to now 135 pounds and around 4.5% body fat. More importantly i have completely changed my diet from eating chips, white bread, and junk food everyday, to now a very healthy diet full of protein, smart carbohydrates, and tons of veggies. I did all this while maintaining a 4.0 GPA through my college semesters. If i can do this, i know that anyone who is willing to make a change can make a change. -
Dear Nate,
Inspiring as always. Thanks for just being yourself.
I have what I believe is an unusual goal for the year. If you follow the news and politics at all, then you know that the major rant in this country is that Congress is broken, and that it just does not respond to the people’s needs. Just their own.
To solve this problem, you need both money and a lobbying organization. I intend to establish American Partners to address both these issues. The purpose of American Partners is to start organizing that vast middle of American politics that represent 75% of this country or nearly 100 million of the 132 million voters who cast a ballot in the 2008 Presidential election.
This effort will take a website, a company to power that website, a top notch lobbying firm here in DC to provide strategy and a national recognized public relations firm to get the word out. I’m at the point now where I need to raise $7,500 to create the business plan that I intend to use to raise the $10 million to get this project off the ground.
The bottom line here is to offer Middle America an opportunity to be a player on Capitol Hill by combining their resources and orchestrating lobbying efforts through phone calls and emails to get Congress to take notice. Your local Congressman is supposed to do this job. But money gets in the way, and is needed to counterbalance special interests like banks and drug companies that have the checks to get what they want.
This is all about benefitting the average guy and gal, encourage a government to provide the basics for health care, education, a retirement plan and financial literacy, and give everyone the tools needed to create for themselves the life that will make them happy. Ultimately, I expect this to positively affect millions of people.
That is my goal for the year. Will keep you posted. Rich -
The two ways I'm going to become a hero is simply stated...budget and parent.
I have begun the new year by working on budgets for time and finances. I'm planning my days with very specific time frames on when to work out, when to read, when to sleep, etc. I've left some float time (we all need some flex time) when I can do whatever I want...whether it's to watch tv, screw around on the computer, etc. With regard to my financial budget, I'm going to max out funding for my retirement first, spend more money on healthier food purchases, and minimize the "want" purchases to only include those I can afford using my own "allowance".
As far as being a hero on the parenting side, I've vowed to include a specific amount of time to volunteering, and sharing some of that time with my two sons so they will better learn how to pay it forward. I have also vowed to not yell as a method of communication, no matter how frustrated I may get as the father of two athletic, intelligent, strong willed boys. Finally, of course I can't list everything in this blog...but to keep it fairly short, I will, I plan to share this blog, Nate's website, and all of the other information enclosed as a teaching tool to my sons so they may learn what the true definition of HERO and hope they can be one to their classmates, teammates, family and friends.
Thanks for the inspiration and the continued dedication! -
The essence of becoming my own hero runs parallel to becoming a better person. As a huge advocate for self-improvement I’ve come to view this process as an ongoing journey and I’ve begun to realise that we are never a ‘finished’ product and we must continue to develop.
Over the past 6 months I’ve started to make the most basic, yet unequivocally groundbreaking realisation of my life so far. The start of this journey has been fun, challenging and at times, emotionally scary.
I finished 2009 disappointed with life. As a naïve high school graduate in 2007 I made a decision to begin an apprenticeship in Accounting and Finance, chasing dreams of getting rich fast, following a path to what I perceived would bring me happiness. How wrong could I have been. After working 50 hours a week, and studying at University full time at nights, I made the conscious decision to change my path and to get outside my comfort zone. To experience more of what the world has to offer.
In June I left my family, my friends, my home, my neighbourhood and most excitingly, my country. It was time to experience something completely different to crunching numbers in a lifeless grey cubicle. I decided to work with children on the east coast of America, with a view of not only adding something to their young lives and having a positive impact on their developmental years, but to let them have an impact on my own values and outlook.
After completing my work I travelled around the US and Canada, meeting new people and preparing myself for more great experiences as an exchange student at a college on the west coast. Now that I look back and assess how I started to become my own hero in 2010, I realise that the most fundamental paradigm shift that I’ve experienced has not come from a tough new exercise or a revolutionary diet tip.
It has come from experiences I’ve had. Sharing with people of different backgrounds, travelling alone, and carrying all my possessions on my back from city to city. I have learnt that happiness and self-fulfilment come from within, and are a product of experiences.
Realising the sheer size of the world and the diversity of people that live in it has taught me that finding happiness from within and from my experiences is the key to becoming my own hero. I’ve come to realise that sports cars and holiday homes can only make one satisfied momentarily. Using external, physical possessions will not ensure happiness, the satisfaction will only be temporary and the emptiness will seep back in shortly after.
In 2011 I’ll continue this journey of becoming a better person, a happier person and of course, my own hero. I’m writing this from Canada as I rest up and plan my travels in South America over the next two months. I’ve already started to search for career paths that can provide me with fulfilling experiences and I’ll finally, after far too much delay, start my blog on body recomposition and healthy living.Well-written and inspiring. Enjoy your travels.
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1. This year I plan on becoming my own hero by improving myself everyday. Most of us go through our lives and never really accomplish anything. We go to work, come home watch tv, eat dinner, watch a little more tv, and then do it all over again the next day. My focus this year is to make improvements to myself everyday whether it be mentally (through continually reading, physically (by doing exercises that I hate and that are hard or pushing that one last extra rep), or spiritually (by selflessly devoting my time and efforts to improving my community while improving myself). One thing that I really draw from you (and your friend Tim Ferris) is that we are capable of a lot more than we give ourselves credit for. I'm just trying to tap into that ideology this year.
2. I have become my own hero this past yea not by necessarily achieving anything in particular, but how I have persevered through some self inflicted wounds this past year. Even though the things I went through sucked. They taught me a lot about myself, and the kind of circumstances I am capable of overcoming. As well as, if I don't shoot myself in the foot the kind of things I can achieve if I can focus those efforts to something more fruitful. -
I love the new look, helps on the eyes. My new hero goals is to eat more like my grandfather.
1) organic- his own garden
2) cooked his own meals and along with granny
3) seasonal vegatables and the classic rish/sweish beans and cabbage
4) They really new how to spice up their meals with real herbs. -
1. How will you become your own hero this year?
I try to get my training to a new level without finding excuses for not making this or that. Lift hard and heavy and do my conditioning (sprints, sled pushing / pulling etc.).
I aim for a bigger Bench, Press, Squat and Deadlift.
I try to become a better boyfriend, family member and friend at all. Life is too short to be alone.
2. How have you become your own hero already?
Live the life I wanted with a lovely girlfriend, a nice job and the possibility to workout. -
1. How will I become my own hero this year?
In order to become my own hero, I have decided to not only follow the guidelines of BFS, but also take those thoughts and ideas to the next level. I have been a steady, hardworking weight lifter for almost 6 years now. I am 20 years old and have been looking to reach my goals for the entire 6 years that I have been committed to working out. Most of my time lifting weights and working out was dedicated to playing football, so my personal goals of losing fat and gaining muscle were not achieved (at least how I wanted). Two years removed from the sport I am now around 210lbs when I was about 235lbs in my football prime. I was a lineman and could not afford to lose the weight or I would jeopardize my opportunity of playing. Now I am looking to take then next step in my life by changing my eating habits and committing myself even more to shredding the fat and building the muscle I have always wanted.
2. How have I already become my own hero?
I have already become my own hero by staying committed to working out even when the people around me have told me that I was wasting my time and questioned my ideas behind training. I have been told that my genetics would not allow me to change my appearance. I have never believed that and I never will. I will continue to work hard until I finally am built the way I want to be built.
One more thing…
A really cool acronym for HERO (which directly applies to your philosophy and ideas Nate) is "Helping Everyone Recognize Opportunities". Everyone has the opportunity to change their life, and I believe everyone can as long as they just recognize and seize the moment.
Just a fun idea I thought of. -
Dear Nate,
Hero's not a word I throw around very easily. So naturally becoming my own was a concept I thought of as nothing more than a fantasy. With some self building and a little help from you though, it's starting to seem actually possible, and that excites the hell out of me.
I'm 20 years old. I've made a lot of mistakes in my life up to this point, but I've learned from them. After repeating them a few times of course. Me and my brother have always been the golden boys of our family so naturally we've had to live up to plenty of high expectations. It was a lot of pressure, but even more to live up to my own. I've already hit a lot of heroic benchmarks I had hoped to at this point in my life and a few I did not expect. By summer of my sophomore year in college I weighed 175, had around 11% body fat, and a belief that I was at least more awesome than half the people around me at any given location. Sophomore year of high school I weighed 230, with a bf I don't want to even think about, and a self image worse than that of an anorexic school girl. I'm going to be graduating in 3 years, it looks like I might have my first girlfriend ever this semester, and some lifelong fantasies of mine are becoming realities.
But, as I've learned, it's never downhill from there, it's always a climb. You just get better at climbing. I've got some major goals for the next year. I'm applying to law school as we speak, as still have yet to actually graduate or ask this girl out on a real date, my body doesn't like being thin so I have to constantly work at it, and that whole confidence thing still hasn't been worked out completely. But, it's all going to happen. Change is sustenance. And we all can become our own heroes, just gotta believe it. It sounds like bullshit originating from Disney movies sure. But you keep up that can do attitude and your dreams become reality. I've proven that to myself.
And so have a lot of people on here, of course you notwithstanding, Nate Green.
I look forward to kicking ass with you all.
-Chris -
What a great site and a great blog. Keep up the good work Nate.
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How will I become my own hero?
I had to sit and think about this for a while. At this point in my life I'm going through radiology school. Its one of the hardest things I've done in my life so far, and we've only just finished the first semester. I have a very small class that I'll be working with the entire way through the program, only 11 people got accepted in. Even after one semester they're basically my family now, 90% of my time is spent with them, the other 10% is training, eating, and sleeping. We suffered a pretty bad blow to the group morale when 4 of our class mates didn't get the grades to make it to the second semester. They're all pretty downtrodden as the first semester was tough, and the techniques to learn and clinical work only gets harder from here. When I talk to the rest of my classmates about the future of the program they all sound kind of bleak. I think the time has come for me to take a chance at stepping to the helm of the class and start trying to lead through example and motivation. I finished the first semester with a 3.5, so I think I have the grades to make a good attempt at pulling this off and pulling my class out of this ditch. Thats how I'm going to become my own hero, by attempting to get those around me to achieve their full potential and becoming the leader I've always wanted to be.
How have I become my own hero already?
I became my own hero when I actually made the decision to do something. For a long time after high school I was just drifting around doing whatever with no goals or vision. Don't get me wrong, I don't really think there is anything particularly wrong with that, but I did it for far longer than I should have. It was fun for a while, just taking bullshit college classes bumming around with my friends and drinking too much. But after a while I just wasn't happy anymore, I didn't see my life going anywhere, I was very disappointed in myself, and worse, while my friends were bumming around and drinking with me, while they weren't doing that they were working on their lives, and soon I noticed I was starting to be left behind. That was when I first started training, I still didn't know what I wanted to do with my life but I needed something to focus on, a goal to have and work at. Things started slow, but the more I read around, the more I experimented , the better things started to turn. It was about that time I got curious about my future again, I now loved the body and anatomy in general, and everything that had to do with it. When I was little I knew my mom used to work at a hospital because I could remember going with her to pick up stuff, but I never knew what she did there. So I asked her, she told me worked in the radiology department and she was lead tech. I asked what that entailed and it sounded amazing. Finally something to focus my love of the human body into where I would get to study it in depth and use that knowledge to help people. Thats when I decided to work on getting into radiology school and that was the first time I became my own hero. -
How will I become my own hero this year?
I will take my own small business to the next level. I have the opportunity to make enough money to both donate to charity and help support my family who I live far away from. I can, and I will.
How I've already become my own hero?
I am the only one in my family to go through college and start my own business doing what I am passionate about: helping other human beings achieve their fitness and health goals. To continue my heroism, I like to follow blogs of individuals like yourself to see how other people in the world are doing the same things I am doing, but in different ways. -
Nate,
Long time reader, first time poster.
First off, thanks for all the informative and poignant posts. I came across your site about 6 months ago right around the time a switch went off in my head. I realized that I had been a "working zombie" for the past decade ... work, eat, sleep, repeat. On top of that I had fallen into some bad/lazy habits and was no longer enjoying the things that used to give my life meaning and joy ... meaningful work, volunteering, family and friends, climbing, lifting, mountaineering, etc. I realized that it was time for a 180 degree change.
Over the past couple of months I've been working my way through this polar shift. I left the corporate world to start a new mission based non-profit (although I must admit I do miss the consistent pay check); I'm taking my health and workouts seriously; committing more of my time to friends, family and my community; and really detailing and planning out what I want to accomplish in my life. Trying to answer the question ... what will I see when I reflect on my life?
So I guess I just wanted to thank you for the effort you put into this blog, your humorous approach to life and helping me to become the man/hero that I know I can be.
Cheers!Thanks for posting Chad. Glad you decided to come in from the cold. :)
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How will I become my own hero?
I did a lot of reflecting in the past few months and especially the past week or so as 2010 came to a close. I realized this has been a really tough year and I have definitely seen personal growth but overall I am still pretty far from "my own hero". After my reflections, I came to this simple conclusion...
Just do it (yeah I know Nike said it first but it applies, sue me)
I have been trying to gain weight and put on some serious muscle for A LONG time now. I've read everything there is to read (Scrawny to Brawny, Built for show, Max strength, show and go, Huge in a hurry) and still make little progress so it has come down to this-- It's time to get big so just do it. I will do whatever it takes.
I've been planning on moving forward professionally (dream of opening my own gym) but have stayed safe because it all seemed too risky, so in 2011 I'm going to "just do it." Whatever comes my way that will get me closer to that dream I will do, as risky as it is or as far out of my comfort level it happens to be.
One of these such things is getting a website and blog going (in the works for atleast 6-8 months with little to show) and I have made a plan to attack this head on and get it going. NOW.
I have a few habits and "time wasters" that are absolutely killing my productivity, all of which I have refused to deal with for a really long time, and I plan to start dealing with those today, and remove everything that is causing me to be unproductive.
If I can do these things I will be well on my way to becoming my own hero, looking forward to all the stuff you have planned!
How have I become my own hero?
I finally committed to a strength program and finished, from start to finish (and saw some pretty sweet gains in the process.
I've done a lot of things in the last year, with encouragement from this and other blogs, that put me out of my comfort zone and made me a better person.
I make a conscience effort to do whats right regardless of the situation or consequence. -
How will I become my own hero?
Simple - I'm going to proclaim my goals to everyone who'll listen. This has 2 aspects to it: a) By saying it out loud, I'm initiating my goals in a way; and b) By telling people about it, I'll be forced to be more accountable, since they'll hold me to it. I think one of the traits that a hero should have is transparency, which relates back to living according to your values. If you have nothing to hide, what you are essentially saying is 'hey, while I may not be perfect (I mean, come on, we're all human), at the very least, I'm credible'.
So, one of my goals is to put on another 10lbs of muscle this year, as well as compete in a fitness show. I've been telling people about this, and so in away, I'm setting myself up to succeed :)
How have I become my own hero already?
This past year, I've essentially deconstructed my life, and then built it up again. I've transitioned into becoming a person that always looks to improve myself, never becoming complacent by accepting where I'm at. The way I see it, since we know that no one's perfect, and thus, we can never be perfect, there is always something that can be cone better. I've filtered out all the bad relationships, and solidified friendships which help me grow and become a better person. I've also started focusing on others a lot more than myself, something which I have found very fulfilling.
Here's to a great 2011, which will no doubt be awesome and rewarding if it's going to be better than 2010 :D -
The site has an awesome new look-n-feel - congrats. Also wanted to thank you for the continued knowledge. It's been a huge help!
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1. How? Simple. My only pseudo-resolution is BE MORE AWESOME.
2. My kryptonite is disguised as a disc in my lower back; once I figure out a way to outsmart that little fucker, I plan to be unstoppable.
(in unrelated news, the first captcha for my comment didn't like the snide but honest answer that "Rocks are heavy or light depending on how big they are." ;-) ) -
Great blog Nate I love reading your stuff.
To be my own Hero:
I plan on continuing to be a great father to my son's and growing stronger in that role everyday.
My big focuses this year are bringing my fitness to the next level and competing in my first Strong Man competition.
Also after getting into Tim Ferris' Four Hour Work week I know I need to take my financial game up a few notches so I can have the time I desire to be with my boys and be in the gym as much as I'd like.
Finally the most pressing thing on my mind of this moment; is to finally date a woman that takes physical fitness seriously. I have yet to date a woman that cares as much as I do, or at all for that matter about health and fitness. Between celibacy and dating another woman that thinks the gym is "gross" or hates to sweat; I might end up getting my priest license.
That being said I need to isolate and then eradicate any holes in my way of being or thinking that are standing in the way of me and the girl in the gym that gets just as offended when she sees some dude doing arm curls in the squat rack.
Feedback is always appreciated, the blunter the better.
EJB -
simply in a couple of words be the best son that i can be..i know that sounds simple oh well you asked. have a happy and safe new year!!!
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I'll play too. Great new design.
I'll become my own hero this year by continuing to fine-tune my diet, my schedule at home with my kids, getting them involved in sports and music, continue to advance in my career and with my musical endeavors.
I've already become my own hero by working out consistently for 2 years, maintaining between 10-15% BF, joining a band, earning the money I want to earn, writing songs, learning to play instruments, having full custody and placement with my two boys, and in general living life on my terms. -
Nice new site Mr. Green... Calendar marked and ready for you new project.
I am no hero material yet, but in this year I will try my best to get as close as possible.
For me the biggest obstacle in becomming a hero lies in my head, but reading this blog often gives me a big boost in motivation. Keep up the good work!!! -
Awesome new layout, great way to start 2011
1. In 2011 - Lose 54 more pounds, start grad school OR move overseas for 6 months, complete 5 dead hang pullups, run a marathon in December, learn to break dance, brew my own beer, wake up every day to a new song
2. In 2010 - Lost 54 pounds, travelled solo throughout the Balkans, was a best man at a Czech wedding, ran 5 miles in 10 different countries, completed a set of 5 chinups and a half marathon, and stopped snoring. This is my new standard for judging years.
Cheers, appreciate all the insight, keep it coming. -
The site looks awesome, Nate. You and Jason did a great job.
This year, I'm going to become my own hero by taking my workouts and nutrition to a higher level, by sharing what I know and what I learn about living healthy to as many people as I can, by building a business that provides a decent income while letting me help people understand their strengths, and by putting huge focus on paying it forward. As the blogger Jonathan Fields challenged, I'm going to work to start each day by asking, "Who can I help today?" A lot of what's going to make my life better is making more of a positive impact in the lives of others.
And, as an aside, I'm going to be my own hero by not feeling ashamed, embarrassed or unwelcome here because I'm gay when I read casual comments like the one from the second poster. I'm going to keep working toward moving us closer to a sense of community that's, if not accepting, at least tolerant.
I started to become my own hero in January of '09, when, after being laid off and ballooning to nearly 300lbs, I took control of my life, became a certified coach and started my fitness journey. Just one year later, this past January, I finished the Disney marathon. I've dropped my body fat from over 37% to barely 16%, with a new goal of 12% for 2011.
The inspiration and eduction you've provided to us all has been a big motivation for my success. When people ask who my heroes are, you're always near the top of the list. Thanks, man.Thanks Will! I checked out your blog and think you have a great thing going. Keep it up.
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1. How will you become your own hero this year?
Incremental progress by way of hard work. I will try to maintain a healthy lifestyle geared toward mental and physical performance and longevity. I'm going to try my best to leave a positive impact on the people I meet in life.
2. How have I become my own hero already?
4 years ago I was diagnosed with schizophrenia. I did not ask for this to happen and I've damned God plenty of times because of it. This was right after graduating university and I had so much pressure on my shoulders. It sucked and basically everyone I knew, people I used to call dear friends, treated me as if I had leprosy. It was the worst thing that could have happened to me but also the best.
4 years later and my life is in order. I'm becoming stronger and wiser every day. My apartment and my car are immaculately clean. I exercise daily and eat very clean (thanks for the bison chili recipe, btw). I was able to conquer this malady on my own and without the use of medication (unless fish oil and vitamin D count).
Long story short, I believe in myself, I know I am kindhearted and capable, and not even a freight train will stop me from reaching my goals in life. -
@ Everyone
There are some incredibly inspirational pieces in the comments. Thanks to you all for sharing. Keep 'em coming.
Also, if you haven't already, I suggest you go through and read a few. It's always cool to see what other people's fears, aspirations, and motivations are.
Cheers,
Nate -
I received a diagnosis of bipolar depression in May of 2010. The diagnosis changed my life because the roller coaster disaster that was my life all of a sudden smoothed out. I missed an 'A' in a science course by 3 points for the first time in my life, the constant monolog in my head finally silenced and I could predict how I'd feel on any given day.
Your website has made this all even easier.
Thank you. -
This year I plan to regain my sanity and self esteem through the use of additional exercise, breathing, and good nutrition.
Being an Optometry student can get pretty stressful and I have lost touch with myself over the past year. Being a former college athlete I plan to get back to myself and lose a lot of the stress that I have burdened myself with. This includes a weekly plan of work out and meals. The future plans include:
-a spring marathon
- a summer full ironman
-starting and maintaining yoga
-Riding my bike
- Staying connected with my family
With the help of your blog and my positive thoughts all of this can be achieved.
Happy New Year. -
1. How will you become your own hero this year?
I'm going try to better myself with eating better and working out
more. I'm also going to better myself buy finding a new job, something i can make
a career instead of just another dead end job.
2. How have you become your own hero already?
I've not! Thats why i'm here looking for tips -
This year i'm on my way to becoming my own hero through quitting what i hated and was taking me no where to jumping in to things i love and want to achieve with both feet. I'm in my final year of University to become Musculoskeletal therapist and undertaking my Certificate 3 & 4 in fitness. When i graduate i'm going to begin incorporating all the soft tissue, fascial, joint mobilisation techniques into the way i structure training for everyone and myself. In doing so i hope to improve clients quality of life and make their training more beneficial and work on improving in all aspects of my life and begin adventuring around the world and helping people as best i can. My girlfriend and i are also very excited experimenting with Tim Ferriss's Slow carb diet to help us become both stronger and leaner.
Thankyou -
Body Transformation. Debt Reduction. Fin!
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How do I become my own hero this year? By not being afraid of being wrong.
By pushing past that weight that's been keeping me down. Professionally, by shipping out designs fearlessly, by posting that piece I've been editing for days because I need it to be perfect. By stopping myself from stopping myself.
Real writers publish; real designers ship; real people just do. -
How will you become your own hero this year? How have I become my own hero already?
Hero status will occur at my death. I will become my own hero when I have achieved every goal I have set. I will continue setting new goals for myself until life has escaped me.
To begin with, I will take control of my life. I will not settle for mediocrity. I will keep moving forward. This is my quest to Hero-status. -
(1) This year my biggest step towards heroism will be branching out and traveling to experience some different cultures. My hope is to plan a trip to Sweden/Germany and live there for a month or two month period to help source out where I'd like to set myself up after university. I also plan to be conversant in the native language when I do get there.
(2) My greatest step towards becoming my own hero thus far definitely falls under the health and fitness category. Thanks in large part to the writing done by yourself, John Romaniello, Craig Ballantyne, and Tim Ferris I am now stronger, leaner, and healthier while spending half as much time in the gym. Thanks Nate. -
The new layout looks great Nate!
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Im gonna be my own hero by finally doing more functional exercises to rehab my body. At 28, I've got too many injuries so far and it really pisses me off so much so that I'm starting to do more to make sure I can lift, play ball, and be a badass for as long as possible.
I've been a hero to myself by trying to give more to others than I take. A very hard but worthwhile goal!
Thanks Nate for your articles and returned email. -
How will I become a HERO this year?........ I will start by forgetting the past, planning for the future but most important I WILL LIVE IN THE MOMENT!!........Living in the moment is key to being a HERO I think. Loving life is living in the moment.....most people are so asleep in their fantasies that they don't realize that life is passing them by year in and year out. I will also improve my diet and workouts stepping them up a notch, I want to add different foods to my already healthy meals and more advance hardcore circuit training workouts to my weekly training. I will focus also on my breathing adding longer meditations in the morning and at night focusing on connecting myself to my inner being. I will discipline my body and make it my slave, thru hardcore workouts, clean eating and mindful meditation I will become a stronger HERO this year. I wont forget to add also to give back, I will give back to those that are lost and in need of motivation in their life in need of positive presence to give them hope again, I will supply my knowledge and experience of life and fitness to all those that want it :).
Last year I became a HERO by changing my life from a negative state of being to a positive one. I started by changing all my bad habits....from eating to my view of the world around me and accepting full responsibility for all the errors I had committed till that point.......I lost 51 pds and got in the best shape of my life.....from p90x to insanity to my own cross-fit style workouts. I also got back into school to become a personal trainer, I became a HERO by connecting with my spirit and letting it coincide with my body, I freed myself from years of bad habits and decided to live life to the fullest :).
Thank YOU -
Here i go:
GOALS THAT WERE SET IN 2010 and lead me to the hero STATUS, lol:
Passing the barrier of 2 times bodyweight full squat -Achieved
Deadlifting over 2.5times bodyweight -Achieved
10 one armed push up,each arm(close stance)- Achieved
Maintaining a flexibility program for 6days a week during 6months straight -Achieved
Improving my hip mobility and flexibility -Achieved
Improving the health of my groin -Achieved
Improving side split flexibility and side kick (that was hard)- Indeed Achieved
Helping at least two people to achieve their goals related to strength training and muscle mass and life quality. -Achieved
Finally adding a couple inches to my running vertical jump- Achieved
GOALS SET FOR 2011 that will make of me a super HERO:
Full Squatting at least 2.5times bodyweight.
Deadlifting at least 3times bodyweight.
Front squatting 1.5times bodyweight.
Improving hip mobility and thoracic spine mobility.
Rehabing more my groins and strengthening my abductors and aductors.
Mastering the one armed chin up.
Bringing my side split 1/3 away from the floor.
Adding another couple of inches to my running two feet vertical jump.
Learning the freaking power clean.
Getting done with my personal website.
Getting my certification.
Helping as much people as possible to achieve their goals.
Making it at least half way through my master degree and finding a rare breed advisor!lol
Ultimately becoming a total badass muthefucker.
Here is it for now,and im already on it,2011 will have to catch up with me cause im not waiting for him.
I wish for every upcoming people who are going to comment in this page the best in achieving their goals.Keep up the hard work.
peace -
Awesome work Nate.
Your site is looking great.
Keep up the inspirational ramblings! :) -
1. How will I become my own hero this year?
I will get more experience with weight training (myself and others), get my flabby butt leaner and eating better, all while in graduate school, with a full course load, and a teaching assistanceship. I will also reach a new level of strength, 600+ lbs on deadlift, 500+ on squat, and at least a legitimate 400 on bench press.
2. How have I already become my own hero?
5 years ago this May I had viral myocarditis and nearly died. Nothing like the doctors telling you that you may not be able to do anything with weights again. Since then I have competed in 3 bodybuilding shows, 1 strongman competition, deadlifted 575 pounds and continue to get stronger. It is one thing to let life kick you, it is another more difficult thing to turn and kick back. -
First of all, long-time reader, first-time poster. Now, to the important part...
How will you become your own hero?
I will become my own hero by working on all aspects of my life. In the gym, I'll take the Daft Punk approach: harder, better, faster, stronger. Diet-wise, I will continue to eat clean and learn to cook a wider variety of cuisines/dishes; for example, I roasted a lamb leg for the first time last night. It was awesome.
My other goals are harder to define, but are no less crucial to my development. For one, I want to work on recognizing the times that I've gotten into a rut - whether that's socially, diet-wise, gym-wise, job-wise, etc. It's incredibly easy to fall into ruts, and not too hard to break out of them - but realizing that I'm in one is incredibly difficult for me. This year I will work on recognizing when I'm beginning to fall into a rut, thus allowing myself to break out of one sooner. I also plan on improving my relationships with my friends by helping them reach their own goals. My lifting buddy - who never lifted consistently until meeting me about a year ago - recently told me that he's never felt so strong or so fast in his entire life, and that going to the gym with me is one of the best things that happened to him this past year. That made me feel awesome, and this year I plan to do the same with all of my friends; I want to contribute to their own personal journey(s) in self-improvement. I feel that your best friends are the ones who help you improve as a person (thereby becoming your own hero), and this year, I want to be that friend.
How have I already become my own hero?
Three years ago, I lost 60 lbs and have kept it off since then. Since then, I've added about 15 lbs of lean body mass and gotten significantly stronger. Although my poundages are not worth bragging about (and I still have much further to go), I am stronger and more athletic than I have ever been. While this makes me feel pretty awesome by itself, the most important thing I've done recently is learning to be happy with myself while simultaneously acknowledging that there's room for improvement. For me, this is a delicate balancing act; I've fallen into ruts on both sides. On one side, I've been completely happy with everything and stagnated because I didn't have the drive to improve, and on the other side, I've made great fitness/diet gains while being incredibly unhappy. This past year, I've finally learned (more or less) to be confident and happy with where I am while simultaneously acknowledging my flaws and working to improve them. This has allowed me to improve myself while staying happy and satisfied, which is a big step towards living my dream life. -
Short and sweet, be a badass at everything I do (work, play, fitness, being a new dad!) and try as many different beers as humanly possible before I kick the bucket.
Mainly by being the best dad ever once baby arrives in March.
Keep on rocking Nate, your blog is truely the best out there, no BS, easy to relate to and just plain kickass like this tasty IPA in my hand...mmm beer -
1) I will become my own hero this year by staying consistent with heavy weights without getting injured.
2) I have already become my own hero by adding 20 lbs in 5 months with little fat gain. -
How will you become your own hero this year?
Becoming what i've always "dreamed" about. A lifter in competition, a better lover, a better friend, and an all around better guy. No more awkwardness i'm proud to be who I am and make no shame in anything. I like Lady GaGa so what? That's hypothetical btw and completely true. Oh and a fitness blogger obviously. I also would like to a do a "gym tour" where I visit all my peers and train with them and gather new information and just meet some new people. You down Nate?
Also, a side note buy a junker motorcycle and fix up that bad boy myself. It's a project i'm excited to take on..
How have you become your own hero already?
Well losing damn near 100 pounds is a pretty big feet that i'm proud of. Successfully putting up 135 on Military Presses is now slouch either. But, really i've become a better man. I finally cook, shop, and do my own laundry. I feel like i'm in control and after seeing the way my father turned out I hope I never go down that road. I'm on the endless highway called life and i'll be sure to make every stop along the way.I really like the "no shame" rule. For instance, I think Justin Timberlake is one talented guy. And I'm not ashamed to say that. :)
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I will become my own hero by exercising 6 days a week, read some books to know how to work out more intelligently, finish my degree, and be more focused in my work.
I have become my own hero already by after 20 years of marriage, making a stronger effort to pour as much love into my wife as I can. -
1. This year I set some goals all obtainable but difficult. I wanted a challenge again and I have it. The first goal Start a side project to make money, Second pay off my student loans, Third get down to 190lbs (224 now). I have the muscle but my "bulking" time extended a lot longer than it should have. Basically out of contentment. So that's about to change. Fourth read 30+ books this year. a little less than a book a week. No fiction.
I will accomplish all these goals. I set in a room of over 100 people and they were asked if anyone set resolutions last year and had them raise their hand if they accomplished them. No one raised their hand. Next year I will be the guy raising his hand and explaining how I accomplished all four of my difficult goals.
2. For the first time in my life in the past year I finally felt like my own hero. I finished college with Two degrees with one of those being Entrepreneurship. The first to ever graduate with that degree from Kansas State University. I also helped them create the major for future students which makes me feel like I left a legacy, it is a field I am passionate about. Once I graduated I got a job. Four months into my job the entire company was told they would be laid off. At this point I was paying student loans and paying my Moms bills due to her losing her job a year ago. I was also helping my Grandparents with their finances since they were helping my aunt and uncle because both of them had lost their jobs. All this while saving enough money that I could live when I lost mine. I utilized minimalism and became a lot less materialistic to finally become the independent person I have always wanted to be.
Best part was I got on my grind started networking and got a new job, which I started today and is in a field I could only dream about getting into. So now all the money I have saved will go to starting a retirement fund and some will be used to take a trip to either Boston or San Francisco. Pumped about life right now!Congrats on the new job!
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Nate, love the new site design. Way cool.
1. How will you become your own hero this year?
By finally having a noticeable body transformation, one that makes people ask me, "What the heck have you been doing?!?"
I'll accomplish this by implementing the lessons I've learned from the past year or so not only from this Blog, and your book, Built for Show, but also from TNation, and from lessons from Vince Del Monte and Alwyn Cosgrove.
I'll also continue to improve my nutrition, by increasing fruits and vegetables, and increasing the amount of organic foods I buy and consume.
2. How have you already become your own hero?
By getting into the gym. This was such a huge obstacle to overcome, as I was rather inactive as a teen. Then, I got to college, and it hit me that I NEEDED to do something about my body. I weighed a scant 140 lbs, and was tired of always getting made fun of.
Two years later, I weigh in at 175, and am still not "huge", which is my next project. However, I'm in better shape than I have ever been, and people haven't made fun of my size ever since.
I've also become my own hero in my passion for nutrition. So much so, that I switched my college major to Sports Nutrition, from a Chemistry major that I hated. Ever since, my quest for perfect nutrition has only gotten more enjoyable.
Well, that's pretty much all I got. Haha
I'm sure there's more to say, but it would probably be hard to put into words, so I'll leave it at that.
Happy new Years, everyone! -
How will you become your own hero this year?
Its hard to say a definite answer because i hate going back on my words but I'm trying my best to become a navy seal. Now I'm taking this in literal terms because if I don't get ready or prepare myself I'm only going to have to fight to keep up with everyone else instead of fighting for myself. Also in real world situations you have to make the decisions on whether it is "right" regardless of what you think is right.
2. How have you become your own hero already?
I've been facing my fears one by one. I was always shy so I would never read my essays in front of people but this year I took a elective called public speaking where you are required to write and read your own speeches. Now this year I love speaking in front of people and I find joy in making people laugh which is another one of my weak points. -
I'm going to flip the order of your questions since the short answer of what I will do is building on what I have already done.
2) How have you become your own hero already?
In May of 2009, I graduated college with a B.A. in business administration. I came out with a 3.8 GPA. I learned a tough lesson in time management during my final semester: to graduate in time (4 years), I had to stack up 23.5 credit hours... I did not read all of my assigned readings, but used laser-like focus to find what was most important and only do what was necessary to come out with A's in the classes that matters. I also participated in choir (just for fun--I have no ambition in singing), directed a live play, performed as the lead in another play, and somehow found the time for fun. All work and no play makes Dan a dull boy.
I was stoked to graduate: however, I looked at myself in the mirror on graduation day, and what I saw was bluntly a fat fuck. I came out with flying colors in grades and experiences, but my body had suffered. I was 230 pounds of fat. This is the very moment I decided I would never be fat again. That summer and fall I went from 230 pounds to 190: my waist size went from a 40 to a 36. Then I got into lift-weighting thanks to Starting Strength, New Rules of Lifting, and Built for Show. I started on SS and then performed various routines in NROL and BFS, along with a diet high in healthy fat and protein and low in carbs, and have built myself back up to 217 pounds of new muscle (with the same 36 waist size). I am in the best shape of my life and it will only get better from here.
I also met the girl of my dreams this year. In the past I had a rule that I would not date a woman with a child as this terrified me, but as I believe rules are made to be broken, I gave it a shot... and am I glad I did. It has only been 5 months, but I feel like I have known this girl forever. We share a love of nutrition and health, have similar life-goals (world travel, having our own garden, arts), and cannot get enough of each other.
Theatre is my greatest passion. There are a ton of live theatres in this area where I have performed, but directing is my greatest ambition. I have busted my tail on and off-stage for years in an attempt to be selected to direct, and it has finally paid off. Yesterday I started rehearsals for "Don't Dress for Dinner," a farce I am directing, and in June I will be directing another show at another theatre called "Almost, Maine."
Lastly, at work, I became very dissatisfied with my position. I was a lowly teller in a credit union and have wanted to use the knowledge and skills I learned at school and in personal study on the job. I sent a long e-mail letter to our company's new CEO outlining my frustrations with the company in general as well as my job status, along with suggestions for improvement, and how I felt I could better perform for the company. A few months later I got a promotion with more pay, less stress, and a new gig where I can use my true strengths. Now I am a certificate and IRA guru and am practically in charge of all funds entering the credit union. I have the ability to negotiate rates and am attempting to restructure the maturing money we have in a more balanced fashion to evenly spread cash flow. I used to dread work, but now I look forward to it.
1) What am I doing to do this year?
As I said: simply build on these successes.
I still have a tiny spare tire that is making me grow tiresome. I am not a big fan of cardio and have been focusing on weights only for the last few months. I am going to do an easier weights routine than I have grown accustomed to and perform jumping rope circuits on off-days. My time in the gym has to be short since I go on lunch and have rehearsal in the evenings. I will do the weight workouts one day, jump rope for 20 minutes and do a planks circuit the next, take a day off, and repeat. I am hoping this change will help me put more energy into the cardio and core exercises that have been neglected for the last few months.
The two plays I am directing WILL be the best productions of the year at each respective theatre. I have selected an excellent cast for the current one, will scout out an excellent cast for the next, and I have several promotional tricks up my sleeve to boost attendance and create an all-around good time for everyone. My cast will have fun and learn something new at every rehearsal: otherwise, I am not doing my job.
I will continue to build on my relationship. We have learned a lot about each other, but I believe there is always something new to learn, no matter how small. We are going to push each other to excel at work, encourage healthy eating and sticking to workout regimes, and are looking at moving in together sometime in spring. It will be an excellent experience for us both.
At work I will make more money in deposits than we lose in certificate closing; so far every month, I have brought in at least $1 million more than we lost. If I can keep that up, I believe another promotion along with more pay, potentially my own office, and other perks cannot be far behind. -
1. Being a highschool student, one of the biggest favors I can do for myself is get some damn sleep. However procrastination and reading blogs and workout articles seem to suck up a lot of time. I'm going to get more sleep, waste less, time and get better grades. Also, being a highschool athlete, I obviously want to get bigger and stronger, and to look good in general. I'm about 180 lbs, 15% bodyfat. Once I get to 185 lbs, which is around where you are, then I'll start cutting, shed some extra fat, look and feel better.
2. I've achieved a level of self-worth that I can be proud of. I'm confident in my appearance and actions. Obtaining leadership roles in school (Class President) and saying no to drugs and (for the time being) alcohol. I have a core set of values (at a relatively young age) that I can adapt and follow for the rest of my life. -
I already bust my butt in the office and in the gym. This year I'm going to become my own hero by investing in my family's future. Up until this point, my wife and I have only contributed the minimum into our respective retirement plans, but no more! I'm going start an independent IRA in both of our names, and come hell or high water I will contribute to it from every pay cycle... money saved is money earned as they say!
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Q1: How will I become my own hero this year?
To be more and more like the good Samaritan and share what God has blessed me with.
Q2: How I've already become my own hero?
By taking better and better care of myself so I can better fulfill that mission. After my brother's heart attack, I've learned how important it is to visit the doctor yearly, I'm turning around my cholesterol, and increasing my strength and overall health by working out. -
Hi Nate. Cool new site.
1. How will you become your own hero this year?
Over the past few years of training, i manage to get into decent shape. Had a few good big lifts and jumps. However i know that i can achieve more. I am looking forward to push myself hard this year with my training, diet and be "special" . ok - (HERO) haha
2. How have you become your own hero already?
I set up a Fitness Lifestyle Site last year and wrote over 34 articles. For someone who hates writing, I am very happy with what I had done. As a personal trainer, nothing feels better than helping my clients to achieve their fitness goals.
Why I deserve to win the prizes?
Because this comment is written all the way from Singapore. And Yes Nate, People here know about you!. Keep up the good work!! Cheers.. -
I will become my own hero this year by simply reaching the simple goals I have set for myself. I have through diligent study discovered the truth in the fitness industry by means of people such as yourself, Robert Dos, Chad Waterbury, Eric Cressey etc. Cutting through the garbage that dominates the fitness industry I strive to follow people like you who are leaders in what is right in the industry. My goal is to become great and a true leader of fitness. However, I have run into many setbacks which have been discouraging. This leads me to the second question: How I've already become my own hero. I was enrolled in a Fitness and Health program in college but due to personal issues unfortunately had to discontinue my studies. Through personal study I try and grow and learn more as a fitness enthusiast. I too have had an ongoing shoulder and scapula problem which limits my workouts which at times is very discouraging. I have taken the necessary steps to correct these problems and continue to work on my mobility, strength and aesthetic looks. On top of this I broke my calcaneus training in a gymnastics gym which put me out of commission for a long time and will have negative effects on my performance for many years to come. Through rigorous physio and swimming trying to gain my ankle mobility I am now back in the gym and stronger then ever. I am taking steps and not letting anyone discourage me in my goals and that is why I am my own hero.
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Like the new digs on the site Nate.
How I am going to become my own hero
1. Be true to myself and not compromise who I am for others.
I got out of a tough relationship a couple years ago and basically morphed into a people pleaser because I was lonely. Over the past few months, I realized how dishonest this was to myself and others. I have been working on being okay with who I am and not changing myself to make friends. I have found that this has made me much happier than I have ever been.
2. Express my feelings better and in a manlier way
By this I mean just letting people know how I feel. If I am mad at them, they will know, if I care about them, they will know. I feel that if you constantly bottle up your feelings that you'll never truly be happy.
3. Finish PT school
4. Get as strong as I can in a years span -
1. This coming semester I'm determined to kick some ass at school. I really want to improve my grades. I'm not that bad right now, but I know I can do a lot better. At the same time, I want to get in better shape. I miss my six pack, and I really want to improve my squat.
2. I'm my own hero already because I know when I need to work on weaknesses, and I constantly strive to improve myself.
Nate, I love reading your articles. Ever since I started they've been a huge inspiration to me. Thanks! -
Hey Nate,
First off very neat change to the blog! Really liked the huge tagline that sends out a very clear message for us readers.
Now to answer the questions...
1. How will I become my own hero this year?
I really do inspire to be more like you Nate. I am young (turning 23 this year), just finished National Service not long ago and do not have a college degree (not that i undermine education). I already know that personal training and coaching will be my path and I am currently tackling that by training others, educating myself through books and DVDs and hanging out with the right motivated bunch of friends who are striving to achieve their own goals. We may very much form our own Justice League next time!
2. How did I become my own hero already?
Through persistence and faith. I've always knew what I wanted and fought for what I believed in - In order to take care of others, you got to first take care of yourself. For the best gift to others is yourself. My belief had aspired some friends to pick up the iron and chip off the harmful things in their lives to becoming better people. I want to do that for more people, even if I have to do it one person at a time ;)
Thanks Nate for everything you have done so far. -
That picture of you has you holding a blackberry. I thought you only used a phone that made calls and texts.
Good catch. I bit the bullet and got one because it's "world capable". It was a life-saver in Europe. Also, it makes posting photos to Facebook pretty easy. However, for day-to-day, I only use it for calls and texts.
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My long-term goal to become my own hero is to become a doctor so that I can bring revolutionary progress to the field of health-care.
I plan to do this by applying to med schools at the end of the year and doing everything within my power to show admissions committees that they absolutely need me at their school. I am firmly committed to becoming my own hero and setting an example for others to get the most out of their lives in their own way.
The greatest reason I have become my own hero is because I stopped depending on other people to be my hero for me. I used to live life by grinding away and merely accepting what life had thrown at me, but now I decide my own terms by utilizing the principle I've learned from 4HWW, the 80/20 principle, Nate's blog, and other life-design/hacking resources. I decided I needed to be my own hero because getting everything I possibly can out of life is my motivation. -
I am determined to make changes in 2011, after having a rollercoaster 2010. I will get organized in my life in general, including my home life - simplifying and keeping things in order - which ultimately lends to striving toward a healthier and stronger me, in my fitness and nutritional goals.
I feel I am already a hero in ways where I influence others - not only by way of example, but even more so in ways that I can help others - whether in their everyday needs, or even just being there when needed. -
I've already become my own hero by triumphing in one of the most difficult and drawn-out battles ever.
As of 10 September 2010, I finally beat bulimia, a condition I've struggled with for the past 3 years.
It seems weird and even laughable to imagine a guy contracting such an eating disorder, but I am proud to leave it out.
I suffered from it for 3 whole years, denied losing control over myself, fought it, relapsed and finally beat it.
To someone who's been obsessed over fitness and nutrition for two-thirds of his 19-year-old life, to contract an eating disorder was certainly a surprise. However, if only you'd known the circumstances behind it, you'd understand.
I hurt a lot of people along the way and shunned friends, content to suffer in silence.
Now, in 2011, I intend to become a hero in my own eyes, not just for me.
I feel your definition of a hero is inadequate. A hero must also be selfless and contribute to help others.
Why else would Spiderman, Superman an Batman be considered heroes? They used their abilities for the good of others, strangers they didn't know.
I intend to make 2011 the best year of my life so far by righting the wrongs of 2010 and using the experience to drive myself forward with clear, tangible goals.
Many think that resolutions for the new year just consist of wishes and hopes. For me, improvement comes about by also righting any mistakes or wrongs of the past year.
I've written extensively about my mistakes in 2010 in my blog, so please do read it if you have the time.
Without further ado, I present to you my goals for 2011:
My Fitness goals:
1a) Join and win the upcoming Adonis Lifestyle transformation contest, which starts in mid-January (please don't let my following a programme that you might not endorse deter you from entering me as a winner!)
1b) Get down to a 28 inch waist by end-January (one inch to go)
1c) Increase my shoulder measurement to 47 inches (current: 43.5 inches)
1d) Get to shredded condition (6% body fat) by the end of the contest.
2) Run 2.4km in under 10min by 1st March
3) Do at least 12 chin-ups by 1st March
4) Standing Broad Jump of 240cm by June (current: 220cm)
My non-fitness goals:
1) Get at least 10 comments on my blog per post (my blog seeks to sift out the facts of fitness and nutrition from the factoids and give a frank perspective of the programmes out there from a consumer's perspective)
2) Design a good skin for my blog
3) Spend less than $200 per month on luxury goods in the next 2 months
4) Get back to playing piano
5) Hang out more with my friends
6) Be humble to learn and not be an armchair expert; until I've achieve the body I desire will I be qualified to give fitness and nutrition advice to others.
7) Get a girlfriend (?)
8. Get presents for all my friends and family on their birthdays, to make it more memorable for them.
So, those are my goals for 2011. Now on to you, Mr. Nate Green!I agree completely that selflessness, chivalry, and helping others are characteristics or actions of heroes. I'll be writing more about this on the blog.
-
How will I become my own hero?
You know this is a funny question because I have been thinking about this the last few days. Right now I am finishing up my bachelor's degree and I have been realizing slowly that my 2010 was consumed by school and work. Although I did have fun, it was not where I wanted to be as far as going out and living life. It hit me last night when I was working on stuff at my apartment and was depressed because I was alone. Now I'm not going to go all emo here but I realized that I placed meaningless exams and sales quotas at work above those who actually meant something to me: my family and friends. At the same time I realized that my locus of control is within me and I can change my life at my discretion. My goals are to rebuild the incredible social life I used to have and to get my lifts up in the gym to the following numbers. Deadlift:530 Squat: 400 Bench 300. 2011 is going to be a year that I live outside my comfort zone and grow exponentially.
How have I become my own hero already?
I have nearly completed college (with a 3.3 GPA to boot) despite 4 years ago in high school being told that i was better suited for trade school. I have consistently been training for over 7 years. I built a great circle of friends that have my back no matter what and vice versa. I stood up for my family in one of the scariest situations of my life. I am incredibly grateful for every experience in my life thus far and can't wait to see what's next.
God Bless and Happy New Year! -
1. I've had an enormous list of things I should be doing, and that are fully within my graspe. I just need to act. Yet I haven't, again and again. Be it due to procrastination, or stupidity, I've havent acted upon my goals. I am fully aware that doing all these things would take me closer to where I want to be, to who I want to be. But I still dont do them. That will change this year, and forever more.
I've come up with the ideas necessary to follow through. I've have a good mindset and have perseverance with which I have accomplished much already. In the 2 days since the new year, I've already started moving on my ambitions. -
In the 4th grade, a classmate said (in front of our whole class) the only way I'll ever get a ribbon is if they gave one out for "slowest runner." I was devastated and even cried a little.
Growing up, I was always scrawny, weak, and had poor coordination. I'd sit out intramural games and avoid team activities to avoid the embarrassment. Life was depressing to say the least. Once I graduated high school (at 115 lbs), I went to college, picked up my bodybuilding magazine, and went at it!
After a few years, I hit 145 lbs (completely with abs) and boosted my confidence and self esteem through the roof! My attitude towards life has changed completely and I can finally feel proud of my body and what it can do.
That's how I became my own hero. -
Hey Nate, happy new year! The new site looks awesome.
How will I become my own hero this year?
I will put in the extra time and effort that others aren't willing to do in order to become a smart, effective personal trainer once I get NSCA certified in April. By this I mean constantly reading and learning new material in exercise and nutrition. I am currently almost done listening to your Standing on the Shoulders of Giants audio set (from which I got tons of useful information), and in the spring I am going to enroll in the Precision Nutrition Certification Course to further expand my knowledge of nutrition. And although I'm only 21 years old and just starting out, I know that I'll be better suited to train and coach clients than a large majority of the other personal trainers in the area.
How have I become my own hero already?
A year ago I was a biology major in college on the pre med path. I wanted to become a physician, or at least I thought that I did. Although I wanted to help people in some way in whatever career I chose, I just never really had a passion for medicine. I was doing it because my dad is a doctor himself and makes great money. My true passion lied in exercise and sport nutrition. Realizing that I would rather be happy and love my job, I dropped the pre med deal and changed my major to kinesiology, with hopes of one day becoming a strength and conditioning coach. Since then I have been happier in school and life in general, knowing that one day I'm going to love getting up for work in the morning. I am very excited for the future.
Thanks for doing what you do Nate. Ever since I discovered your blog a couple of months ago through T-nation and read about your story and how you got to where you are today, you have been a huge inspiration for me. I wish you the best in 2011.
pc -
Hey Nate
Your a very inspirational figure for me. I really love your approach and attitude towards life.
Thanks Nate for having such a positive impact on my life and many others.
1. How will I become my own hero this year?
Well first thing's first where to begin...
..Act more like a Christian
..Become the definition of Humblecock
..Live each day to the fullest
..Achieve goals that are set
..Become more focused
..To become more organized in general
..Try not to take things for granted
..To overcome obstacles and barriers
..To stand up for myself more and express myself
..To keep moving forward and lead my own way
..To be the best I can be...
2. How am I becoming my own hero already?
Not living up to others expectations - Living up to my own expectations. I really think no one should willing choose to live a miserable or depressing life trying to live up to others expectations.
Believing in my self - You have to believe to achieve.
Leading Well - Not following the crowd and leading my own way in life. -
Hey Nate,
Great new layout and great blog.
1. I will become my own personal hero this year, by first remembering and thanking God for all the blessing he has given me, and remembering that even during the tough times, he blessed good thing to happen fsor me, and he always saw me through those tough times. I must remember these things first and foremost. The second way I will become my own hero this year is by finishing my degree, getting my CSCS certification, and geting a job as a strength coach and I will continue to learn everything I can about strength and conditioning.
I will continue to put the work in to make my body a machine, and I will continue to make sure that I outwork the vast majority of the people around me. I will live the motto: "I do today what others will not, I do tomorrow what others cannot"
I have already become my own hero by having the disipline to maintain good eating habits, and the disipine to put the work in to become a much better Olympic lifter ( A lot of work still to do, but I'm working like hell). I also, this past year, got my USAW and my Crossfit certifications. -
1. How will you become your own hero this year?
I WILL become my own hero by being the best ME I possibly could be.
I WILL get a 500lb squat, 400lb bench, and a 600lb deadlift.
I WILL attack school like I didn't last year. I'm going to put my all into it, study, preview, and get at the least a 3.5 GPA.
I WILL treat my girlfriend even better than I did last year. She's my world.
I WILL plan for the future. I'm turning 19 in February and it's time to think ahead. I need to start thinking about getting a job, selling our old car, and starting a foundation for my life ahead.
And last but not least, I WILL have a blast in 2011. I'll take opportunities, I'll see old friends, try new things, and have fun. It's not life if you're not living.
2. How have you become your own hero already?
I haven't, but I'm trying.
There are some things I am proud of though!
Though I am not my own hero, i have gotten strong(kind of)! 4 Years ago I was a weak skinny kid, weighing 125lbs, missing a 95lbs bench, and deadlifting 135. For 3 years I only had a pull-up bar, dumbbells, and a pipe for a barbell. I got myself to a 365 deadlift, 225 bench, and 185 squat using only that equipment. i joined a gym in July and am now at a 285 Squat, 275 Bench and a 475 Deadlift!
I've never had alcohol. Most kids my age (18) spend their time getting drunk, taking shots, and playing beer pong. I'm happy not to be part of that crowd, and instead plan on enjoying micro-brews when I hit 21.
I am myself, and uncensored. I speak my mind, and don't change myself for other people. I've reached a point where I am contempt with who I am and know completely where my abilities lie.
I want to die knowing people will remember me for something great. And I've got the rest of my life to do that "something!" -
1. I will become my own hero this year by: Speaking up for ME. I tend to swamp myself by putting everyone and everything in front of myself. This year it is time to say "no" once in awhile. Of course my girlfriend and family will still come before numero uno, but I'm out to get mine in 2011 and make some big moves! That and I am going to stay on top of the small things in 2011. The little "easy" stuff shouldn't keep you from accomplishing the bigger things in life.
2. I think the biggest decision I have made in my life to support this idea was enlisting December 2009. Becoming part of the US ARMY National Guard has taught me SO much. I am currently a part of the Officer Candidate School and the lessons I have learned in leadership have been unmatched by anything I have ever done or read. In addition, doing so has afforded me the opportunity to represent our country, go to school and grow as a person. All these things will help mold me into my HERO.
Thanks for the info as always Nate!
Greg -
I've been reading your blog for a few months now and I just wanted to leave a comment as a small way of saying thanks for the inspiration that you give. Sometimes it surprises me how young you are although I suppose it really shouldn't.
This year I'm just gonna make every effort to wake up with a smile on my face and embrace every opportunity that comes my way, even if it's something as simple as getting to know the staff in my local shop a little better.
The usual goals apply as per usual...better health, read more classics, spend more time with family.
Many thanks Nate, to you and everybody reading who gets involved with the site. -
1. I've got 2 pages of goals written for 2011, including professional, fitness, family-related, and personal development. My plan by the end of the year is to reduce my full-time job hours by half in order to expand my private therapy business. I'm networking and getting advice from nationally-recognized professionals in my field and advertising locally (got the whole business card thing and everything), the home office is set up and ready to go. This way I'll be able to work fewer hours at something I don't enjoy, and spend more time pursuing a mission that is meaningful to me (and also 4 times more profitable, allowing me to work fewer hours). Not exactly 4HWW but pretty damn close.
2. I'm currently my own hero by sticking to rituals that help me achieve my goals. I'm up at 4:30 AM every day, ready to attack my goal list, including reading 10 professional texts, 3 classics, and 5 self-improvement books this year (already through 2 and it's only January 4th). I'm improving use of my own body weight and learning to use kettle bells and my new TRX along with my current Turbulence Training program, along with simple diet strategies to be as healthy as possible. WIth my family and business continuing to grow, I've greatly improved time and priority management to make sure the most important goals are achieved while still enjoying my life. I've been using my weekends as food prep for a long time now, so while others at work go to the cafeteria for burritos at lunch, I always have a week's worth of protein and vegetables ready to go in the morning. My current fitness reflects that preparation, I've maintained a lean 165 pounds and 30-inch waist for almost a year (weighed 231 a couple of years ago and 195 on my wedding day). -
1. How will you become your own hero this year?
Well firstly, I need to get my priorities sorted. I want to get a 1st in my degree and focus on my fitness goals. Neither of these goals have anything to do with drinking or playing video games - so this is what I'm going to be cutting down on. I've discovered that it's not about how much time you have; it's about using your time efficiently. This means less lie ins, more time in the library and less time aimlessly browsing the internet. I also need to sort out my financial situation, and get out of my overdraft. I've already given myself a 'reverse raise' but want to save more and spend less; I'm going to be budgeting my weekly spending. If it's not essential to my main goals, it's not going to be spent.
My other goals can be adequately explained by this video;
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w3gQJMMlt_E
2. How have you become your own hero already?
Recently I've been thinking about what I want to do after I've finished my degree. A lot of my friends from university are applying to summer internships at finance companies and I've even applied to a few myself. Unfortunately, there's been a persistent feeling gnawing at me whenever I fill in an application - is this really what I want to do with my life? This christmas, I finally started listening. 2011 is going to be the year when I start working towards MY goals, not everyone else's goals. Graduate jobs are well paid and very respectable, and I will be very happy for any of my friends that manage to get an internship or job offer. But it's not what I want to do.
So to that end, I've bought a few books that will help me in my quest to get into personal training and writing. Rework, The 4 Hour Work Week, I Will Teach You To Be Rich. I'm going to write a plan for the next 5 years of my life, and then when I'm 25, I'll either be doing what I love and enjoying every minute, or I'll have failed, learned a lot, and will be ready to give it another shot. Either way, I won't be sat in an office in the city, wondering how things could have gone differently.Excellent book choices. Those are must-reads.
-
Hey Nate,
I'm a HUGE fan and i love your site,, it's been a great help to me in a lot of ways. this is the first time i've ever posted anything here and that's part of my answer for the first question.
1. I'm usually a risk taker and that can also be my weakness since I'm also pretty reckless and some of the risks that I take aren't worth the consequences that may happen if something goes wrong. So I'll become my own hero this year by pursuing worthier endeavors. I'm already taking risks, might as well risk to become better. For example, this Saturday (Philippine time) I am going to Manila (I live in Cebu) to try-out for the Philippine Rugby team. I'm an undersized hooker(rugby position) but I will think smart, run hard and tackle harder to get in the team.
2. I'm not dead yet (laughing). Well, with every risk that I've taken, reckless or not, I learn something new and meet interesting people along the way. And I'll tell you this, when I look back in the life that I've lived so far, I'm never bored. Maybe sometimes I sing my "shudda, wudda, cudda's" but I will continue to live and continue to learn.
Thanks Nate, love the new layout. By the way, about the shirt, I'm a small (laughing).
Cheers. -
I. Spend as much time with my new son as possible once he is born together with his big sister and let them know everyday how much I love them. Make sure I follow through on Chad Waterbury's 'Huge in a Hurry' programme - 4 weeks gone already. Lastly continue to eat clean 6 days a week and binge on the 7th!
2. Lost 9kg by over 4 months by training and eating right. Have built a business which supports not only my family but also 5 others and makes a difference in people's lives. Have taken big risks by moving countries changing jobs - you name it but have always known it would work out.
Love the new web site Nate - keep it going! -
Nate,
Love the new layout and the emphasis on becoming a hero. Having been fascinated by comic books and superheroes all my life, you just asked me two incredibly loaded questions so here goes.
"How will you become your own hero this year"
This year I intend on reaching a few goals and starting new endeavors. I have started on an 8 week body transformation that will culminate by the end of the year into a 6'4", 235lb, single digit body fat powerhouse. If I'm going to be a hero, I have to look the part, right? I also plan on starting my own lifestyle/nutrition blog. I have always been complimented on how I see the world in a different light from most people and I want to share that and maybe give some pointers on how to be in a class of your own. I have been reading 4 Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss and plan on reading that, 4 Hour Body and a ton of other self-improvement books. I am also getting my NASM certification this year as well as my PN cert and I am helping my best friend open his own training facility here in Tacoma, WA. All of this right here... being the best person you can be, loyalty and devotion to others, and sticking by your values, are what I define as being a true hero. I call this the "Green Lantern" path. The Green Lantern is a hero whose powers are fuelled by force of will, imagination, and courage... and being played by Ryan Reynolds, he also has killer abs... not another bad goal either.
"How have you become your own hero already"
Probably in a lot more ways than I am aware of. It didn't hit me until Dec. 4, 2010... a silver Lexus SUV collided with a motorcyclist who was speeding and driving recklessly. The cyclist lost his right leg below the knee save for a few inches of his shin. I pulled over, my companion called 911 and I began first aid on the spot. I didn't think much of it but according to everyone I was a hero because someone was still alive because of me. I just did what I knew was right at the time, and used my skills, ability, knowledge, and values to guide my decisions when most people weren't even trying to get involved. Becoming my own hero has been a journey thus far of discovering my own inner strength and developing that into an outer strength. -
Would first like to say that not only reading your blog, but what other people have wrote on this comment wall, have been inspiring.
To become my own hero, I have to say it started a few years ago with reading. I love to read now, which I hated as a kid; but reading is not only a good way to get inspired but is a window into enlightenment. Which opened up my eyes to new views of life I never thought were possible.
Also I always looked to my parents who have been heros or mine, people who didn't have millions but always seemed to live within their means and have the hearts of gold. People who would put others needs and wants before theirs, and never complain about it. I have to say now that I am getting older I appreciate them and the little things in life, not just a new dvd or something you can buy at the store. Which reminds me of one of your blogs about de cluttering your life. I have to say once you get down to the bare bone of things you have in your life, its so much more fun living.
To be my own hero is to keep my family and friends around me who have been not only positive influence in my life, but have show me what it truly means to live. I want to have that same influence everyday on others, to make my life meaningful and enjoyable. Not to live what television tells you what will make you happy or what products will change your life, but to wake up every day and live my life to the fullest and the way I want!
Thank you... -
1. :) what should i say - you have written it already - i need to become "a person with an athletic, powerful body"...
As for the second question:
2. How have i become my own hero?
I do what i thing is right - help whenever i can help - try always to be honest ....
Or simple - I live by my own rules and values. -
1) How will I become my own hero?
I am striving towards an elite total this year as a powerlifter (181 USAPL raw), starting my own warehouse style performance gym, getting the lady to move here/in, and enjoying life more. These are things I will do. Not things I'm striving for, things that will happen.
2) How have I become my own hero already?
I don't know that I have, I feel as though I'm always striving to be better and looking at new ways to do things/view things. I feel as though I'm always weaker then my future self, and can't say that I am my own hero, but hope that I have set a good example for others, that maybe I am someone else's hero. Your blog has given me a lot of insight into happiness and realizing that you have to enjoy life to truly live it. In that regards you have been a hero to me. I realized I wasn't living life to the fullest or even enjoying it and your blog has truly helped me in that regards so thank you. -
1) How will I become my own hero?
I have thougtht about this for i while. For me, becoming a hero is getting out of my comfort zone and do as many new things as possible. After reading "4 Hour Body" I decided to try "Geek 2 Freak" to gain some serious mass.
Also I started to take self-defence courses. And after that i'm ready to take up some dancing classes. To top it all off I found half time job, so I can still keep on studying and earn some extra $$$.
My girlfriend dumped me on New Years Eve and took of with some random guy. So the next big thing is to get over her and find someone who truly loves me.
2)How have I become my own hero already?
I haven't. But I'm willing to change everything from now on. New year, new goals! Nate, You have been an great inspiration. Btw this is my first post, although I have been reading your blog for a while now.
Keep up the great work!
P.S. Sorry for my English. It's not my native language.
-Gatis- -
Nate,
I just found your site and it looks awesome! I want to become a hero by being a better role model for my 3 kids. I also want to look the part so I want to gain 10 to 20 pounds of muscle this year. Look forward to reading more.
David -
First off just the title of this blog is motivational to me. I look up to you and a couple other fitness guys when I need help with stuff I'm not sure about. So thanks for being people oriented. It means a lot.
1. This year, I plan on building on last year. I've got small short term goals set to keep me interested with life and to keep me happy. I see a lot of people making big long term goal that are out of reach by themselves. Their is no structure. Small achievable short term goals are really the foundation and building blocks that make up the bigger ones. I'm going to the beach this summer and instead of focusing on how many months there are from now until then, I'm taking my workout program week by week, month by month and looking at the results then. And hopefully by the time mid July gets here, I'll be comfortable taking my shirt off. I've never been happy enough with myself to do that and thanks to an organized program, nutrition plan, a strong and determined mindset, along with advice from guys like you and other people I consider influential to me, that goal is already in the works.
2. I'm still not where I can do BFS yet since the town I live in doesn't have a gym with the right equipment, but I still read it. And I still use a lot of the stuff you said in it. Especially one little fragment of a sentence towards the end. You may not have intended it to really resonate with anyone but it hit me hard and it's been the the one phrase I tell myself.
"..the only way you lose is if you quit."
It fuels my fire. I read that, and ran with it. I've yelled it at people who've worked out with me. It was my senior quote in high school. It's my motto now.
The weight room has become my "Fortress of Solitude" you could say. It's where I can be in the zone. It's where every stress, problem..just everything, melts away. The hour I'm in there, the only things that exist are me, God, and the weights. I've never been able to really think clearly like I can in there. All kidding is put aside and work is done. I get the crazy looks and crazy questions about fitness and nutrition when I'm seen repeatedly at the weight room or just around town. I have people come up to me saying how they need help with their health. it's a great feeling when people can see how structured and organized you are and want your help. That itself is also a great motivator. But I can't take all the praise. I owe it to my family, friends, and guys like you who unknowingly inspire me to go beyond what I'm told I can accomplish. And again, thank you.
I don't play football anymore, so I often wonder what exactly I train for sometimes. But I soon found the answer to that. I train for LIFE.
-Matt -
1. Get off to a great start at the new job I start in a little more than a week by making an immediate positive influence on both the results and the people, Get my "project" company's gears turning, Relocate and befriend more strangers, Put the pedal to the metal.
2. I'm one of the few people amongst my friends who has maintained academic, financial, and physical health over the past few years. I have aligned myself well for opportunity and prosperity going forward and am thankful for that. Jordan Belfort (author of The Wolf of Wall Street) has said that success only happens one way: overnight. You work your ass off for years and then suddenly, seemingly overnight, it all comes together and it just flows in. I'm only 23 but don't think I'm far from that moment. -
Great post as usual Nate. Now for the question:
1)
I plan to always challenge myself and always try top my previous record. As a great man once said, "the greatest competition is between you and yourself." Don't know who said that, but I'm sure it was a great man lol. To me, constantly trying to compete with others, whether its your friends or family just seem stupid. Trying to prove that you make more money or have more muscle than another person just isn't very productive in my opinion. Trying to compete against people is hard because they were born under different circumstances and you may not be able to ever replicate that, which is why competing with yourself is the greatest thing you can do to become your own hero
2 -
Wow Nate! Over 140 comments in just 2 short days!? Congrats my friend.
I've decided to change my answer to suit your successes. I will become my own hero by striving to attain the impact you've been able to have on so many people thus far! -
Without coming off as some arrogant self-aggrandizing prick, I feel like I only really need to answer question #2.
2)
Realizing when you've met your goals is just as, if not more, important as setting them, and 2010 was the first year where I met every single one. From reaching my goal of 190 lb at 10% body fat to raising my gpa to a 3.7, from getting into GWU (the school of my dreams) to building a relationship with a Congressman, from hooking up with beautiful island women to traveling with my friends across the states, I gained everything I wanted and did everything I wanted to do, and then some. For the first time in my life I didn't succumb to laziness and fear. Rather, I'd use the adrenaline and joy from each success as fuel to drive me to future successes. 2010 without a doubt was the best year of my life, and though I don't want to jinx myself by overanalyzing, I know that if I repeat and improve upon what I did last year, 2011 will be a truly heroic year. -
By continuing to step outside my comfort zone.
This column sums it well - "How to Overcome Anxiety by Making It Your Only Choice."
http://nerdgap.com/how-to-overcome-anxiety-by-making-it-your-only-option/
The human body and mind is capable of essentially anything, but we too often restrict ourselves based on fears/preconceived notions that were inadequate or unable to do a certain task.
Every. single. time. I have stepped outside my comfort zone, I have found a way to get whatever the task was not only completed, but my self-worth, confidence, and overall well-being has increased exponentially.
I haven't set any specific fitness goals, or professional, personal. I feel if I continue to step outside my comfort zone, whatever I pursue will simply lead to bigger and better things. It's not a goal but a way of life/mindset shift.
Oh, and I want to be able to dunk a basketball by August! -
Nate, your page is inspirational, and admittedly, I don't read it enough.
Two ways I'm going to make progress on becoming a hero is by getting fit and by figuring out what I want to do with my life.
I've already joined the gym. I've always been athletic, but never as big or cut or toned or anything as I've wanted. So that's one of my goals. Now I just need a spotter to go consistently with and to keep me motivated and help me work 'til failure, and a routine that pushes me to failure too.
I also need to straighten out my life. I have 70 credits but am not currently attending school. Loan are coming due and work isn't really steady. So I want to finish up with that for sure.
Thanks for the blog,
MikeIt's great you got a gym membership but don't wait around for a spotter or workout partner to come before you get started. They're nice to have but definitely not necessary. Try training with dumbbells and doing bodyweight exercises for a while if you're worried about getting "pinned" underneath a barbell. Keep it up!
-
Hi Nate, Just found your website and I'm excited to see what you've got coming.
This year I will be my own hero by completing my Healthy Helpings cookbook, expanding my income and reaching my dream of competing in the All Female Muscle and Fitness Championships in July.
I'm already pretty awesome for following my dreams a being 1 year office job free! -
Shit, hard to think about myself like that but good time to do it! And as I'm 30 this year I want it to be massive!!
1. How will I become a Hero this year?
I write down my goals every year on the first of Jan so here goes revealing them to the world.... Well the of 'thenategrennexperience' world at least!
BUSINESS
a) Open my first facility (currently rent from others)
b) Hire 10 new Trainers and support them wk in wk out to get them full
c) Deliver 1000 Personal Training sessions per month (all trainers combined)
d) Set up born2move Kids Charity and win our first grant
e) Generate £10,000 of supplement sales per month
f) Produce our first rehab DVD for arthritus sufferers
g) Launch born2move Strongman classes
h) Win 2 grants for our social enterprise (non profit org) to help local arthritus sufferers live a better life
PERSONAL
a) 4kg of lean muscle
b) Go sub 10% BF
c) Move house
d) Smash my 30th birthday!!
e) Strive to be as humble as possible and inspire others to excel!
Crazy goals but if me and my team work our nuts off I trully believe they're possible and in doing so I hope I would be moving closer to super hero status :-)
How have I become my own super hero already?
BUSINESS
a) Realised I don't get anywhere in life when you take yourself to seriously and focus on money. When you drop the ego, want more for others you are rewarded in the most amazing ways (cheese but true!)
b) Built a company from nothing to 5 staff, 2 studios and 6 figure income in 2 years
c) Worked hard to found solutions for people in pain and set up a non profit company to support this
d) Learnt to swim and within 2 years was racing on the other side of the world for Great Britain (2003)
PERSONAL
a) 7kg lean muscle mass
b) 11.6% BF
c) Married the perfect girl
d) Boxing Day 10km run in full Captain American outfit (literally a super hero for 1 day)
Awesome new site!
2011 is going to be massive, kaboom!!! ;-)
MattYou know you're excited when you put awesome Batman-esque sound effects in your post. Kaboom!
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This year I will work on going from here to superhero :)
I can honestly say 2010 was a real good year for me and gave me even more confidence to push the limits and go toward what I want in life.
I've set quite a few goals in different areas but the main ones would be:
- expanding the gym, making in the top results based fitness/performance facility in the Seattle area...and just as important systemizing it even more so that I can continue to leave it without freaking out
- first fixing up some nagging injuries so I can get back to super strong mode and go after the 40 inch vert this year (I was close a couple of years ago)
- traveling even more than last year, both for educational purposes (seminars, masterminds, conferences, etc.) as well as pleasure (I have a list of places I want to knock out this year)
- Creating my first info product
- Waking up every day and going after the things I want and going to bed at night knowing the day was exactly how I want to live my life
Gotta go and work on those things....
2011 will be a great year.....because I said so! :)
Luka -
Congratulations Nate; I've followed your blog for a while now and am really happy for your successes and business growth.
1. How will Ibecome my own hero this year?
For me 2011 is going to be huge. After a lot of hard work I will graduate univeristy with (all being well) a great degree. That will just be a springboard and with a lot of consideration I have massive aspirations for my career away from the usual graduate rat-race.
My immediate training goals are strength related, a 200kg deadlift, 160kg squat and 120kg bench. I've joined a fantastic gym with an intense atmosphere and some hardcore lifters, I can't wait to train.
2. How have you become your own hero already?
Not to ramble on but strength training/bodybuilding/sports have been a hugely positive influence in my life. Since my first discovery of tnation and my subsequent years of training and research I have become a far more accompished and assertive person, and consequently lived a fuller life.
Plenty more to come in 2011. -
In 2011 I'll become my own hero by finally earning my bachelors degree (a long time coming).
I struggled a great deal after high school with depression and developing self worth. My next test of courage and strength will be life after school. It's both exciting and frightening.Congrats on the degree! I'm sure you'll adjust quite nicely from school to the so-called "real world."
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1. How will I become my own hero this year?
On the physical side of things:
I've joined an online personal training group (lasts 3 months) that also includes meeting the coaches in person a few times where they'll do a Biosignature test (a method developed by Charles Poliquin). I'm really going to focus on getting my nutrition basics down to fucking awesome.
In May I'm going to join Scrawny to Brawny coaching program which will last almost to the end of this year. So I got the whole year pretty much covered and I'll be sending you some inspirational transformation pictures at least at the end of this year.
Work and studying:
My big goal is to become a badass PT. Right now I'm working in a supermarket but in around September or so I'll start studying to be a physiotherapist. It'll give me a very good information base on muscles, how they work and how to work with people who might have some limitations.
I'm planning on watching lots of DVDs geared towards PTs (Eric Cressey's site is a fantastic source for those) and reading books. At the end of this year I also aim to get Biosignature and PICP certificates (both from Poliquin) or at least one of them if I don't have enough money and get involved with other PTs (good ones, not with some guys who work at generic health clubs) to start learning how they work. I'll also listen to SOTSOG again.
Attitude:
I just came to realize this simple little thing: you're personally responsible for everything you've achieved or haven't. It's not someone else's fault that you suck. You're also responsible for the way you react to things. Are you always so damn negative towards everything? Do you think that's the way succesfull people thrive? I don't think so.
I came to this conclusion pretty much after reading Brian Tracy's Maximum Achievement. So this year I'm not going to be thinking negatively about myself and I'll keep my goals in my mind all the time and work towards them. Soon I'll be living those goals.
2. How have I become my own hero aleady?
In relation to what I just wrote about attitude, I've changed my mindset to alot more positive one and I started my own blog about that and made my first post. It'll be a really badass blog. That's something I'll also be working on this year and I'm very happy I took action and started it.
I'm also happy I quit the university and decided to go for something that I really wanted (being a badass PT in Finland). Studying something generic and getting a lame ass job would've killed me inside.
I'm thankful that I've found your blog and bought your book which has already made me fit and feel better about myself. It has also led to the path I'm now taking and man this is so much more interesting and fun!
Oh and by the way Nate, what size are you? I have to know so that I won't get a too small shirt because there's going to be lots of growing this year! :D -
Hey Nate! Happy new years. It's great to know you read every comment. I'd like to take a quick second to say how appreciative I am for all your help, and I hope all the best for you in the new year.
1. I'm going to become my own hero by continuing to work hard on my body and build muscle mass. I want my body to reflect how I feel on the inside. I'm also going to devote much time to creating my "muse" and achieving automated income so I can focus on my passion of exercise, traveling, and good women. ;-)
2. I have already become my own hero by utilizing your "warp speed effect" and moving abroad. I have managed to fully support myself (and even save money) working 18 hours a week, and I'm shifting from knowledge to action by creating an online muse to earn more. Furthermore, I've made hundreds of cold approaches (talking to women who are complete strangers) in the last few months, alone. That my not seem heroic to some, but I enjoy the freedom to choose who and when I talk to girls I find attractive. Moreover, I've managed to do this with some pretty tough CRABS on my back.
Thanks again, Nate. -
1. How will I become my own hero?
A hero to me, is a self actualized individual, confident and competent to do whatever he wants. Physique wise, I'm pushing myself to chase a 1000 pound total at about 165. Academic wise, maintain a high GPA (3.7 or higher) and start my own nutrition club and find a badass internship. Lastly, and probably the hardest one for me, is to be more social. To be specific, date more girls and have a lot true friends. By true friends I mean the guys or girls who have your back, accepting you as you are, not the "bros" who you chug beer and play xbox with.
2. How I am already my own hero?
Looking back 5 years, I've managed to push myself from a skinny fat kid who struggled with pushup on the knees to benching 210. I honestly believe the focus in the gym transferred to my academics, I used to be an average 3.0 student, but now I rock a solid 3.7 at one of the toughest programs in McGill. On the side, I work as a nutrition consultant. Despite only having 3 clients, I feel great knowing that I made a difference in someone elses' life. It hasn't been easy, but the push was worth it. -
For me with becoming my own hero is overcoming obstacles. Now for me when I talk I have a stuttering issue. I have had it all of my life. For most people people look at the outside when they see a person with a "handicap as it were" I see it as a challenge. Right now I am a runner for a company for a company. I used to be in construction but due to the economy that did not last long. I have been at this job for awhile now and I am now the most trusted person for these law firms who have to have documents taken to places. It dies not fail when i am outside in the city A person says Hi Rick. these people say to me when i see you I know that you will do the job the right way the first time. People see me in class and on the job as an overcomer in spite of my limitations.
As I alluded to earlier i am also going back to college. well I should not say it I have started college later in life. The reason i did not go back to college was because my school guidance counselors said i would never make it academically. Well I have news for them. After 2 semesters taking 12 credits and 9 credits respectively I have a 3.35. The first semester was 3.5 second semester was 3.2. My math class brought it down some. Hey I would almost hyperventilate before the start of my math class in August thinking I would not make it. I got a 77% this semester. I am happy with that. I did drop a course so i could concentrate on the math course. Working 40-50 hours a week plus taking 9-12 credits not too shabby. Some people look at challenges and they shrink from them. The key is with any circumstance do you control them or do they control you? I sent a copy of my grades from the first two semesters to my old High school. HA and HA Booyah!!!
Now with all of this, my training times have been greatly reduced. However I cannot have all of the burners going on at once. (Thanks Nate for the advice) Some may need to be turned lower while the school and work burners need to go to medium or high. I will take all training sessions when I can. I am just trying to maintain what I got. if that is all that i can that is all i can do. Hope this can be a source of motivation for someone.
I could go on and on about my obstacles growing up and into adulthood but what would that achieve? It is time to go on and enjoy life at any period in one's life. I am one of those people that say my high school and college years were not the best times in my life. The time of my life is NOW!!! -
I will become a hero this year by finally fix my hip extension so that I don't flex my lumbar spine when I deadlift and therefore be able to do my favorite exercise again. I will also focus a lot of my time on writing, especially creative writing as I really love to write. I also hope to write an ebook and make a website with a friend of mine. Finally, I hope to improve my social life and improve my relationships with my friends and make many new friends.
I am already a hero by deciding to watch a tenth of the TV I usually watch and devote that extra time to reading books and self improvement. I also feel like I now have my training regimen and nutrition fully down.
I hope to accomplish more in 2011 than I have ever had before!! -
q1: this year, to become my own hero, i'm going to spend a lot less time in front of this infernal contraption, and to get outside of my head and experience life more. as part of that, i'm going to get back in the gym hard, and finally master the big lifts. i'll admit i have some confidence issues, but getting in shape will help with that. i haven't always been the tub o' lard i am now, and i'm determined to get back to where i was and to surpass that.
q2: mindset. a fundamental change in how i think about situations and how i approach other people. this may sound selfish, but i'm convinced the best way i can serve the people around me is to help myself and become this best me i can be. so 2011 is all about focusing on numero uno, hopefully to the benefit of people around me. -
1.) On top of working full time as a engineering designer Im currently looking/applying for positions to be a personal trainer at night and on weekends. I love engineering and love my day job, but I figured while Im young and have the energy why not do something that I have a strong passion for. I have always loved athletics and this has slowly evolved into a love for fitness. So this year I want to become a certified trainer and be an engineer by day and a trainer by night. Also, I am in negotiations with a headphone manufacturer to get a product idea patented and receive loyalties from the idea. If this does indeed happen it would really turn into a good year.
2.) This is kind of a loaded question cause you're asking us to boast about ourselves, but hey why not. I'm 23 and have been working full time as an engineer for a year. Im the youngest engineer my firm has ever hired, meaning I actually got my college degree in a timely manner. That in itself was extremely satisfying, but through the last year our company has seen the construction business really take a hit and through all of this, pay cuts, reduced hours and salary, I have managed to keep my job, stay out of debt, and continue to progress in my life's goals.Boasting means having excessive pride. I'm not lookin' for that, but I think it's important to talk about what you've done right and are proud of. Keeps you motivated.
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1. This is the year I am determined to become the person that I always wanted to be. Last november I turned 21. After passing the final milestone in personal independence and responsibility, I've decided to take the next step. What I mean is that this year I want to ascend from mediocrity to greatness. I want to be admired for my ability to take care of body, holistically. For too long I felt unworthy, maybe a little scared, of what would take to become that guy, that "hero." It's time for me to take that next step. Now, I have my motor revved up and I'm not looking back.
2. Tomorrow, I leave for London. I'm taking a semester abroad, studying journalism in London. This temporary change of scenery offers me a perfect opportunity to get after the goals I hope to achieve. While I find determination in personal idealism, I think I have also set myself up to accomplish practical goals. In London I will be cooking for myself every day, and I plan to eat a well rounded, and healthy diet (while obviously pursuing the most amazing European experience possible). I think that becoming a viable cook is a great life skill, that has a range of benefits. The roommate situation might seem to potentially distract me from my goals, but I am living with a close friend who has similar ambitions. While our workout plans may be different, we're still both very committed to focusing on exceptional results. My goal is to cut down my body fat, increase muscle mass. Yet, I do not have quantitative goals. My real focus with this change is achieving consistency. My failed attempts to diet/follow a workout program in the past have stemmed from my belief that every thing must be perfect. I'm not perfect. The road to achieving my goals won't be perfect, but that why the journey is important. I think that it's really about getting from point a to point b, and that path doesn't have to be straight. So on that note, I will return to packing, or preparing for greatness as I look at it. -
After reading 160+ comments I'm blown away with how motivated everyone is. You guys are kicking ass and I really appreciate you posting your answers.
I went through and randomly picked 10 people to win the HERO Shirt and Nitrean protein powder from AtLarge. Here they are:
Matt Williams
Tim Piece
Tiger Joe
Tyler Thomas
Laurissa Wolfram
Aaron Bagherpour
Shaun
Dan Elch
Daniel Wallen
Joel
Check your email.
-Nate -
Damn you and your randomness Nate! I want a shirt! ;)
Congrats to the winners and best of luck to everyone as they strive to be a hero! -
Loose the brown tile texture and go with the solid shade of brown...this way it looks lime someone took a huge...well I guess you get the idea.
On the other side I think it looks quite good, some code is lost on the earlier posts, but who reads those right...
01. I am going to get rich this year. I will open my own gym, I will get my girlfriend to world championships, she is a figure competitor, and I will become most famous on line bodybuilding and fitness coach in my country. I am half way there. Oh, yeah I will become the best personal trainer in my city, half way there also.
02. I was a complete mess in 2006, almost got a heart attack. Before that I was a junior heavy weight national champion in IFBB federation, here in my small part of the world. Today I have a personal business in fitness industry, sponsorship contract with a supplement company and one great life all together.
How bout them apples, LOL -
Hey Nate, sweet new layout!
1) How I want to become my own hero this year
I've actually been suffering with lower back pain since highschool, I'm in college so it's only been 3 years now, but I've actually got pretty bad anterior pelvic tilt. Which I think is the problem. I played football and had terrible coaches throughout high school that didn't really teach us proper lifting form. So now I can't squat or sprint without lingering back pain. So this year I'm going to become my own hero, fight bad posture, and see if the lower back pain goes away.
2) I haven't become my own hero. I let back pain keep me out of the weight room, and have negative results from this. This years the year. It's time to take my life back. -
Honestly, after reading through this article, I had to recheck what your is your definition of a hero. I never really thought myself as a hero. However, after re-reading your definition of a hero, I am a hero. It's very weird to hear my inner voice say it. I'll be sure to work on that.
1. How will I become my own hero this year? In other words, what kinds of things am I going to do to make your life better?
Learn how to do laps in front stroke, consider my options of getting involved for the Deaflympics in 2013, continue getting brawnier, pay off my one debt (except for my mortgage), continue travelling and seeing parts of the world that I haven't seen, making new friends, being a positive and supportive person for my friend who has been recently diagnosed with an aggressive kind of breast cancer, be a careful observer of just how awesome life is, and more as I strive to be have positive attitudes, to be acutely aware of my surroundings and possibilities, and to be more authentic than ever!
2. How have I become my own hero already?
In the past year, I learned how to swim. I actually managed to add another 22 pounds on my body, even though I already added 20lbs from the year before by using your "Built for Show" program. I tried many new things: camping, doing laps in back stroke, diving off the edge of a pool, rock climbing, hiking in the Alps, visiting areas in my home country that I haven't visited before, seeing myself as brawny for the first time, being able to get change in front of the mirrors in the change room at the gym, etc. And, I found myself being a happier and more authentic version of myself than I did a year before! -
Nate,
Thanks for replying to my comment. I got to the gym 4 days last week and did dumbbell exercises, such as bench and fly, and also hit the smith machine and leg press to break my legs back in. Also, my protein mix came yesterday and my copy of your book came today. I'm excited to start devouring both.
Thanks again,
Mike -
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I will become my own hero a few times over this year (I hope) I'm traveling to Ireland this year, off to Germany, then later in the year I will be off to Japan to train and earn my new belt in ninjutsu. My goal right now is to go from 335 for 3 reps in dead lift and squat to 405, and to bring my bench up to over 300 from 225. I'm focusing on low reps and long rest. keeping my body fat down. So those are my big goals for the year. All in all, I think the year is looking up.
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Good stuff man, got to keep it in mind.
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Great post. I appreciate you bringing this forward.
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I will also reach a new level of strength, 600+ lbs on deadlift, 500+ on squat, and at least a legitimate 400 on bench press.
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Wonderful journey and experience!
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There isn’t anything more interesting than reading your article, have a nice day and come on.
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