I could have chosen a more eloquent and lofty title, like “Access Your Inner Power” or “A Philosophy of Being”, all crossed off on quite a long list of possibilities, I might add. But that would have been inauthentic! My students would have raised an eyebrow had I named it anything other than “Get Your Mind Right”, because that is what I always used to say to them when they were pushing through the harsh challenges on my dojo floor. As annoying as this phrase was to them, they knew what I was asking of them when I used to bark this out as the sweat rained down their faces while they longed for a moment’s breather.
If I have to be totally honest, this phrase emanated from my own internal narrative when I was encouraging myself to move faster, dig deeper, run further, climb higher, push harder or just stand taller. I’d say this to myself when I wanted to stop, take the easy route, give my muscles and mind a rest, or just sleep a little later. “Get your mind right!” became a raw mantra that shifted me up those nasty hills in the Comrades, pushed me on in those brutal dojo training sessions, and helped me elevate my thinking beyond the pain of blisters, losing toenails, or torn muscles.
The irony of “Get your mind right!” was not lost on me when I was recovering from heart issues, the bike accident, or more recently, chemotherapy. I look at this phrase with a healthy dose of humour and sometimes want to kick it in the teeth. But it just turns around and grins at me, then has the cheek to put itself on repeat in my mind until I get up and make things happen!
So, there you have it! It had to be called: “Get Your Mind Right”. I hope you enjoy it.
7 Responses
Reading these extracts from the book opens so many doors of my life experiences with the BOSS , My Sensei and Mentor. The hours a week spent growing up under his guidance on the dojo floor for many of us ,will remain embedded in our souls. A Giant on the floor and Gentleman off the floor. This book will be special and can’t wait to Read. OSS Sensei Chris
Indeed, Sensei Ronnie. He is a remarkable leader and gave so much of himself to us as instructors and students. He knew just how to get the best out of us. The pain of training so hard always paid off, not only in competition, but throughout our lives through the discpline he instilled in us.
Such a great book with an excellent title. If we don’t have our minds right, nothing will go right. Everybody should read this book.
Our Dear Brother and Friend. Only with your Total undivided commitment and Spiritual Beliefs were you able to reach the absolute pinnacle in your sporting career. It is also without doubt that this same approach stood you in good stead to face the other extreme challenges life keeps throwing at you. You’re the perfect Role Model to your peers, friends and family! Then let’s not forget the role Julie has played – clearly forming the perfect partnership in your very challenging, yet rewarding journey so well reflected in your book. Ons is Baie Trots op jou! Attie & Evol
Thanks for your tireless support, Attie and Evol. It’s been an interesting experience to get the book to the point where I thought it was complete in itself and ready to share with everyone. I appreciate your input and encouragement throughout the project and am thrilled that it’s so well received by you. Julie and I thoroughly enjoyed this journey together. We’ve always made a great team! We now look forward to the book being appreciated by everyone who decides to risk reading my musings. What a ride!
We have had a great journey training lunchtime at work and landing in hospital next to each other for our bypass at Westville Hospital. You were a great leader and friend. I am proud of you.
Proud of you. It’s been a great achievement in your life.
You have always been an inspiration to me.