We all need footholds to get to the top. The key of Champions is that they have secured themselves with one or more granite footholds.
There are Sandy Footholds and Granite Footholds. They are different but both appear supportive at first glance.
Sandy Foothold
A Sandy Foothold is something that appears to be rock. But, instead of supporting you to the top, it gives way. These types of footholds can show up as quick fix weight loss gurus or the cautioning family member who doubts your ability, and fears that you may stumble.
Granite Foothold
I’ve discovered that winners have experienced Granite Footholds. These often come in the form of a coach, a teacher or mentor. They are the people that won’t let you waive the white flag. Instead they lovingly prod you, sometimes uncomfortably, to experience what was fully intended for your life.
Personally, I have had remarkable Granite Footholds. The earliest came from my Dad. He always told me, “You can do anything you’re big enough to do.” Since that first utter to me, at about 7, I’ve bought into his encouragement by framing it into a question: “Am I big enough to….?” Using that question continues to be a very powerful internal dialogue.
Another early Granite Foothold was my lacrosse coach at Greenwich High School (CT), Ms. Renee Spellman. She was not the best coach from a skill perspective, but she put together a championship team by encouraging and pushing her players. She helped to secure my college scholarship and always held me to the highest standards. I’m grateful.
Finding Granite Footholds
To live each day to the fullest blessing then you will need to start finding a Granite Foothold. The secret is to remain conscious as to what a Granite Foothold should be for you.
As a personal trainer I’m a Granite Foothold for my clients. I push my clients farther than they would on their own. I help them move past what they think is possible.
Although you may not have a trainer, you may have someone that is already doing that for you. Acknowledge that person today in an email or phone call. You will be sure to grow that relationship.
If you’re looking for your Granite Foothold, consider that there is already a person you know who might be that for you but you’ve just not asked her. I encourage you to take action. Ask that person if she would be your Granite Foothold. Do that today.
Now, go be a champion!