So I’m training at the gym right next to Kobe Bryant the other day, yes THAT Kobe Bryant. I’m 3 feet away from him doing shoulder raises and he’s doing shoulder presses. In between sets I’m listening to him talk to his trainer about how many rings he’s won and comparing the significance of those championships to Magic and Michael Jordan. It dawns on me that I’m right next to one of the greatest basketball players of all time. He’s telling his trainer that he’s not satisfied with the number of championships until he’s won more than any other player. For me, it was an inside glimpse at what makes people like Kobe great.
Whether its sports, business or anything else they compete in as individuals, the desire to be the best at whatever they do, is what makes them great. Forget that Kobe has the ability, genetics and skill to perform. What separates him from the others that possess those same attributes is his attitude. That attitude is what makes him train harder, work more and push himself to never be satisfied with what he’s already accomplished.
What was really amazing to me was the timing of this. I normally don’t train at that time of day but I had just returned from our annual franchise convention in Texas where I had the privilege of announcing this year’s MaxFormation Champion, Don Dona, to our Max Muscle franchisees. Don lost close to 110 pounds and nearly 20 percent body fat, completely transforming his physique and his life. Don received a standing ovation from the audience of Max Muscle franchisees that were there from around the country and inspired us all with his life-changing story.
Don said that there were many things that made the difference for him in winning the MaxFormation Life Challenge. He said that learning how to finally eat right from his Max Muscle Certified Fitness Nutrition Coach after all those years of yo-yo dieting was a truly educational experience. He said that the quality of the Max Muscle (MM) products he used were unlike any other products that he had taken in terms of getting him results. He said the support of his family, friends and the MM staff all played a role in his success. But the most important thing above all of that? His attitude. Everyone in the contest had the same opportunity, the same access to education, the same products and diet, but it was Don’s attitude and desire to be great that kept him motivated and dedicated to the very end.
I also had the privilege while in Texas to award our President’s Club. This group of talented individuals represents our company’s top achievers. As I handed them their awards, I noticed that each of them were the ones that have the best attitudes amongst our team. They are motivated by wanting to be the best, wanting to stand out and wanting to be great. Having just come back from Texas pumped up about what’s in store for Max Muscle, to share that space at the gym, during that time, with one of the greatest to ever play the game of basketball (even though we didn’t exchange words), but thinking about what he said about what it takes to be great, I was inspired. So thank you Don Dona, thank you MM President’s Club and thank you Kobe.
