Got a really, really cool reader letter sharing this video -
Hey Sebastian,
I was initially introduced to your blog by Jason (Shen) and have become a regular reader since then. I'm pretty obsessive so I've gone back and read all the previous posts and saved the excerpts I like and/or could learn from.
I found "Positive Sum Games Don’t Require Natural Talent" to be one of the most insightful ones and while watching the climbing movie Progression (inspiration) today I saw a clip that really resonated with me and was in line with that idea. I thought you may like it.
I personally don't care much for being the champion and prefer to do things for their intrinsic value but overall I love the dedication. Being best in the world at 1 particular thing is obviously greatly aided by talent but the principle still applies:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QZLeAkwtF_U
My training is very scientific
It's important to take every aspect seriously
Everything is scheduled according to a plan
It's very important to never deviate from the plan
Even when every muscle and every joint are burning
I must continue training
It's a sacrifice but it's the only way to be the best
When I'm preparing for competitions, I train 7 days a week
Each day, I do at least 2500 moves to build endurance.
Sometimes I put up to 20 pounds in the weight vest
If I want results I must increase the intensityThe other climbers are really talented
So they don't need to train as hard as I do
But I have to work fucking hard
I haven't had a rest day in 3 months
My talent is being a masochist
The training totally breaks your body and your mind
But it's worth it to be championBest,
Can
Wow, I really appreciate that. That climber is my new hero, I want to read/watch more about him.
Thanks, Can. Can Sar's site is http://www.cansar.com/ - I like it, it's a bunch of short snappy useful insights. Thanks for the great letter and cluing me into that video, excellent stuff. Also a big thanks to Jason Shen - I'm always grateful when I get to connect with cool people.
Okay, much gratitude and celebrating all around. Watch the clip if you haven't - it's two minutes long, the guy is tough as nails, and I'd almost guarantee you'll be inspired after watching it.