Today was a great Friday. I woke up early and went through my morning routine. I dropped Gracie off at daycare and then caught the train to Philly. Today is a Balance (jiu-jitsu) day. I went through the normal 7 x 5 minute live BJJ rounds with some absolute monsters and then laid in a pool of sweat, feeling as alive as ever.

It’s not easy committing to a 4-hour/$40 round trip commute over to Philly from Harrisburg, especially when I’m not training for a fight, and may never fight again. BUT there is a method to my madness.

Stephen Covey calls it “Sharpening the Saw.”

I call it “Preparation.” In my line of work, rather, my philosophy of being, preparation means many things. It means reading, listening, learning, developing, rehearsing and, obviously, physical training. By far, physical training is the most important piece to my preparation puzzle. And not just “going through the motions” physical training. I mean intentional, committed training. It makes me feel alive.

Tony Robbins talks about how he takes an ice cold plunge every morning because it “wakes up every cell” in his body. High intensity training does the same for me.

Before every event or interview I do, I make sure to physically bust my butt in preparation. Sometimes, it puts me out on the road in 25 degree weather at 5:30 AM. It’s the price I pay for being prepared.

I encourage you to start small if you don’t already exercise, and I challenge you to pick it up a notch if you already do. I can promise you the endorphin boost and sense of accomplishment will go far in preparing you for whatever comes next.

Someone once told me I seem to always be in the right place at the right time. Nah, I just prepare myself for whatever comes my way. You, too, can do the same. Start today!

Spaniard