SG#3- Pursuing excellence

          I want to talk about two people who have influenced my life in a positive way. The man in front wearing teal is Ben Henderson, a Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighter, in back is John Crouch, coach and instructor. I'm forming a triangle with my hands to pay tribute to the MMA LAB, a martial arts training center. Anyone who has seen Ben fight has seen him throw up the triangle. John is a blackbelt in Brazillian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) a ground based martial art. BJJ involves grappling, chokes, joint locks, and various other submission holds. John earned his blackbelt from the the legendary Royce Gracie, the man most credited with starting the current MMA craze. Earning a blackbelt from Royce is a feat rarely accomplished. He promotes so very few to blackbelt. So that means John is legit. LEGIT. Ben fights in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), the most prestigious MMA organization in the world. He is the current lightweight champion, that means in his weight class he is the best in the world. Here is a link to a highlight reel of Ben.
     
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=46xg60MxISg

      John and Ben have been successful enough that last year they were able to become the new owners of the MMA LAB. I am fortunate enough to train BJJ there. I say fortunate because the people that train there are the best group of people I have ever associated with in my life. All kinds of people train there. Law enforcement, medical field, soldiers, firefighters, executives, business owners, students, professional fighters. Hard working and successful people. But when you walk through the doors of "the Lab" something special happens. It's like a family there, but maybe better, because we all choose to be there together. Helping each other improve. Pushing yourself to the limit. Some might call it a team, and in it's most basic definition that's how some people will define it. But that's kind of like referring to a Lamborghini as "a car".
      


Ben and John with some of his highest ranked students



         This incredible environment at the Lab starts at the top. That's John and Ben. Leading by example. Being kind. Having the knowledge to succeed. Having the work ethic. Putting it all together, day in, day out. Pursuing excellence.
         I consider myself a hard worker. But seeing the example set by these men makes me realize how much more a person can do. Why it's important to make the most of every day.  



Just another Monday at the Lab



       For many years one of my motto's has been "Be the best person you can be every day". But sometimes life is hard. Really hard. You face setbacks. Maybe you can get there on your own. But you will get there faster if you have people in your life who care about you. And you will enjoy the journey much more.

        Ben's next fight is April 20th in San Jose, California, he will be defending his UFC title. John will be there coaching. A few other members of the Lab will be there to help. The Lab has several fighters in the UFC, but this particular trip is for Ben. I will have to settle for watching on tv. I will be cheering loudly.