The Blueprint with Eliot Marshall

Sometimes, life can feel like navigating a vast, expansive ocean without a compass. You feel lost, directionless, and tossed about by every turbulent wave. In these times, the significance of having a roadmap, a plan, cannot be understated.

Imagine setting sail without a map or a set destination. Where would you end up? Would you even get anywhere? This same concept applies to our lives. When you chart your course, you're not left to the mercy of unpredictable tides and winds. Instead, you take control and steer your ship toward your desired horizon.

And I can't stress this enough: your plans shouldn’t be built on fleeting whims or temporary urges. They should be constructed with long-term vision, hard work, and unwavering commitment. You might wonder, "Why is planning so essential?" Here's an analogy for you: Think of professional sports. Behind every highlight reel, every incredible play, there are countless hours of practice, planning, and preparation. Rarely do these moments happen by sheer luck.

And the journey? It won't be easy. There will be times when you'll be tempted to abandon your route, thinking perhaps there's a shortcut or an easier way. But it's perseverance during these testing times that makes all the difference. Consistency is key.

Take the story of Drew Dober. There were aspects of his craft that took years to hone, but he stayed committed. He didn't look for quick fixes or easy outs. And the result? Both of us reaping the benefits of hard work and dedication.

Similarly, don't be disheartened if results don't manifest overnight. Any tree that stands tall and firm today was once a tiny seed that decided to stick to its ground, no matter how harsh the weather. Remember this: just as the mightiest river carves its path over time, so too will your persistent efforts mold your destiny.

So draft your plan. Refine it, adjust it, but never lose sight of it. Just because the night is the darkest doesn't mean dawn isn't on the horizon. Push through, stay committed, and when the going gets tough, remind yourself of your 'why.'

In the grand scheme of things, it's not about being special or uniquely gifted. It's about commitment, consistency, and staying true to your plan. So, as you embark on this journey, embrace your passion, harness your power, and offer your purpose to the world. Stand tall and stand firm.

There's a powerful concept that too often gets buried beneath societal pressures and the weight of other people's expectations: authenticity. I want you to understand that you should never have to shrink yourself or dim your light just because it makes someone else uncomfortable. Embrace your essence and remain unwavering in it.

Sure, introspection is essential. Regularly evaluate yourself. Ensure that you're bringing positivity, kindness, and benevolence into the world. But once you've done that groundwork, stand firm in your true self. By doing so, you're providing an invaluable gift not only to yourself but also to everyone around you.

Contrary to popular belief, strength isn't always about how loudly you roar. Sometimes, it's about the quiet yet persistent whisper that says, "This is me, and I won't compromise." It isn't about projecting some faux machismo or adhering to outdated, restrictive stereotypes. It's about being genuine, honest, and wholeheartedly embracing every facet of your being.

I get it. There's this innate desire in many of us to fit in, to meld with the crowd, to be accepted. But here's the irony: The more you strive to fit into someone else's mold, the more you risk losing yourself. And in doing so, you undermine your potential to genuinely impact the world around you.

Being genuine doesn't necessarily equate to being extroverted or outspoken like me. Authenticity can be quiet, gentle, subtle. What's important is that it's true to you.

The next time you feel the weight of societal pressure trying to push you into a box, remember this: The world doesn't need another replica. What it needs is your unique perspective, your individuality, and your undiluted self.

Hold on to that thought, and let it guide you in every endeavor. Because, at the end of the day, when you're unapologetically you, you're offering the world the best version of yourself. So find your fire, embrace your essence, and share it with the world.

Whenever the name Kobe Bryant is mentioned, we're immediately drawn to the concept of the 'Mamba Mentality'. While we often celebrate Kobe's on-court triumphs and accolades, it's important to understand where this relentless drive originated. This wasn't just some switch he flipped on during game time; it was born out of countless hours in the gym, in solitude, pushing himself harder than anyone else would.

Kobe's dedication to practice is a significant lesson for all of us. Most people might only see the end result - the flashy dunks, game-winners, or championship rings. But it's what he did behind the scenes, in those countless hours of unseen hard work, that defined him. There were no crowds during his workouts, no applause after a rigorous training session, and certainly no checks written for "practice". Yet, Kobe understood that if he dedicated himself to mastering his craft during these moments, the rewards would naturally follow.

This perspective is immensely valuable in our everyday lives. Think about it: Are you only giving your best when there's an audience, or a direct reward at stake? Or are you consistently putting in the effort, even when no one's watching? Are you waiting for a dose of motivation to kick in, or are you disciplined enough to push forward irrespective of how you feel?

Using sports as a metaphor for life, as we often do, illuminates a truth that applies to all endeavors: real success doesn't come from sporadic bursts of effort. It comes from consistent dedication, from a commitment to growth even when it's hard, even when the limelight is off.

In essence, your 'practice' in life – those moments you dedicate to improving yourself, those hours you invest in mastering your craft, and the discipline you cultivate when no one is watching – is where your true character is forged. And it's in these moments that you set the foundation for all your future successes.

As you navigate through life, remember Kobe's dedication. Use it as a reminder that real success is built in the shadows, away from the applause. Discover your true potential, harness your inner strength, and let your actions echo your purpose.

Let's be real – not every day is going to be a walk in the park. If life was just a string of perfect days, we wouldn't truly appreciate the highs, nor would we learn from the lows. The fact that our days fluctuate between good and bad is a testament to life's unpredictability. It prompts us to constantly adapt, to work on ourselves, and to persevere.

Think about sports for a moment. I've been discussing basketball with my kid, helping him understand that a successful game isn't only about the number of points you score. Sure, that might be a factor when we retrospectively judge the game's outcome, but is that the full picture? Isn't it more about playing the right way, making the right decisions, and contributing positively?

Similarly, when approaching our day, it's about understanding what constitutes a "good" day for us. What are the ingredients? Is it about ticking off tasks from your to-do list? Engaging in self-care? Spending quality time with loved ones? Once you identify these, you can strive to incorporate them daily, ensuring that most of your days lean towards the positive.

Yet, bad days will still come. They're inevitable. So, the real question is, how will you bounce back? Will you get stuck in the rut, or will you take inspiration from the legends like Michael Jordan? MJ had his share of off games, but he always returned with a vengeance, ready to prove his critics wrong.

The same applies to our daily lives. After a particularly tough day, what's your next move? Will you let the disappointment linger, or will you rise, dust off, and face the new day with renewed determination?

Life isn't about avoiding bad days but about mastering the art of rebounding from them. Embrace the challenge, stay committed, and most importantly, never stop pushing forward. Discover what drives you, harness that power, and channel it to make a difference. Every day gives you a fresh chance. Seize it.

Ever watched the NFL? If so, you've probably heard of Mike Tomlin, the renowned coach with an impressive record, including two Super Bowl victories. His long tenure in a profession known for frequent turnovers speaks to his caliber.

One of his philosophies stuck with me. He mentioned that success isn't just about what we're capable of achieving, but more about what we're willing to consistently strive for.

Here's a simple analogy: Think about a friend who effortlessly nails a challenging trick or skill once or twice, then rests on that brief moment of glory. Isn't it more commendable for someone to continuously hone that skill, rather than flash it occasionally?

Tomlin's philosophy revolves around this concept. Having a talent or capability is great, but the real value lies in leveraging that talent consistently. It's like a student who has the potential to score straight A's but settles for B's out of complacency.

This doesn't just apply to sports. In academics, arts, relationships, and essentially any life avenue, it's the continuous effort that counts. Knowing you can achieve something is only half the battle; the true challenge is in delivering on that potential consistently.

While raw talent and capability are valuable, they don't define success. It's the commitment to consistently harnessing that talent that truly sets the greats apart. As we progress in our academic and personal lives, let's strive not just for occasional brilliance, but for consistent excellence.

The ancient Stoic philosophers have a phrase that encapsulates the transience of life: “Memento Mori”, which translates to “Remember you will die.” While it may sound morbid at first glance, its meaning is deeply profound, urging us to live each day as if it were our last.

A few months ago, a personal incident involving my son's passion for basketball served as a perfect illustration of this philosophy.

1. Life Lessons through Sports: After a mishap on the basketball court, where my son took his game for granted, we decided to temporarily withdraw his privilege to play. Our intent wasn’t just punitive; we wanted him to understand the value of what he loves, and that it can be taken away at any moment. This experience taught him to cherish each game, every practice, and every shot, reminding him that the next one isn't guaranteed.

2. Appreciating the Now: The core idea behind Memento Mori is acknowledging life’s fragility. Every day, we move forward as though we have an infinite number of tomorrows. But in reality, every moment, every experience is fleeting. Recognizing this encourages us to live with intention, gratitude, and joy. It nudges us to savor our meals, cherish time with our loved ones, and truly immerse ourselves in our work.

3. Beyond Materialism: In the grander scheme of things, wealth, status, and material possessions have limited significance. What truly matters is the richness of experiences, relationships, and the impact we make. Memento Mori urges us to redirect our focus from superficial gains to the deeper, more meaningful aspects of life.

4. The Urgency of Now: Instead of viewing Memento Mori as a somber reminder of death, we can choose to see it as a call to action. It’s a motivator, pushing us to embrace every opportunity, to overcome procrastination, and to prioritize what truly matters. Every choice, every decision should resonate with our true purpose.

While it's inevitable that our time is limited, the essence of Memento Mori is not about fearing the end but cherishing the journey. Every day, every moment is an invaluable gift, urging us to make the most of it.

As you navigate the tapestry of life, let the ethos of Memento Mori guide you: Discover your passion, harness your power, and wholeheartedly offer your purpose to the world. Embrace the present, for it's the only true possession we have.

In life, we've all felt that surge of motivation, that burst of energy where we proclaim our intentions to the world. It feels good, exhilarating even. In that moment, we are filled with fervor, hope, and certainty. But as the motivational speaker Inky Johnson so aptly puts it, "Can I stay true to what I said I would do long after the mood that I said it in has left me?"

This sentiment highlights an age-old challenge: the struggle between short-lived motivation and long-term commitment. It's easy to declare an intention when surrounded by a rush of positivity. But when reality sets in and roadblocks appear, it's consistency that truly tests our resolve.

1. Real Life vs. Initial Euphoria: The thrill of starting a new venture, the initial 'high' of a new resolution, the joy of a game-winning shot— these are transient moments. They come, they exhilarate, they leave. But real life isn't always thrilling. It’s rife with setbacks, hardships, and unexpected challenges. And it's in these moments that our true character is revealed. It's here that we decide whether to push forward or revert back.

2. Sports – A Mirror of Life: The journey of an athlete provides a clear reflection of this dynamic. Think of a child dreaming of the NBA. The initial allure of fame and success is overpowering. But soon, they are faced with early morning practices, injuries, intense competition, and more. Every budding basketball player starts with a dream, but it's the journey, fraught with failures and challenges, that filters out those who truly want it.

3. The Glimpse of Success: Kobe Bryant, a name synonymous with dedication, provides one of the most poignant examples of this. As highlighted by Tim Grover, Kobe worked relentlessly for 20 years, but he held the title of a champion only for a fleeting five days. This perfectly encapsulates the idea that success is not a constant state; it's a peak that requires constant climbing.

4. Redefining Commitment: So, what does it take to maintain that initial energy? It's about redefining commitment. It's about understanding that our passion is not validated by the peaks of success, but by the consistent grind, the journey. It's about waking up every day and choosing to work towards our goals, irrespective of the mood, circumstances, or challenges. 

Life isn't about chasing perpetual highs. It's about staying the course even when the initial excitement fades. Because, in the end, it's not the fleeting moments of motivation that shape us, but our consistent actions, day in and day out.

As you navigate your own journey, remember: Discover your passion, harness your power, and consistently, tirelessly, relentlessly drive your purpose into the world. Stay committed, stay strong, and remember that true success is not a moment, but a mindset.

From the iconic sports arenas to the tight-knit communities of collegiate football, Coach Deion Sanders stands as a testament to the power of dedication—not just to the game but to family. The rise and impact of Deion Sanders in the Colorado Buffaloes’ program is a lesson in unwavering focus and commitment.

Here's what Coach Prime’s journey with the Colorado Buffaloes can teach us:

1. Beyond The Personality: Often, strong personalities like Sanders' can eclipse the intent behind their actions. It's not about agreeing with every aspect of someone's character; it's about recognizing the results of their work.

2. A Father’s Vision: Before anything else, Deion was a father. His primary mission? Ensuring the success and greatness of his children. By putting his children first, he inadvertently lifted everyone around him, offering a blueprint for other parents: Prioritize your kids, and success might just follow in unexpected ways.

3. The Ripple Effect: Sanders’ influence on his own children created waves, reaching other talented youngsters like Travis Hunter and Dylan Edwards. By focusing on his immediate circle, Deion impacted countless others, proving that personal dedication often has community-wide effects.

4. The Value of Financial Success: Criticisms have arisen about Sanders profiting from his efforts. But isn't that the American dream? To find passion, work diligently, and reap the rewards? Sanders sold his brand successfully, but always with a deeper purpose in mind.

5. Redefining Legacy: While many chase individual legacies, Sanders' vision for a legacy goes beyond personal accolades. His investment in Jackson State and now with the Colorado Buffaloes is a testament to his drive to change narratives, shape futures, and leave an enduring impact.

In essence, the 'Deion Approach' is less about the glitz and more about the grit. It’s about prioritizing those who matter most while pushing the boundaries of what's achievable.

To many, the phrase "Be Like Mike" resonated as an athletic aspiration. But in today’s age, with shifting values and understanding of success, "Be Like Deion" is emerging as a mantra. Not just in athleticism, but in parenting, leadership, and life.

In the end, it’s not just about chasing your passions, but also channeling them for the betterment of those you love. As Sanders shows us, when you align your strengths with your love for your family, magic happens.

Discover your passion, harness your power, and share your purpose with the world. The rest, as they say, is history. 🌟🏈🌎

The path to success is riddled with obstacles, some external and others internal. However, what many often overlook are the people who, intentionally or unintentionally, derail us from our goals. They're the subtle voices of doubt, the not-so-silent critics, the ones who project their own failures onto us.

While it's easy to recognize and fend off naysayers we hardly know, the real challenge is when these voices come from those closest to us. It's a harsh reality to swallow: Not everyone who's in our life wishes the best for us. Some revel in our failures, not because they inherently despise us, but because our progress magnifies their stagnation.

It's not just a matter of jealousy. It can stem from their own regrets, their surrendered dreams, or the comfort they find in mediocrity. Witnessing someone else break barriers they couldn't serves as a constant reminder of what they could've achieved but didn't.

So, what do you do when the doubters are your friends, family, or peers?

1. Recognize the Energy: Negative energy is palpable. If you consistently feel drained, doubtful, or dejected after spending time with someone, it's essential to evaluate why.

2. Choose Solitude Over Negativity: It's better to be alone and in alignment with your goals than surrounded by those who subtly tear you apart. While human connection is vital, protecting your energy and dreams is paramount.

3. Seek Constructive Feedback: It's essential to differentiate between those who critique to bring you down and those who provide feedback to elevate you. Welcome the latter with open arms.

4. Build a Supportive Tribe: Surround yourself with individuals who genuinely celebrate your successes, uplift you during failures, and understand the journey you're on. They're out there; sometimes, you just need to look a little harder.

5. Trust Your Instincts: Deep down, we often know who's genuine in their support and who's not. Trust that instinct. Your inner compass is more accurate than you give it credit for.

While it's painful to distance yourself from those who don't have your best interests at heart, remember that the journey to success is as much about shedding the unnecessary as it is about growth. Discover your passion, harness your power, and let your purpose shine through. The world needs it. 🌍✨🚀

There's an allure in instant gratification. This rush of seeing immediate results after a burst of effort. This allure is particularly pronounced when we are younger or when we embark on a new journey. A child picks up a new hobby, and within days or weeks, we witness visible improvement. It's exhilarating, motivating.

However, as time goes on, and as our journey continues, the trajectory of our growth starts to flatten. The leaps become smaller. The bounds become less pronounced. This is where the true challenge lies.

Let's use jujitsu as a metaphor. You're a newbie, and you dedicate a month practicing every day. By the end of that month, you can tangibly feel and see your progress. However, fast forward seven years. You've been practicing diligently, almost daily, accumulating over 2,100 days of training. Now, if you intensify your efforts for another month, would you notice the same leap in progress as you did in the very beginning? Unlikely.

This is the reality of mastery. As you advance in any skill or craft, the magnitude of improvement shrinks in the short term. Every subsequent step requires more effort, more dedication, more time. Yet, the increments of improvement become subtler. It's not that you're not growing, but the growth is more nuanced, intricate.

Can you dedicate years, maybe even a decade, relentlessly pursuing mastery when the rewards become less visible? That's the question. It's the long game that matters. It's the unwavering commitment to consistency, even when the immediate results become elusive.

It's easy to be the newbie, fueled by the thrill of quick progress. But the real test? Being the OG, the one who sticks around when the going gets tough, when the growth curve plateaus. That's where true passion, power, and purpose come into play.

Remember, life isn't a sprint. It's a marathon. The short gains might wane, but the long-term growth? That's where the magic happens. Dive deep, stay committed, and let your purpose guide you.🔥🌟🌏