Hey there!

I want to talk about something that’s near and dear to my heart: the magic of mentorship. Having the right mentor can be a game-changer, and I’ve got a story to share that illustrates just how powerful it can be.

A Mentor’s Impact

Let’s rewind to a time when I was gearing up for the biggest challenge of my life—the Olympics. I had a lot on my plate and things were looking pretty grim after a severe back injury that required surgery. Just when I was about to lose hope, my mentor, Gene Kiniski, stepped in. Gene was more than just a coach; he was a beacon of strength and wisdom.

He constantly reminded me that the road to success is never a straight path. “Every setback,” he would say, “is just a setup for a stronger comeback.” His words resonated with me, giving me the motivation to push through the pain and focus on the ultimate goal. His belief in my potential was the spark that kept my Olympic dreams alive.

Gene’s Mantra: “You Are Not Average”

Gene had this way of making you believe you could conquer the world. His mantra, “You are not average,” wasn’t just words—it was a mindset. He drilled it into me every day, convincing me that athletes like us recover faster and push harder than anyone else. His belief in me was contagious. It was Gene’s unwavering faith that pulled me through the toughest days of my recovery.

The Power of Encouragement

Gene didn’t just tell me what to do; he showed me how to do it with unwavering support. He visited me every day, lifted my spirits, and reminded me of my potential. His encouragement wasn’t just about physical recovery but mental strength as well. He pushed me to see beyond the pain and focus on the goal.

This kind of support is what we all need—a mentor who sees our potential even when we can’t.

Finding Your Mentor

So, how do you find a mentor who can guide you through your own challenges? Here are a few tips:

1. Look for Experience: Seek out someone who has walked the path you’re on. Their experience is invaluable.

2. Shared Values: Find a mentor whose values align with yours. It’s important that they believe in what you’re striving for.

3. Accessibility: Choose someone who is approachable and willing to invest time in your growth.

4. Mutual Respect: Respect is a two-way street. Make sure you value their time and advice, and that they respect your efforts and goals.

5. Ask for Guidance: Don’t be afraid to reach out. Many potential mentors are happy to share their knowledge if you show genuine interest and commitment.

The Ripple Effect

Mentorship doesn’t just benefit the mentee; it’s a two-way street. Gene found fulfilment in seeing me succeed, and I gained invaluable wisdom and strength from his guidance. This ripple effect creates a powerful cycle of growth and achievement.

Paying It Forward

One of the greatest honors I’ve had is mentoring others. Seeing someone I’ve guided achieve their goals is incredibly rewarding. It’s a reminder that we’re all part of a bigger picture. So, once you’ve benefited from mentorship, consider paying it forward. Be that beacon of strength for someone else.

Remember, “Mentors are like lighthouses—they don’t make the journey shorter, but they sure do show the way!”

Conclusion

Mentorship is magical because it bridges the gap between where we are and where we want to be. It’s about finding someone who believes in our potential and pushes us to achieve greatness. Whether you’re seeking a mentor or ready to become one, remember that the journey of growth is a shared experience.

Stay strong, stay connected, and keep striving for greatness.

Cheers,

Bob Molle

Today, I want to share a story from my life that perfectly captures the essence of “Getting Comfortable Being Uncomfortable.” It’s a tale of resilience, determination, and the power of pushing through discomfort to achieve greatness.

The Battle Between Comfort and Growth

Let me take you back to the summer of 1984. I had just made the Canadian Olympic wrestling team, and I was on top of the world. But life had other plans. Just weeks before the Olympics, I suffered a severe back injury. Imagine my horror when the doctors told me I had a ruptured disc and needed immediate surgery. My Olympic dreams were slipping through my fingers.

But then came my mentor, Gene Kiniski, a man with a knack for making you believe you could take on the world. Gene’s philosophy was simple: “You are not average.” He drilled this into my head every day. Athletes like us, he said, train harder and recover faster. And you know what? I started to believe him.

The Role of Mentorship and Support

Gene was there every single day, lifting my spirits and pushing me to keep going. He reminded me that our training made us stronger and faster than the average person. His belief in me gave me the strength to face the pain and discomfort head-on.

This experience taught me the importance of having a strong support system. Mentors and supportive figures can provide the push we need to step out of our comfort zones and strive for greatness.

Overcoming Adversity

Fast forward three weeks post-surgery, and there I was, strutting into the Olympics like I just got back from a spa day. Not only did I compete, but I also snagged a Silver Medal! It was proof that with a bit of resilience and a lot of stubbornness, magic really does happen outside our comfort zones. Who knew a ruptured disc could lead to a shiny new accessory?

Applying the Philosophy

Now, let’s bring this home with a few steps to help you embrace this philosophy:

1. Identify Your Comfort Zones: Spot the areas where you’re playing it safe.

2. Seek Out Challenges: Go after tasks and goals that push you into uncharted territory.

3. Find a Mentor: Surround yourself with folks who believe in your potential and can give you that extra nudge.

4. Stay Persistent: Remember, setbacks are part of the journey. Keep pushing.

5. Celebrate Small Wins: Take a moment to cheer for the small victories. They build momentum and keep you fired up.

Conclusion

If my journey has taught me anything, it’s that comfort is often the biggest roadblock to our success. It’s easy to stick to routines and avoid challenges because they’re, well, uncomfortable. But real growth and achievement lie just beyond those comfort zones.

I encourage you all to embrace the philosophy of getting comfortable being uncomfortable. Push through the pain, believe in your potential, and don’t let comfort hold you back. Remember, the real magic happens on the other side of discomfort.

Stay strong, stay uncomfortable, and keep striving for greatness.

Cheers,

Bob