The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. It's a phrase we've all heard, but how many of us truly understand its profound meaning when it comes to pursuing our long-term goals? As men, we often find ourselves caught in the daily grind, wondering if there's more to life than what meets the eye. The truth is, there absolutely is - but it requires commitment, perseverance, and a mindset shift that many of us struggle to achieve.
I recently had an enlightening conversation with David McCarter, also known as Common Man OCR, about the importance of having a "why" for your goals. David's journey over the past decade is a testament to what can be achieved when you set your mind to something and refuse to give up, no matter the obstacles.
The Power of Commitment
One of the most striking things David shared was the statistic that less than 6% of people actually achieve their goals. Why? Because most people don't even set goals in the first place. Of those who do, only a fraction commit to seeing them through.
David's journey began with a simple decision to improve his health and fitness. What started as a challenging first Spartan Race has now evolved into a decade-long commitment to obstacle course racing, charity motorcycle rides, and personal growth. The key? Commitment.
"You have to commit to taking the actions necessary to get that desire," David emphasized. It's not about trying - it's about doing.
The Mindset Shift: From 'One Day' to 'Day One'
One of the most powerful insights David shared was the concept of "one day" versus "day one." Many of us fall into the trap of saying, "One day, I'll lose weight" or "One day, I'll run a Spartan Race." But the real magic happens when you shift that mindset to "Day one."
![A split image showing a person sitting on a couch (labeled "One Day") next to an image of the same person taking action, by exercising (labeled "Day One")]](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/61e4c7_e0f475943075440d9fd29899264f7e3e~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_980,h_551,al_c,q_90,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/61e4c7_e0f475943075440d9fd29899264f7e3e~mv2.png)
Day one is when you get off the couch and walk around the block. Day one is when you show up to the gym and work with a trainer. Day one is when you cross that start line of your first race, even if you're not sure you can finish.
Embracing the Suck: The Reality of Long-Term Goals
Let's be real for a moment - pursuing long-term goals isn't always glamorous. As David put it, "It's gonna suck, but it's gonna be so worth it." This honest acknowledgment is refreshing in a world that often tries to sell us on overnight success stories.
The truth is, you're not going to be able to do everything right away. You're going to struggle. But if you keep going, you'll come out on the other side better than you were before. It's about embracing the suck and pushing through, knowing that each step forward, no matter how small, is progress.
The Tools for Success
So, how do we stay on track with our long-term goals? David shared some practical tools that have helped him over the years:
1. Create a Personal Board of Directors
Surround yourself with people who will give you unbiased opinions and hold you accountable. These are the folks who will tell you like it is, even when it's not what you want to hear.
2. Put Dates on the Calendar
Make your goals real by putting them on your calendar. Whether it's a race date or a commitment to walk around the block three times a week, having it scheduled makes it more likely to happen.
3. Track Everything
Especially when it comes to nutrition, tracking what goes into your body can be eye-opening. Use apps or a simple notebook to keep track of your progress.
4. Live by Your Calendar
Use a digital or paper calendar to schedule everything from workouts to meal prep. This helps you stay focused and on track.
The First Steps to Take
If you're inspired to start your own journey towards long-term goals, David recommends these three steps:
Commit to the goal: Make a real, honest commitment to yourself.
Make a plan: Put dates on the calendar and create actionable steps.
Get moving: Take that first step, no matter how small it might seem.
Remember, it's not about being perfect from day one. It's about showing up, putting in the work, and refusing to give up, even when things get tough.
The Ultimate Takeaway
If there's one thing to remember from David's journey, it's this: There is no try. You can fail, but keep going. As he put it, "When you're walking through hell, keep going."
Gentlemen, the path to our best lives isn't always easy, but it's always worth it. Whether your goal is to run a Spartan Race, start a business, or simply be a better man for your family, the principles remain the same. Commit, plan, and take action. Your future self will thank you for the steps you take today.
Are you ready to turn your "one day" into "day one"? The choice is yours. Let's make it happen.
Are you ready to pursue your long-term goals? I had a hard time wrapping my head around the fact that only 20% of people set goals. Would you like to be part of the 6% of that group that actually succeed at those goals?
Dive into the full conversation with David "Common Man OCR" McCarter as we go beyond the world of OCR and explore chasing multiple goals. Whether you are chasing a fitness goal, a job goal or a passion project this interview will help you in your quest!
Listen on any Podcast Platform or HERE or Below
Catch the video on our YouTube Channel or Watch Below
About David "Common Man OCR" McCarter
OCR Ambassador and Health & Wellness Advocate
David McCarter is a Tech Industry Engineer turned Health and Wellness Ambassador. In 2016 David Came face to Face with Obstacle Course racing with a couple of his friends. What seemed to be a horrible day of pain, heartbreak and frustration served as a wake up call for this chair jockey. Realizing how unhealthy he was despite "going to the gym" he started a crusade for his own life and others. Dawning the nomenclature "Common Man OCR" he set out first to prove that he could save himself and sharing that if he could, anyone can. His crusade has taken him across 97 Spartan Races, numerous Tough Mudders, Warrior Dashes and other that are no longer around. All the way to the Spartan World Championships in Sparta Greece. Dave wants to share with everyone that you can pursue your best life, but you have to get off the couch!
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