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Anyone can improve his or her upper chest if they apply concentrated effort and think outside the box of traditional chest training.

It’s one of the great ironies of weight training. The one day no man ever skips, and the favorite training day for many from early teenage years all the way to middle age and beyond, is chest. Yet when you take a good look at the pectoral development of the average serious weight trainer, there aren’t many chests that would be considered even above average. Of those that have managed to build significant thickness to their chests, only a fraction have complete development from top to bottom. The typical mass distribution tends to be greatest at the bottom portion of the pecs above the sternum and ribcage, and rapidly flattens out as you approach the collarbone. It’s just not a good look. When you stop and think about some of the best chests of all time, men like Arnold Schwarzenegger, they all had upper pecs that were thick as bricks, almost scraping their chins in a side chest pose. A bottom-heavy chest can almost give the appearance of breasts, whereas a dense, full upper chest to match is more reminiscent of a Roman Legionary’s armored breastplate. Many lifters I have spoken to have expressed their desire for a better chest, but they have consigned themselves to defeat after failing to develop the area. I’ve heard that upper pecs are “all genetic,” much like calves, forearms and bicep peaks. I don’t buy into that excuse for one minute. Anyone can improve his or her upper chest if they apply concentrated effort and think outside the box of traditional chest training. With that in mind, let me help you beef up your upper chest starting today.

Prioritize

Let me start off with some tough love. The reason most lifters’ upper chests suck is the same reason their hamstrings suck: neglect. Sure, you do some incline work, but when? The pattern I see with so many guys in the gym is to spend the first third of their chest session on a flat barbell bench press, doing something like four warm-up sets and six working sets, often attempting a one-rep max at every workout. This is a habit many have carried on from their adolescence, when the amount of weight you could bench press was a marker of your manhood. I know plenty of men who are 40 and older who are still very much concerned about “how much they bench,” as if anyone cared. So they expend vast amounts of limited time and energy on the flat bench, then maybe move on to some seated Hammer Strength chest piece like the wide or decline bench press, where they can load up four or maybe five plates a side and feel like Superman. Taxed by this point, they finally get to some type of incline press. By then, they’re at least halfway shot, gassed, lacking the energy and motivation to do any real justice to that exercise. Then they complain that their upper chests won’t grow. The only solution to this situation is to prioritize the upper chest by training it first on chest day. Stop worrying about your flat bench press. If you happen to lose a few pounds off your max, so what? If you’re in the gym to improve your physique, that should take precedence. By hitting your upper chest first thing, you will at last give it the energy and focus it’s been needing all along. You will be shocked at how well it responds once you make this one critical change.

Change the Angles Up

For decades, we have been indoctrinated to believe that the only effective angle for incline presses is 30 degrees. Any steeper, and the stress shifts entirely to the anterior delts. It sounds logical, and few of us ever questioned this dogma. The thing is, it’s simply not true. Further, I am now convinced after years of experimentation that if you never press at an angle higher than the sacred 30 degrees, you will miss out on reaching the full potential of your upper chest development. I believe in pressing at 30 degrees, 45 degrees, and everything in between. The first time I set a Smith machine at 45 degrees, I was stunned to feel how much activation there was in my upper chest. Certainly the front delts were working too, but they are involved in any type of pressing movement regardless. The point is, why press from just one angle when you have other options available that can stimulate the target area in a slightly different way?

Landmines

For years, I had been seeing athletes from sports like football and many “functional” trainers doing standing landmines with a barbell and thought, wow, that looks stupid. I confess, being closed-minded has caused me to miss out on many productive exercises and techniques over the years. I never would have given landmines a chance until my workout partner at the time, a 6-foot-5 tattooed bruiser named The Goon, showed me how he had figured out how to do them kneeling in front of a supported T-bar machine. It only took one set and I was sold. Though there technically is no such thing as an “upper, inner chest,” that’s exactly where I felt these. With both hands on the bar’s sleeve, you have the closest possible close grip, and the angle you press up at is right about 45 degrees. I could almost feel that inside area of my upper chest getting thicker with every rep. I find I get the best contractions with my elbows tucked in. It’s an ego buster, because I doubt even the strongest among you could get good reps with anything more than three 45s stacked on the bar, but good God, do these work well.

The Smith Machine and Hammer Strength

Someone, and it may have been the late Dan Duchaine in the old Muscle Media 2000, once wrote, “The Smith machine will keep you from turning pro.” I would argue that factors like average genetics, a poor work ethic, and the inability to listen to constructive criticism are all more damning against any given person earning pro status, but I understand the point he was trying to make. Free weights are harder to use in general than machines and are generally more effective at building muscle. The main knock against machines is that they don’t recruit the “stabilizer muscles,” since they remove the need to balance a weight as you push or pull it. To that I say, so what? Many of you are strong enough to push very heavy dumbbells or a barbell loaded up to 315 or more, but you simply can’t keep the weight balanced. Why should you miss out on loading your upper chest with as much resistance as it’s truly capable of, just because some hardcore snob looks down his nose as you if you dare touch anything but raw iron? I built most of my upper chest with incline dumbbell presses, but the Smith machine and Hammer Strength incline presses certainly played key supporting roles. And if getting heavy dumbbells up into the start position and struggling to keep them balanced is taking away from the effectiveness of your upper chest work, do not hesitate to use machines. Any type of building or construction is based on using the appropriate tools for the job at hand. You might find you’ve been banging your head against a wall using only free weights when there were more effective options in front of you the whole time. Machines allow you to focus on squeezing the muscle and keeping it under tension, and that could make a massive difference in your results.

Incline Flye Movements

We always think about doing pressing movements on an incline angle to emphasize our upper chests, but why do we seem to forget about that other function of the pecs, horizontal adduction of the arms? In other words, the flye motion, as seen in dumbbell flyes, machine flyes and cable crossovers. I’ve found the best way to target the upper pecs in this motion is to set up an incline bench between two low cable pulleys. Why not just do dumbbell incline flyes? I’m not a fan of dumbbell flyes in general, mainly because the vertical downward pull of gravity means you lose tension about halfway up toward the top of the rep. You want tension on your pecs as you squeeze them together, which would be a horizontal pull into the midline of your body. Dumbbells are always pulling down to the center of the earth. For that reason, only cables or a pec flye machine offer resistance along the full range of motion. I have seen a couple of machines that mimic an incline flye motion. If your gym has one of those, you’re golden. Otherwise, drag that adjustable bench over to the cable crossover station and get to work.

Flexing and Posing

Though you’ve probably heard about the value of flexing and posing toward developing your physique, I bet many of you roll your eyes at the thought. What if I told you it actually works? Even if you’re not interested in the improved muscle separation and detail that intense, regular posing will give to a muscle, there is also the very real and immediate benefit of enhancing your mind-muscle connection. The greater your mastery of that neural conduit, the better you will be at forcefully contracting your muscles and feeling them fully stretch on every rep. It’s that critical distinction that separates bodybuilders, who train a given muscle group as intensely as possible, and the other 95 percent of people in gyms who lift weights, without a lick of thought going into the feeling inside their muscles as they do so. For your upper chest, I have a simple but highly effective flexing exercise you can start doing right now. Stretch both your arms out directly in front of you with hands together. They can be loose or in fists, it doesn’t matter. Next, squeeze your pecs together as hard as you can, trying to especially focus on that top shelf of upper pec below your clavicles. Hold that flex for a count of 10, rest for about 20 seconds, then do it again. Eventually you can work up to three static contracted holds of 30 seconds each. You can do these whenever it’s convenient, or save them for the end of your chest workout.

Upper Chest Focus – Workout A

Incline Dumbbell Press

Warm-up:

3 x 20, 15, 12

Sets:

4 x 12, 10, 10, 8 (increasing weight)

Incline Cable Crossovers (30 degrees)

4 x 12 (increasing weight)

45-Degree Smith Machine Press

4 x 10-12 (increasing weight)

Upper Chest Focus – Workout B

Hammer Strength Incline Press

Warm-up:

3 x 20, 15, 12

Sets:

5 x 10-12 (increasing weight)

20-Degree Smith Machine Press

4 x 10-12 (increasing weight)

Pec Flye Machine (standard execution)

4 x 12

Upper Chest Focus – Workout C

30-Degree Smith Machine Press

Warm-up:

3 x 20, 15, 12

Sets:

5 x 12, 10, 10, 8, 8 (increasing weight)

Incline Cable Crossovers (45 degrees)

4 x 12

Dips, Leaning Forward

Bodyweight, 3 sets to failure

The post Best Exercises for Bigger Upper Chest appeared first on FitnessRX for Men.

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By: Ron Harris
Title: Best Exercises for Bigger Upper Chest
Sourced From: www.fitnessrxformen.com/training/best-exercises-for-bigger-upper-chest/
Published Date: Mon, 31 Jan 2022 20:31:58 +0000

Did you miss our previous article…
https://www.mansbrand.com/7-training-myths-that-must-die/

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A Mans Best Friend – How Does Owning A Dog Improve The Quality Of Life For Men?

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As men navigate the challenges and demands of the modern world, it becomes increasingly important to prioritize their overall well-being. While different individuals may find solace in various activities and hobbies, owning a dog has emerged as a proven method to improve the quality of life for men. With their unconditional love, companionship, and ability to bring joy and fulfillment into our lives, dogs have become much more than just pets — they are valued members of our families. In this blog post, we will explore the numerous ways in which owning a dog can positively impact the lives of men, from promoting physical health and mental well-being to fostering social connections and personal growth. So, if you’re a man considering welcoming a furry friend into your life or if you’re simply interested in learning more about the benefits, read on to discover how owning a dog can enrich your life in ways you might not have anticipated.

Highlighting the companionship and emotional support that dogs provide

Companionship and emotional support from dogs can have a profound impact on improving the quality of life for men. Dogs are known for their unwavering loyalty and unconditional love, making them the perfect companions for men seeking emotional support.

In today’s fast-paced and often stressful world, it’s not uncommon for men to feel isolated or overwhelmed. However, owning a dog can help alleviate those feelings by providing constant companionship. Dogs are always there, ready to greet their owners with excitement and a wagging tail, creating a sense of belonging and connection.

Dogs also have an innate ability to sense their owner’s emotions, making them invaluable sources of emotional support. Whether it’s a rough day at work or a personal challenge, dogs have a unique way of offering comfort and empathy. Their presence alone can make a significant difference, as they provide a non-judgmental ear to listen and a source of comfort through physical touch.

Studies have shown that owning a dog can reduce stress levels and increase feelings of happiness and overall well-being. Beyond companionship, interacting with dogs releases oxytocin, a hormone known for its positive effects on mood and stress reduction. This natural “happy hormone” not only improves emotional stability but also has physical benefits, including lowered blood pressure and reduced risk of heart disease.

Moreover, dogs encourage men to live healthier and more active lifestyles. Regular walks, playtime, and outdoor activities with their furry companions help men stay physically fit and maintain a more balanced routine. Exercise has been proven to boost endorphins, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep patterns, all crucial factors in enhancing the overall quality of life.

Exploring the positive impact of dog ownership on mental health

how does owning a dog improve the quality of life for men

Dog ownership has long been associated with a range of health benefits, particularly when it comes to improving mental well-being. Men, in particular, can greatly benefit from the presence of a furry friend in their lives. Owning a dog not only provides companionship but also has the potential to reduce stress and anxiety levels.

Studies have shown that spending time with dogs can have a calming effect on individuals, leading to reduced stress levels. Interacting with dogs has been found to increase the production of oxytocin, often referred to as the “love hormone.” Oxytocin is known to play a significant role in reducing stress and promoting feelings of relaxation. Simply petting or spending time with a dog can have a soothing effect on the mind, providing an escape from the pressures of daily life.

Additionally, dogs require regular exercise, which can benefit both physical and mental health. Engaging in physical activity with a dog, such as going for walks or playing fetch, releases endorphins – hormones known for their positive effects on mood. Regular exercise not only helps to reduce stress and anxiety but also improves overall mental well-being.

Moreover, the social support provided by a dog can have a profound impact on mental health, particularly for men who may find it challenging to express their emotions or seek support from others. Dogs are non-judgmental listeners and can be a source of comfort during difficult times. Sharing a bond with a dog creates a sense of companionship, reducing feelings of isolation and boosting self-esteem.

Studies have also shown that dog owners tend to have lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, further promoting overall health and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Improved physical health can indirectly contribute to better mental well-being, as a healthy body supports a healthy mind.

The physical benefits of owning a dog

how does owning a dog improve the quality of life for men

Owning a dog has numerous physical benefits for men that greatly enhance their overall quality of life. From increased exercise levels to improved cardiovascular health, the positive impact of having a furry companion cannot be understated.

Regular exercise is vital for a healthy lifestyle, and owning a dog provides the perfect motivation to stay active. Unlike going to a gym or jogging alone, owning a dog encourages men to engage in daily physical activity. Taking them for walks, playing fetch or even participating in agility training can significantly increase the amount of exercise men get on a regular basis. This increased physical activity not only helps to shed extra pounds but also provides an opportunity for men to stay fit and maintain a healthy body weight.

In addition to the active playtime, the daily routine of caring for a dog also involves regular walks. These walks not only benefit the dog but also benefit men by bringing about cardiovascular improvements. As dogs are energetic and enthusiastic walkers, their owners often find themselves walking longer distances and at a brisker pace than they would on their own. This increased physical exertion helps strengthen the heart muscles, improve blood circulation, and lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Moreover, owning a dog can also have a positive impact on mental health, indirectly contributing to physical well-being. The companionship of a dog brings joy and happiness to men’s lives, reducing stress levels and promoting overall mental well-being. Studies have shown that reduced stress levels play a significant role in maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system. By reducing stress, owning a dog can indirectly contribute to improved cardiovascular health.

It is important to note that the physical benefits of owning a dog are not limited to the cardiovascular system alone. Increased physical activity and exercise have a positive impact on muscle strength, bone density, and overall physical fitness. By incorporating a dog into their lives, men can enjoy a more active lifestyle, leading to these various physical health benefits.

Touching upon the role of dogs in strengthening social connections and combating loneliness

how does owning a dog improve the quality of life for men

Owning a dog goes beyond providing companionship and loyalty; it also significantly improves the quality of life for men by playing a vital role in strengthening social connections and combating loneliness. In today’s fast-paced and digitally-dominated world, it is not uncommon for men to feel isolated or disconnected. However, the presence of a furry friend can make a world of difference.

Firstly, dogs act as social catalysts, effortlessly breaking down social barriers and facilitating connections among individuals. The simple act of walking a dog in the park can lead to spontaneous conversations with other dog owners and passersby. Dogs have an uncanny ability to draw people together, sparking conversations, and creating opportunities for interaction. These interactions not only provide a sense of belonging but also widen social circles and foster new friendships.

Additionally, owning a dog can combat feelings of loneliness, especially for men living alone or those experiencing solitude due to work or life circumstances. Dogs provide constant companionship and unwavering support, which can easily alleviate feelings of isolation. Men often find solace in the unconditional love and acceptance they receive from their furry friends.

Furthermore, dogs have been known to be natural facilitators of social activities and outings. From trips to the dog park to attending dog-friendly events, owning a dog opens doors to various social engagements. Men can connect over shared interests and bond with other dog owners, creating a sense of community and belonging.

It is worth noting that dogs can also help men build confidence and improve communication skills. Interacting and caring for a pet encourages individuals to develop empathy, patience, and responsibility, qualities that positively impact personal relationships, both with fellow humans and in professional settings.

Addressing the sense of responsibility and purpose that owning a dog instills in men

how does owning a dog improve the quality of life for men

Owning a dog can be a transformative experience for anyone, including men. Beyond the companionship and unconditional love they offer, dogs have a unique way of instilling a sense of responsibility and purpose in their owners. This is particularly beneficial for men who may be seeking a renewed sense of self and direction in life.

When a man decides to bring a dog into his home, he takes on the role of caregiver and provider. This sense of responsibility goes beyond simply feeding and walking the dog; it encompasses all aspects of the dog’s well-being. From ensuring regular veterinary check-ups to keeping up with grooming and exercise needs, owning a dog requires commitment and dedication. In taking on these responsibilities, men develop a sense of purpose and take pride in being able to care for another living being.

The act of being responsible for a dog also encourages men to develop a routine and structure in their lives. Dogs thrive on routine, and by establishing a consistent schedule for feeding, exercise, and playtime, men are compelled to incorporate these elements into their own lives as well. This newfound structure can promote a better work-life balance, as men prioritize their dog’s needs alongside their own.

Moreover, dogs can be excellent teachers of patience and empathy. Training a dog requires time, effort, and plenty of understanding. Men who take the time to patiently train their dogs develop skills in communication, demonstrating empathy and compassion for their canine companions. This ability to understand and respond to a dog’s needs can translate into improved interpersonal relationships and a heightened sense of emotional intelligence.

Owning a dog also encourages men to lead an active lifestyle. Regular exercise is not only vital for a dog’s health but also for the owner’s. Whether it’s going for long walks, playing fetch in the park, or engaging in more vigorous activities like running or hiking, dogs motivate men to stay active and embrace a healthier lifestyle. This increased physical activity has numerous benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, reduced stress levels, and enhanced overall well-being.

The impact of dogs on men’s social lives

Dogs have long been known as man’s best friend, and their impact on men’s social lives is undeniable. Owning a dog not only provides companionship but also serves as a catalyst for social interactions and conversation starters.

For many men, especially those living alone or without a family, having a dog allows them to easily connect with others in their community. Taking your furry friend for a walk in the park or on the neighborhood streets instantly opens up opportunities for social interaction. Dogs are natural ice-breakers, attracting attention and creating a friendly atmosphere that encourages conversation.

Men walking their dogs often find themselves engaging in conversations with other dog owners, leading to new friendships and connections. These interactions can happen simply by exchanging pleasantries about the dogs or sharing stories about canine companionship. The shared experience of owning and caring for a dog is relatable, giving men common ground to connect with others who share similar interests.

Moreover, owning a dog provides men with a sense of responsibility and purpose. This responsibility often leads to increased participation in community events such as dog shows, pet-friendly social gatherings, or volunteering at animal shelters. These activities not only allow men to engage with like-minded individuals but also contribute to the community and make a positive impact.

Dogs also serve as conversation starters outside the typical dog-related setting. Whether at a café, park, or even at work, men with dogs become approachable, as their four-legged companions often become the topic of conversations. Discussing your dog’s breed, training methods, or even funny anecdotes can initiate conversations with colleagues, acquaintances, or potential new friends.

Furthermore, dogs can be seen as an extension of their owners’ personalities. Men who own dogs are often perceived as caring, responsible, and approachable individuals. This positive perception can attract others and facilitate social interactions, making it easier for men to initiate conversations or be approached by others.

How dogs can act as a source of therapy and emotional support for men with mental health issues

how does owning a dog improve the quality of life for men

Dogs have proven to be more than just loyal companions to their owners; they can also play a significant role in improving the quality of life for men, particularly those struggling with mental health issues. Many studies have shown that owning a dog can act as a form of therapy and provide emotional support, making a positive impact on men’s overall well-being.

For men battling mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), the presence of a dog can offer a sense of comfort and solace. Dogs have an innate ability to sense their owners’ emotions, offering unconditional love and companionship during tough times. When feeling overwhelmed or experiencing heightened levels of stress, simply petting or cuddling with a dog can release oxytocin, the “feel-good” hormone responsible for reducing stress and promoting a sense of calmness.

Engaging in physical activities with dogs also boosts mental health. Taking a dog for a walk or playing fetch in the park provides an opportunity for exercise and fresh air, both known to have positive effects on mental well-being. These activities not only help to distract the mind from negative thoughts but also promote a healthy routine and encourage regular exercise – a key component in managing mental health conditions.

Furthermore, dogs alleviate feelings of loneliness and social isolation that can often be overwhelming for men with mental health issues. The companionship offered by a dog is unwavering, and their constant presence can provide a sense of purpose and responsibility. This can be particularly beneficial for men who struggle with forming and maintaining relationships, as a dog’s presence can bridge the gap and offer a meaningful connection.

Additionally, owning a dog can encourage social interaction and foster new relationships. Dog owners often find themselves bonding with fellow dog enthusiasts during walks or at pet-related gatherings. This shared interest acts as a catalyst for forming friendships and participating in a supportive community where individuals can share their experiences and challenges.

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Mens Health

Failures in Business: The Unseen Stepping Stones to Success

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Equally significant is the need for businesses to remain vigilant about broader shifts in both domestic and global markets. Macro factors, whether they’re economic trends, geopolitical events, or emerging global challenges, can have profound ripple effects, impacting even the most niche industries. By staying abreast of these larger market dynamics, businesses can better anticipate risks, adapt to challenges, and capitalize on new opportunities. In an ever-globalizing world, the ability to navigate both the nuances of one’s immediate market and the broader global shifts is what separates thriving enterprises from those that falter.

TACTICAL Takeaway: Stay sharp and monitor your industry’s trends. When things shift, being ahead in understanding consumer habits offers you the flexibility to adjust and succeed. Things can change rapidly and the sooner you have insight into consumer behavior changes, the more opportunities you have to pivot.

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Get Comfortable Being Uncomfortable

The sports nutrition industry is an interesting, fast-paced vertical where what’s old can quickly become new again but also what worked yesterday likely won’t work tomorrow.

It might seem counterintuitive, but it’s spot-on. Take creatine as an example. It hit the shelves in the early 1990s and quickly became a hit. Yet, a decade later, its demand had waned. Jump another decade to today, and it’s back more popular than ever.

TACTICAL Takeaway: The key for businesses is knowing when to go all-in on a product and when to ease off, as it’s the ever-changing consumer market that truly drives demand.

Never Rest On Your Laurels

Just because something “has always worked” doesn’t mean it’s going to continue to work (or continue to work as efficiently).

In the dynamic world of business, the saying “never rest on your laurels” holds more truth than ever. What propelled a company to success yesterday might not necessarily be the formula for its tomorrow’s success. Market demands, technological innovations, and consumer preferences are in a perpetual state of evolution. While a particular strategy or product might have been a game-changer at one point, there’s no guarantee that it will remain relevant or effective in the future. This inherent unpredictability underscores the need for adaptability and forward-thinking in any business endeavor.

This reality pushes companies to be proactive, always forecasting and adjusting to the next potential shift. Relying solely on past successes can lull businesses into complacency, risking obsolescence in the face of changing tides.

TACTICAL Takeaway: To remain competitive and relevant, businesses need to cultivate a culture of continuous learning, innovation, and agility. In essence, the past can inform and guide, but it’s the vision and readiness for the future that will determine enduring success.

Embracing The Journey

To any entrepreneur reading this: the road to success is rarely a straight one. At times, it may seem like every decision leads to a dead end. But remember, every misstep is an opportunity to learn, grow, and pivot.

The trials you face in business are not meant to discourage you. Instead, they are meant to shape you, refine your vision, and improve your strategy. As the age-old adage goes, “smooth seas do not make skillful sailors.” It’s the challenges that will arm you with the experience and resilience necessary for long-term success.

So, the next time you face a setback, remember that your next big success could be just around the corner. Embrace failure as a part of the process, learn from your mistakes, and continue pushing forward with a renewed sense of purpose and determination.

Lastly, don’t forget to enjoy the journey. With so much time spent working and navigating challenges, it’s essential to find joy and have fun along the way.

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Instagram @aaronsingerman

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Instagram @redcon1

The post Failures in Business: The Unseen Stepping Stones to Success appeared first on FitnessRX for Men.

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By: Team FitRx
Title: Failures in Business: The Unseen Stepping Stones to Success
Sourced From: www.fitnessrxformen.com/nutrition/tips/failures-in-business-the-unseen-stepping-stones-to-success/
Published Date: Wed, 15 Nov 2023 18:53:06 +0000

Did you miss our previous article…
https://mansbrand.com/negativity-is-a-losing-mindset/

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Mens Health

Negativity Is a Losing Mindset

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By Marc Lobliner

CMO Tigerfitness.com

‘A good coach can change a game. A great coach can change a life.’

I coach my son’s U11 football team. I am just the line coach, but the dudes who coach with me are also in the same mindset as I am.

Positivity wins.

Let’s start off with last weekend’s game.

It’s 0-0, the opening kickoff is a short one and we fall on it.

You can hear our coaches getting our kids fired up and getting the offense ready for play. POSITIVE statements. A lot of “Let’s Go!” and energy.

On the other sideline, you hear the coaches angrily yelling at their players for the execution of the kick.

First play from scrimmage, our line makes every block and opens the outside for our running back to score.

You hear their coaches furiously yelling as we celebrate.

We celebrated and our fullback punched in the extra point.

After the kickoff, our defense held them to four and out. We got the ball again, touchdown. Extra point good.

14-0 in two offensive plays.s

Their coaches were still mad. Angry. Yelling.

We smiled, encouraged our kids, and ended up with a 42-0 mercy-rule win.

Our players are awesome, but not the biggest, not the fastest, not the strongest.

It’s all about culture and what you’re playing for.

We demand a lot of our athletes. Learn your plays, DO YOUR JOB, and we will win.

Every Tuesday after we win, I buy my linemen doughnuts and give them to everyone, telling them that a random lineman (changes weekly) said everyone deserves doughnuts. We don’t punish every mistake with extra running and up-downs. We focus on what we do RIGHT, and not what we do wrong.

The other game one of my linemen got called for a hold. He came off the field expecting to be scolded. I put my arm around him and said, “What happened?” He explained it and then I said, “You’re better than that guy, you don’t need to hold. Show the world how dominant you are!” He didn’t get one call the rest of the game and crushed it.

This is also my management style at work. Managers are usually garbage. You can do 1,000 things right and you mess up once and your manager attacks you.

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THIS IS NOT THE WAY TO MANAGE!

Employees typically respond better to positivity, and numerous studies have found that positive reinforcement and a positive work environment can significantly improve employee motivation, performance, and well-being. Here are some reasons why, supported by various studies:

Increased Productivity: According to a study conducted by the University of Warwick, happiness led to a 12% spike in productivity, while unhappy workers were 10% less productive. The research shows that human happiness has large and positive causal effects on productivity.

Better Decision-Making Abilities: Research from the University of Pennsylvania’s Positive Psychology Center found that individuals who were induced to feel positive emotions were better at problem-solving and making decisions than those in a neutral state.

Boosts Creativity: Positive emotions widen attention and allow people to think more broadly and openly. This is discussed in the “broaden-and-build theory” by Barbara Fredrickson, which suggests that positive emotions broaden an individual’s momentary thought-action repertoires.

Enhanced Team Collaboration: A study from MIT’s Human Dynamics Laboratory found that teams that communicate effectively, with members actively reaching out and connecting with all other team members, were more successful. Positive interactions contribute to this dynamic.

Reduced Employee Turnover: According to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), a positive work environment and culture encourages employees to stay longer in their jobs, thus reducing turnover rates. This is KEY at Tigerfitness.com where our staff has mostly been there for 5+ years!

Better Health & Well-being: A study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology found that positive work environments and low job stress are linked to better health outcomes for employees, which in turn can lead to reduced absenteeism and increased productivity.

Increased Engagement: According to Gallup, workers who are engaged and have high well-being are more likely to be attached to their organizations and are more productive.

Enhanced Learning & Flexibility: Research in the field of positive psychology has shown that positive emotions can facilitate adaptive thinking and flexibility in cognitive processing. This helps employees adapt to new situations and learn more effectively.

Higher Levels of Satisfaction: A study by BrightHR found that happiness is a key indicator of job satisfaction. Happy employees are more likely to report high levels of satisfaction with their jobs than those who report low levels of happiness.

Creates a Positive Feedback Loop: A study published in The Journal of Positive Psychology found that experiencing positive emotions leads to higher levels of resilience, which in turn leads to increased positive emotions. This positive feedback loop has a myriad of beneficial effects in the workplace.

How about parenting?

Same thing. PRAISE YOUR CHILD! Make sure they know you love them. While bad behavior should be addressed, be sure to also reward good behavior. Kid had a good day at school? Get him ice cream! Tell him you love him. Say you’re proud of him.

As my mother said, “You catch more flies with honey than with crap.”

And one can’t deny the lifelong impact of a good coach. As the sign in the office says, “A good coach can change a game. A great coach can change a life.”

Be positive and be a winner!

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https://www.tigerfitness.com/

Instagram @tigerfitness

Instagram @marclobliner

The post Negativity Is a Losing Mindset appeared first on FitnessRX for Men.

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By: Team FitRx
Title: Negativity Is a Losing Mindset
Sourced From: www.fitnessrxformen.com/lifestyle/negativity-is-a-losing-mindset/
Published Date: Mon, 13 Nov 2023 19:37:20 +0000

Did you miss our previous article…
https://mansbrand.com/panatta-super-rowing-machine/

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