Mens Health

Redcon Rising

Colorado BDR Ophir Pass September 2023

The Blacksmiths – Mind Numbing Prescription Drugs

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By Aaron Singerman

CEO of Redcon1

This month’s column introduces my upcoming book, Redcon Rising. The book will be out in November, and this is the first time I’ve shared any of it with anyone publicly.

The idea behind the book is to educate through my tale of successes and failures and to entertain simultaneously. Hopefully, the book helps people to overcome their struggles, succeed in business, and find happiness through the journey.

INTRODUCTION

Dichotomies of My Life

2006 HOUSTON, TEXAS

It was a hot, sticky, Texas afternoon. A normal summer day. Or at least what passed for my normal.

I woke up dope sick, same as always. Hustled the forty bucks required for my two daily bags of heroin. Same as always. Climbed into my fifteen-year-old Lexus that leaked oil and steering fluid to begin the daily commute to my drug dealer’s house in a Houston ghetto.

Calling it Red’s house isn’t entirely accurate. I mean, he certainly didn’t own the home. He wasn’t paying rent and his name didn’t show up on any mortgage. He was simply squatting in one of the countless vacant and dilapidated structures lining Northwest Houston’s Yellowstone Boulevard, most of them small single-family homes accommodating crack houses, gambling dens, and brothels – or, in Red’s case, all three.

I got out of my car without bothering to lock it. As with each visit, I didn’t plan on being inside long. This was a business trip. Besides, if anyone wanted to steal my crappy car or something inside, locking it wouldn’t prevent that.

As I did each day, I walked across Red’s dirt “lawn,” past the faded and cracked white paint peeling off the house’s exterior, up the crumbling steps, and knocked. The sun glistening off my head was only part of the reason why sweat beaded across my forehead. The familiar but no less excruciating cramps, cold chills, and muscle aches hammered my central nervous system with more intensity each passing moment. No answer. That wasn’t like Red – his dope business was open 24/7/365. As far as I knew, he never left this den. Doing so could mean a rival dealer moving in and taking over his territory. I pushed the door open with a creak. Any lock or deadbolt had long ago been punched out.

“Red? Hey, man, you here?” I called out, stepping into what, in a not-long-ago era, must have been the modest living room of a working-class family. It had since declined into a sea of mold, fast-food wrappers, cigarette butts, and drug paraphernalia. I remained largely unaffected by the filth and smell of stale weed smoke and mildew. I was used to it. It wasn’t much different than my own living conditions. Besides, this one-track mind wouldn’t deviate from its sole goal and purpose: scoring drugs. I had shown an aptitude over the years to overlook anything jeopardizing that endeavor.

Red’s house had no electricity. I’m not sure about water, but that didn’t prevent at any given time half a dozen to double digit drug users, sellers, gamblers, and hookers from populating each stained room. My gaze breezed past the soiled couch where Red’s prostitutes routinely sat, through the kitchen where dishes and trash were piled high, and settled on a crooked screen door leading to the backyard. A shout had come from the other side of it.

I still didn’t see Red, but either he called out that he was outside, or his “girlfriend” let me know that was the location from where he was presently conducting business. Red was a smallish light-skinned black guy, probably 5’8”, 140 pounds, his orange-tinged hair and freckles responsible for the nickname. Conversely, the former (?) prostitute he generally referred to as his “girlfriend” was my height and size. Around six foot two, close to 200 pounds. Several shades darker than Red and built well – athletic rather than fat. She looked like she could have been a track star in a past life. Today, only track marks remained.

I found my dealer in the rear of the house, standing on the three or four rickety stairs leading from the back porch down to a dirt patch considered the backyard.

“I need two,” I said quickly, taking out my forty dollars and walking down the stairs. Though I saw Red every single day, there was never much small talk. My goal was always to get in and out as quickly as possible. For Red’s part, the only conversation he ever attempted was when he offered me one of the disgusting five-dollar hookers he always had lounging around. He knew the answer was and always would be no, but that didn’t stop him from trying, more for entertainment than enterprise.

A shriek rang out before he could take my money. It was the girlfriend. “Motherfucker!” she screamed from inside the house. We both tried to ignore her, but she stormed outside and began to walk down the stairs with purpose, evidently quite angry with Red. “You didn’t get me no food?” she screeched at him, coming to a rest on the stair above where we were attempting our transaction. If I couldn’t actually smell her, I certainly imagined I could. “You didn’t get me no McDonald’s?”

Red didn’t say anything, barely reacted. Until, like a flash, his right arm shot out past me, a sharp jab that connected with the girlfriend’s nose. “Bitch, shut up,” he said calmly after the punch landed and she was doubled over, blood oozing through clenched fingers. Red went right back to digging into a sandwich bag full of smaller baggies of heroin from which to serve me, and the girlfriend retreated into the house. It was like nothing had happened; there was no indication this was the first occurrence of violence between the two. Red and I were again alone with the drugs and chirping Texas insects.

As he counted out my baggies, I heard the screen door slam behind us. He heard it too but didn’t turn around. I looked up. The girlfriend. Coming down the stairs. Fast and angry.

Oh, shit. She’s going to hit him, I thought, probably trying to signal Red, though I don’t remember for sure. Even so, he had to know she was there. Still, he didn’t turn, just continued pulling out my two baggies. Red stood face to face with me, his back to the stairs, about to hand me the goods when, suddenly, his eyes went wide with shock and pain. A shimmer of light caught my attention. I looked down; a giant blade was sticking out of Red’s ribs, up near his sternum. Glimmering steel, coming out the front of his body. For a moment, the two of us made eye contact, each trying to piece together what was transpiring. Then, I saw the blood. It began to spread across his belly quicker than spilled cranberry juice on a kitchen floor.

Red dropped the sandwich bag and spun around, grasping at the large butcher knife piercing his body. The girlfriend screamed, then ran back up the stairs and scampered through the screen door. I never saw her again. Red turned back to me, blood now pouring from his mouth and chest. I couldn’t believe how much blood there was. It was everywhere. He spun around, frantic, reaching for his back, trying to pull the knife out. The blood kept flowing, mixing into the dirt, producing a dark, deep, ruddy mud. Finally, Red got a hold of the knife handle but was unable to pull it out. He continued spinning around and around like a cat chasing its tail. Finally, he fell face forward into the bloody mud, landing hard enough on the knife that most of it pushed xx through his back. Blood continued to pool around him.

My brain had a hard time processing what its eyes were telling it. Holy fuck. All I could think was, I had no idea there was so much blood in a person, followed immediately by, I need to get the hell out of here.

I sprinted around the house, back to the front where my car was parked. I jumped in and started the engine. But I didn’t put it in drive. I didn’t leave. Not right away. I had to think. Yes, I had just witnessed extreme violence. But I also hadn’t gotten my drugs.

My internal thought process went something like this: I don’t know where to get more, and there are all those baggies scattered on the ground back there. Red doesn’t need them anymore. I should go get those baggies. That’s enough heroin to last me for weeks.

I remained in my car, contemplating. What should I do? Should I go back? What if the girlfriend comes back? Maybe Red is fine. Eventually, I decided I couldn’t take the risk and drove off, empty-handed. Any anxiety stemmed not from Red’s demise, but rather the loss of my only source of heroin.

The next morning, predictably, I woke up sick yet again. However, not my standard level of dope sickness. Much, much worse. I hadn’t had my fix the day before and was slamming headfirst into day two without injecting any heroin. Withdrawals crippled me. It was going to be tough just to get out of bed. And now there was no Red to buy heroin from. What was a resourceless addict to do? I’d eventually take this lesson with me into the business world, especially when dealing with manufacturers: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.

I was mad at myself for not going back the day before. What an idiot. I should have taken Red’s baggie without hesitation. I’d have forty or fifty bags of heroin now. For free. No hustling, no sickness, just a string of carefree days before the supply ran dry. Now someone else was going to find them. If they hadn’t already. Fuck it, I decided. I’ll go back now. Maybe I imagined the whole thing. Maybe Red was just hurt and he’s in the hospital. Maybe the baggies are still there. Or maybe his body is lying in the weeds with fifty bags of heroin scattered around the corpse like manna from above. Maybe he’s gone but the heroin is still there. A plethora of possibilities, with no idea which was the most likely. I intended to find out.

Sick as a dog, sweating, puking, rife with diarrhea, I crawled into my car and took my normal route into the ghetto. Pulled up to Red’s house. It looked as it always did. Maybe sadder. More downtrodden. Maybe it just seemed that way. I didn’t care. I knocked on the door. No answer. I pushed it open. Empty. No prostitutes on the couch. No Red. No one at all. Just the cockroaches.

I headed for the backyard. Warped floorboards creaked underfoot. I could feel my heart in my throat. What would I find?

I scanned the yard. Empty. No body. Barely a sign that anything had happened. Could I have imagined it? I noticed the mud where he had fallen was pushed around a little, like someone had tried to clean it up. I looked closer. No drugs. Shit.

What am I going to do now?

MARCH 31, 2021 – REDCON1 HEADQUARTERS, BOCA RATON, FL

I was annoyed. The papers had been signed for over twenty-four hours, and still no money. Significant proceeds from the sale of a minority stake in my supplement company should have already cleared and been deposited into my account.

“Where we at? Refresh it again,” I barked into the speakerphone as my gaze found one of the many framed pictures of my kids dotting my office walls, alongside military paraphernalia gifted to me by so many friends in the special operations community, books, and bodybuilding regalia, including a Mr. Olympia Sandow trophy I bought at auction. Our company controller, Stephanie, was on the other end.

“The Woodpecker” was what my old business partner, former best friend, and at the time, co-defendant, called me when I got like this. It was meant to be insulting, but I wore it like a badge of honor. The characteristic had served me well over the years.

“Nothing new,” Stephanie reported, exasperated. Everyone expected me to be happy, to be excited. Everyone – my lawyers, my new partners, my employees – all kept congratulating me, asking how I was going to celebrate selling a piece of my company that would allow my kids’ kids to never work a day in their lives if I allowed it. Celebrate? I wasn’t celebrating. The money wasn’t officially in my account yet. My dad taught me never to count chickens before they hatched, and until that money was in my account, I wasn’t celebrating shit.

My phone vibrated. A text from Stephanie. I opened it. A screenshot of the company bank account. It was our new balance. The money had landed. Generational wealth.

I’m not an outwardly emotional person. To say the least. Just ask my wife at the time, Darielle. The mother of my children. She always urged me to embrace my feelings more, to learn to revel in them. And she’s right, I should. But I rarely do. This was different. When I saw that number, a wave of emotion rolled through me. I couldn’t help it – I got choked up, for the first time in a long time. All the hard work, all the sacrifices, everything I’d overcome led to this accomplishment. It wasn’t necessarily a “fuck you” to everyone who had doubted me, screwed me over, or rooted against me (of whom there were and still are many), but – you know what, yes it was. Fuck you.

Celebrate? I went to the gym and trained calves and back. Darielle took our sons to baseball practice. This victory wasn’t just about the money and security, though that was wonderful. No, this was about validation. A multibillion-dollar private equity firm with a near-perfect track record in companies they backed believed enough in what I had built to invest eight figures for a minority stake in it. REDCON1 was my baby. A company I had started from scratch after being thrown out of my previous one. A company that my new partners estimated would soon be worth a billion dollars.

That stamp of approval was a statement to the world that REDCON1 was special. Something I had known all along.

JANUARY 2022 – FEDERAL DETENTION CENTER, MIAMI

I was eating discarded food out of prison trash cans. Me, Aaron Fucking Singerman, the founder and CEO of the fastest growing supplement brand in the world, a millionaire many times over, using my bare hands to eagerly stuff the scraps other prisoners had thrown away into my mouth.

A month ago, I had been living in a mansion on the water with my model wife and three sons. I had private chefs, momentary access to my own jet, and more six-figure watches than I could count. I owned Lamborghinis, Mercedes Benzes, and a Rolls-Royce. But in here, none of that mattered. Besides, I couldn’t recall any of it being more satisfying than this pile of day old, mushy collard greens some other inmate had half-eaten and thrown out. Cut-off sandwich crusts and opened milk cartons rounded out the macros for this banquet.

After the feast’s conclusion, I sat in my cell, contemplating what had just happened. I was somewhat surprised to discover the overriding sentiment rattling around my brain was one of gratitude. I was actually grateful for the opportunity to eat garbage. Grateful to have been able to shower and wash my underwear that day, the first time in more than a week. To have briefly left the eight by ten cell I shared with another inmate after being locked down twenty-four hours a day for over a week due to gang violence in Texas.

I knew it could be worse: At least I had food. Prior to the dumpster spread, I’d barely been getting fed enough to stave off starvation. Sure, my wet underwear may have been hanging next to my head, but soon they would be dry. And then I’ll have clean underwear. If nothing else, I had to stay positive. Nothing lasts forever. Good or bad. A sentiment I have lived many times over in what feels like multiple lives.

Pre-order REDCON RISING at Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/RedCon-Rising-Falling-Again/dp/1955026556

Instagram @aaronsingerman

redcon1.com

Instagram @redcon1

The post Redcon Rising appeared first on FitnessRX for Men.

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By: Team FitRx
Title: Redcon Rising
Sourced From: www.fitnessrxformen.com/interviews/redcon-rising/
Published Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2023 13:20:38 +0000

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M Brand

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Mens Health

Failures in Business: The Unseen Stepping Stones to Success

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.

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.

Instagram @aaronsingerman

redcon1.com

Instagram @redcon1

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

——————–

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/

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.

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!

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

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