Why I Won't Eat Crabs

This is a story about crabs. Not the groteque skin-crawling sort either. I'm talking about crabs you can actually trap and eat.

Legend has it that when you place a whole bunch of crabs in a bucket, invariably at least one crab will get the idea that he should climb up the sides of the bucket and escape to freedom.

Funny thing is, as soon as the courageous crab nears the top of the bucket, all the other crabs conspire to pull it back in. Hence, crabs never get out buckets.

This metaphor perfectly illustrates HUMAN behavior as well. One of the things we like to do is categorize and slot.

We like to organize and 'pigeon hole.' And once we've done this, we can relax and pretend that all is well with our world.

But then along comes someone with NEW ideas and/or aspirations.

Uh-oh. Alarms goes off. Bells sound.

”What is this person trying to do…Who does he think he is?”

“Why are you doing all those exercises, are you trying to lose weight or something?”

'”Oh ... NOW you're doing bodyweight exercises. What’s a matter, weights too tough for you?”

And so on.

The guilt dispensing and shame mongering doesn't end with health and fitness either. It hits every facet of life.

The not-so-good news is that there will always be 'crabs' trying to pull you back into the bucket. The GREAT news is that you're NOT a crab.

One of the things that I always preach to people is how to react to criticism. Whenever a guilt dispenser comes along - either ignore him or 'give thanks.' Not kidding either.

If someone sends you a nasty letter - pump both fists above your head, look skyward and celebrate. Doing so not only makes you FEEL good, but it acknowledges that you've successfully climbed out of the bucket.

Believe me, after celebrating like this a few times, you won't even need to do so when the shame monger shows up.

You'll instantly start feeling good because every cell in your body has been programmed to respond to attacks with gratitude.

Bottom line is this: The keys to success in life begin in your mind first. And once you've succeeded in one area - you can and should branch out and succeed in others.

Some have criticized me for teaching others something more than fitness – but I'm not going to let THEIR limiting beliefs about ME influence my career.

No Worries…Live with Passion!