By David Tepera, June 22, 2022

We all have a list of goals that we want to accomplish. What you must realize is the only thing slowing you down is too much focus on obstacles. Everything in life has speed bumps and barriers, but you must keep your eye on the target.

Look at obstacles as a reminder to focus stronger. Don’t allow others to get in your head to keep you down. Remember, when you’re happy and tackling goals, some people will say negative things about you. I always looked at it as a compliment because I’m taking chances in life while they’re not going anywhere.

So, what’s your list of goals? If it’s to save more money, then quit the senseless spending. Our daughter Daylyn, who works and goes to college, has learned to utilize thrift stores and other retail shops to find some really good bargains on name-brand clothing. This alone has helped her grow a savings account.

Most of us are consumed with losing weight. You know the only thing preventing you from reaching your goals is the lack of exercise and discipline of eating.

Instead of dreading going to the gym or exercising, you should be excited knowing the end result will be burning calories and building muscle. It’s time to separate yourself from the new norm of most people being obese.

Don’t look at taking the time to cook healthy foods as an obstacle over the ease of driving through the grease pit. You need to look forward to putting time in to prepare delicious healthy meals.

Every weekend, Tina and I consider it “date time” when we take about one hour and 30 minutes to cook and prep all our meals for the week. We put on music, sometimes share a bottle of wine, and just flirt and crack jokes. So, instead of dreading the time it takes to cook, we have a blast making memories.

Now, it’s time to get back focused on your goals. There is no obstacle strong enough to keep you from blasting through it. Don’t look down. Keep your head up and stay on path. Punch, kick and fight your way to the top.

It is you who will accomplish success. It is you who will climb out of any negative situation to find happiness and prosperity.

This is your day because you will only focus on the goal and not the obstacle.

By David Tepera, June 15, 2022

So, where are you at in life? Do you sit around and wish you did this or that? Of course, we all wish we did some things differently in our past, but those are the lessons to push us forward.

We all choose a path in life, which includes occupation, relationships, finances and so on. But one of the most important choices involves health decisions. When we’re younger, we are invincible and bad habit choices were no big deal.

Now that you’re older, how many prescriptions do you have? Are you obese and feel sluggish all day? Have you let all your unhealthy decisions confine you to a wheelchair? Bottom line, what’s your quality of life?

If you don’t like where you’re at, then change direction. Yes, it’s that simple because today you’re taking back control of your life. This is your wakeup call, so no more feeling sorry for yourself. We don’t want to hear about all your health problems because we all know you did this to yourself.

I know I’m being a little harsh today, but what’s going to wake you up? Quit telling people your problems because we all have them. We don’t need to add yours to our list. Don’t let your ailments be your identity.

From now on, when people say your name, it will be related to someone who is inspiring others. Yes, you were down once, but that all changed today.

It doesn’t have to be health-related. Are you in a destructive relationship? Do you hate going to work each day? Whatever is making you unhappy, then change direction.

If needed, find a way to switch careers or maybe change departments. Put an exit plan together and get out of that unhealthy relationship.

If you’re addicted to drugs or alcohol, then seek professional help or most of all, drop to your knees and let God guide you through it. Believe me, if it weren’t for Him, I wouldn’t be the man I’ve become.

So, now, this is it. Are you getting excited? Are you ready to be happy? The old you is over and the new started today. It will take time and will not always be easy, but the journey has begun.

Words cannot express how proud I am for all those who have taken back control of their life. I hope you figured out that all it took was to change direction.

By David Tepera, June 8, 2022

Who said life was easy? No matter what your situation may be, each day will have challenges.

As we grew up, we had challenges of school, competitions, socializing and learning to be responsible. As adults, we face the challenges of finances, work, marriage and children.

Once you reach old age and retirement, the challenges become more health-related.

Now, as we look at or look over our lives, you should realize that you got back what you put into it.

If you’re struggling financially, have you put in the time and dedication into your occupation? Are you really worth your paycheck? Have you proven your work ethic to get the promotion or pay raise? If not, step up your game and put more into it.

How’s the relationship with your spouse going? Is it a partnership or one-sided? Do you treat each other with respect and love as you did while dating? Whatever the situation may be, you’re receiving what you put into it.

How’s your health these days? Are you content losing your breath while tying your shoes? Admit it, you feel depressed because of the lack of exercise and bad diet. Remember, you’re in your condition from what you put into it.

Here’s the good news. Starting today and moving forward, the old you is over and the new you has begun. All it takes is putting on your sneakers and walking out the door. Yes, you’re going to walk around the block and sweat. At first, you’ll feel uncomfortable, but when you’re done, you’ll feel accomplished. You need to cleanse those impurities and negative thoughts from your body.

You’re also going to drive to the grocery store and purchase healthy foods, vegetables and fruit. What you’ll soon find is that it’s cheaper to cook healthy than it is to drive through the grease pit.

It took years for you to be in the shape you’re in, so don’t get discouraged because it will take time to gain your health back. But each day is another day to create a quality of life.

Who cares if you still have fat or loose skin on different places on your body? Don’t get caught up trying to look like someone you’re not.

There’s a beautiful person in each of us. This person is kind, generous and respectful to all people.

I promise, within a short period of time, with a healthier lifestyle, you’ll release that beautiful person within you. You’re going to love what you receive from what you’re putting into it.

By David Tepera, June 1, 2022

It’s that time of year when many people are graduating from various schools. They range from high school, college, nursing, vocational and so on. Be proud of yourself for all the work and dedication it took to achieve this accomplishment.

While growing up and knowing each year was another grade for school, we didn’t have full control of our lives. The decision was already made for us, so we just kept moving forward.

For all of you high school graduates, your future now depends on your decisions. Yes, some of you will start college, but it will be up to you to make it to class or not. Others will be looking for jobs, but it will be up to you to wake up and be dependable.

Some kids participate in sports while in high school. Will you continue to exercise and eat healthy or become another obese statistic?

Whatever your situation might be, it’s time to start your list of failures. Some people will fail at college, but it’s OK if you really gave it a good try. I quit college because of a lack of maturity. Once I went out into the working world of the 1980s, I realized I needed college for the occupation I desired. So, I went back at the age of 26 and graduated at 32.

You see, I went out and failed in the working class. Also, as an adult, I’ve failed in some business adventures, investments and even relationships. But, what is important is to not be afraid to fail.

At the age of 60, my list of failures are book-worthy. What I’m trying to relay to you is that failure is good. If you’re not failing, then you’re not trying. With each failure, you’ll gain experience and knowledge. One day, all these failures will lead to success.

My wife Tina and I met while we were much older. I told her that every good and bad decision we ever made led us to crossing paths at the right time. So, don’t get discouraged from failure.

No one starts out great, but as long as you start, you can become great.

Now, get out there in this world and find your way. I promise, as long as you keep your head up and continue to fight, you’ll find financial, spiritual and relationship success. All it takes is making a list of failures.

By David Tepera, May 25, 2022

Recently, I was training one of my new male clients, Doug. During Doug’s session, we were discussing a variety of motivational sayings. That’s when Doug threw out, “the only easy day was yesterday.” As we dug into the words, I learned it came from a Navy SEAL motto.

What I’ve gathered through my investigation is that when serving as a Navy SEAL there are no easy days, and as a SEAL Team member each mission may be more challenging than the last.

Now, I don’t mean disrespect towards any military if I don’t have the meaning or phases completely correct. Remember, my oldest son Dustin served in Iraq as an U.S. Army Specialist and passed away almost 10 years ago. We are a strong supportive military flag-waving family. I’m just trying to convey this to you the best I can from my perspective.

The “easy day” motto takes on many different meanings depending on your situation. Bottom line, every day you must work harder than the day before. And, when you work hard, yesterday will seem easy.

So, what’s going on in your life? Are you sitting around wishing for this and that? Do you want the life someone else is living? Are you putting in the hours and dedication towards goals?

There will be those who will hate you because they see you obtaining the success they think they deserve from the work they haven’t done.

Not everyone has the discipline to make yesterday easier than today. When yesterday was a huge challenge, plus you grinded through it, then you realize what you’re capable of. These people will rise to the top and have a fulfilling life.

It’s never too late, so it’s time to put your game face on and don’t worry about the haters.

You can still start that business you’ve dreamed of. You can rise to the top of your company. You can have the relationships you want. You can battle through night or trade school. You can accomplish anything you desire by starting today.

No, it’s not going to be easy, but that makes the reward that much sweeter because you did it. Make sure to thank all those along the way. This is where you’ll find support through the hardest days. Release and let go all those who doubt you because they want you to fail.

But not this time. Failure is no longer an option because the only easy day was yesterday. See you at the top.

By David Tepera, May 18, 2022

Being a small-business owner and a medical trainer, there’s really only one issue we deal with frequently that’s frustrating. This is when a client cancels a training session with less than an hour of set time or does a no-show.

Now, we do understand that emergencies happen. But, there are those who do this on a regular basis. Bottom line, you don’t respect people’s time. Of course, this issue is shared by every business that sets appointments. Especially, those deemed as non-essential services such as nail salons, hair styling, personal training, wellness spas and so on.

What people need to understand, even though you might think some services are only a luxury, it’s still a business. Time management is one of the most important factors to run a successful business. When one client doesn’t commit to their scheduled time, it’s a waste and loss of money.

Let me break it down a little further from our business plan, which is similar to others. Between Tina, Dylan and I, we each train 10 to 12 clients a day. This means our first client starts at 4:30 a.m., rotating each hour through 5 p.m. Plus, Dylan works until 8 p.m. during the week, including weekends. Our goal each day is to get in the zone and create an exciting and productive environment.

Now, at least 95 percent of our clients give plenty of notice when they need to miss a training session. This allows us to rearrange others and fill in their time slots. This keeps the day moving and helps others have an opportunity to possibly train at a better time. As a business, there’s no money lost, no down time, and the day stays in the zone.

For all us business owners, when you continually cancel at the last moment, even though we’ll give you courtesy, just know we’re not happy about it because you just threw a kink in our day.

This is why some businesses will charge you a cancellation fee. We’ve never charged anyone for missing a session. We’re here to help you obtain a better quality of life. The only way you’ll ever reach your goals is through consistency. Otherwise, you’re wasting your money. Just remember, we all want respect, so make sure you’re courteous of other people’s time.

By David Tepera, May 11, 2022

I believe it’s easy to state that we are all products of our childhood. As children, we don’t get to choose our neighborhoods, foods to eat or the values our parents taught us or not.

I understand this topic can go into many directions, with some not too pleasant. That’s not the purpose of today’s lesson.

What I want you to think about and understand, that as an adult, you now completely control your environment. Don’t let anyone think you can’t, and quit making excuses if you’re not where you want to be in life.

I know plenty of people who didn’t grow up in a healthy environment and are now successful in business and as a parent. I’m sure you know people yourself, or you are one of them.

OK, how can you start making changes for a better life? It’s as simple as eating healthier and exercising, plus it really doesn’t cost more than your bad habits.

Now, don’t put this paper down because you don’t need someone telling you to be healthier. I get it. Everyone of us knows we need to improve our health. It’s just that exercising can truly change your life. It changed mine, plus I get to witness it every day in our gym.

What other areas of life do you control? What are your good and bad habits? Do you abuse alcohol or drugs? Are you addicted to social media and became an internet bully? What type of music do you listen to? Where do you get your daily news? Bottom line, what are you filling your mind with?

At Ageless Muscle, we have the oldies rock station playing all day. It’s funny because Dylan is 23 years old and knows classic rock. It’s not his style of music, but he appreciates the era.

What environment are you raising your children in? What values and respect are they learning? Hopefully, your children learn to be kind and helpful to all people because we are of one. Expose your children to a healthy lifestyle. Take them outdoors and find activities to interact with. Hold them and tell them everyday how much you love them because one day you’ll miss them.

Just remember, you shouldn’t try to control others and don’t let them control you. You choose your own destiny, so let’s make today better than yesterday.

By David Tepera, May 4, 2022

Because our business caters more toward those in the older population, we have clients and friends who are widows and widowers. Just as the statistics show, usually women out-live men.

It’s interesting because the older females we know are working out and exercising in order to continue enjoying life. Even though they would like to have a companion, as one female client said it, “She is not looking to be a nurse with a purse.”

So, all you older single men, quit sitting around and letting Father Time take you down. It’s never too late to get yourself back in decent shape. You never know when you might meet a special person and you want to be able to bring excitement into the relationship.

And, to those who are married, what benefit do you bring to create a successful marriage? Is it one-sided or a true partnership?

Besides relationships, this goes the same with businesses, organizations and teams.

We all have coworkers or business partners. What benefits do you bring to the table? Are you productive, on time and reliable? Is your worth more than your paycheck? Only you can answer that honestly.

We all know those who only do enough to get by. They typically hang out in the break-room, on their phone, and are taking days off or finding a way to get out of work.

I once had a business partner with one of my medical companies. This guy was more interested in going to the gym instead of taking care of clients. It didn’t take long for me to give him his last paycheck and send him on his way. My reputation was on the line.

Everyone is looking for leaders, so why shouldn’t that be you?

If you play sports and are part of a team, what’s it going to take to be a starter? What quality and skills put you in a leadership position? Is the team better with you as a leader? Will you lead everyone to victory?

This skill can be used in every aspect of life.

Maybe today can be a reason to reflect over your life and figure out a way to get moving again. Don’t accept being older as an excuse for not enjoying or getting ahead in life. You’re better than that.

You still have a purpose in life, so get up and be someone who brings benefits to create success.

By David Tepera, April 27, 2022

One lesson from life that I learned throughout my adulthood is to sell people on themselves. Don’t waste people’s time by talking about yourself. Believe me, they don’t care.

If you want people to like you, then get them to talk about themselves. As you listen to them brag or boast about their accomplishments, give them words of encouragement and excitement. They’ll think you’re awesome, and you didn’t have to say too much.

The one word we all love to hear the most is our name. If you learn to repeat people’s names back to them, you’ll have their undivided attention.

During my sales calls as a medical representative, I would ask surgeons about their experience with certain products or surgical procedures. It was interesting because most of them presented themselves as the expert. I slowly pulled them in to trust me and try using my product. I made my company and me a lot of money in those days.

Just know, the products I sold were state-of-the-art, and patients had better lives because of them. Surgeons trusted me because I trained them on cadavers and went into surgery with them.

No matter what type of sales you’re in, learn to listen to your prospect.

Employees, if you’re wanting to be noticed or are looking for promotions and raises, start having conversations with those in charge. Repeat their names often, and ask them for their expertise. You’ll have their attention, plus the extra money is around the corner.

Is there a certain someone that has your eye? Are you scared to seem like an idiot because you don’t know how to strike up a conversation? Just start with some simple questions, and let them talk about themselves. Make sure to come off as a genuine person and give sincere compliments.

Being in the health and fitness industry, it’s easy to get people to talk about themselves. Everyone has a diet failure or health issue. I’m here to give encouragement and help steer them in a better direction.

Now, how are you going to start having conversations with people? Are you one of those that has to tell everyone your ailments and personal problems? Stop doing that because we all have life issue to deal with, and we don’t want to hear yours. Believe me, everyone is trying to avoid you.

It’s interesting because we can all improve our lives and those around us by just asking people to talk about themselves. I hope you get it.

Lastly, I want to wish my amazing wife Tina happy birthday today.

By David Tepera, April 20, 2022

Recently, I asked Tina to give me some inspiration for the coming weekend. We put in more than 60 work hours each week, so I wanted to know what my wife was looking forward to on our days off.

Tina really warmed my heart by telling me that even though we work all day together, she couldn’t wait to hang out and just spend time with her husband and best friend.

So, I really started thinking about how special weekends or days off should be. Most people work for an employer and must comply to their work description. Bottom line, someone is telling them what to do. There’s nothing wrong with that in order to create success and production. I’m just making a point.

You see, days off should be totally under your control. Did you eat healthy all week and now it’s time for a reward of your favorite dessert? Were you stuck in an office building all week, and now you get to enjoy the outdoors?

Just like Tina and I, were you and your significant other working hard all week to pay the bills, and now it’s date night?

Obviously, the list is endless according to your life. Even if you decide to just chill and get rest all weekend, it’s OK because it’s your choice.

Now, I know plenty of people who are ambitious and use their days off to start a side business. Their goal is to create more income and to take control of their lives.

Believe me, for all of us independent business owners, there’s really no time or days off. Our son Dylan works seven days a week at our gym. His work ethic is off the chart. He loves changing lives, and makes a good living doing it. Our goal over the next year is for Dylan to run his own fitness center.

But really, Dylan’s story is like many of yours. Through my travels and guest speaking, I’ve had the privilege of meeting plenty of self-made wealthy people. Most of them don’t have a college education, just a strong passion and very productive in their spare time.

So, what are your plans for the coming days off? Is it time for a reward, helping others, being productive or just an opportunity to chill? No matter what’s happening in your life, try to make the days off special.