By David Tepera, December 23, 2020

I’m sure the holidays this year will be a bit different from the past, but it’s up to you to make the most of it.

Remember when you were a kid and having a few weeks off from school was like the best ever? During my day and in my neighborhood, there weren’t too many families who left for the holidays. It didn’t matter what the weather was like because all the kids would gather outside to play.

We would ride bikes, play kickball, driveway basketball and sneak out to Delany’s Lake to play hide-and-seek in the bushes and trees. Us kids didn’t have a care in the world because life was simple and easy.

Then we grow up to be parents, along with all the financial responsibilities, holidays become stressful, and you forget the reason for the season.

Well, it’s time take a step back and reflect on being a kid again. I know it’s difficult, but let go of the stress and get outside to play. If you have children, do some outdoor activities and let them see you be silly and having fun. It’s truly your opportunity to be a goofy kid and laugh at all the fun stuff.

I’m glad I didn’t grow up in the video game era. I’m sure I’d have a been a couch potato, too.

Not too long ago, Tina, our daughter Daylyn and I put on some Michael Jackson music and were doing our best to moonwalk. We were laughing hysterically, especially at this old man because I’ve lost my rhythm. I had to beg them not to post it on social media for I would totally lose my man-card.

Remember, it’s not how much you spend for Christmas, it’s the quality of enjoyment you get from it. Let go of all the stress because it will always be there. Make these holidays are a part of your forever memories.

Don’t forget to call elderly family members and brighten their day. All of us need to smile for Christmas and be thankful for all those who love us.

The year 2020 might have been a challenge, but you can change all that by just taking time to be a kid again.

I want to wish all of you a very Merry Christmas.

By David Tepera, December 18, 2020

There’s no secret, life can be extremely complicated. Almost all of us deal with unwanted situations on a daily basis. Do not wait for things to get easier and better because you must learn to be happy right now.

How many of you are just grinding out the work week and waiting for the weekend to enjoy life? It’s easy to get caught up in this week after week.

Tina and I are just like you. We do look forward to Friday evenings knowing our hard work will be celebrated. But, we’ve made it a point to find ways throughout the day to laugh and have fun while working.

We enjoy smiling and cutting silly jokes with our clients. Everyone will push through their weight training and will have fun doing it. There are serious moments, but there are brief down times that allows us to reflect on happiness.

What can you do at your specific job that could bring happiness? How do you respond to family members once home from a hard day at work? Who’s taking the responsibility to make everyone smile, plus can light up the day?

Our daughter Daylyn still lives with us. She works, attends college and is the first to want hugs when we walk through the door. She is the positive energy in our house. Her happiness is contagious, which radiates the rest of the evening. I know, I’m blessed to have wonderful children.

If your situation is not desired as wanted, it’s up to you to change the environment. There is good that surrounds you, so tap into the positive energy and recognize life is better than perceived.

Look, if you’re really struggling to find happiness, here are my two suggestions: 1. Do a small deed for someone else. It’s as easy as opening doors, smiling with a sincere hello, along with a conservative compliment. 2. Get outside and go for a long walk, grab your headphones and put on some uplifting music. The fast-paced songs you choose will put an extra “gid” in your giddyup; also you’ll walk a longer distance.

OK, now I’ve given you some thought to enjoy the days better. You’re an amazing, smart and incredible person put here because you have unique skills that makes other’s lives better. All it takes is learning to be happier now.

By David Tepera, December 9, 2020

It’s no secret: We are all scared to take risks. But we must ask ourselves, “Is it worth the reward?” Just know, the greatest risk will produce the biggest reward.

Do you want to change careers, ask the girl out, invest or anything that creates a better life?

To me, at 59 years old, I’m running out of time, so I’ve taken a few risks. I have nothing to lose and everything to gain. If I lose, I’ve gained knowledge for the next risk.

What I’m trying to relay to you today is to go for it. Quit wishing because it’s time to get out there and start winning.

I’m fortunate to have a support system from my wife, Tina, and I hope you have the same support, too. If not, it’s your life, so don’t let the haters keep you from reaching your dreams.

If you feel stuck in a rut with current job position, put a plan together and build your dream job on the side. Once it gets traction, you can jump to full-on effort to make it a success.

Is there someone that you’ve been wanting to meet? What’s holding you back? If he or she is not interested, you can let it go. Otherwise, you’ve got nothing to lose and possibly an opportunity to find the perfect partner.

Several years back, I was frustrated with the medical industry that I’ve been involved with for more than 20 years. I told Tina, “I’m done with the corporate world, and it’s time for us to pursue our dreams.” To be honest, Tina was scared because the money and benefits were good, and if we failed, it would be financial devastation.

Well, as you all know, our business is booming, and we are changing others’ lives besides ours.

Look, quit wishing and start doing. We have a new year coming, so start going after your dreams and goals. Don’t listen to others’ negative comments and take over your own life.

Yes, we live in a world of risks, so be one of the few who are risk takers. This is your opportunity to be the person you’ve been dreaming of. Step out of your comfort zone and start living life to the fullest because the reward is greater than the risk.

By David Tepera, December 2, 2020

We are now full-fledged into the holiday season. It’s been quite a challenging year for all of us, but how are you going to finish 2020?

When you compete in sports, it’s the fourth quarter, final inning or the last few minutes on the clock that will determine the outcome. This is where leaders separate themselves from others.

Are you throwing in the towel and letting the final minutes slip away, or will all the hard work and prep take you over the finish line to win the game? That choice is up to you.

None of us enjoy losing, so don’t accept failure.

What does it take to find success? For Tina and me, it was sacrificing evenings and weekends to build our brand. We used discipline and persistence to continue our growth.

All of us will face criticism and rejections, but don’t let that stop you from taking risks. This is your life, so go after your goals by putting forth full effort.

What lessons did you learn throughout the year? How did you bounce back? What’s your game plan to finish the season? What momentum will you create to start the coming year?

These are serious questions you must be asking yourself today. Napoleon Hill once wrote “a goal is a dream with a deadline.”

If you suffered failure, just know it is a new beginning. If you don’t go after your dreams and goals, you’ll never have them. You have nothing to lose and will only gain experience. Never compare yourself to others because you must live out your own destiny.

Remember, when you’re finding success, there will be people who will criticize you. That’s their insecure problem, so brush it off. I find criticism as a form of flattery because really, it’s just jealousy.

My friend Jeff started his own machine shop over 15 years ago. He had plenty of people telling him that he would fall on his face. Jeff did fall on hard times where I even helped pay to keep his truck from being repossessed. Jeff kept on his path, stopped listening to people, and now his business is a multimillion-dollar corporation.

Now here we are in the last month of the year. Get your game face on and be ready to finish the season with a championship because you are a winner.

By David Tepera, November 25, 2020

Just about every decision you’ve made or will make in life is because of a reasoning and should be answered with the question, “Why?”

Why did you start exercising and eating healthy? Did you finally get fed up with being overweight and exhausted all the time? Was your daily life on a down slide heading to depression, so you made the choice to take control?

What happens to most of us who start a healthier lifestyle? At some early point, you quit. You must again answer the question, “Why?” Of course, quitting is from lack of discipline.

We have clients who come to us with multiple joint problems. Over the next several months, we help resolve their issue, plus teach them how to lift weights properly. Our hopes, when they decide to venture on their own, is that they can walk into any gym and lift weights injury free.

But again, some people stop exercising and come back to us because their joints get stiff and issues are reappearing. I always ask, “Why did you stop lifting weights?”

We must ask ourselves, “Why?” in other aspects of life. Why did we choose this career path or that particular job? Are you still giving the same effort to succeed as when you started? Did you lose your ambition?

Why did you choose this person to be your spouse? Over time, are you still treating each other with respect and love, or did you get settled in and take advantage?

Listen, it doesn’t matter what is happening in your life at this moment. You must find a way to get out of your comfort zone and change things around. You were once vibrant, excited and enjoying life to the fullest. Today is the day to find the old you and start the journey of being happy again.

Don’t just start something with all cylinders blaring to run out of steam early. You must keep the gas tank full, rev up your engine and attack this world to cross the finish line in first place.

Now, next time you start something that enhances your life, don’t forget, it began with the question, “Why?”

I would like to wish each and every one of you a very happy Thanksgiving Day.

By David Tepera, November 11, 2020

It’s been an interesting week at Ageless Muscle. Many clients came in with a game face because they needed to blow off some frustration. They attacked their weight training program like a professional athlete. To tell you the truth, it was a lot of fun to watch them make new gains in strength and stamina.

We all have many reasons to be frustrated in our daily lives, but I want everyone to know that performing exercise is one of the best medicines for many reasons.

Putting your body through the stress of exercise will produce endorphins that makes you feel better, plus gain confidence to tackle your problems. It’s not just for your physical being, but mental as well.

Don’t you agree, our daily lives of working, parenting and family is the most important responsibilities we have? These are the immediate relationships that we must invest our time in, not the things we can’t control.

How many of you are dealing with a personal tragedy? It could be lack of income, divorce, family death or a slew of multiple reasons.

I knew people who ran to the liquor bottle thinking they could drown their problems. Others ran to the buffet hoping food would comfort them. Not me, I used exercising and the weight room to help me feel better, open my mind, and put me on a better path to getting my life back together.

When I lost my son Army Specialist Dustin over eight years ago, I’ve had the privilege of mentoring many people through a weight lifting program. I would consult them during each weight training session to see the world more positively.  

You see, at Ageless Muscle, Tina, Dylan and I are not only professional trainers, but many of our training programs turn into therapy sessions.

What I’m trying to convey today is for you take control of what you can control. What goes into your mind is what you allow. Don’t let others dictate your thinking process. Remember, you can’t always control what happens to you, but you have complete control how you will respond.

The weather these days has been wonderful. Get outside and take a long walk, listen to uplifting music, and think about all the things that you make you happy. I promise, it will be a game changer for your whole body.

Let’s all find a way to not only love ourselves, but to love each other. To get started, all it takes is exercise and a weight training program.

Happy Veteran’s Day to all of our heros!

By David Tepera, October 28, 2020

There’s no secret — we’ve all used excuses for our downfalls. No one likes their weaknesses to be exposed. It’s easier and less embarrassing to verbally make an excuse than to admit failure.

Do you find yourself tired all the time? What’s your excuse for not going to bed earlier? During the week, we wake at 3 a.m. because our first client starts at 4:30 a.m., so we’re in bed by 8 p.m.

I have people tell me they don’t have time for exercise? My first question is, “What’s your favorite television show?” There’s always a quick reply, so I tell them, “You obviously have time to exercise. You just choose not to.”

I know there are plenty of people who live paycheck to paycheck, believe me, I understand your frustration. But, if you find yourself constantly making excuses of not having enough money, stop wasting it. Keep your receipts or write down every item you bought for the month. I’m sure we will all find crazy impulse buying that we regret.

Is it necessary to keep up with the latest trends? The wireless headphone we use only cost $25, and the clarity is amazing. We don’t need the overly expensive trendy brands. Just take the time to shop wisely, plus check reviews.

Of course, with our country having an obesity epidemic, we hear multiple reasons why people make excuses for being overweight. But really, we all know deep inside it’s lack of discipline.

How much fast food do you eat? When’s the last time you cooked healthy foods? And no, a bowl of Cheerios doesn’t count. We spend every Sunday afternoon preparing our meals for the week. Our days are long, so we utilize a small refrigerator and microwave at Ageless Muscle.

Look, I’m not trying to say I’m making better choices than you or I don’t make excuses. I’m trying to continue to learn from my mistakes and become more productive. I’m only wanting to make you think and take ownership of possible reckless behaviors.

Now, where are you and where do you want to be? If you don’t like your current situation, take action and do something about it. Don’t let others dictate your destiny — you have complete control of you.

Once we learn to stop pointing the finger and making excuses, we can move forward toward a better life and happiness.

By David Tepera, October 21, 2020

When your eyes open each morning, your first decision will dictate your day. Are you dreading getting up or are you ready to begin your action plans?

Remember, your only competition is your procrastination. That’s a bad habit you must release.

What thoughts are you allowing to take over your mind? It’s easy to get caught up in all the negativity we encounter each day, but you can always find the good in every situation.

Why not start making changes today? Put some pep in your step and choose happiness.

For years, I never allow my feet to hit the ground until I thank God for giving me another day to be a better person, father and husband.

As I’m cooking breakfast, I go down the list of all my clients for the day and get excited knowing I’ll make a difference in their lives. I’m sure there are many of you who share the same enthusiasm as me.

It’s time to replace the words “could, should, would” with the words “did and done.” When I was coaching high school sports, I’d tell the players to execute with force, even if you go the wrong direction, you better go 100 percent. Don’t give up.

Look, you don’t stop doing things because you get older; you get older by stopping doing things.

That’s what we love about Ageless Muscle Fitness Center because most clients are in the older population. It’s rewarding to witness people into their 70’s gaining muscle and enjoying life to the fullest.

If you’ve been following my column, you’re aware of my oldest client, Pater. He’ll turn 102 years old on Oct. 23 and is still making improvements with his weight training program.

Whatever situation or environment you’re living, create leadership within yourself, put on a smile and get yourself moving. Quit wasting the day away. You get to make that choice each day. Don’t let others keep you down, so take control of your life.

I just shake my head when I hear people blaming others for their current situation. Yes, we all make mistakes, but those are only lessons. Pick yourself up and bust through another obstacle.

You’re only competing with yourself, so get out there, make a difference, make people’s lives better and punch procrastination in the face.

By David Tepera, October 14, 2020

Throughout the journey of life, we all have felt the pain of regret. We each can make a long list of words we wished were never said, including actions we took or didn’t take.

It’s these regretful times when lessons should be learned. The biggest question is, “Did these negative experiences make you a better person?”

We have many people come to Ageless Muscle because they regret not working out earlier in life. They were just about to throw in the towel when something gave them the courage to try one more time. They come to us with multiple joint problems and body pains.

We let them know that the biggest hurdle was already accomplished by walking in our door. From here, all it takes is discipline to be consistent.

At first, it might seem painful to have the discipline to drive to our gym and train several times a week, but within a month or two, it becomes a passion.

I feel we’ve all have learned the pain of discipline. I’m not just referring to exercise and diet, but other aspects of life.

There are more people who’ve quit college than actually graduate. I know someone who could never hold a job in the home health industry from lack of discipline. She bounced from one company to the other until she was no longer employable.

We’ve all experienced the pain of regret when it comes to relationships. It could be from friendships, coworkers, relatives or spouses. Maybe it’s time to stop regretting and pick up the phone and apologize for your part. I promise, it could be a new beginning to mend broken relationships.

Look, what happened yesterday is gone. It’s up to you to learn from the pain and make today a better day. You might be experiencing depression or anxiety, but sitting there doing nothing will be another “pain of regret.”

Each day gone is another day lost, so let’s quit this pattern of regret. You have the power to make decisions and control your destiny. It’s never too late to find the pain of discipline and create a better life.

Don’t listen to others, follow your conscience because happiness and fulfillment is right in front of you.

By David Tepera, October 8, 2020

At the age of 59, life has been quite a ride for me.

I’ve been in sports and fitness almost my entire life. I grew up a coach’s son, played and excelled in multiple sports, coached high school sports through the 1990s, turned professional athlete at the age of 55, and am owner of Ageless Muscle Fitness Center with my wife Tina. Of course, somehow I squeezed in 20 years in orthopedics, as well.

Those of you who are of my age, remember growing up and only knowing your friend’s parents by their last names. They were called Mr. and Mrs. Smith, not by their first names. For some reason, this tradition of respect has lost its value. Why not bring it back to our youth?

How rare is it these days to hear the words “ma’am and sir?” Even Tina and I will respond to everyone we encounter, including young restaurant servers. with ma’am or sir.

Our youth have lost respect for elders, bosses, law enforcement, teachers, coaches or anyone of higher authority. What our young people understand is the people I’ve listed have earned their respect. Elders and others have lived and experienced life, and should be treated as such.

Speak to your bosses and coworkers with respect and notice how you’ll gain the edge when it comes to promotions. It’s the little things.

When did people lose common sense when getting pulled over for a traffic violation? You probably broke the law, so give the officer respect and possibly drive away with a warning. But, if you’re an idiot, you’ve lost all chance for an edge.

As a former coach, the players who made the biggest impact on me were the ones who were first in line, kept their eyes on me during speeches and instruction, helped with equipment and supported their teammates. They might not had been the most talented athlete, but they got opportunities because I know they would give me their best. It’s the little things.

After many years of marriage, how many husbands still open doors for their wives? I told Tina it’s my honor to open doors for her and show respect for all women when I open doors for them. It’s the little things that make her love me.

Let’s all start today by showing others respect and courtesy because you never know when the little things will give you an edge.