Tag Archives: people

Inspiration

One person can affect a whole city

By DAVID TEPERA | Posted: Tuesday, June 14, 2016

Recently, I was explaining to my son Dylan about the financial impact that superstar athletes have on their cities. For example: LeBron James generates over $100 million annually from tourists to the city of Cleveland through hotels, restaurants, shopping, transportation and so on.

I continued explaining, to think about all the families who were able to raise their children and have a decent living — all because of one person.

That’s why when LeBron left the city, he did more than disappoint the fans in winning a championship with the Miami Heat. Cleveland, Ohio, really did lose its king.

The whole reason for having this conversation with my 17-year-old son is I want him to start thinking about how he can influence his community.

Dylan replied to me that there is only one LeBron James. I told him, “You’re absolutely right, and there is only one Dylan Tepera.”

You see, Dylan has one more year left in high school, and then it’s off to college. But, I want him to create a career to help others and bring goodness to all.

Don’t just think about working in a corporate environment where you’re being told what to do on a daily basis. Yes, you can start there to learn about the real world, but you must have the desire to go beyond.

At an early age, I instilled in my children to own their own businesses and create a brand that makes people’s lives better. When you’ve accomplished this, then you’ve succeeded.

Don’t worry about the income. Money will follow and grow when you’ve created a brand of integrity and passion.

Now you must think about you. It doesn’t matter that you’ve settled into a comfortable living. We must all find a way to help others. It’s as simple as volunteering to an organization in your hometown.

Look around and see where there’s a need. Try to find a way to generate money or get others involved to help charities or people in need.

We must all act now because we only have a short time on this earth. We are neighbors and in this world together. Our destiny is to inspire and have a positive influence in life.

Inspiration

Don’t dread wearing a swimsuit in the summer

By DAVID TEPERA | Posted: Tuesday, May 31, 2016

Well, Memorial Day weekend has past and it’s the official start of seasonal hot Texas weather.

I’m sure there are many of you dreading outside activities knowing short clothing and swimsuits are required.

Look, you’ve probably dealt with this situation for many years, but relax; it’s only as embarrassing as you perceive it.

Here’s what I’ve come to realize and understand through my own life experiences.

Usually, young adults from their late teens through their 20s judge others’ bodies the most. This is probably due to the aftereffect of harshness and bullying throughout school years. They think everyone is looking at them when actually we don’t care.

Adults in their 30s become less critical because they’ve started a family and raising children takes full mental capacity. It seems like both mommy’s and daddy’s bodies change after childbirth, and it’s OK; you’re in this together.

Then comes the age of the 40s when you realize your body doesn’t respond like it did before.

The kids are grown, out of the house, and you’re possibly facing a divorce. It’s typically during these years when adults take drastic steps trying to create a better looking body.

Plastic surgeons live in mansions and drive fancy cars due to the panicking 40s generation.

Now, I can personally speak for the 50s age adults. Negative judging of others’ bodies is no longer a thought process. It’s easy to find beauty in everyone. We become more attracted to people for who they are, rather than physical appearance.

I know a lady who is physically drop-dead gorgeous, but once she starts speaking and judging others, she becomes quite unattractive in my eyes.

Sorry to categorize ages 60s and beyond, but it seems that all you talk about is body ailments. You try to outdo each other by who’s had the most joint replacements and surgeries.

Now that hurricane season is around the corner, I can hear you now — “Thar’s a storm brewing in the Gulf. I’m gonna have to board this darn house with these bad knees, back and shoulders.”

So really, don’t worry about what others are thinking because they aren’t thinking about you.

Wear whatever makes you comfortable and enjoy the coming summer months.

Inspiration

Benefits of setting goals go beyond the gym

By DAVID TEPERA | Posted: Tuesday, May 17, 2016

One of my very best friends is 69-year-old former body builder Mike Rebescher. Personally, Mike is one of the most successful businessmen I know.

Recently, I had breakfast with Mike and asked if there’s a correlation to his success and years as a body builder.

Mike looked me dead in the eyes with a stern face and told me “absolutely.”

Mike explained body building taught him to be more goal-orientated. It had also pushed him outside of his comfort zone, which built his confidence, mental toughness, strength and strong character.

Mike started dabbling with weights around the age of 12 at his local YMCA, but truly didn’t dedicate himself until he turned 40. I know countless people who’ve given up by the age of 40.

Mike’s body building journey lasted until he was 53, even though weightlifting and staying in shape has been a lifetime commitment.

Mike made it clear that no matter what struggles in life or in business he encounters, he can grind it out because he’s already tested himself beyond belief.

Believe me, that evening I was throwing some crazy weight around in the gym. Even to this day, when Mike attends business meetings and sees the other out-of-shape members, he knows he owns the room.

You see, that statement includes each of us. When you’re the fittest person in the room, you reflect strength, dedication and discipline.

Employers want you to represent their company to which you’ll get the job and promotions. It’s probably not fair, but it’s the way the subconscious mind works.

I know we all don’t have the desire or dedication to become body builders, but hopefully you’ve understood the “take home” message.

For those of us who’ve been around awhile, maybe it’s time to bring back the Jordan slogan “Be like Mike.”

Inspiration

Do what it takes to reach goals

By DAVID TEPERA | Posted: Tuesday, April 26, 2016

Recently, I had an inspiring conversation with a young lady named Maricruz Diaz. She had a slight accent, so I asked to share her story. At first, Maricruz was a little reluctant but proceeded to amaze me.

Maricruz had come to the United States a few years ago to pursue her dream of obtaining a bachelor’s degree in nursing. She started her journey in Mexico completing almost two years of college but was given a new opportunity here to continue a full education.

She faced many obstacles and setbacks. First, the American nursing school didn’t accept any credits from Mexico. Next, Maricruz had to take one year of English, which she completed, then one year of remedial classes to prove her understanding. Finally, she took two years of prerequisites to be accepted into school.

After 4-5 years of schooling, she is now ready to start a four-year program for nursing.

Oh, did I mention she works 40 hours a week in a hospital organizing surgical instruments?

I can’t tell you how many people have told me that they don’t have time to reach their goals, no time to go to the gym, exercise or clean up their diet.

I know a grown man in his 30s who hasn’t worked in almost four years because he found a way to work the system and receive a free check from the government.

Maricruz told me she is one of five siblings, and all of them have college degrees.

Her dad is a retired construction worker, and her mom was a full-time, stay-at-home mom. Yes, they might have been somewhat financially poor but obviously wealthy in family values.

Listen, we’ve got to stop giving excuses for our lazy behavior. It doesn’t matter what your age and current status quo. Step your game up, get excited about what lies ahead and live out your dreams like a young lady named Maricruz Diaz.

Fitness, Inspiration

My first experience with cryotherapy

By DAVID TEPERA | Posted: Tuesday, April 12, 2016 

Recently, an ex-body builder and good friend of mine told me about a new treatment called cryotherapy and how it helped him and his wife feel amazingly better.

I was already somewhat familiar with cryo because I knew superstar athletes were using it. I never thought much about it since I’m a common man.

Well, my friend sent me to I-Cryo in League City to meet with the owner and manager Kyle Jones to find out what this new craze is all about.

After a brief cryotherapy education from Kyle, I stepped into the I-Cryo unit for a 3-minute session. I went in at level one, which dropped the temperature to negative-220 degrees.

Yes, it was cold, but bearable since it’s cooled by nitrogen. Oh, did I mention the only thing you’re wearing is gloves and socks? So men, use the gloves to keep the boys covered and warm — if you know what I mean.

To my amazement, I felt great and had extra energy throughout the rest of day, even my aching joints were better. To understand the full benefit package, go to www.i-cryo.com.

But, what impressed me the most was the knowledge and expertise Kyle Jones possessed. Not only did Kyle have a bachelor’s degree in exercise science, but he had a passion to help others through a whole new method.

Kyle took the last 2 1/2 years of his life to study cryotherapy and meet with medical professionals and manufacturing companies to bring the best product and business model to his clients.

Bottom line, Kyle made it affordable for all of us common people. Kyle takes the time to educate all clients, so you’ll completely understand the full benefit and positive effects on your body.

Kyle told me that a few years back, he made a life-altering decision to dedicate his life to helping people without any returns. To him, it’s not about money, it’s about changing one life at a time.

Inspiration

One play can win a game or change your life

By DAVID TEPERA | Posted: Tuesday, April 5, 2016

How many times have you played or watched a sporting event in which one play turned the game around?

Think about it — one shot, one block, one hit, one spike, one tackle, and so on.

Most of the time, this is extremely important while the clock is winding down.

Before every basketball game my son Dylan plays, I remind him that one shot doesn’t lose the game, but one shot will win it. He knows to take the shot.

How about the one play in our daily lives? What’s the one situation or the person who has changed your life? Maybe, it was a job opportunity, kind words during a difficult time, or even money and help when you desperately needed it.

Remember, to make it a truly life-altering event, you must be all in. No turning back to old ways and habits.

There had been many situations where one play enhanced my life.

One of the biggest events was more than 10 years ago, becoming a single parent raising two kids practically on my own. I had to immediately break some bad habits and become the best role model possible.

This not only gave my kids a wonderful loving life, but created amazing opportunities for me as well.

I know other people who’ve had one negative play that changed their life forever.

A friend of mine saw herself in Christmas pictures this past December. She came to me shaking and crying with embarrassment asking for help. I let her know that she’s already won the biggest battle because of her commitment and desire.

This lady is on a mission and has lost over 20 pounds in three months.

Let’s admit it, we’ve all had one-play events in our lives, but how many of you have been the one play in other’s lives? It’s as simple as an act of kindness.

Look around and reach out. Hopefully, your name comes up when someone confesses the one play that changed their life.

Inspiration

Do you have a March Madness mentality?

By DAVID TEPERA | Posted: Tuesday, March 29, 2016

Since my son Dylan’s passion is basketball, we’ve been watching the March Madness tournament.

One of the exciting components of this particular tournament is that each game will be your last — if you lose. So, every team and each player is playing to their utmost ability.

It’s been amazing watching these players battle to the end with last-second game-winning shots.

This made me think about my own life and how I attack each day.

How much more productive and powerful would we be if we took on March Madness mentality? For us to get up each morning with the ambition to conquer the day because if we don’t, it could be our last — to know losing is not an option.

I will be the hardest worker today. I’ll get to work 30 minutes earlier and stay 30 minutes later.

I’ll let everyone close to me know how much I love and appreciate them.

All my friends can count on me to be trustworthy and dependable.

My children will have an interacting father helping with homework, shooting hoops in the driveway, getting snow cones and giving lots of hugs.

Those of you in relationships, be creative and adventurous to show appreciation and love. It could be as simple as going grocery shopping together.

Today will not see shortcuts. I will be in full force to smash through negative barriers, leaping over life’s obstacles to cross the finish line setting new records.

Just know, you better get out of my way because I’m not going around you.

Since I’m a champion today, I’ll take it to a new level tomorrow and conquer this March Madness tournament of life.

Inspiration

In what chapter of life are you?

By DAVID TEPERA | Posted: Tuesday, March 22, 2016

We all go through different phases and chapters throughout our journey of life. What chapter are you experiencing today compared to yesteryears?

I’m in my mid-50s, and today’s chapter is completely different from my 40s and beyond.

One common denominator is that I’ve always maintained a decent diet and exercised frequently. As I progressed through my 30s and to date, my knowledge and experience in these categories excelled. That’s because I understand keeping a healthy body is important for a better quality of life.

Hopefully, as you get older, you are recognizing this as well.

But really, most important is our character development. Over the past 10 years, I started a personal campaign to become a loving, caring and compassionate person to all mankind. This has drastically changed my life.

I learned to forgive those who wrong me by understanding their reasons and through time, was able to erase it from my daily consciousness. This mental action relieved me from tremendous unnecessary stress. Plus, it opened the door for peace and relaxation.

We get caught up stressing over negative situations that should be in our pasts.

Once, my daughter Daylyn had another student say some very hurtful words to her. I found Daylyn crying in her room and asked about the situation.

After a brief loving father-daughter talk, I asked when this had happened. To my surprise, it occurred more than a month ago.

I told Daylyn, “Don’t you realize, only in your mind this person is still being mean to you because you’re letting it? I guarantee the other student has moved on with their life and doesn’t give you one thought. Forgive their immature idiotic behavior and be the amazing happy little girl everyone loves.”

Can’t we all relate to Daylyn’s situation?

Just know, if someone is being ugly to you, it’s because there is something about you that makes them jealous and envious. If they are comfortable with themselves, they wouldn’t care.

Come on, let’s all write the same new chapter in life for character development to become compassionate toward others. We are in this journey together, and hopefully one day, we will cross paths.

Inspiration

Don’t quit when the ball rolls between your legs

By DAVID TEPERA | Posted: Tuesday, March 8, 2016

Several years ago, my son Dylan and I were watching a Little League Baseball game. His team was to play the winner on the following day.

Well, the game was in the bottom of the ninth inning with two outs and the score tied. The batter hit the ball into right field and the outfielder let the ball roll between his legs.

When the outfielder turned to retrieve the ball, he was only half jogging because, in his mind, the game was over because of his mistake.

Dylan and I looked at each other in shock because it was obvious the outfielder should have at least given some effort. He not only gave up on himself but on the team and everyone in the stands.

Now, I know that’s a harsh statement since he’s only a kid, and it happens to every baseball player.

But here’s the lesson in life that I explained to Dylan.

Just like in sports, there will be times in life where you’ll let the ball roll between your legs. You’ll want to give up and walk away because it’s easier than sucking it up and fighting your way back in the game.

The one thing we can all do — is quit. But, what truly separates winners from losers is the will to never give up.

We are not going to win every game. We will have failed relationships, experience the death of a loved one and face unemployment. Believe me, I’ve experienced all three.

Yes, I wanted to curl up, give up and hope everything would just fade away. But, I had many long talks with myself in the mirror challenging my character. I had the responsibility of being a single parent, and there’s more at stake than my selfishness.

There are many of you currently dealing with these challenging life experiences. Look, take a few deep breathes and allow internal wounds to heal.

Take these situations and make it strengthen your life.

So come on, don’t half jog, and start sprinting to the ball because you’re going to make the winning throw in this game of life.

Inspiration

Be the hero in your movie

By DAVID TEPERA | Posted: Tuesday, March 1, 2016

So, I’m writing my first screen play based on a true story from my soccer coaching experience. As I’m finishing the story line, it made me realize, as we go through life, we are all writing our own movie.

Now, think about that for a moment. Each one of our lives is a “true story” movie. But the best part is, we get to write our own script.

We all experience conflicts, self-doubt, tragedy and defeats, but we also feel the emotions of rewards, victory, conquering and self-confidence.

As of today, your storyline is based on all those experiences. I hope everyone is living a fairy-tale life, but there is the reality of being human.

You can’t change past decisions — good or bad. You might be out of shape, excessively overweight, made poor income choices, in a bad relationship along with destructive habits.

The good news is your story is still under construction. How do you want your movie to end?

Go through your day like a movie camera is following you around capturing all your kindness, good deeds, hard work and determination.

Think of all your actions, posture, mannerisms and facial expressions projected onto a movie screen. How would this change your daily life? How much more would you accomplish? How many more goals would be achieved? And most importantly, how much better would you treat people?

Right now, you should start hearing the “Rocky” movie theme song playing in your head. You should be feeling the excitement in your body and soul knowing that your life is changing at this moment.

It’s time to take on the enemy and self-demons and be the hero in your movie. The battle has started and you’re fighting to conquer all that crosses your path. Nothing can stop you from accomplishing your goals, your destiny, and the life you’re meant to have.

Today your movie script has taken a new direction in which you’re smashing defeat.

We should all ride into the sunset knowing we’ve done our best, done good will and left this world a much better place.