Away from the cameras and packed seats of the arena, where I’m the most visible to the crowd.
I’m secluded in the silence of my own preparation,
Where it’s no longer me vs. the world, but me vs. myself.
It’s an endless attempt at self-mastery,
Not yet as good as I hope to be, but not as bad as I used to be.
Peaceful. Quiet. Still.
The greats are formed in isolation.
Alone.
No coach to give you instructions.
No opponent to give you resistance.
No fans to cheer you on.
That’s when the champions separate themselves.
Are you willing to hold yourself accountable with no guidance?
Are you willing to put the work in when no one is watching?
This is where growth happens.
The silence can be deafening,
And when the lights go out only you can answer the question —
Was it enough?
Because at this level hard work is no longer optional, it’s necessary.
And the harder you work, the harder it is to surrender.
I rest confidently knowing that the work done in private, will eventually reveal itself to the world.
That’s why I love wrestling.
There’s no equipment.
There are no teammates to blame or rely on.
When you step into the circle, it’s just you and your will.
It’s lonely. It’s perfect.
Flaws are exposed and strengths are revealed.
But our resolve has taught us to live with either result.
So next time you’re alone,
You don’t have to wait for permission to be great.
Motivation must come from within.
The road less travelled is dark and silent,
But the silence is golden. —JB