|
Showing posts with label Inspiration. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Inspiration. Show all posts
Sunday, November 19, 2017
Why Positive Thinking Is Not The Answer
Sunday, October 29, 2017
Three Ways to Instantly Become More Passionate About Life
Passion...
A word that when you hear it you want what is the source of it.
We see people throughout life who have "it." The "it" they have is passion.
Whether it is in their relationship, their career, their family, or just how they interact with life; there is no mistaking a passionate person.
The big myth about passion is that it is reserved only for those who were born with it; meaning you either won the genetic lottery and have it, or you don't.
Nothing could be further from the truth for passion is not something you are born with, it is something you create. And who doesn't want to create more passion in their life?
As fate would have it, you are a born creator - born to create an emotional experience that brings you joy and fulfillment every day of your life.
Unfortunately most of us are not taught these tools in school - after all we have other, more important things to focus on like The symbolism of the green light at the end of the pier in "The Great Gatsby," (Why can't the light just be green?).
Recently I hosted a training where I shared three ways you can instantly become more passionate about life. You can watch that training below. These ways are simple strategies that anyone can do, but to do them will require you to step up to the plate of life and command more from yourself than you have before.
I hope the training was of value to you.
Let me know in the comments below.
As always if I can be of any help on your journey, you can let me know by contacting me here.
Carpe Diem,
Jesse
http://www.jessebrisendine.com
http://www.facebook.com/1year1000challenge
.
A word that when you hear it you want what is the source of it.
We see people throughout life who have "it." The "it" they have is passion.
Whether it is in their relationship, their career, their family, or just how they interact with life; there is no mistaking a passionate person.
The big myth about passion is that it is reserved only for those who were born with it; meaning you either won the genetic lottery and have it, or you don't.
Nothing could be further from the truth for passion is not something you are born with, it is something you create. And who doesn't want to create more passion in their life?
As fate would have it, you are a born creator - born to create an emotional experience that brings you joy and fulfillment every day of your life.
Unfortunately most of us are not taught these tools in school - after all we have other, more important things to focus on like The symbolism of the green light at the end of the pier in "The Great Gatsby," (Why can't the light just be green?).
Recently I hosted a training where I shared three ways you can instantly become more passionate about life. You can watch that training below. These ways are simple strategies that anyone can do, but to do them will require you to step up to the plate of life and command more from yourself than you have before.
I hope the training was of value to you.
Let me know in the comments below.
As always if I can be of any help on your journey, you can let me know by contacting me here.
Carpe Diem,
Jesse
http://www.jessebrisendine.com
http://www.facebook.com/1year1000challenge
.
Sunday, January 22, 2017
Action Creates Change
January 20 and 21st 2017 marked two significant days in the history of the United States and greater world at large.
On January 20th a new President was sworn into office (this is not a political blog).
On January 21st millions of people from all over the world came together to march, peacefully, "to stand together for human rights and to protect, defend and advance human rights, even in the face of adversity."
The human spirit is powerful and when we find something to channel our passions into there is virtually nothing that can't be accomplished.
BUT
Passion alone will not produce results, action does.
Here's what I mean.
Think about our experiences with New Years Resolutions. Every year people begin the year pledging to do "X,Y,Z' this year. But after life happens the excuses start to surface and once they do we suddenly put our "X,Y,Z" on the back burner justifying that "life got in the way." (Side note - head over to my "Your Life Toolbox" program to get help accomplish your New Year's Goals)
For change to happen, to evolve, and to continually change consistent action must always be taken.
Think about what Dr. King was able to accomplish in the Civil Rights movement or Mahatma Gandhi in the India Independence movement. Neither made just one speech, both created change because of persistent and consistent action being taken. Furthermore, and most importantly, they inspired others to adopt the same mentality: take action, take action, take action.
The "Women March on Washington" is amazing. Nothing like it has ever happened in history. Millions of people worldwide participated.
When trying to create a movement, people must keep moving. Many marchers may be tempted to make the mistake of hanging up their marching shoes now that the big day is done and over. For some they will be satisfied with "just being there," being a part of history, and having the pictures to prove it.
Real change continues now - the day after when each person has the opportunity to take another step towards what they want. This is where momentum is created.
Whether you participated in the march, or there is something else you are passionate about, if you want to create lasting change, you got to be willing to stay the course - treat it as a marathon and not a sprint.
Sprints are quick - done and over in the blink of an eye with the finish line always in sight.
A marathon goes on for much longer and the majority of it is run with the finish line no where near in sight for most of the race.
Imagine if today, tomorrow, and every day forward, every person who is passionate about something took action to help bring about the change's they wanted to see.
What actions could these be?
Here are just a few ideas
Volunteer at local organization that shares a similar passion.
Organize meet ups in your community where like minded people can come together and share ideas.
Boycott industries/businesses who do not share the same beliefs as you.
Set up accountability buddies - people who will help hold you accountable in your pursuit of your goals.
Organize educational events for the public.
Utilize your social media feeds to start healthy, positive, and loving conversations. (Hint - arguing over who is right and who is wrong, name calling, and putting others down on social media does little to advance your cause).
Join a Toastmaster group or take a Writing course to improve your communication skills so you can become more effective at delivering your message.
Become an "open minded listener." Learn how to listen. If you want to understand the psychology of your opposition you need to learn to really listen to them. The biggest mistake one can make is to tune out the opposition. Their words (which can only be heard by listening) often contain your keys to winning.
The above short list is just a small tip of the iceberg of what you can do, continue to do, and build on to bring about positive changes for the things you are passionate about.
The potential for change is always there. Now more than any time in history you have a voice. In hte words of Gandhi, "You must be the change you want to see in the world."
Nothing will change with inaction. Everything can change when you take action to create change.
Momentum is created not with the first step, but with the second, third, and fourth.
Take those next steps today - the world needs your passion.
Carpe Diem,
Jesse
http://www.jessebrisendine.com
http://www.facebook.com/1year1000challenge
On January 20th a new President was sworn into office (this is not a political blog).
On January 21st millions of people from all over the world came together to march, peacefully, "to stand together for human rights and to protect, defend and advance human rights, even in the face of adversity."
The human spirit is powerful and when we find something to channel our passions into there is virtually nothing that can't be accomplished.
BUT
Passion alone will not produce results, action does.
Here's what I mean.
Think about our experiences with New Years Resolutions. Every year people begin the year pledging to do "X,Y,Z' this year. But after life happens the excuses start to surface and once they do we suddenly put our "X,Y,Z" on the back burner justifying that "life got in the way." (Side note - head over to my "Your Life Toolbox" program to get help accomplish your New Year's Goals)
For change to happen, to evolve, and to continually change consistent action must always be taken.
Think about what Dr. King was able to accomplish in the Civil Rights movement or Mahatma Gandhi in the India Independence movement. Neither made just one speech, both created change because of persistent and consistent action being taken. Furthermore, and most importantly, they inspired others to adopt the same mentality: take action, take action, take action.
The "Women March on Washington" is amazing. Nothing like it has ever happened in history. Millions of people worldwide participated.
When trying to create a movement, people must keep moving. Many marchers may be tempted to make the mistake of hanging up their marching shoes now that the big day is done and over. For some they will be satisfied with "just being there," being a part of history, and having the pictures to prove it.
Real change continues now - the day after when each person has the opportunity to take another step towards what they want. This is where momentum is created.
Whether you participated in the march, or there is something else you are passionate about, if you want to create lasting change, you got to be willing to stay the course - treat it as a marathon and not a sprint.
Sprints are quick - done and over in the blink of an eye with the finish line always in sight.
A marathon goes on for much longer and the majority of it is run with the finish line no where near in sight for most of the race.
Imagine if today, tomorrow, and every day forward, every person who is passionate about something took action to help bring about the change's they wanted to see.
What actions could these be?
Here are just a few ideas
Volunteer at local organization that shares a similar passion.
Organize meet ups in your community where like minded people can come together and share ideas.
Boycott industries/businesses who do not share the same beliefs as you.
Set up accountability buddies - people who will help hold you accountable in your pursuit of your goals.
Organize educational events for the public.
Utilize your social media feeds to start healthy, positive, and loving conversations. (Hint - arguing over who is right and who is wrong, name calling, and putting others down on social media does little to advance your cause).
Join a Toastmaster group or take a Writing course to improve your communication skills so you can become more effective at delivering your message.
Become an "open minded listener." Learn how to listen. If you want to understand the psychology of your opposition you need to learn to really listen to them. The biggest mistake one can make is to tune out the opposition. Their words (which can only be heard by listening) often contain your keys to winning.
The above short list is just a small tip of the iceberg of what you can do, continue to do, and build on to bring about positive changes for the things you are passionate about.
The potential for change is always there. Now more than any time in history you have a voice. In hte words of Gandhi, "You must be the change you want to see in the world."
Nothing will change with inaction. Everything can change when you take action to create change.
Momentum is created not with the first step, but with the second, third, and fourth.
Take those next steps today - the world needs your passion.
Carpe Diem,
Jesse
http://www.jessebrisendine.com
http://www.facebook.com/1year1000challenge
Sunday, August 21, 2016
Never Ever Give Up
We have all heard the phrase "never give up," thrown around so much that it almost sounds cliche.
The problem is that people with the best of intentions and ambitions say it, encourage it, like the idea of it, but fail to follow through with it. This lack of follow through sadly robs many people from the power that resides in this simple phrase, "Never Give Up."
I often think about what all of our lives could be like if we never gave up on our dreams.
The video below is about 15 minutes long and easily one of the best talks I have heard in recent memory on this very important subject.
The speaker is an expert on "Never Giving Up," and persevering when others long doubted that she could accomplish her dreams.
Please do yourself a favor and watch the video below. As you do, listen very carefully to her words. Notice the obstacles she was up against, notice how hard she had to work, and notice the insight she has to share at the end.
As you watch, ask yourself, "What am I am willing to go after, what am I willing to pursue to see come to fruition? What can my life become if I adopt and embody the mantra: "Never Give Up."
Carpe Diem,
Jesse
P.S.
The team you surround yourself with is instrumental to your success. If you need some assistance on your journey, lets talk about how I can help. Click here.
ff
The problem is that people with the best of intentions and ambitions say it, encourage it, like the idea of it, but fail to follow through with it. This lack of follow through sadly robs many people from the power that resides in this simple phrase, "Never Give Up."
I often think about what all of our lives could be like if we never gave up on our dreams.
The video below is about 15 minutes long and easily one of the best talks I have heard in recent memory on this very important subject.
The speaker is an expert on "Never Giving Up," and persevering when others long doubted that she could accomplish her dreams.
Please do yourself a favor and watch the video below. As you do, listen very carefully to her words. Notice the obstacles she was up against, notice how hard she had to work, and notice the insight she has to share at the end.
As you watch, ask yourself, "What am I am willing to go after, what am I willing to pursue to see come to fruition? What can my life become if I adopt and embody the mantra: "Never Give Up."
Carpe Diem,
Jesse
P.S.
The team you surround yourself with is instrumental to your success. If you need some assistance on your journey, lets talk about how I can help. Click here.
Sunday, June 5, 2016
Does "Shit" Happen for a Reason?
Hello Everyone!
I hope this blog finds you doing well and living life the best you can.
I firmly believe everything happens for a reason. Even the toughest... the shittiest parts of life, I believe there is a reason to those as well.
The challenge that we all face is to look for the reason, the more empowering perspective, so that when the "shit" does happen, which it will - to all of us, we can deal with it and move forward vs. let it consume us and dictate our lives.
I recorded a short video for You where I talk more in depth about this. I hope you find this video to be of value.
Enjoy.
Carpe Diem,
Jesse
http://www.jessebrisendine.com
http://www.facebook.com/1year1000challenge
Monday, November 30, 2015
Reflecting, Remembering, and Honoring
Today was a day of great forward progress coupled with deep reflection.
It is the reflection I find myself most fascinated by today.
I started to write, but my fingers did not seem able to produce the words I wanted them to, so I opted for a video today.
A V-log (that's the technical term right?)!
As you finish watching the video, please ask yourself:
"How can I live a life that will make the Heavens smile?" "What can I do today to honor someone who I love?"
Looking forward to reading your comments.
Carpe Diem,
Jesse
http://www.jessebrisendine.com
http://www.facebook.com/1year1000challenge
It is the reflection I find myself most fascinated by today.
I started to write, but my fingers did not seem able to produce the words I wanted them to, so I opted for a video today.
A V-log (that's the technical term right?)!
As you finish watching the video, please ask yourself:
"How can I live a life that will make the Heavens smile?" "What can I do today to honor someone who I love?"
Looking forward to reading your comments.
Carpe Diem,
Jesse
http://www.jessebrisendine.com
http://www.facebook.com/1year1000challenge
Sunday, October 18, 2015
Making Dreams Come True
We all have dreams.
Tragically, not enough of us make those dreams come true.
The reasons "why" are many: "I don't know how," "it's impossible," "it's to hard," "I don't have enough money," "if only," etc... Do any of these sound familiar?
Over the course of its' four year life, this blog has been about a lot... dreams, goals, life, death, love, and the ongoing journey of living and experiencing life to the best of my ability.
I try to be open and share with you all in hopes that my candor may inspire you in how you choose to live your life. In no way am I suggesting your life should look exactly like mine, what I am saying is that perhaps you can gain inspiration for your journey as you share in mine.
Recently my journey brought me to a day that I had dreamed of for years. My first ever Jesse Brisendine live event!
Up to this point I had spoken to numerous audiences and organizations, been a featured presenter at corporate training's, and gifted with the opportunity to educate and inspire students at several High Schools and Universities. This all was, and continues to be amazing (something I want to keep building on), however I had never hosted my own event.
Something that was uniquely mine in everything from the content, to the music, to the location, and most importantly the jokes (haha) all of it was "Jesse."
This had been a dream because I want to help people, a lot of people, live extraordinary and fulfilling lives. To be able to help as many as I want to, I need a platform that allows me to interact and work with multiple people at once. Enter Unlock Your Greatness - a program conceived by the idea to bring people together from all over the world to learn, to grow, to let go, and to move forward.
Last week (I cannot believe it has been a week already) I hosted the first ever Unlock Your Greatness (UYG) live event in Santa Barbara, California.
It was attended by folks from seven different countries and 15 different States. If I had only one word to describe it, I would say WOW.
WOW... because I was proud of what I created, WOW because of the moments I shared with the participants, WOW because of the breakthroughs people had, WOW because of the feeling I had watching the attendees Unlock a Greatness that had always been inside of them, and was waiting to be let out.
I titled this post "Making Dreams Come True," because dreams can come true, but not because you wish them to, dreams come true because you make them come true.
Any great dream deserves a great amount of work and effort that goes into making that dream a reality. Most dreams will require 100's, maybe even 1000's of hours or more of hard work, commitment, sacrifice, and the proverbial "blood, sweat, and tears," to make them come true.
You know what? I can happily tell you that it is and will be worth it when you realize your dream.
Unlock Your Greatness was the start of a new beginning for me; the next chapter in my professional career and life purpose. UYG also was the culmination of 1000's of hours of hard work, study, sacrifice, decision making, life lesson learning, forward step taking, choice making, and life living. All of it came together for two magical days in Santa Barbara, California.
Below are some photos from the first event. I hope to see you at a future Unlock Your Greatness, I am excited to share it with you. :)
Lastly, to all the people who made the journey to attend - thank you. You all believed in me at the beginning. I will always be grateful for that.
Carpe Diem,
Jesse
P.S. What is one dream you have that you are committed to making come true?
http://www.jessebrisendine.com
http://www.facebook.com/1year1000challenge
Tragically, not enough of us make those dreams come true.
The reasons "why" are many: "I don't know how," "it's impossible," "it's to hard," "I don't have enough money," "if only," etc... Do any of these sound familiar?
Over the course of its' four year life, this blog has been about a lot... dreams, goals, life, death, love, and the ongoing journey of living and experiencing life to the best of my ability.
I try to be open and share with you all in hopes that my candor may inspire you in how you choose to live your life. In no way am I suggesting your life should look exactly like mine, what I am saying is that perhaps you can gain inspiration for your journey as you share in mine.
Recently my journey brought me to a day that I had dreamed of for years. My first ever Jesse Brisendine live event!
Up to this point I had spoken to numerous audiences and organizations, been a featured presenter at corporate training's, and gifted with the opportunity to educate and inspire students at several High Schools and Universities. This all was, and continues to be amazing (something I want to keep building on), however I had never hosted my own event.
Something that was uniquely mine in everything from the content, to the music, to the location, and most importantly the jokes (haha) all of it was "Jesse."
This had been a dream because I want to help people, a lot of people, live extraordinary and fulfilling lives. To be able to help as many as I want to, I need a platform that allows me to interact and work with multiple people at once. Enter Unlock Your Greatness - a program conceived by the idea to bring people together from all over the world to learn, to grow, to let go, and to move forward.
Last week (I cannot believe it has been a week already) I hosted the first ever Unlock Your Greatness (UYG) live event in Santa Barbara, California.
It was attended by folks from seven different countries and 15 different States. If I had only one word to describe it, I would say WOW.
WOW... because I was proud of what I created, WOW because of the moments I shared with the participants, WOW because of the breakthroughs people had, WOW because of the feeling I had watching the attendees Unlock a Greatness that had always been inside of them, and was waiting to be let out.
I titled this post "Making Dreams Come True," because dreams can come true, but not because you wish them to, dreams come true because you make them come true.
Any great dream deserves a great amount of work and effort that goes into making that dream a reality. Most dreams will require 100's, maybe even 1000's of hours or more of hard work, commitment, sacrifice, and the proverbial "blood, sweat, and tears," to make them come true.
You know what? I can happily tell you that it is and will be worth it when you realize your dream.
Unlock Your Greatness was the start of a new beginning for me; the next chapter in my professional career and life purpose. UYG also was the culmination of 1000's of hours of hard work, study, sacrifice, decision making, life lesson learning, forward step taking, choice making, and life living. All of it came together for two magical days in Santa Barbara, California.
Below are some photos from the first event. I hope to see you at a future Unlock Your Greatness, I am excited to share it with you. :)
Lastly, to all the people who made the journey to attend - thank you. You all believed in me at the beginning. I will always be grateful for that.
Carpe Diem,
Jesse
P.S. What is one dream you have that you are committed to making come true?
http://www.jessebrisendine.com
http://www.facebook.com/1year1000challenge
Sunday, August 23, 2015
Random Thoughts
Hi All,
Some Random Thoughts... which I thought I would share with you all and see what your thoughts are on my thoughts?
What do you think? You up for it?
1 - Bullying amongst kids would not be so prevalent if adult "role models" didn't use bullying tactics to try and get what they want/solve problems. Ex: politicians focusing on what other candidates did wrong or won't do vs. what they will do to improve things. Mom and Dad yelling at the news hoping it will change what is happening.
2 - Why are books like the "Scarlet Letter"required reading? Why aren't courses like a course on how to be happy taught in public school? Is the Scarlet Letter (can you guess which book I did Not enjoy in High School? :) ) more important to learn about than Happiness?
3 - Leadership is not always a friendship contest. To lead means you are willing to say and do the tough things for the greater good, even if it means you may be removed from people's Christmas List.
4 - What would happen if we treated money the same way we treat all other pieces of paper?
5 - Part 1: There are 1,440 minutes and 86,400 seconds in every day... how many of them do you remember?
6 - Part 2: With all that time available for us to remember, why do so many chose the few "bad" seconds or minutes to represent the day? How might the quality of a person's life change if they instead focused on the other 1,400+ minutes that were not all that bad?
I am looking forward to reading what you all come up with.
Carpe Diem,
Jesse
http://www.jessebrisendine.com
http://www.facebook.com/1year1000challenge
P.S.
Tuesday August 25th I will be teaching a course called 6 Weeks to Ultimate Self Love... you can join in by clicking here.
Some Random Thoughts... which I thought I would share with you all and see what your thoughts are on my thoughts?
What do you think? You up for it?
1 - Bullying amongst kids would not be so prevalent if adult "role models" didn't use bullying tactics to try and get what they want/solve problems. Ex: politicians focusing on what other candidates did wrong or won't do vs. what they will do to improve things. Mom and Dad yelling at the news hoping it will change what is happening.
2 - Why are books like the "Scarlet Letter"required reading? Why aren't courses like a course on how to be happy taught in public school? Is the Scarlet Letter (can you guess which book I did Not enjoy in High School? :) ) more important to learn about than Happiness?
3 - Leadership is not always a friendship contest. To lead means you are willing to say and do the tough things for the greater good, even if it means you may be removed from people's Christmas List.
4 - What would happen if we treated money the same way we treat all other pieces of paper?
5 - Part 1: There are 1,440 minutes and 86,400 seconds in every day... how many of them do you remember?
6 - Part 2: With all that time available for us to remember, why do so many chose the few "bad" seconds or minutes to represent the day? How might the quality of a person's life change if they instead focused on the other 1,400+ minutes that were not all that bad?
I am looking forward to reading what you all come up with.
Carpe Diem,
Jesse
http://www.jessebrisendine.com
http://www.facebook.com/1year1000challenge
P.S.
Tuesday August 25th I will be teaching a course called 6 Weeks to Ultimate Self Love... you can join in by clicking here.
Sunday, July 26, 2015
My 101 Life Time List
Several years ago I made a list of 101 things I wanted to do/see/experience/accomplish in my lifetime.
Recently I read a blog post by Jack Canfield where he shared his list and talked about the importance of creating a similar list.
The reason, Jack said, is because "the brain is a goal seeking organism."
Meaning that we need to feed our brain goals for it to focus on and seek out ways to accomplish.
After reading Jack's blog I was inspired to revisit my list. When I did, I was pleased to see I had accomplished about 20 from my original list.
I've now created a new list. This list includes many from my original list and quite a few new ones as well.
The goals are in no particular order. I just wrote them as they popped up. :)
I hope the sharing of my list inspires you to make a list of your own.
What are some of your goals?
Are you committed to realizing them?
Carpe Diem,
Jesse
http://www.jessebrisendine.com
http://www.facebook.com/1year1000challenge
Recently I read a blog post by Jack Canfield where he shared his list and talked about the importance of creating a similar list.
The reason, Jack said, is because "the brain is a goal seeking organism."
Meaning that we need to feed our brain goals for it to focus on and seek out ways to accomplish.
After reading Jack's blog I was inspired to revisit my list. When I did, I was pleased to see I had accomplished about 20 from my original list.
I've now created a new list. This list includes many from my original list and quite a few new ones as well.
The goals are in no particular order. I just wrote them as they popped up. :)
I hope the sharing of my list inspires you to make a list of your own.
What are some of your goals?
Are you committed to realizing them?
Carpe Diem,
Jesse
http://www.jessebrisendine.com
http://www.facebook.com/1year1000challenge
- Positively Impact the lives of 2 Billion people
- Travel to every continent (been to four)
- Travel to every State in the USA (30 so far)
- Become a Master of my Thoughts and Emotions
- Travel to at least 100 Countries (18 so far)
- Speak at TED
- Speak to a live audience of over 20,000 people (largest so far about 600)
- Sit Ringside at Wrestlemania
- Attend Men's World Cup
- Attend Women's World Cup
- Centre Court at Wimbledon
- 100,000 success stories from clients and various program participants
- Meet with two in office President's of the USA and have conversations with them
- Meet 5 head's of State from other Countries.
- Walk the Great Wall of China
- See the Northern Lights
- Scuba Dive with Great White Sharks (in a cage)
- Scuba Dive Great Barrier Reef
- Scuba Dive the Red Sea
- Stay in the houses on the water in Maldives
- Host Unlock Your Greatness workshops in 50+ Countries
- Help people from all over the world achieve 10 million + pounds of weight lost
- Fly in a fighter jet
- Create charity/scholarship to honor my Dad
- Create charity/scholarship to honor Gabe
- Climb the Seven Summits
- Dive with Whale Sharks
- Do the Rocky run and celebration up the Rocky Steps in Philadelphia
- Attend Mr. Olympia
- Write a bestseller
- Earn $10,000,000 in a year
- Retire my Mom and provide for her so she can do things she enjoys
- Compete in one bodybuilding/fitness competition
- Bench press 315lbs for 15 reps (made it to 13 one time)
- Mud Run
- Grow the Sunrise/Sunset around the World day into an annual event honoring Paul that raises a minimum of $250,000 a year for Reach Out World Wide
- Grow International Trash Clean up Day to an annual event with over 50,000 people participating
- Grow the One Billion Steps in March to an annual event where over One Billion steps are walked in the month.
- Keynote speaker at a High School Graduation
- Keynote speaker at a college/University graduation
- Run for President (if, when the time comes, I would bring value to my country)
- Speaking role in two Hollywood movies (one so far)
- At least 3 published books (1 so far "Ouch My Heart is Broken")
- Grow the 1 Year 1000 Challenge community to over 1million members.
- Photo of a Sunrise and Sunset over all four of the Oceans (Pacific, Atlantic,
- Stay at the Absolute Suite in Cesar's Palace
- Stay at the Skyline Suite at MGM Grand
- Stay at the Hardwood Suite at The Palms
- Give over 100 Million to charity in my Lifetime
- Create a foundation that pay's for alternate forms of education for teenagers and adults (ex: personal training certification, yoga certs, etc...)
- Visit where King Arthur is from
- See all the Seven Wonders of the World (3 so far: Christ Statue, Colosseum, Machu Picchu)
- See all Seven Wonders of the Natural World (2 so far: Harbor at Rio and Grand Canyon)
- Dance the Tango in a Tux (True Lies style)
- Run a Half Marathon in 1hr 40 minutes
- Hold a plank for 10 minutes
- Safari in Africa
- Read/Listen to over 10,000 books/audio cd's
- NLP Trainer
- Do a language immersion course in the native country
- Give a speech on leadership to Congress
- Flight to Outer Space and Back
- Earn over $300 million in my lifetime
- Give over $100 million to charity in my lifetime
- Pilots License
- Compete on celebrity Jeopardy
- Play in the main event at the World Series of Poker
- Bowl a 300 game and 700 series (current highs 277 and 688)
- Walking Lunges for over two miles without stopping (current best is 1.25 miles)
- Workout with Arnold Schwarzenegger
- Cut the ribbon at a ribbon cutting ceremony
- Learn to Surf
- Learn a Martial Art
- Read Le Morte De Arthur
- Attend a Robin Sharma workshop
- Take a Cooking Class
- Climb the Pyramids in Egypt
- Kiss a special someone on top of the Eiffel Tower
- Stay in a European Castle
- Ring the Opening Bell on Wallstreet
- Go White Water Rafting
- Go on an African Safari
- Have a conversation with the Dalai Lama
- Drive a car at a speed of over 130 mph
- Drive a Ferrari
- Have a replica Round Table as a dinner table
- Own a home with a secret passage way that leads to a kick ass game room
- Take a Dance Class and learn some rhythm
- Customized Carpe Diem license plate
- Founder/Cofounder of at least two nonprofit charity organizations (one so far ROWW)
- Create a system that is teachable to millions on how to help humans live thier bast lives
- Forgive anyone that may have cuased me pain be it intentional or unintentional
- Love and accept myself fully
- Form a core group of friends to travel through life with
- Own several vacation homes in beach and mountain locations
- Attend a dinner at the White House
- Create multiple scholarship programs for future generations
- Donor and advocate for animal rights
- Take a photography class
- Master my thoughts and emotions
- Have my photos featured in a major exhibit
- Interviewed by Oprah
- Interviewed by Ellen
- Interviewed on one of early morning news programs (Today, Good Morning America)
Thursday, July 16, 2015
Perspective is Everything
Recently one of the members of the Zero Limits Mastermind shared this video and I thought it would be of value to you.
Coca Cola advertisement aside it conveys a powerful message of just how much our perspective shapes our reality.
The video opens with the word prejudice and I encourage you to allow yourself to think of other words like: perspective, judgment, assessment, etc.. when you watch this video.
What we see is not always what is
What we believe is what will determine the reality we live in.
If you do not like your present reality, take a good long look at your beliefs.
Change your beliefs and you will change your reality.
What did you think of the video?
What did you learn?
How are you going to apply what you learned?
Carpe Diem,
Jesse
http://www.jessebrisendine.com
http://www.facebook.com/1year1000challenge
Coca Cola advertisement aside it conveys a powerful message of just how much our perspective shapes our reality.
The video opens with the word prejudice and I encourage you to allow yourself to think of other words like: perspective, judgment, assessment, etc.. when you watch this video.
What we see is not always what is
What we believe is what will determine the reality we live in.
If you do not like your present reality, take a good long look at your beliefs.
Change your beliefs and you will change your reality.
What did you think of the video?
What did you learn?
How are you going to apply what you learned?
Carpe Diem,
Jesse
http://www.jessebrisendine.com
http://www.facebook.com/1year1000challenge
Sunday, June 7, 2015
To Take a Step Forward You May Have tor Comfort Zone
Hi Everyone!
Recently one of the team members in the Zero Limits Mastermind shared a great article on words of wisdom passed on from Business leaders to college graduates at commencement. (You can read the entire article here)
As I read through, I noticed there seemed to be a common theme that these titans of their respected industries were trying to impart on the next generation: Take risks and pursue your passions.
The concept is not a new one - heck I would guess in a slow week I hear the above phrase no less than 10 times.
Yet for some reason while reading this article, I started thinking of my own journey and where I am at professionally at this moment.
I love helping people - it has been what I have wanted to do since I was a little kid, (aside from being a professional basketball player) and I want to be able to grow my ability to help people.
For that to happen, for me to move forward towards doing more of what I want, I have to be willing to put myself out there in a way I have not done before. Some might call this "taking a risk."
You see the old adage, "nothing changes if nothing changes," is so true. Change is constant in our world yet so often there is so much fear around change.
Earlier this year I took a massive step forward professionally by announcing I would be hosting my first live event called Unlock Your Greatness. This was a huge step out of my comfort zone as it took me from an area I was totally comfortable in, working one on one with folks, and put me in a new realm of event planning, coordinating, and teaching to audiences of many.
I'll be honest, I was scared. My biggest fear was "What if no one signs up... what if it is just me in the room and all I could hear is crickets chirping in the background (Do crickets even chirp?)."
I hemed, I hawed, I dilly dallied, I weighed the pros and cons, I tried to make every excuse under the sun of why now is not the right time; and it all almost worked except for I kept coming back to the one thing that was my trump card for all the excuses: my passion.
I kept asking myself if my life will ever be fulfilled at the level I want it to be if I spent my whole life not sharing my gifts on the level I know I am capable of. The answer kept coming up no; and you know what? That no was way way wayyyyyy more terrifying than the fear of the crickets that might be chirping.
I kept worrying that to move forward I had to risk giving up my comfort zone. Then I stopped myself and reminded myself that the real risk was if I stayed put... how much of my passion, my purpose, my joy and happiness in life would I be giving up? OUCH!
It is true, to move forward you may have to leave your current comfort zone behind. What I might argue is the whole concept of "risk taking."
I believe the greatest risk in life is risk-less living. I believe that far more pain awaits us if we never try than even if we do and fall flat on our faces.
We are meant to grow, to change, to evolve, and to move forward. Ahead lies the fruits of our labor, the joy, the happiness, and the love we seek.
Where we are might be ok, but will it ever be great?
Hmmmm... Something to think about.
What are your thoughts? I look forward to reading your comments.
Carpe Diem,
Jesse
http://www.jessebrisendine.com
http://www.facebook.com/1year1000challenge
P.S.
My fear about Unlock Your Greatness was quickly put at bay. To date there are people from 8 countries and 15 different States coming.
There are still spots left and I would love for you to be a part of what will be a very special event.
After all, how often in life can you say, "I was there at the beginning?" :)
Click the ticket below to grab your spot.
Recently one of the team members in the Zero Limits Mastermind shared a great article on words of wisdom passed on from Business leaders to college graduates at commencement. (You can read the entire article here)
As I read through, I noticed there seemed to be a common theme that these titans of their respected industries were trying to impart on the next generation: Take risks and pursue your passions.
The concept is not a new one - heck I would guess in a slow week I hear the above phrase no less than 10 times.
Yet for some reason while reading this article, I started thinking of my own journey and where I am at professionally at this moment.
I love helping people - it has been what I have wanted to do since I was a little kid, (aside from being a professional basketball player) and I want to be able to grow my ability to help people.
For that to happen, for me to move forward towards doing more of what I want, I have to be willing to put myself out there in a way I have not done before. Some might call this "taking a risk."
You see the old adage, "nothing changes if nothing changes," is so true. Change is constant in our world yet so often there is so much fear around change.
Earlier this year I took a massive step forward professionally by announcing I would be hosting my first live event called Unlock Your Greatness. This was a huge step out of my comfort zone as it took me from an area I was totally comfortable in, working one on one with folks, and put me in a new realm of event planning, coordinating, and teaching to audiences of many.
I'll be honest, I was scared. My biggest fear was "What if no one signs up... what if it is just me in the room and all I could hear is crickets chirping in the background (Do crickets even chirp?)."
I hemed, I hawed, I dilly dallied, I weighed the pros and cons, I tried to make every excuse under the sun of why now is not the right time; and it all almost worked except for I kept coming back to the one thing that was my trump card for all the excuses: my passion.
I kept asking myself if my life will ever be fulfilled at the level I want it to be if I spent my whole life not sharing my gifts on the level I know I am capable of. The answer kept coming up no; and you know what? That no was way way wayyyyyy more terrifying than the fear of the crickets that might be chirping.
I kept worrying that to move forward I had to risk giving up my comfort zone. Then I stopped myself and reminded myself that the real risk was if I stayed put... how much of my passion, my purpose, my joy and happiness in life would I be giving up? OUCH!
It is true, to move forward you may have to leave your current comfort zone behind. What I might argue is the whole concept of "risk taking."
I believe the greatest risk in life is risk-less living. I believe that far more pain awaits us if we never try than even if we do and fall flat on our faces.
We are meant to grow, to change, to evolve, and to move forward. Ahead lies the fruits of our labor, the joy, the happiness, and the love we seek.
Where we are might be ok, but will it ever be great?
Hmmmm... Something to think about.
What are your thoughts? I look forward to reading your comments.
Carpe Diem,
Jesse
http://www.jessebrisendine.com
http://www.facebook.com/1year1000challenge
P.S.
My fear about Unlock Your Greatness was quickly put at bay. To date there are people from 8 countries and 15 different States coming.
There are still spots left and I would love for you to be a part of what will be a very special event.
After all, how often in life can you say, "I was there at the beginning?" :)
Click the ticket below to grab your spot.
Sunday, February 15, 2015
Love... It IS Everywhere
It seems to be as inevitable as a tummy ache is after someone eats to much sugar - when February rolls around with Valentines Day on the horizon, conversations shift to Love, it's meaning, it's abundance, the lack of it, and much more.
I love helping people and I hate that something like Love, which is available in such abundance, escapes so many.
It breaks my heart to see people go through life lacking Love. I know it does not have to be this way, and I want to help eliminate this problem from anyone who is willing to let me help.
Recently I hosted a Youtube chat on this very important topic. The purpose of the chat was threefold:
1- To define what love is, the different types of love, and why it is important to be aware of the different types.
2 - To explain the difference between being in love vs "just" loving someone.
and 3 - To teach you how you can bring an abundance of love into your life.
The event was very powerful and I believe really helped a lot of people form better relationships with Love. I also believe it equipped the viewers with several effective tools that they could take home and utilize in their relationships with others and themselves.
Because Love is so desired by all, and how to acquire it is often very misunderstood, I wanted to share this video with you all in the hopes that it will assist you and those you care about in your journey's to bring more Love into your lives.
I would love to hear what you think! Please leave me a comment below.
With Love,
Carpe Diem,
Jesse
http://www.jessebrisendine.com
http://www.facebook.com/1year1000challenge
I love helping people and I hate that something like Love, which is available in such abundance, escapes so many.
It breaks my heart to see people go through life lacking Love. I know it does not have to be this way, and I want to help eliminate this problem from anyone who is willing to let me help.
Recently I hosted a Youtube chat on this very important topic. The purpose of the chat was threefold:
1- To define what love is, the different types of love, and why it is important to be aware of the different types.
2 - To explain the difference between being in love vs "just" loving someone.
and 3 - To teach you how you can bring an abundance of love into your life.
The event was very powerful and I believe really helped a lot of people form better relationships with Love. I also believe it equipped the viewers with several effective tools that they could take home and utilize in their relationships with others and themselves.
Because Love is so desired by all, and how to acquire it is often very misunderstood, I wanted to share this video with you all in the hopes that it will assist you and those you care about in your journey's to bring more Love into your lives.
I would love to hear what you think! Please leave me a comment below.
With Love,
Carpe Diem,
Jesse
http://www.jessebrisendine.com
http://www.facebook.com/1year1000challenge
Sunday, February 8, 2015
Perspective is Key to Living the Life You Want
Hellllloooooo there! :)
I had an experience the other day and a few thoughts about it I wanted to share with you. Before we get to that, a couple quick updates:
1 - Our next Monthly Motivation Youtube chat is scheduled for this coming Wednesday, February 11th at 4:30pm PST. The topic will be "Love." To join the chat, click here
2 - One Billion Steps in March is happening! This is a global event which means everyone can, and needs to participate. The goal is walk a combined total of 1 Billion Steps in the month of March. Click here to learn all about the event. Please share the event with your friends.
Ok onto today's blog:
It is no secret that I keep some strange hours. Sometimes I go to bed early, sometimes I go to bed really late. Sometimes I wake up early and sometimes I wake up even earlier than really early.
The other day I went to bed about 10pm and woke up at 1:30am. I used to be that person who, when waking up at a time when I didn't "have" to be up, would lie awake in bed and stress out about not being able to go back to sleep.
I would lay there and tell myself all that was going to go wrong if I didn't sleep. I would remind myself over and over again how tired I would be and all that I needed to get done that would not get done if I didn't sleep.
Also this was my favorite time to start to worry and stress out about things like bills to pay, all my "problems," etc... And as icing on the cake, this was my favorite time to be critical of myself. You know have all those positive self talks about all the things I did wrong, how I should have handled this or that situation differently, and of course how, if I could go back in time, I would say this or that differently.
Super productive time, right?
I got to a point in my life where I got fed up with this so I decided to make a new rule.
The new rule: Anytime I wake up in the middle of the night, I will allow myself 5 minutes to go back to sleep. If I cannot fall back to sleep, then I need to do something so that I am no longer laying there thinking about not going back to sleep.
Well the other night roles around and I wake up at 1:30. I got up and went pee then climbed back in bed. I laid down and instantly felt like I was not going to be able to fall back to sleep. I laughed about it and said: "Ok, five minutes, starting now."
Five minutes later... well that didn't work time to do something productive.
I didn't feel like working, what I felt like doing was exercising! (Always trust your gut feelings) I got up, got dressed, and headed to the gym.
At 1:55am the gym was pretty empty - who am I kidding the gym was totally empty!! haha
Over the years I have found that when I workout, I often have some of my best brainstorms. I attribute it to my mind being so clear and focused on the workout that it frees up a lot of brain space to allow ideas to pop up.
As I settled into my workout I had some pretty profound thoughts that I wanted to share with you.
The first thought was this: What would change for me, if instead of telling myself "I can't sleep," I instead started to tell myself, "Maybe I am supposed to be awake!"
AND...
If I am supposed to be awake, "Why am I supposed to be awake and What am I supposed to learn/do?"
The first statement is so freeing... I am supposed to be awake. That is a statement of taking your power back from a situation where it is pretty easily to feel powerless "I can't sleep."
I can't sleep sounds like you are helpless. I am supposed to be awake sounds like you are making a proclamation of power!
If the above did not sink in, re-read it and re-read it again until it does. If you have ever had a sleepless night, one where you have tossed, turned, and bemoaned not being able to sleep, you know exactly how those nights turn out. Imagine if you looked at the situation from a different perspective and started using that time.
On "sleepless nights," could you find the time, the time you cannot find in your "normal" waking day, to: exercise, write the book you have wanted to write, prepare healthy food for the week, get caught up on emails, clean the house, start your new business, organize your photos, etc... Incidentally aren't most of these things the things that you might lay awake stressing about? Why not get them done?
Perhaps that is what Your reason for being awake is.... Your brain is trying to tell you, "Hey, You are not that sleepy right now, if you get up and do this, you will feel accomplished and You will sleep like a baby tomorrow."
It's a possibility right?
Remember the perspective you choose to live your life from will determine the life you live. If you insist on continuing to live your life from the perspective of "I can't sleep," don't be surprised if you get more sleepless nights. However, if you choose to live your life from the perspective of "I am supposed to be awake," do not be surprised when you start accomplishing more than you ever imagined possible.
And maybe, just maybe, you might find that this new perspective leads to nights where you are sleeping like a baby.
Give it a try, what do you have to lose?
Note: I finished my workout at 3am, came home, went to sleep for one hour, slept like a log, woke up at 4:15 to my alarm refreshed and excited for the day.
If I can do it, I know you can too!!
Enjoy the pics,
Carpe Diem,
Jesse
http://www.jessebrisendine.com
http://www.facebook.com/1year1000challenge
I had an experience the other day and a few thoughts about it I wanted to share with you. Before we get to that, a couple quick updates:
1 - Our next Monthly Motivation Youtube chat is scheduled for this coming Wednesday, February 11th at 4:30pm PST. The topic will be "Love." To join the chat, click here
2 - One Billion Steps in March is happening! This is a global event which means everyone can, and needs to participate. The goal is walk a combined total of 1 Billion Steps in the month of March. Click here to learn all about the event. Please share the event with your friends.
Ok onto today's blog:
It is no secret that I keep some strange hours. Sometimes I go to bed early, sometimes I go to bed really late. Sometimes I wake up early and sometimes I wake up even earlier than really early.
The other day I went to bed about 10pm and woke up at 1:30am. I used to be that person who, when waking up at a time when I didn't "have" to be up, would lie awake in bed and stress out about not being able to go back to sleep.
I would lay there and tell myself all that was going to go wrong if I didn't sleep. I would remind myself over and over again how tired I would be and all that I needed to get done that would not get done if I didn't sleep.
Also this was my favorite time to start to worry and stress out about things like bills to pay, all my "problems," etc... And as icing on the cake, this was my favorite time to be critical of myself. You know have all those positive self talks about all the things I did wrong, how I should have handled this or that situation differently, and of course how, if I could go back in time, I would say this or that differently.
Super productive time, right?
I got to a point in my life where I got fed up with this so I decided to make a new rule.
The new rule: Anytime I wake up in the middle of the night, I will allow myself 5 minutes to go back to sleep. If I cannot fall back to sleep, then I need to do something so that I am no longer laying there thinking about not going back to sleep.
Well the other night roles around and I wake up at 1:30. I got up and went pee then climbed back in bed. I laid down and instantly felt like I was not going to be able to fall back to sleep. I laughed about it and said: "Ok, five minutes, starting now."
Five minutes later... well that didn't work time to do something productive.
I didn't feel like working, what I felt like doing was exercising! (Always trust your gut feelings) I got up, got dressed, and headed to the gym.
At 1:55am the gym was pretty empty - who am I kidding the gym was totally empty!! haha
Over the years I have found that when I workout, I often have some of my best brainstorms. I attribute it to my mind being so clear and focused on the workout that it frees up a lot of brain space to allow ideas to pop up.
As I settled into my workout I had some pretty profound thoughts that I wanted to share with you.
The first thought was this: What would change for me, if instead of telling myself "I can't sleep," I instead started to tell myself, "Maybe I am supposed to be awake!"
AND...
If I am supposed to be awake, "Why am I supposed to be awake and What am I supposed to learn/do?"
The first statement is so freeing... I am supposed to be awake. That is a statement of taking your power back from a situation where it is pretty easily to feel powerless "I can't sleep."
I can't sleep sounds like you are helpless. I am supposed to be awake sounds like you are making a proclamation of power!
If the above did not sink in, re-read it and re-read it again until it does. If you have ever had a sleepless night, one where you have tossed, turned, and bemoaned not being able to sleep, you know exactly how those nights turn out. Imagine if you looked at the situation from a different perspective and started using that time.
On "sleepless nights," could you find the time, the time you cannot find in your "normal" waking day, to: exercise, write the book you have wanted to write, prepare healthy food for the week, get caught up on emails, clean the house, start your new business, organize your photos, etc... Incidentally aren't most of these things the things that you might lay awake stressing about? Why not get them done?
Perhaps that is what Your reason for being awake is.... Your brain is trying to tell you, "Hey, You are not that sleepy right now, if you get up and do this, you will feel accomplished and You will sleep like a baby tomorrow."
It's a possibility right?
Remember the perspective you choose to live your life from will determine the life you live. If you insist on continuing to live your life from the perspective of "I can't sleep," don't be surprised if you get more sleepless nights. However, if you choose to live your life from the perspective of "I am supposed to be awake," do not be surprised when you start accomplishing more than you ever imagined possible.
And maybe, just maybe, you might find that this new perspective leads to nights where you are sleeping like a baby.
Give it a try, what do you have to lose?
Note: I finished my workout at 3am, came home, went to sleep for one hour, slept like a log, woke up at 4:15 to my alarm refreshed and excited for the day.
If I can do it, I know you can too!!
Enjoy the pics,
Carpe Diem,
Jesse
http://www.jessebrisendine.com
http://www.facebook.com/1year1000challenge
 |
Saturday, January 31, 2015
The Inside Scoop on Jesse Brisendine part 3
Well the time has arrived, part 3, the conclusion of Macie's guest blog about me. Have you all enjoyed it? I know I certainly have. I felt all sorts of feelings when Macie and I first spoke of this idea. I felt shy, I felt naked, I felt some trepidation, and when I read what Macie wrote, I still felt those things, but more than anything, I felt love and loved. Not only that but reading the overwhelmingly positive response's and comments from all of you has only furthered the love I have been feeling. This experience has been an amazing one.
Ok, I know you are eagerly awaiting the conclusion of Macie's guest blog, but before we get to that a couple quick updates:
Mark your calendars - Wednesday February 11th at 4:30pm PST will be our next Monthly Motivation Youtube chat. The topic will be "Love." To view the live chat, click here
We had some really significant win's this week in the Zero Limits Mastermind - One member got a new job and another went back to school and earned a scholarship to pay for her education. What the ZLM members are doing is absolutely inspiring. To learn more about ZLM and how you can become a member, click here.
Lastly, the 28 Day Flat Belly Challenge wraps up today. There was an awesome group of participants. I am excited to share with you all the final results as well as the winner who I will highlight in this weeks "Success Story" post on the 1 Year 1000 Challenge facebook page.
Ok, onto Macie:
If you haven't read parts 1 & 2 you are going to want to read them first. Click here to read part1 and here to read part 2
Jesse is a 6'4” body builder type with bubbling muscles and clear skin; he works out pretty much every day (often twice a day) and brings his own protein powder to the gym. But he's sensitive. People can't seem to latch on to that easily either.
And I'll tell you a secret.
Jesse needs us too.
Macie's Bio:
Macie is your average Feminist Studies and Exercise and Sports Science major from UCSB. By average, she means she's a walking contradiction. She loves all things sports and competition, and she is also a passionate philanthropist and activist. Most important, she is a nerd at heart. Macie coaches and runs character development programs from high school girls soccer players, and she continuously pursues her favorite activity - writing. Macie's various, but important passions include her non-profit organization, H.E.E.A.L. (Hope through Exercise, Energy, and Art for Life), which serves to fund other organizations who promote and provide exercise and art outlets (www.heealsb.org). They also include her podcast, Dropping the F Bomb (www.droppingthefbomb.org), which delves into modern-day feminism with a little bit of an attitude, and her blog, Lifestyle of the Torn and Triad, which follows her journey through her 3rd knee surgery in her 20s (http://lifestyleofthetornandtriad.weebly.com/blog). Macie will also be starting as a contributor for Elite Daily (www.elitedaily.com).
Jesse here:
Well folks, there you have it. What did you think of Macie's guest blog? Did you enjoy it? What are some key take aways you got out of it? Would you like to see more blog's like this in the future? I would love to hear what you think (and I know Macie will too) please leave a comment or three below.
Also if you found value or enjoyment in this, please share it with a friend. Your shares help me to help more people.
I wanted to add one final comment... I do not believe in coincidences. It was five years ago today (February 1st) that my Dad died. Macie and I had just left a meeting at the University of California Santa Barbara (UCSB) and had gotten into our respective cars. I saw my Mom had called and had a horrible feeling. When I called her back and she told me what happened, I called Macie who had just driven off.
Macie nor I planned the timing of this to work out that way. It has been a very special gift, one that I will always treasure.
Thank You for reading, Thank You for your ongoing support, and Thank You for being You. I am grateful for You.
Enjoy the pics,
Carpe Diem,
Jesse
www.jessebrisendine.com
www.facebook.com/1year1000challenge
Ok, I know you are eagerly awaiting the conclusion of Macie's guest blog, but before we get to that a couple quick updates:
Mark your calendars - Wednesday February 11th at 4:30pm PST will be our next Monthly Motivation Youtube chat. The topic will be "Love." To view the live chat, click here
We had some really significant win's this week in the Zero Limits Mastermind - One member got a new job and another went back to school and earned a scholarship to pay for her education. What the ZLM members are doing is absolutely inspiring. To learn more about ZLM and how you can become a member, click here.
Lastly, the 28 Day Flat Belly Challenge wraps up today. There was an awesome group of participants. I am excited to share with you all the final results as well as the winner who I will highlight in this weeks "Success Story" post on the 1 Year 1000 Challenge facebook page.
Ok, onto Macie:
If you haven't read parts 1 & 2 you are going to want to read them first. Click here to read part1 and here to read part 2
Jesse is a 6'4” body builder type with bubbling muscles and clear skin; he works out pretty much every day (often twice a day) and brings his own protein powder to the gym. But he's sensitive. People can't seem to latch on to that easily either.
So who is Jesse Brisendine? Is he the man in the pictures
that you see on facebook? The brooding specimen that fits emotion, humor, and
humility into one, good-looking package? Sure. He's that guy. But he has also
been sullen and dark and lifeless. His depression after Gabe's death, and then
his dad's inspired H.E.E.A.L., which Jesse has always fully supported, and it
was born from that dark period in his life when I had no idea how to pull him
out of it. Jesse Brisendine is honest. He is goofy. He has been the voice of
reason in my sobriety of four years, and he has been the pouting face after I
miraculously beat him in mini golf. He is, and has always been, silly.
Right before Jesse lost his dad, he took a trip to Haiti with Paul. It was his first major outing after Gabe's death. It was also right
around his birthday, which Jesse has always pretended not to exist, even though
I know he secretly loves the compassion and meaning that gets flung at him on
that day. I wrote Paul a letter that day. The day they were leaving. I thanked
him for helping my friend. Not for being Paul Walker. But for being Jesse's
confidant. Jesse wrote me saying they were both in the car to the airport
sobbing over the letter. Yes. Boys cry.
Losing Paul seemed like the absolute impossible, and I
watched Jesse become a more level-headed griever, if there is such a thing. I
hate that he can even be that, but I'm also thankful that he hasn't lost hope.
That's really who he is. Cautiously hopeful. He isn't fearless. He is scared,
just like you and me. He's scared of love, of failure, and of hurt. He is
ambitious and driven, but he is often tired and lonely. He is the healthiest
man at times, but he is also my partner in crime for fabulous displays of
frozen yogurt and toppings. He prides himself on how little sleep he can get by
on, (but falls asleep within the first 20 minutes of movies), he works hard to
better himself in every aspect, and he is my absolute favorite person to gossip
with. He has faults and flaws just like anyone else, but he is the first to go
about bettering himself and basking in who he is. He has an outstanding moral
compass.
Sometimes I read the articles that Jesse writes and ponder a
little bit. I'll even find myself saying, “ya that's kind of how he felt.” Or,
“I guess it was like that.” I pick it apart. Try and find the truth that is
hiding between the lines. But that's not really what's happening. He isn't
hiding the truth. He is just uncovering it at his own pace. He told all of us
at Gabe's funeral that we should hug each other and tell each other we love you
every day. He said it's important and it was how Gabe was. I've been in serious
relationships with men for probably 85% of the time I've known Jesse. Yet his
hugs and “I love yous” have always been the most genuine. That is not to
discount the fine suitors I have flocked to, but it is to show some perspective
on the grandiose presence of Jesse Brisendine's love. Maybe it's because I
thought there was a time when he would never feel positive emotion again. Maybe
it's because our trust has never truly been questioned. All I know is that he
spoke the truth at that funeral, and he has stuck to his word. That's a pretty
bold and badass move to make. I've unfortunately been to my fair share of
funerals, and I have come to see them as the place where falsified promises are
made out of shock and grief, but where bad habits brood, and grudges fail to
dissipate. You can call it pessimism, but I'm just saying what I'm thinking.
Jesse defied these generalizations.
This man is not just the one you see online. I mean, he is
that man, yes, but he's a real human. We have jumped out of planes together,
belted our lungs out to “Livin' on a Prayer” on karaoke night, and played
makeshift laser tag in the garage. One time I hid in his closet for 45 minutes
on Friday the 13th to scare the shit out of him, and he was inches
away from punching me in the face out of sheer terror. His screams were
priceless. We've ridden roller coasters (he's terrified), taken road trips, and
thrown parties. We have this high five that we do. Jesse is about a foot taller
than me, so he always holds his hand way up high and then we both jump at the
same time for righteous contact. It's pretty awesome. Although one time the
contact was so intense that I ended up flashing a garage-full of people
sprawled on my back. It happens.
Jesse is not perfect. We wouldn't be friends if he was. He
has painfully awkward dance moves and he can stink up a room like no one I
know. He wears the same 3 tank tops to work out in all the time, and after he
washes the dishes he runs his gross hands all through his beard. I never
understood that. Once in a while he holds things in and it can come off as
passive aggressive, and every now and then he'll text the ex. But he is a flaw
forgiver too. He excuses my flannel dog pajamas, calls my constant fashion expression
“colorful” instead of childish, and he has yet to exploit that whole
I-shit-my-pants incident. He deserves your respect and your commitment to him.
You need Jesse Brisendine. You need a place to feel safe and
to explore your insecurities, vulnerabilities, and question marks. And,
truthfully, I need Jesse Brisendine for very similar reasons. I laugh at people
who say that boys and girls can never be “just friends.” They're right to some
extent I guess. Jesse can never be just a friend. That word doesn't do our
relationship justice. It's not every day a young man you barely know chases
down Vegas workers to find some girl in the dead of the afternoon just because
he has a bad feeling. We were destined for life-long togetherness from the
start. The truth is, I'm proud of Jesse for inspiring you. I'm proud of him for
having these followers, these fans, and this life that he has truly always
been after. He has worked hard and earned it. You are important. You are
evidence that Jesse's purpose goes beyond our little bubble here. But I will
always be on the inside. I will always need just a little bit differently.
Macie's Bio:
Macie is your average Feminist Studies and Exercise and Sports Science major from UCSB. By average, she means she's a walking contradiction. She loves all things sports and competition, and she is also a passionate philanthropist and activist. Most important, she is a nerd at heart. Macie coaches and runs character development programs from high school girls soccer players, and she continuously pursues her favorite activity - writing. Macie's various, but important passions include her non-profit organization, H.E.E.A.L. (Hope through Exercise, Energy, and Art for Life), which serves to fund other organizations who promote and provide exercise and art outlets (www.heealsb.org). They also include her podcast, Dropping the F Bomb (www.droppingthefbomb.org), which delves into modern-day feminism with a little bit of an attitude, and her blog, Lifestyle of the Torn and Triad, which follows her journey through her 3rd knee surgery in her 20s (http://lifestyleofthetornandtriad.weebly.com/blog). Macie will also be starting as a contributor for Elite Daily (www.elitedaily.com).
Jesse here:
Well folks, there you have it. What did you think of Macie's guest blog? Did you enjoy it? What are some key take aways you got out of it? Would you like to see more blog's like this in the future? I would love to hear what you think (and I know Macie will too) please leave a comment or three below.
Also if you found value or enjoyment in this, please share it with a friend. Your shares help me to help more people.
I wanted to add one final comment... I do not believe in coincidences. It was five years ago today (February 1st) that my Dad died. Macie and I had just left a meeting at the University of California Santa Barbara (UCSB) and had gotten into our respective cars. I saw my Mom had called and had a horrible feeling. When I called her back and she told me what happened, I called Macie who had just driven off.
Macie nor I planned the timing of this to work out that way. It has been a very special gift, one that I will always treasure.
Thank You for reading, Thank You for your ongoing support, and Thank You for being You. I am grateful for You.
Enjoy the pics,
Carpe Diem,
Jesse
www.jessebrisendine.com
www.facebook.com/1year1000challenge
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)