Why You Should NEVER Give Up On Your Dreams

Written by Mike Massie on January 29, 2010 - 2 Comments
Categories: Editorial

Matt Stover preparing to place another one through the uprights. Photo courtesy Colts.com

So my old buddy Matt Stover is going to the Super Bowl again.

And, he’ll have the distinction of being the oldest NFL player ever to play in a Super Bowl game.

To be truthful, Matt and I haven’t spoken in years.

But, in the off-seasons prior to his 1999 and 2000 seasons with the Ravens, I had the privilege of helping Matt train his off leg for greater balance and increased kicking precision.

Those two seasons were break out seasons for Matt and the Ravens.

I’d like to believe I had a small role in that. Matt thought I did, and said so. I don’t take much credit though – there are a whole slew of professionals who work with pro athletes, and each one does their share to help out.

And, Matt’s the guy who did all the hard work, and the one with the golden leg.

But the crazy thing is, I’d have never thought in a million years that I’d have *anything* to do with an NFL player going to the Super Bowl.

And it would have never happened if I’d listened to all the people who told me I was wasting my time with my dream of being a full-time martial arts instructor and school owner.

I thank God that He made me resilient (thank you, God).

And, when I’m watching the Colts play in the Super Bowl this year, I’ll be thinking to myself that I at least had a tiny little part in making that happen.

Have a great weekend, and go live your dreams.

Until next time,

Michael D. Massie

P.S.: Small Dojo Big Profits explains how I did it… in spite of all the people who said I couldn’t. Check it out if you need some guidance or inspiration.

-- Mike Massie has owned and operated martial arts schools and fitness studios for most of his adult life. A lifelong martial artist, he is the author of "Small Dojo Big Profits", runs the Martial Art School Alliance International (MASAI) business coaching website, and is the creator of The Self Defense Black Belt Program (TM) and Fighting Fit Boot Camp (TM). For martial arts business coaching, visit http://martialartschoolalliance.com.

2 Responses to “Why You Should NEVER Give Up On Your Dreams”

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sean russell

January 29, 2010 at 3:56 pm

Thanks for the word! Sometimes it is not the business nuts and bolts I need it is the uplifting of my spirit. The reminder to stay the coarse and have faith is important. Thanks for reminding me to believe in myself because in my new business I am questioning myself quite a bit though I know I am going in the right direction. It’s the patients part I am working on.

Your other article on the time it takes to build a martial arts school was greatly appreciated also.

Thank you,

Sean Russell
Russell’s kung fu san soo
Mike Massie

January 29, 2010 at 5:08 pm

Glad you enjoyed the article, Sean.

I heard some sports casters talking about how Matt was going to be the oldest guy ever to play in the Super Bowl, and it got me thinking… what if I gave up on my dream, and never opened a martial art school? Would Matt have found someone else to help him? Would he have been the same place kicker?

Who knows the answer to that? I’d say, however, it’s very likely Matt would have been just as successful during those two seasons without me… he was as focused as anyone I’ve seen in training. Besides, I don’t place that much emphasis on my own self-importance.

But, I thought it was a really good illustration about how when we give up on our dreams, we cheat other people out of enjoying the benefit of our talent and expertise.

Anyway, glad to see you’re running down that dream, Sean. Keep at it!