Opportunity Doesn’t Knock—It’s Earned

Opportunity Doesn’t Knock—It’s Earned

Looking back on my athlete days, I realize I missed out on chances to create even more opportunities for myself. I wasn’t the greatest athlete in the world, but I had talent—enough to find success in basketball and football. What I lacked was the drive to go beyond what was asked of me.

My dad used to say, “There’s always someone working harder than you. Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work.” I couldn’t grasp that when I was younger. Now, I live by it—and I pass that mindset on to every client I train, especially my young athletes.

Over the years, I’ve worked with individuals who gave themselves the best shot at success by seeking professional help instead of going it alone. Studies estimate that only 10–20% of people who start a fitness journey solo reach their ultimate goals. My clients who chose guidance increased their odds by 30%. That number may not sound extraordinary, but it opens doors. I’ve seen clients become nurses, personal trainers, find life partners, and unlock career paths—all by choosing to prioritize their health.

Achieving a goal takes more than doing the basics. In my experience, it demands twice the effort and dedication you think it will—especially in competition. Because somewhere out there, someone is working harder than you.

Right now, I’m training football players chasing high school success and dreaming of D1 opportunities. I talk to them constantly about work ethic and sacrifice. Sometimes it feels harsh, like I’m draining the fun from their youth. But I do it for two reasons:

1. To help them see what I couldn’t at their age.

2. To remind them that for every wanted opportunity, there’s a player who needs it—to change his life and uplift his family.

That player may not have the luxury of dinners out, vacations, or access to elite training. He uses the absence of distraction as fuel. He’s locked in. And when he earns that D1 spot, he’ll savor every moment—because he didn’t just want the opportunity. He became the opportunity.

Every sacrifice made cracks the door to opportunity a little wider. In the moment, it may feel like you're missing out—but reaching the goal allows you to enjoy life’s little things on a much deeper level.

If you have a goal, do three things:

1. Decide how much it truly matters to you.

2. Ask yourself what you're willing to sacrifice.

3. Find a mentor who will guide you—because the journey will never be easy.

I don’t know if working harder and being more focused would’ve led me down a different path. What I do know is this: I’m doing what I was put on this earth to do. But the road here was longer than it had to be—because I missed out on opportunities that hard work and determination could’ve unlocked sooner.

The truth is, opportunity doesn’t show up dressed in comfort. It shows up in early mornings, sore muscles, and tough conversations. It’s not about being ready—it’s about being willing. Willing to sacrifice, to grow, and to stay focused when distractions whisper your name. That’s the mindset I live by now—and the one I pass on to every athlete who walks through my door.

So ask yourself—are you waiting for an opportunity, or are you becoming it?