How to Master Mental Toughness | James Lawrence on Impact Theory

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QUOTES:
"The secret to success is doing a lot of little things consistently over a long period of time." [3:44]
"When you discover how to flip that switch, that's when nothing gets in your way. That's where you shift your focus and realize what your purpose is." [15:23]
"We're moments away every day from a decision that's going to completely change our life." [16:03]
"By putting yourself in the game, you're giving yourself an opportunity to achieve something everyone else said was impossible."[27:46]
"Have the big goal, but shelve it and focus on today's goal only."[29:08]
SHOW NOTES:
James dispels the myth that being "gifted" is the key to succeeding. [2:58]
James revisits how a Fun Run marathon started him on his path. [6:02]
James details the learning process and growth when entering the triathlon world early on. [9:18]
James goes deep on the "Iron Cowboy" mentality and pulling strength from an alter-ego. [13:05]
Tom and James talk about struggles during his journey and setting goals with a family in the picture. [16:50]
James highlights the moment of clarity that launched him on his path. [22:05]
James shares his way of teaching his kids about failure. [24:10]
James touches on his identity and the various building blocks involved in reaching goals. [26:00]
Tom and James discuss the challenge of setting standards for themselves and others. [33:00]
James reveals the impact he wants to have on the world. [37:00]
BOOKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Iron Cowboy - Redefine Impossible by James Lawrence: amzn.to/2j4CyS4 [2:24]
PEOPLE MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
Rich Roll bit.ly/1Rpn19v [2:00]
Chris McCormack bit.ly/2iX9DiU [2:08]
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[@FLsurferHurricanePLZ]

I live in a house with alcoholics. 4 of them, my mom, dad, sister and brother. No matter what I do they try to drag me down, boohoo right? I dont let it, next month I'm getting a house, but I just wanted to say thanks to people like jocko willink, david goggins, and James Lawrence, just hearing positive things and reinforcing things I already knew helped me tremendously.

[@brandonknable7890]

Congrats buddy, keep up the good work!!!

[@brandonknable7890]

Congrats buddy, keep up the good work!!

[@ALCRAN2010]

Make your bed, spray for cockroaches, and get after it buddy.

[@manpsych3924]

Well done you're awesome

[@tippieyanez8289]

That's amazing man!! So happy for you!

[@jonathancphelps]

"The secret to success is doing a lot of little things consistently over a long period of time." Love this.

[@damonm4440]

That is it bro no one becomes sucessfull without a shit load of hard work

[@adrian3747_]

love that quote

[@inspiredbeauty2781]

Such a simple truth!💎

[@saidchadly2483]

I wrote that shit on my board.

[@Q_QQ_Q]

True words

[@wubet_986]

"Once you started to move and engage, you realize two things 1. It is not scary as scary as you thought it was 2. You will actually start to enjoy what you are doing"

[@dolphinloverken]

Amen

[@joelbackman8330]

"The moment you realize the next step isn't going to kill you, and that next step is the first step to evolving, changing, growing and becoming literally the best version of yourself; that's the most beautiful thing".

[@Annemiiekex]

New life motto right here, love it! :)

[@pamelabartock4696]

absolutely!!!

[@clementizard9226]

The quote i will remember and practice: "Having a giant goal is phenomenon, and you should. But as long as the time frame associated with it has the proper balance" Thanks for that.

[@RollThatBeautifulBeanFootage]

There is no such thing as an impossible goal, just an impossible timeframe. Can't remember whose quote that is but once I heard it I never forgot it. Definitely something that you can't forget very easily.

[@TheArtChik]

Tom, I literally watch your videos every single day. They inspire me to be better and to do more in my daily journey of fulfilling my dreams and goals through my art, and helping others to do the same. Sunny is my cousin!!! My dad and her mom are siblings. I followed their Iron Cowboy journey, and have been, and continue to be, truly inspired by their example. I can’t believe how small this world really is, and how all of us are connected in one way or another. The number one thing that began changing my life, is a daily exercise routine, early each morning. It amazes me how the daily “small” habits and rituals determine our success in all other avenues in our lives. You’ve confirmed it; James confirmed it, and I’m very inspired. Thanks for making a difference in this world. 😊

[@emilyroy5893]

Daily exercise matters a lot.... both physical and mental exercise... check it out successclubs.info

[@hell0kitje]

dont watch, ACT!

[@bdsa1412]

Tom you ask good questions. Thanks for having such great interviews.

[@jaunmiguelpilar9813]

The Art Chik arfg

[@lp8431]

His endurance is awesome. It's amazing how as people we can't endure simple things.

[@tblightningbolt8902]

this man is so unique and rewired his brain so much, its amazing he can relate to others so well. So mentally strong. Totally reprogramed from the limiting beliefs that most of us destroy progress with. So much respect for his feats and also his ability to still relate with the common man. He wants to bring us along for the ride.

[@rashers9129]

I spent 10 years in the army you learn you can push yourself further than ever thought 👌

[@binasuarez8998]

Mental toughness is one of the most important skills to master. Thank you for sharing this!

[@jacqueb1441]

I love how Tom always wears corresponding shirts with his interviews. Another amazing interview!!

[@JAG770721]

Tom, thank you so much for allowing your interviewees to talk!! You are a great listener and that helps us to listen in a better way than when they are constantly interrupted by the interviewer. And the description info is a great time saver!! Thanks!! And I really love this interview with James Lawrence.

[@dmys0007]

One of my favorite parts was the focus on not holding others to your standards. I often do this, but lately I have been realizing, it took a lot of effort to adjust my standards to this level. So when working with others, I try to help bring them along that journey, rather than expect them to have already made it. Another great episode Tom!

[@charlesstevenson7144]

I've not watched the vid yet (I prefer to flick through the posts to get a feel of the msg) and your comment resonated with me too - I too can expect others to go for or want a level of success I want. Hearing there's a msg like that in the vid makes me want to watch it now ... off I go - thx

[@mamadffaye]

Great point, I am myself going through the same process. I am always passionate about what I do and it hurts when I come across people who have no motivation.

[@dmys0007]

@Charles Stevenson no problem =)

[@dmys0007]

@Mamadou Faye I completely understand. I live in an area with newar zero motivation (at least compared to the level at which I am at). I have simply begun working harder on myself and in doing so have begun stumbling onto what other motivated people have found and as a result, I have begun finding those people.That would be my recommendation. Start reading more books at the store in the section they are found in. Start attending events that other motivated people would be likely to attend. Start moving where others who have the drive are likely to go themselves.

[@abiodunolagunju891]

Dillon Mysliwiec

[@Puglifemama101]

The one thing that I love about these messages, is that it has proven to me that it doesn’t take talent to build something great. I used always blame that, and say that,well , I wasn’t born with some special talent, and that kept me from building my dreams. However, since listening to these videos ,I have learned that ..that’s just an excuse, a bad habit , Because of this, I have gotten over myself and decided that excuses were nothing more than a bad habit that I need to release. And that is exactly what I have done, and because of you Tom, and all of the people that you interview, I have started building the life that I dream of.. Thank you so much . ✅❤️

[@rogerc23]

Well it certainly helps growing up in a free non racist country, the vast majority of the world is set up by corrupt political and business forces keeping people in poverty and severely limiting any of their opportunities.

[@catalhuyuk7]

@@rogerc23 What country are you referring to?

[@AgainstOrganaziedGoonsInBLR]

The response to the question at 33:22 was pure gold.

[@pamelabartock4696]

totally agree!

[@KickingwithKara]

Tom, I just discovered your channel and am absolutely obsessed with it. The content is beyond outstanding. Thank you for having the standards that you do. Just first rate...thank you.

[@Lindsaywakelinphoto]

' Do not listen to the chatter' what a guy! Fantastic video, thank you.

[@marcinnalborczyk8576]

50 Ironmans in 50 days?!? How is that even possible? How the hell his heart, brain and whole body survived this amount of stress? This is truely unbelieveable.. Gigantic WOW!

[@rexjantze296]

Marcin Nalborczyk He's the one who lived.

[@TheGLOBEos]

Three words: ULTIMATE ADAPTATION MACHINE

[@Chris_T1an]

He’s obviously gifted!

[@MrOiram46]

He wasn’t just an Ironman, he was a Titanium Warrior

[@r_unner_G]

Moreover, how were there 50 Ironmans in 50 days where races are usually held on weekends?

[@ValerieEllis]

What a great and lovely man. RESPECT for his mental agility and strength. Truly believe that you get there by taking the steps between here and where you want to be.

[@lifegivesuslemons421]

I listen To this interview once a month. It took me from over weight and unemployed to in great shape and employed

[@harshitanand673]

I read what is one ironman traithlon, it's 2-3 miles of swimming, 120-125 miles of bicycling, 25 something miles race, this man did 50 ironman triathlon on 50 consecutive days.. Human spirit is unbreakable

[@ricardogamboa577]

I know what my huge goal is thanks to both of these men THANKYOU... To be the guy that makes that negative voice in my head call in sick most if not all the days of my life. Generate high level of focus that bends me ... The whole of me to my will that mandates I perform the next step regardless the size of the obstacles.

[@SimonChristy]

Mind blowingly awesome talk and interview, thanks Tom and James!

[@avaduva]

I've just discovered your channel. Usually in the morning I like to listen to a couple of videos, either funny, educational or motivational. But one of your videos came up as part of a playlist and after I listened to it I was thinking "How did I not discover this guy until now?!?!?" OMG, your channel is amazing, thank you so much for sharing! 💓

[@pamelabartock4696]

James Lawrence is just so inspiring to say the least, after watching his documentary I really was so moved by his whole movement he created to create positive change in this world, he and his wife and family are all mentors and heros. Amazing story!!!!

[@RRP3168]

This guy is my hero! He was in my head during my first Ultra. Love it!

[@BrittWorldChanger]

Start moving to start feeling. Epic. I looooved this interview. Thank you.

[@saveenmickeykumar3875]

One of the best interviews I have watched in a very long time

[@robertashaffer3950]

What a fantastic interview. James has answered so many of my questions and has clarified certain challenging things I am questioning about myself and my life at the present time. Tom, you are a great interviewer. Your questions are clear, precise and straight to the point. What I appreciate about IT is how deep you are and how you are very talented in bringing out the best in your guests! Thank you for everything you do to help us 🌞🌟✨🙏

[@susanminihane4664]

Excellent interview! So many pearls of wisdom from this humble, hard working, positive man. ✔️👍

[@briantobias9212]

Who else is pumped to conquer their goals now!? Not just waiting for 2018!

[@steveotatooed]

Brian Tobias I am! Going to complete my first 100 mile ultramarathon March 2019! Training starts tomorrow!!!

[@Little.MissMaiden]

Brian Tobias yes!!!!

[@rip9551]

2019 is almost here

[@carterf9970]

Bearded Badger did you do it yet?

[@alivensyde5484]

u will fail

[@ZeroBaller0]

I loved this interview this is literally the story of my life. I've learned some if not all of the lessons explained by this legend. However, I know that there's still a long way before me but I shall just keep moving no matter what I promised it to someone I truly loved and I promised it to myself that I would achieve my goals.

[@amymaschue3348]

I love your question about "Should you hold other people to your high standard?" I feel like you do Tom so this was huge for me to hear!! Thank you fur your show! I love every episode!!

[@zoestekkel4528]

I agree that one of the most important part is where he says that you should be a problem solver and not focus on the negative. Since I’m star doing this, it has caught my attention how many people focus on speaking so negative about problems instead of solving them and enjoying it while you’re at it!

[@growthrulove]

Less than 6 minutes in and I am already inspired. So grateful for this channel.

[@FZAChannel]

33:40 and listen on...This part teaches so much, and the reply given was a game changer

[@chazellevania4176]

One of my fav interviews ever! So timely. Needed to hear this today 🙌. You both rock! Thx for sharing this.

[@ShabnamBalouch2016]

While watching this channel which I watch regularly, I love the questions more than answers.

[@Formidable32]

So amazing!! Absolutely love this mindset. Chipping off little things one step at a time. GO The Iron Cowboy! Thankyou Tom for starting IMPACT THEORY!! So Inspiring to keep moving forward!

[@migueleduardomanzanomagall84]

By far one of my favorite videos, this man is incredible, his mental toughness is awesome. Really happy to know that there are more people out there with the same discipline. We are not alone!

[@sarahgreen6359]

One of my favorites on the show! He speaks like a humble regular guy…but what he says is so impactful

[@tatuco8]

Amazing interview. Its one i'm going to have on repeat.

[@guchfun]

Thank you for having James on the show! What an inspirational human being! It is amazing what the human spirit can achieve by not accepting pre-conceived limits!

[@sed7neuron]

Practical deep psychological judo. This session was like a dojo for the alter ego. Combine the James Lawrence episode with Amelia Boone and David Goggins and they can be bundled together as a "Mental Toughness" training. Thanks @tombilyey, as always, for bringing the f**kin thunder

[@Grifons003]

Thank you! This was such an amazing talk! I got so much good stuff out of this! So many great quotes! One of the best for me was "Belief in yourself is learned by taking massive amounts of action. You have to immediately act and go after it!" And I can't not mention "The only limits are the ones that you set for yourself." All best to all of you guys! Cheers!

[@michele_leona]

I LOVED THIS INTERVIEW!!! Thanks Tom and James.

[@TerryRajsombath]

Thanks for introducing me to another great guest, Tom. Happy holidays man.

[@charliechase7390]

True inspiration for anyone that wants to achieve something that no one has ever done before. The road is long but one step at a time for the right reasons and you can get to your potential. Happy journeys

[@samuelluiscontreras6656]

Definitely planted some seeds in my head. Thank you!

[@drewkoltun3350]

Such a great and inspiring interview! Thank you!

[@kingojugo]

This is probably one of my favourite KZbin channels. Probably my actual favourite 🙏🏿🙏🏿

[@lilianagarcesrosero]

once I achieve my goals , I will be thanking you Tom and all these wonderful guests on your program...each one of you have been so inspiring, its incredible👌

[@ChiefAvalon]

This guy is unbelievable. Great video 👍🏻 And love the matching Iron-Shirt (Fe) selection - great attention to detail 😉

[@GeraltOfRivia99]

the guy asking the questions next to him is kinda of a dolt. look at the dude you can tell hes dieting and exercising and trying to be "healthy" but he looks gaunt. people trying to be 130 pounds soaking wet torturing themselves bags under there eyes i got news you dont look any better you look worse. theres nothing wrong with being 180 pounds. this worlds becoming filled with woman and only woman slowly

[@deifor]

He is trying at least. I got to give you that, at first I thought the same, but do your homework and read about him. He is a self-made man. His interviews are spot on and not full of trivialities like those you see on mainstream media.

[@pablocaruso53]

Awesome, great interview.... Thanks Tom and James!

[@IanMcwan42]

Amazing journey listening to this conversation. I understand a little bit more about myself now.

[@harshitanand673]

everyday I spend 40-50 mins of my life on Tom's KZbin channel. I hope he keeps getting more content as we need it.

[@tashidolkarsamdrupling5720]

Thank you so much Tom. Amazing message in the world.

[@barfightfitness5456]

What an inspiration! Great video. Now I am more motivated then ever. Thank you.Live, Lift and Be Mindful- Bar Fight

[@simbad909]

Pretty amazing things are done by ppl like james starting with a pumped up feeling of wanting to accomplish a personal best ...well done

[@melissaandmarc]

Every time I listen to James speak I am inspired yet again. His determination and sheer will is a testament to the endurance of the human body and spirit!

[@dlakhman]

Just wanted to say thank you for the amazing content. Keep it up.

[@olusojibello8318]

Great interview TB. Keep up the good work. Respect from the UK.

[@charlesstevenson7144]

... & another shout out HI from a UK fan

[@FitTraveller21]

Thanks for such a powerful messages shared in this platform🙏🏼

[@HaveaNiceDay]

Amazing! Thank you so much for this video!

[@TomBilyeu]

Glad it resonated!

[@chrisE815]

Hey Tom- If you want a future guest that possesses bulletproof discipline and is legendary in their craft, you should contact Cael Sanderson. He had a perfect NCAA record- 4 time NCAA champion and is an Olympic wrestling gold medalist. He's currently building a dynasty of a wrestling team at Penn State and has showed his ability to dominate in a leadership role. I have yet to see an interviewer pick his brain like you do. Viewers- If you want Tom to pick the brain of a proven champion, hit the thumbs up!

[@luisarvizojr6833]

Bro I almost stopped watching the video after the first couple seconds. Why? Because one can only receive so much good advice in one video 🙏🏼 thank you so much for what you are doing. I feel your passion and I feel your cause, and it feels so genuine.

[@TomBilyeu]

Haha! So glad it resonated!

[@ricksunderland1421]

There have been so many amazing interviews, clear back to Inside Quest. This is among the best. Simple, actionable, you can identify with him. Get moving, break it down into little chunks, be too busy to listen to the whining voice. Thank you to everyone involved!

[@Cacofonixravi]

Tom. Incredible. What a man, to define possibilities and human potential and endurance. There was a surge of uplifting of my mind wanting to do something big. Thank you for introducing him. Great episode.

[@prasanthi2079]

I listen to your podcast q morning as i jog , it's very inspiring ,I loved this iv, and Goggin's , like James ,whatever i do , i do it for my son, l loved the notion , Have a vision , but chunk it up in small pieces so that you don't feel overwhelmed and remember to succeed , even if it is in small things ,as " success breeds success"

[@promisejourney6326]

Wrestling again bringing the best out of people!! Great interview!!

[@ernestoberger7589]

For most people, finishing a triathlon would be a lifetime achievement. For this guy, it was literately just another day. Amazing.

[@DrRuben]

Love the emphasis on breaking through our perceived limits and its power to evolve our own natural capacities, thanks Tim and James!

[@deborahharper8220]

Tom Thank You I really enjoyed him..Not gifted but determined and seriously human.

[@QuietCooking]

Hey Tom, Love your show! Currently listening to your show wish I was able to listen to it via a podcast! Please consider adding that to your media!

[@Belle1]

He did redefined impossible. Such a great interview Tom

[@flip3659]

i like this guys spirit.... very humble

[@labeedoo]

Tom you are my car buddy... thank you for making me detox all doubts. I always assume for some reason it's going to be the same motivational lecture but no I love how each guest has his/her own method. Respect from the way from Saudi Arabia

[@aditiraman9209]

I don't believe this..just a few weeks before I left a comment to get him on the show...I am so thankful @tombileyu, @impacttheory Was amazing.. thanks @jameslawrence

[@Nicholi2]

Thanks for the great interview. I loved the part about passion because I feel the same way his friend does.

[@seonamarion]

Dig Tom's T-shirt: so appropriate for the guest !!!

[@YouTubeUtah]

Great video! I was in back pain from too much driving. Got into hydro massage and running. Run 2 or 3 miles a day now plus weights.

[@MazerFitness]

Watching this on 3x is speed is even more intense than it already is! Thanks for bringing us the insane content you do guys! Much love!

[@lilamnbdh967]

Wow , with all my respect 🙏, this is a incredible inspiring video , thank you for sharing Tom, you’re fantastic !!

[@indierific]

Wow I loved this interview. It was so insightful and he made so many points that really resonated with me. :)

[@samanthabraun217]

Thank you for this. So humble and such a fantastic person. Bless both of you for sharing your gifts with all of us. Much love and mad respect 🙏 #changemakers

[@adao5308]

Tom, I was watching this an the thought just flowed to me..."Tom is really good at interviewing". You are...insanely good(like Steve Jobs would say) at it actually. Oh, and...thank you

[@rameshemv]

Here is one tough guy...who does not intimidate you by his accomplishments..but inspires you. Remember, he said he took a decade to make this happen..this is a so very human way to achieve those godly achievements! Thank you for this interview..

[@pamelabartock4696]

well said!!!

[@rbudl2164]

This video made my head explode. It was totally awesome!

[@sarahgreen6359]

I watched these videos everyday for a long time. While I was in flight school (helicopters) Working every odd job on the planet to pay for it myself, even being an uber driver and car salesman. At times I had absolutely nothing, but I saw these videos of people overcoming insurmountable obstacles so I refused to quit. Took me 3 times as long….but I made it through flight training, and paid for it myself. Thank you Tom

[@maximilian_de_luxe]

Thank you! Great episode.

[@ARMPitchingDevelopment]

I love this interview. What a great and inspiring story. Mental toughness = Mental Success

[@ghill3337]

Love the guest, love the series, love the host, love the T Shirt. More people should be watching this!

[@zaidali6765]

I read about him a couple of days ago and was thinking about him this morning. And here we are!

[@rkvidekar]

Very inspiring video! Thank you!

[@ripvanwho]

Great introduction! So much respect for doing all of this with sleep deprivation, this is an amazing man.

[@EricVonKimble]

Blew my mind with this one Tom, thanks!

[@joethelearner7408]

I love this video. Thank you.

[@rohitmote9194]

Truly inspiring and not only that but proved that a Human has the potential to accomplish whatever he sets his mind to. #NoExcuses

[@pamelabartock4696]

so true!!!

[@linchizen]

Tank you really thank you for this. To you both. Push to the pain and do it now. Get moving. Legendary minutes for me that I will not forget. Thank you.

[@libidoswitch]

Incredible human being, so inspirational.