494: This is What It Takes to Be Undeniable. With Cameron Hanes
In this episode of the Jocko Podcast, Cameron Hanes discusses his transformation from small-town resident to accomplished bowhunter. Hanes and host Jocko Willink explore how finding one's true passion can drive success, using Hanes' dedication to bowhunting as a case study. The conversation examines how Hanes developed his skills through daily practice and a structured training regimen.
The discussion delves into the relationship between discipline and achievement, highlighting how consistent hard work and attention to technique contribute to elite performance. Hanes shares his experiences overcoming setbacks, including personal loss, and explains his perspective on viewing challenges as opportunities for growth. The episode covers themes from Hanes' book "Undeniable," including the value of supportive relationships and the importance of embracing one's talents.
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1-Page Summary
Hanes' Journey and Elite Performer Mindset
Cameron Hanes transformed from a small-town resident to an exceptional bowhunter through unwavering dedication. Rather than settling for a conventional life, Hanes chose a path of persistent hard work in bowhunting, where his determination to go the extra mile set him apart from competitors. His wife noticed early on his obsession with hunting, and his competitive nature drove him to seek recognition as the best in his field.
Pursuing True Purpose and Passion in Life
Hanes and Jocko reflect on how finding one's true passion can lead to lasting success. Derek Wolf supports this idea, noting that pursuing what you love typically yields increasingly rewarding outcomes. Hanes discovered this through bowhunting, which he describes as "hard, tough, rewarding," and which eventually became his life's purpose. In his book "Undeniable," Hanes emphasizes the importance of embracing one's talents and having supportive relationships that encourage ambitious goals.
Discipline, Hard Work, and Perseverance in Success
Hanes attributes his success to rigorous daily practice, including shooting around 200 arrows daily and setting ambitious annual goals. His approach combines physical training, such as mountain running and weight carrying, with meticulous attention to technique. Despite facing significant challenges, including the loss of his friend Roy in a tragic accident, Hanes maintains his dedication to improvement. He views setbacks and mistakes as opportunities for growth, demonstrating how perseverance through adversity is crucial for achieving elite performance in any field.
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Actionables
- You can identify your passion by keeping a curiosity journal where you note down activities that deeply engage you for a week. This journal should include times when you feel most alive and absorbed, whether it's while cooking, writing, gardening, or even problem-solving. Review the journal to find patterns that might point to a passion you haven't yet pursued.
- Establish a daily practice routine for a skill you wish to improve, starting with just 15 minutes a day. For instance, if you're interested in photography, dedicate this time to taking photos, learning about composition, or editing. Gradually increase the time as the habit solidifies, tracking your progress and setting small, achievable goals to maintain motivation.
- Turn setbacks into learning opportunities by creating a 'growth ledger' where you record mistakes and the lessons learned from them. Whenever you face a challenge, write down what went wrong, possible reasons, and at least one thing you can do differently next time. This practice encourages a growth mindset and helps you to embrace challenges as part of the learning process.
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Hanes' Journey and Elite Performer Mindset
Cameron Hanes's story showcases the quintessential transformation from an ordinary existence to achieving extraordinary success through a relentless commitment to improvement.
Cameron Hanes: Renowned Bowhunter Committed to Improvement
Cameron Hanes, a regular guy from a small logging town, found in bowhunting not just a sport but a calling that demanded and reflected his dedication to excellence.
Hanes' Working-Class Upbringing Led Him To Bowhunting, Where He Dedicated Himself To Excellence
Growing up without much hardship, Hanes could have led a conventional life characterized by "beers, bars, and a bleak outlook." Instead, he traded that path for one of persistent hard work in bowhunting. Hanes recounts considering a life that could have been filled with mundane weekends, an unfulfilling job, a manufactured home, and a truck. Bowhunting, however, offered a canvas for hard work to translate directly into success.
Hanes's Unwavering Determination and "Never-Quit" Mentality
Aligned with Jocko Willink’s message of overcoming adversity, Hanes exemplifies the "never-quit" mentality, necessary to break the cycle and beat the odds. This mindset drove Hanes to succeed in the mountains, a place where the common advantages of his competitors became irrelevant, and his determination to go the extra mile set him apart.
Hanes' commitment was apparent early in his relationship, as his wife became quickly aware of his obsession with hunting. His competitive nature and the frustration he felt when others received more recognition than him fueled his desire to be viewed as the best in the field, despite feeling overlooked. His high expectations for his children further demonstrate his dedication to excellence, not just for himself but for his family.
Hanes' identity as a bowhunter is tied to his adherence to the traditions and ethics of the sport. His strong determination is evident in his refusal to deviate from this dedication, even when faced with frustration or less-than-ideal circumstances.
Hanes' Success St ...
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Hanes' Journey and Elite Performer Mindset
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Counterarguments
- While Hanes' "never-quit" mentality is admirable, it's important to recognize that sometimes strategic retreats or pivots can be more beneficial than relentless pursuit, especially when circumstances change or goals evolve.
- The narrative emphasizes individual determination and hard work, but it may underplay the role of community, mentorship, and support systems in achieving success.
- Embracing failure as a step towards achievement is a positive mindset, but it's also crucial to acknowledge that not all failures lead to success and that some failures can have significant negative consequences.
- The focus on Hanes' competitive nature and desire to be the best could be seen as promoting an unhealthy comparison with others, rather than encouraging personal growth and self-improvement for its own sake.
- The story presents Hanes' high expectations for his family as a reflection of his dedication to excellence, but it's important to consider that imposing one's own standards on others can sometimes lead to undue pressure and conflict.
- The less ...
Actionables
- You can start a "micro-challenge" routine where each week you tackle a small, new challenge that pushes you out of your comfort zone. For instance, if you're not a runner, commit to a week of daily jogs, or if public speaking terrifies you, join a local Toastmasters meeting. This practice helps build the "never-quit" mentality by regularly facing and overcoming small adversities.
- Create a "failure resume" to document and reflect on your setbacks and what you learned from each. Unlike a traditional resume that highlights successes, this document will include times you didn't meet your goals and how those experiences contributed to your growth. This could be as simple as noting a project that didn't pan out and the skills or insights you gained from the process.
- Develop a personal excellence plan that sets high but achievable stan ...
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Pursuing True Purpose and Passion in Life
Cameron Hanes and other speakers delve into the importance of following one’s true passion and the role it plays in finding success and fulfillment in life.
Hanes Believes Pursuing True Passion Leads To Lasting Success and Fulfillment
Hanes recounts the moment he determined to be a better father—a pivotal time that drove home the motivation and dedication originating from his passion. He and Jocko reflect on the idea that finding a pursuit you love, for Hanes, bowhunting, can guide you to your goals and lasting success. The concept is bolstered by Derek Wolf, who concurs that chasing something you love typically leads to increasingly rewarding outcomes.
Importance of Passion For Motivation and Dedication
Cameron Hanes speaks about passion as the main drive for excellence. His bowhunting journey is a prime example of how passion can lead to significant achievements and deep satisfaction in life. Hanes emphasizes that outliers are usually those who are deeply obsessed with their pursuits, which aligns with the confidence also found in sports—top-performing athletes often attribute their success to the high self-belief during winning streaks. This demonstrates how passion stimulates individuals to put in the work required to become exceptional in any field.
Hanes' Bowhunting Journey Shows how Lifelong Passion Leads to Purpose and Impact
Hanes' life changed drastically when he discovered bowhunting—an endeavor he describes as "hard, tough, rewarding"—which eventually became his purpose and calling. He likens his discovery to others who find their callings in diverse areas like science or running. His commitment to bowhunting also honors the legacy of his late friend Roy, illustrating how passion can shape one's life and create lasting impact.
Hanes Urges Pursuing Dreams and Not Settling For a Life Misaligned With One's Calling
Hanes’ new book, "Undeniable," suggests the value of embracing one's talents and striving for excellence. He stresses the importance of support from loved ones, including cheerleaders and a spouse who encourages your ambitions. Inspired by a conversation with Joe Rogan, Hanes believes in striving to be so skilled and successful in your pursuit that your achievements are beyond question.
Embrace Talents to Become "Undeniable"
Echo Charles wonders whether Hanes' discipline came from his passion for bowhunting or was inherently within him. Hanes reveals that bowhunting provided a focus he had lacked, suggesting it powered his discipline and mission in life. ...
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Pursuing True Purpose and Passion in Life
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Counterarguments
- Passion alone may not always lead to success; practical considerations such as market demand, economic factors, and personal circumstances also play significant roles.
- Not everyone may be able to identify a singular passion that aligns with a viable career path, and for some, a job may simply be a means to an end.
- The concept of "following your passion" is often a privilege that not everyone can afford, as some individuals may have to prioritize financial stability over personal fulfillment.
- Passion can sometimes lead to burnout if not balanced with other aspects of life, such as rest, relationships, and varied interests.
- The narrative of becoming "undeniable" in a field can create unrealistic expectations and pressure, as not everyone will reach the pinnacle of their profession regardless of passion or effort.
- The idea that outliers are usually deeply obsessed with their pursuits may overlook the role of luck, timing, and other external factors in achieving success.
- Encouraging people to not settle for a life misaligned with their calling might lead to constant dissatisfaction, as it's normal for interests and passions to evolve over time. ...
Actionables
- Start a passion journal to track your daily activities and identify patterns that excite you. Use this journal to jot down tasks or hobbies that you find yourself looking forward to or losing track of time while doing. Over a month, review your entries to pinpoint which activities consistently ignite your enthusiasm, and consider how you can incorporate more of these into your routine or possibly develop them into a larger pursuit.
- Create a "Talent Exchange" board in your community or online to connect with others who have different skills and passions. Offer to teach someone a skill you're passionate about in exchange for learning something new from them. This exchange not only helps you embrace and nurture your talents but also exposes you to potential new passions through direct experience.
- Develop a "Passion Project Plan" by choosing an interest you're passionate about and setting a specific, me ...
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Discipline, Hard Work, and Perseverance in Success
Cameron Hanes credits his success as a bowhunter to hard work, discipline, and daily effort, embodying the essential components of achieving excellence in any field. Hosts like Jocko Willink and guests such as Natalie Eva Marie join the conversation, shedding light on the importance of a disciplined approach to their respective crafts to reach the pinnacle of success.
Hanes Credits Success to Discipline and Practice
Hanes talks about his commitment to perfecting the discipline of bow hunting, an endeavor he pursues every day of the year. With his eyes set on mastery, Hanes maintains that success is only possible through dedication and perseverance. Unlike other pursuits where exceptional talent might dominate, Hanes believes that bow hunting is a craft where efforts like running thousands of miles, performing thousands of pull-ups, and shooting thousands of arrows can culminate in an edge that leads to success. He embodies this principle by adhering to a rigorous daily practice, regardless of weather or external conditions. Hanes also conveys a cautious approach to change, sticking to techniques that serve him well and embodying a disciplined mindset that resists the allure of quick fixes.
Success Is Earned Through Dedication and Perseverance
Success, as Hanes exemplifies, is not merely a product of talent but is earned through relentless effort. His meticulously disciplined daily practice of shooting around 200 arrows and setting annual goals, such as firing 15,000 arrows a year, is a testament to his commitment. He also keeps up intense physical training, such as running up mountains and carrying heavy weights, further solidifying his belief in hard work paying dividends.
Hanes' Bowhunting Approach Exemplifies the Power of Consistent, Focused Effort In Mastery
The significance of consistent practice in Hanes' philosophy cannot be overstated. From his shooting technique to his nuanced comprehension of hunting mechanics gained from childhood, Hanes' approach to bow hunting is underpinned by the belief that consistent, focused effort is the cornerstone of mastery. Through repetition and the cultivation of subconscious skills, Hanes ensures he can manage emotions during high-pressure moments, which is a defining factor in the make-it-or-break-it world of bow hunting.
Hanes: Perseverance Through Adversity Is Key to Success
In discussing the challenges of bow hunting and the broader implications of discipline in life, Hanes underscores the necessity of persevering through adversity.
Encouraging a Mindset of Continuous Improvement
A hallmark of Hanes' philosophy is the drive for continuous improvement. Reflecting on his j ...
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Discipline, Hard Work, and Perseverance in Success
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Clarifications
- Bow hunting techniques and practices involve a range of skills such as shooting accuracy, stealth, and understanding animal behavior. Hunters often train rigorously to improve their shooting abilities, which includes consistent practice to enhance muscle memory and precision. Techniques like tree stand hunting, ground blind hunting, and stalking are commonly used in bow hunting to get close to game animals. Additionally, ethical hunting practices, such as shot placement for a quick and humane kill, are crucial aspects of bow hunting.
- Cameron Hanes incorporates specific physical training routines like running up mountains and carrying heavy weights to build endurance, strength, and mental toughness essential for bow hunting. These activities help improve cardiovascular fitness, leg strength, and overall resilience in challenging terrains. Running up mountains enhances cardiovascular endurance and simulates the physical demands of hunting in rugged landscapes. Carrying heavy weights strengthens muscles used during hunting expeditions and prepares the body for carrying gear and game over long distances.
- Ultra-marathons are foot races longer than the traditional marathon distance of 26.2 miles, typically ranging from 50 kilometers to over 100 miles. Participants in ultra-marathons face challenges like extreme fatigue, dehydration, blisters, muscle cramps, and mental exhaustion due to the prolonged physical exertion. These races often take place on challenging terrains such as mountains, deserts, or trails, adding further difficulty. Endurance, mental fortitude, strategic pacing, and proper nutrition and hydration are crucial for successfully completing an ultra-marathon.
- Cameron Hanes shoots around 200 arrows daily as part of his rigorous bowhunting practice. This consistent practice helps him refine his shooting technique and build muscle memory. Shooting a high volume of arrows daily is crucial for developing precision, consistency, and mental focus in bowhunting. The repetition of shooting arrows daily allows Hanes to hone his skills and maintain peak performance in high-pressure hunting situations.
- Understanding hunting mechanics involves a deep grasp of how various factors like animal behavior, terrain, weather conditions, and equipment performance interact during a hunt. It includes knowledge of tracking, stalking, shot placement, and ethical hunting practices to ensure a successful and humane hunt. Hunters need to comprehend the anatomy of their prey, the effectiveness of different hunting techniques, and how to adapt to changing situations in the wild. Mastery of hunting mech ...
Actionables
- You can track your daily habits to foster discipline by using a habit-tracking app or a simple calendar where you mark each day you've completed your targeted activity. For example, if you're aiming to improve your fitness, mark each day you exercise, aiming for a longer streak each time, which visually reinforces your commitment and discipline.
- Start a "Challenge Accepted" journal where you document a new skill or project you're working on, noting down the obstacles you face and how you overcome them. This could be learning a new language, where you write about the difficulties in pronunciation or grammar and the strategies you use to tackle them, thus building resilience and embracing mistakes as part of the learning process.
- Create a "5-Minute Perseverance Pact" where you ...
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