#866 - Jesse James West - How To Stay Disciplined When Times Get Tough
The Modern Wisdom podcast explores the formative experiences and discipline that enabled Jesse James West to pursue his passions in fitness and content creation. Jesse reflects on how his upbringing, rooted in his father's exceptional work ethic and his mother's unwavering support, instilled resilience and self-belief. He describes courageously quitting his lacrosse scholarship to follow his true calling and pushing his mental and physical limits through extreme challenges, from rapid marathon training to grueling workouts with the Liver King.
The episode delves into Jesse's emotional journey, shedding light on the psychological toll of competitive bodybuilding and the spiritual awakening he found through Wim Hof's breathwork method. Throughout his pursuits, he emphasizes the importance of positivity, self-advocacy, and adapting to challenges – including potential impacts on his fitness influencer role as guidelines evolve.
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Influence of Family and Upbringing
Jesse's dad instilled an incredible work ethic from a young age. Barbaro describes Jesse's father working multiple jobs while never complaining, and pushing Jesse to practice lacrosse relentlessly. Meanwhile, Jesse's mom provided emotional support and belief in him, fostering his resilience and self-confidence.
Navigating Conflicting Passions
Despite success in lacrosse, Jesse felt increasingly drawn to fitness and content creation. Though challenging, he opted to quit his lacrosse scholarship, enabling him to pursue his true passions. Chris Williamson highlights the courage needed to advocate for one's desires.
Extreme Physical Challenges
Jesse pushed his mental and physical limits through extreme challenges. He rapidly trained to run a full marathon in 30 days, accumulating over 3 million YouTube views documenting the experience, though suffering potential leg injuries. Jesse also endured grueling "Barbarian" challenges with the Liver King, persevering through heat stroke with sheer willpower.
Psychological and Emotional Impacts
Per Jesse, competitive bodybuilding took an emotional toll, leaving him feeling lethargic and fixated negatively on his body in final prep weeks. Conversely, the Wim Hof breathwork method provided an incredible spiritual awakening. Jesse stresses maintaining positivity and self-belief when pursuing ambitious goals.
Being a Fitness Influencer
Jesse faced ridicule from peers over his fitness aspirations but used it as motivation. YouTube's potential policy changes around fitness content for teenagers concern him. Though wielding influence over youth, Jesse is willing to adapt if needed.
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Counterarguments
- While Jesse's dad's work ethic is commendable, it's important to recognize that relentless practice in sports from a young age can sometimes lead to burnout or a lack of balance in a child's life.
- The decision to quit a lacrosse scholarship to pursue fitness and content creation might not be the best path for everyone; some may benefit more from the structure and opportunities provided by formal education and athletics.
- Chris Williamson's emphasis on the courage to advocate for one's desires doesn't acknowledge that sometimes practical considerations or responsibilities may necessitate compromising or delaying one's passions.
- Training for a full marathon in 30 days and participating in extreme "Barbarian" challenges could be seen as reckless and potentially harmful to one's health, rather than purely inspirational or motivational.
- The psychological and emotional impacts of competitive bodybuilding might suggest that the sport can foster unhealthy attitudes towards body image and self-worth, which could be a cautionary tale rather than a purely negative aspect of Jesse's journey.
- While the Wim Hof breathwork method provided Jesse with a spiritual awakening, it's important to note that such practices may not have the same effect on everyone and should be approached with caution and skepticism by those without proper guidance.
- Maintaining positivity and self-belief is important, but it's also crucial to acknowledge and address negative emotions and mental health challenges rather than simply focusing on positivity.
- Using ridicule as motivation can be empowering, but it can also reinforce the idea that external validation is necessary for success, which may not be a healthy long-term strategy.
- Concerns about YouTube policy changes are valid, but it's also important to consider the platform's responsibility to protect younger audiences from potentially harmful content.
- Willingness to adapt as a fitness influencer is positive, but it's also important to critically evaluate the impact of one's influence on young followers and promote a balanced and realistic approach to fitness and health.
Actionables
- You can foster resilience by journaling your emotional support experiences, noting how they've helped you overcome challenges, and identifying who in your life provides that support, similar to how Jesse's mom supported him.
- Start by writing down moments when you felt supported and how it affected your ability to face difficulties. Reflect on these entries when facing new challenges to remind yourself of the support system you have and the resilience you've built.
- Develop a habit of setting and documenting small, unconventional personal challenges to build self-belief and adaptability, inspired by Jesse's marathon and "Barbarian" challenges.
- Choose a challenge that pushes you slightly out of your comfort zone, such as a 30-day drawing challenge if you're not an artist, or cooking a new recipe every week if you're not a chef. Document your progress and reflect on the growth and learning that occurs, which can enhance your confidence in tackling larger goals.
- Use constructive criticism as a catalyst for motivation by creating a "Motivation Mosaic," a visual collage of any negative feedback you receive, paired with your achievements and positive affirmations.
- Whenever you receive doubt or ridicule, add it to a board alongside a list of your accomplishments and positive self-talk phrases. This visual representation can serve as a reminder of your journey and the importance of using criticism as fuel to propel you forward, much like Jesse used ridicule as motivation.
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Influence of family and upbringing on personal development
Jesse's reflections on his upbringing reveal the powerful influence that his family, particularly his father's relentless work ethic and his mother's unwavering support, had on his personal development and resilience.
Jesse's father instilled a relentless work ethic and aversion to excuses from a young age
Jesse speaks with respect and gratitude for his father's hardworking nature, describing how his dad juggled multiple jobs, from cutting wood to managing rental properties, along with a nine-to-five job. His father never complained, always got the work done, and would have Jesse practice lacrosse in any weather condition. Jesse learned that if something needs to be done, one should do it immediately. He credits the work ethic instilled by his father for setting him up to handle and push himself in all aspects of his life.
Jesse's father's tough love approach to pushing him in lacrosse created tension but also forged his resilience
The push from Jesse's dad for him to excel in lacrosse was incessant, bordering on the level of obsession, similar to the strictness practiced by the Liver King with his own sons. As he grew and developed other interests, the pressure from his father led to a decreasing love for the sport and caused their relationship to struggle. Despite this, the challenges they went through together led Jesse to appreciate the resilience forged during those times. Jesse indicates his father's actions were from a place of love and desire for his success; however, he concedes their relationship suffered due to their different visions, which included Jesse’s diminishing passion for lacrosse.
Jesse's mother provided an emotional support system and belief in his abilities that balanced his father's high expectations
While ...
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Counterarguments
- While a relentless work ethic can be beneficial, it might also lead to burnout or an unhealthy work-life balance, suggesting that moderation and self-care are equally important for long-term success.
- Tough love and high expectations can sometimes result in adverse psychological effects, such as anxiety or low self-esteem, if not balanced with positive reinforcement and understanding.
- The emotional ...
Actionables
- You can foster a strong work ethic by setting daily non-negotiable tasks that align with your long-term goals. Start by identifying one or two key tasks that contribute to your personal or professional development and commit to completing them every day without excuses. For example, if you aim to improve your fitness, make a pact to run a mile each day, rain or shine.
- Build resilience by voluntarily stepping out of your comfort zone on a regular basis. Choose an activity that challenges you, such as public speaking, learning a new language, or taking on a complex project at work. Track your progress and reflect on the growth you experience, focusing on how the struggle strengthens your resolve and ability to handle stress.
- Create a balanced support system by identifying a men ...
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Navigating conflicting passions and finding one's true calling
Jesse James West shares his journey of navigating between conflicting passions and ultimately finding his true calling, showcasing an empowering story of self-discovery and personal growth.
Jesse's early passion for lacrosse clashed with his growing interest in fitness and content creation
At a young age, Jesse was on a path laid out before him, heavily directed by the expectations of those in the lacrosse sphere. With a scholarship to Lehigh University secured as a teenager, his future in lacrosse seemed set. Jesse began negotiating with college coaches while still grappling with the realities of adolescence, propelled by both his own abilities and his father's guidance. However, as Jesse matured, he felt his soul was increasingly drawn to other passions, particularly fitness and content creation. While lacrosse had become a significant part of his identity, these emerging interests offered him something lacrosse alone could not fulfill. Jesse was bound by a commitment that began before he could fully explore his growing love for bodybuilding and YouTube.
Despite his success and scholarship opportunities in lacrosse, Jesse felt an increasing pull towards the fitness and YouTube worlds, which better aligned with his true interests and desires
The tension between Jesse's dedication to lacrosse and his love for fitness and content creation grew as he entered college. His early commitment to the sport began to feel like a cage, and despite his father's push that led to success and scholarships in lacrosse, Jesse's aspirations outside of the sport continued to expand. The internal conflict signaled a decision point where he had to weigh his long-standing pursuit against the call of his newfound passions.
Deciding to leave his lacrosse scholarship was a pivotal moment of self-discovery and empowerment
Making the decision to leave his lacrosse program and scholarship behind was an arduous process for Jesse. It was not just about quitting a sport but also confronting his family's expectations, navigating administrative hurdles, and stepping into the unknown. Jesse experienced an emotional turmoil, describing it as the "worst feeling ever," but also felt a deep sense of empowerment and spiritual awakening upon making this decision. This turning point showed that autonomy in choosing a life path was a moment of monumental self-discovery for Jesse.
Quitting the lacrosse program was an incredibly difficult decision, but it allowed Jesse to pursue his authentic passions and take control of his own life path
The hard conversations with his mother and sister ahead of quitting lacrosse, along with the strategy of communicating the decision to his father, highlighted the significance and difficulty of the choice. Jesse's story underscores the essence of taking control of your destiny by pursuing what feels genuinely purposeful, rather than what is expected.
Developing the courage to advocate for himself and make tough decisions was a critical part of Jesse's personal growth
Jesse's journ ...
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Navigating conflicting passions and finding one's true calling
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Counterarguments
- While Jesse's story is inspiring, not everyone may have the financial or social support to leave a scholarship and pursue their passions, which could present a more complex decision-making process for some individuals.
- The narrative emphasizes personal passion and fulfillment, but it may overlook the practical considerations and potential risks associated with leaving a structured path like a sports scholarship.
- The story could potentially underplay the value of commitment and perseverance in sports or other long-term endeavors, which are also important life skills.
- Advocating for oneself and making tough decisions are important, but the text does not address the importance of seeking advice and mentorship, which can be equally critical in personal development.
- The emphasis on self-discovery and empowerment might inadvertently downplay the role of community, relationships, and collaboration in achieving personal growth and success.
- The id ...
Actionables
- Create a passion and skills inventory to identify your true interests and talents. Start by writing down all the activities and subjects that excite you, then rate your skill level in each. This will help you visualize where your passions and talents intersect, potentially revealing a path you're more drawn to, similar to how Jesse discovered his inclination towards fitness and content creation.
- Set up a 'decision trial period' where you test-drive a significant life choice. For instance, if you're considering leaving a job or changing careers, take a week to live as if you've already made the decision. During this time, note how you feel, what changes in your daily routine, and whether your stress levels increase or decrease. This can mimic the self-discovery process Jesse experienced when he left lacrosse.
- ...
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Pushing physical and mental limits through extreme challenges
Jesse James West's experiences push both physical and mental boundaries, which test and expand his capabilities through extreme challenges, earning respect for hybrid athletes and showcasing a relentless mindset.
Jesse's experience of running a full marathon in 30 days showcased his ability to push his body to the brink
Jesse James West, a relative newcomer to running, documented excruciating yet impactful experiences of rapidly increasing his endurance to complete a full marathon in just 30 days. By mile 15, he felt his legs refusing to cooperate, entering the dreaded "wall" that persisted till mile 24. Despite the physical struggle, his rapid preparation, as advised by someone named Nick Bear, led him through. At mile 24, he found camaraderie with fellow runners Matt and a third companion, who helped maintain the pace to the finish line.
But Jesse paid a physical price for his rapid buildup to marathon running. A limping Jesse, potentially suffering from a tear and unable to perform a hamstring curl due to tendon issues, reflected on the crunching sounds from his leg, concluding that running the marathon may have been a brash decision. Despite this, the storytelling in his video documenting the marathon resonated with many, racking up over three million views.
Participating in the "Barbarian" challenge with the Liver King demonstrated Jesse's exceptional mental and physical fortitude
The "Barbarian" challenge Jesse undertook with Liver King was an extreme and painful ordeal that involved carrying heavy weights through extremely hot Texas heat and sand. Jesse completed this arduous task twice, each a testament to his immense determination; the first through flat gravel, the second, named the "Barbarian crucible," through a significantly more strenuous sand and dirt course. Jesse's reflection on his father's strictness parallels the strict regimen he endured during the challenge, underlining the necessity of strict diet and physical demands for such extreme tests of human capacity.
Jesse's exceptional physical and mental endurance shined as he ex ...
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Counterarguments
- While Jesse's ability to push his body to the brink is commendable, rapid preparation for a marathon can be dangerous and is generally not recommended by health professionals due to the risk of injury.
- Camaraderie with fellow runners is a positive aspect of marathons, but it should not overshadow the importance of proper training and preparation for such an endurance event.
- Paying a physical price for a rapid buildup to marathon running might suggest a lack of responsible training practices, which could set a poor example for his audience who may underestimate the risks involved.
- Exceptional mental and physical fortitude is admirable, but participating in extreme challenges like the "Barbarian" could be seen as glorifying potentially unsafe practices without adequate emphasis on the risks and necessary precautions.
- Carrying heavy weights through extreme conditions may demonstrate strength, but it also raises concerns about the long-term health implications and the potential glorification of extreme physical exertion without proper context.
- While Jesse's endurance is exceptional, it's important to consider that not everyone has the same physical capabilities, and attempting to replicate such feats without proper guidance could lead to harm.
- An innate dr ...
Actionables
- You can challenge your own limits by setting a progressive series of physical goals, starting with a simple daily walk and gradually increasing the distance each week. Begin with a comfortable distance that doesn't strain your body, and add a little more each time, tracking your progress to see how your endurance improves over time.
- Create a support network by joining a local fitness or challenge-oriented group to find camaraderie similar to what marathon runners experience. Look for groups on social media or community boards that align with your interests, whether it's running, hiking, or another physical activity, and commit to regular meet-ups to build relationships and encourage each other.
- De ...
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The psychological and emotional aspects of pursuing ambitious goals
Jesse James West shares his personal journey through the psychological and emotional challenges of pursuing ambitious goals. His experience in bodybuilding and exploring the Wim Hof method reveals the intense ups and downs of striving for excellence.
Preparing for and competing in a bodybuilding show took a major psychological and emotional toll on Jesse
West describes the emotional toll of preparing for a bodybuilding show, particularly highlighting the last few weeks leading up to competition as emotionally draining. He felt devoid of emotion, referring to himself as a "corpse," signifying an emotionally depleted state. The rigorous dieting and quest for extreme leanness left him unable to feel happiness or other emotions, fixated negatively on his body image, feeling lethargic, hypoglycemic, and devoid of energy. The challenge of maintaining conditioning towards the show’s end date was strenuous, and despite the satisfaction of competing on stage, the impact on his hormones and emotional state left him with an aversion to competing again.
Jesse's experience with the Wim Hof method provided a profound emotional and spiritual awakening
After speaking on the emotionally taxing demands of bodybuilding, Jesse shares his transformative experience with the Wim Hof method. He talks about the life-changing breathwork routine instructed by Wim Hof, during which he held his breath for increasingly long intervals, culminating in a profound sense of euphoria, love, and gratitude. Following a three-minute breath hold, he felt pure happiness and contentment, an unusual and profound happiness as if nothing else mattered. For Jesse, this experience signalled a moment of rebirth and represented the most significant emotional awakening of his life, changing his perspective forever.
Maintaining ...
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Counterarguments
- While Jesse's experience with bodybuilding was emotionally taxing, it's important to note that individual responses to such stress can vary greatly, and others may not experience the same level of emotional toll.
- The negative fixation on body image and the associated emotional drain described by Jesse could be seen as a reflection of the extreme nature of bodybuilding culture, which may not be inherent to the pursuit of ambitious goals in general.
- The profound emotional and spiritual awakening Jesse experienced through the Wim Hof method might not be universal; different individuals may have varied responses to the same breathwork practices.
- The idea that maintaining a positive mindset and self-belief is crucial in the face of daunting challenges could be nuanced by acknowledging that sometimes external support and professional guidance are also essential.
- Reframing fears and difficulties as opportunities is a valuable perspective, but it's also important to recognize that some challenges may require more than a change in mindset and could be indicative of the need for a change i ...
Actionables
- You can start a reflective journaling practice to process the emotional impact of intense endeavors, like bodybuilding or other demanding activities. Write down your feelings, energy levels, and thoughts each day to monitor your emotional health. This can help you identify patterns and triggers that lead to emotional strain, allowing you to make proactive changes to your routine or mindset.
- Experiment with different breathing techniques to find one that brings you a sense of calm and euphoria. While not replicating the Wim Hof method, you might try box breathing or alternate nostril breathing. Dedicate a few minutes each day to practice and note any changes in your emotional state in your journal.
- Create a personal mantra or symbol that represents your co ...
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The Realities of Being a Fitness Influencer and Content Creator
Jesse James West offers insight into the personal challenges and the potential impacts of policy changes surrounding his career as a fitness influencer and content creator.
Jesse has had to navigate the judgment and negativity from his peers towards his early fitness and YouTube aspirations
Chris Williamson recalls Jesse's experiences in high school, facing ridicule from classmates over his fitness-focused social media presence. Jesse himself acknowledges this lack of support, recalling chants of "Jesse James Fitness" at a pep rally, which while embarrassing at the time, helped shape who he is today. He reflects on instances of mocking greetings and a Halloween parody, which, although hurtful, drove him to succeed even further.
The potential changes to YouTube's content moderation policies around fitness and body image raise concerns for Jesse
Williamson brings up YouTube's proposed changes to limit recommendations of health and fitness videos to teenagers. The intent of the policy is to protect young viewers from content potentially promoting negative self-beliefs. Jesse, however, disagrees with the plan, labeling it as "very stupid" and suggesting that teenagers would find ways around any restrictions. He voices concerns about the impact this could have on the fitness community and his content, acknowledging the potential need to pivot to ...
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Counterarguments
- While Jesse faced negativity in high school, it's possible that some of the judgment could have been constructive criticism that was misinterpreted.
- The ridicule and lack of support may have been a motivating factor for Jesse, but it's also important to consider that not everyone may respond to such challenges with resilience and success.
- YouTube's proposed changes to limit recommendations of health and fitness videos are intended to protect young viewers, and there may be evidence to support that such measures could be beneficial in preventing the development of negative self-beliefs.
- Jesse believes teenagers will circumvent restrictions, but it's possible that even with workarounds, the policy changes could still reduce the exposure of potentially harmful content to a significant number of young users.
- Concerns about the impact of YouTube's policy changes on the fitness community may be valid, but the platform's responsibility to safeguard its users, especially minors, could be seen as a higher priority.
- The need to pivot to other platforms or adapt content strategy is a common challenge faced by many content creators in various niches, not just fitness influencers, and is part of the evolving nature of digital content creation.
- While Jesse recognizes his influence on young viewers, it's worth considering ...
Actionables
- You can create a support network by connecting with like-minded individuals on social media who share your interests in health and fitness. Start by joining Facebook groups or Reddit communities where you can share your journey, get feedback, and find encouragement away from any negativity you might encounter elsewhere.
- Diversify your sources of information and inspiration by following multiple platforms and content creators. This way, if one platform changes its policies or algorithm, you won't be solely dependent on it for your fitness content. Explore Instagram, TikTok, and fitness blogs to broaden your perspective and ensure you have access to a variety of health and fitness advice.
- Reflect on the content you consume and create by keeping a journal where you note h ...
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1-Page Summary- Influence of family and upbringing on personal development
- Navigating conflicting passions and finding one's true calling
- Pushing physical and mental limits through extreme challenges
- The psychological and emotional aspects of pursuing ambitious goals
- The Realities of Being a Fitness Influencer and Content Creator
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