“Micro wins versus the macro.” - Sanjay Raja
In the classic productivity debate of what’s better, to focus on the day-to-day goals or larger, long-term goals, there are benefits and detractions. But for Sanjay, a recent revelation has changed the course of his productivity and positivity journey.
It helps that Sanjay Raja has done it all. From IT to the medical field to now an entrepreneur, Sanjay has experienced so much that he’s been able to gain a level of self-awareness to know what drives him… and what doesn’t. He’s an actor, including a recurring role in Netflix’s House of Cards. Sanjay speaks multiple languages, is an accomplished martial artist with multiple black belts, competed as an MMA fighter, is a published author, and is a national speaker.
I got to know Sanjay through his company, Team No Excuses Fitness, where he’s been coaching my wife and me for about a year now, in a much more fundamental, life-long method that I really think will be beneficial for us in the long term. It’s not just the “mirror muscles,” but how we move and live in a healthy habitual way.
“At a certain point, I was doing too much. Doing more does not mean being productive. Being productive means taking the 1, 2, 3 things I’m really passionate about and giving it my all.”
- Sanjay Raja
Now that’s something we can all resonate with, right? How often do we get caught up in clearing out our inbox because it’s easy? A shot of endorphins that falsely gives a sense of achievement. Sometimes we just need to put aside the obvious to-do list and make time to know what matters.
It’s the long game that matters. Although I still hit the gym with weights once in a while, to make sure I’m keeping a healthy amount of muscle mass, it’s not so much about how good the reflection is but rather, if my body is moving in an optimum way such that it’ll last deep into my life. That same principle should apply to your goals.
For Sanjay, that means waking up consistently at 530 AM and exercising, sometimes to the tune of hundreds of burpees. That’s not a typo. The key to his regiment is consuming a monstrous breakfast with toast and black coffee. Once his body is primed, he then turns to his mental game by crafting a frame of mind that’s on point for that day’s challenge, which includes affirmations ad what he aims to manifest.
“That positive energy keeps me focused rather than distracted.” - Sanjay Raja
It’s not about perfection, it’s about progress. And how do you get progress? Consistency.
No one should be arguing for the micro at the expense of the macro. Instead, it’s the micro that enables that macro, long-term future. And part of that success equation is a frame of mind that remains positive throughout, such that you can enjoy the moment and also the future.
“You will have the power to select your thoughts like you select your clothes.”
- Eat Pray Love, starring Julia Roberts
That’s the mantra Sanjay has taken to heart. If you want to have a productive day, it starts with selecting the right thoughts.
CLOSING STATEMENTS
Def check out the podcast for a deeper listen. Then check out Team No Excuses Fitness, where Sanjay also offers an entire catalog of meal planning.
Interview with Coach, Entrepreneur, and Actor Sanjay Raja