In Mental Toughness/Critical Thinking training we say that anytime we deliberately do things that are NOT in are own best interests, we are acting stupid. I put this saying on the back cover of my new book (Stop Being Stupid) and in the past 30 days since it’s release over a million people have seen it on TV, magazines or Newspapers. The push-back I’m getting from some people is “is calling people stupid really world class thinking?” First of all, I’m not calling anyone stupid. I’m saying when we eat food not on our diet when we’re trying to get fit, we are acting stupid. Watch this short video I shot at CBS in Atlanta after my interview and I’ll look forward to your comments.
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Do you guys think that mental strength is the most important skill a person can acquire? I feel that every person who wants to be highly successful must maintain a strong mind, and keep thinking positively. Here’s an article about the science behind positive thinking. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/james-clear/positive-thinking_b_3512202.html
I loved the book and the video training that went with it. I like the title and the message on the back of the book. I saw you Steve on a news show and KNEW I wanted to see the book. I personally feel a kick in the pants is sometimes exactly what I need without any sugar coating. It’s not like I didn’t know that cheating on my plan was bad, it’s just that now I am not being stupid. I don’t care that I’m 51. I still really want great legs and have come to HAPPILY EXCEPT that tough exercise and a super clean diet is the ONLY way to get it. Passive diet and exercise will not work for my body.
But what about ignorance? Does this count as stupid? I suppose it does. As I continue to succeed on my plan to become very fit (7 pounds to go) I am often surprised at what some people think is healthy food or effective exercise. It’s no wonder to me why they give up since their plan is flawed and the results for their efforts are underwhelming. I used to be one of them.
Now I just need to learn how to think about money.
Amen, Steve. Learned this in management 101…people aren’t stupid, but they act stupid. Its the behavior not the person. Everyone is so “thin-skinned” today. Grow up. Take responsibility and make no excuses.
I believe people who raise an eyebrow or voice at the phrase ‘Stop being stupid’, are in fact those who know they need to hear it. What’s the first thing we do when someone points out the obvious? We get defensive. When I first saw the back of your book, I tho’t ‘Well, I hope that helps!’ And, in fact, I need to stop being stupid. Co-workers and visitors bring into the office goodies every week, sometimes everyday. I can resist packaged cookies, but not very many homemade ones or the donuts from Krispy Kreme or Snowflakes. I know better. I have pre-diabetes. Yet, I tell myself I can indulge this one time. However, ‘this one time’ turns into several of ‘this one time’ instances by the end of the week. Yeah, we need all the help we can get to stop being stupid. And, I need to pin the phrase to my visor, computer, mirror, kitchen sink, stove! So, keep at it, Steve. You’ve got our #!!
I agree that calling the behavior stupid is far different than calling the person stupid. It’s important to remember that when regarding political and religious leaders in relation to their actions, statements, and legislation.
Great food for thought… yes bad pun… It’s a great point that as smart as people are, they can still do stupid things. For me it’s an absent minded habitual behaviour to do things like get the larger food portions because I’m conditioned to say yes it’s the same price or just 35 cents more to get the large. It doesn’t help my health to get the large and I never wanted the large in the first place.
P.S. You realize where I am it’s -25. I would love your weather right now!