Hey, Bob here!
You’ve heard me say it before, and I’ll say it again:
life’s best lessons are learned outside your comfort zone.
That’s where real growth happens—
where we discover who we are and what we’re capable of.
This week, I had the privilege of sitting down with Mark Pattison,
a guy who truly embodies what it means to Get Comfortable Being Uncomfortable.
Mark’s journey is nothing short of awe-inspiring.
He’s not just a former NFL player—
he’s also an elite mountaineer, a dedicated philanthropist,
and a guy who’s made it his mission to show what’s possible
when you refuse to give up.
Climbing Beyond Limits
Mark’s story starts on the field.
After years in the NFL,
he found himself facing life off the gridiron.
Like many of us after a big transition,
he was searching for purpose.
That’s when he set his sights on a new goal:
climbing the Seven Summits, the highest peak on each continent.
Talk about tackling challenges head-on.
But it wasn’t just about the mountains.
For Mark, each climb represented something bigger—
overcoming personal losses, healing emotional wounds,
and proving that with grit and determination,
there’s no limit to what we can achieve.
Mark didn’t just climb those peaks.
He tackled obstacles most of us can’t imagine,
from harsh conditions to battling self-doubt at 29,000 feet.
And when he stood at the top of Mount Everest,
he became the first NFL player to complete the Seven Summits—
a testament to his relentless spirit.
The Power of Purpose
What struck me most about Mark’s story
is his drive to make an impact beyond himself.
His climbs weren’t just personal conquests;
they were opportunities to give back.
Mark dedicated his climbs to raising awareness
and funds for causes close to his heart,
like epilepsy research in honor of his daughter.
He reminded me—
and I hope he reminds you—
that no matter how big your personal goals are,
they mean so much more when they’re tied to something bigger than yourself.
Here are some lessons from Mark’s Journey:
1. Embrace the Unknown
Every climb starts with uncertainty.
Mark leaned into it,
trusting the process and proving that discomfort is the gateway to growth.
2. Find Your “Why”
Mark’s purpose fueled his determination.
When the going got tough, his “why” kept him moving forward.
3. Celebrate the Process
It wasn’t just about reaching the summit.
For Mark, every step—no matter how hard—
was part of the journey that shaped him.
Mark’s story is a powerful reminder
that the mountains we face—literal or figurative—
are where we find our strength, resilience, and purpose.
Here’s your gut check for the week:
What’s your Everest?
Are you ready to take that first step toward the summit?
Until next time,
Bob
