This post is kind of a personal thought or experiences of Being Dumb that I had after I read an amazing blog related to Not Being Dumb by a man named Russ St. Hilaire, who also happens to be my martial arts teacher and more. His blog is called Don’t Be Dumb. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for tips, motivation, and a “real” way of thinking that applies to all aspects of your life. Give it a read.

My personal experiences fighting being dumb.
Ever since I was born, I’ve been thrown into the regiment of living my life a certain way. Go to School, Get a Job, Get Married, Buy a House, Have Kids, etc. The “American Dream” as some of you might say. In fact, my Mother used to say that exact phrase to me to a certain degree. She was TRYING to put me on the path of the cookie cutter life. They soon realized I was different and did things a different way. I didn’t go to college, I didn’t have schooling on Web Design or Marketing, yet that is one of my passions and professions. I was never interested in traditional sports or little league, nor much of an athlete when younger, yet know I consider myself a good athlete and fighter. I could go on, but the point is that I am probably more successful in “life” then I would have been if I just followed “the path”. One of my favorite sayings from my other site: Fighting Techniques, Training and Fight Videos - Fightauthority.com is “Find your Path!” - meaning that everyone should find their own path in life and / or martial arts (it is a martial arts site). A path that is their own, not one laid of out for you.

The funny thing now is that in a way, I have almost done what my Mother always wanted. I did get a job, got married, bought the house, got Dogs (they’re my kids for now). But the way I see it, it was done my way. I got the job of my dream as well as have some other great side jobs and personal business that is also blooming. I married the woman of my dreams. The girl I was in love with when I since was 16 (I’ll share that story another time). And buying a house….well we all need a place to live and I LOVE my house. Lastly my dogs, you’ll all soon find out that I am big animal lover, and my dogs are a vital part of my life. So the end result was something that my parents always wanted, but I did it my way and I am truly happy.

One thing I would like to improve on, which I realized after reading some posts on Don’t Be Dumb is that I should real consider trying to help others more. Either financially, volunteering, etc. Sometimes I almost feel selfish, others times I don’t know how I would be able to do it. But after reading some thoughts and posts there, I know that should be part of my life.

Sucking Less at: Being Dumb
Sucking at: Not helping others.

Again, Thank you Don’t Be Dumb for inspiring some interesting thoughts and life consideration. Please give this blog a read. It is FULL of amazing information.

Posted by Matt Bryers | No Comments »

I would have to call myself a responsible and dedicated dog owner. We have become very dedicated to training and educating our dogs and ourselves. Dog training, and attending training classes has become an ongoing routine for us. Today, we are doing a first. Taking both my dogs to the same class. My wife and I will switch up the leadership roles between each dog.

The dogs currently recognize me as the pack leader and basically listen to what I say, though the can be stubborn shits at times. But my wife really hasn’t established that role yet. It think they believe they don’t have to listen to her.

So this will be a good thing for all of us. Instead of me just training the dogs separately, we can all work together as a family…. very cool. And what makes it kick ass even more, is my sister is coming with her dog too.

So, how is this an OPSLED thing? Being a dog or pet owner is a serious responsibility. It frustrates me when I see dogs that are out of control and owners who have no control over their dogs. Understanding and bettering the relationship with your dog improves their quality and of life AND yours. They are happier, they listen and they respect you. They learn their boundaries and live according to your rules. Dogs are pack animals and need the social environment, but also a pack leader. Once you define yourself as the leader, and learn how your dog “works” and lives, you’ll have a much better life with them. Sucking Less at being a pet owner = total OPSLED

Posted by Matt Bryers | 1 Comment »