Michigan Memories

What a way to start Elevate America! Michigan was everything I hoped it would be and more. 
 
To be honest, I can’t believe I’ve been on the road for a month. It’s not like college where you leave home and are catered to and have classes. This is the real world. There’s no one telling me what to do. No one holding me accountable. No one to keep me focused. It’s up to me and only me. And, I’ve loved every single minute of it.

This has been a hell of a start and while I had two gigs get cancelled I think this trip is going to be very rewarding both during and after the trip. The payoff may not come immediately but that’s okay. I’m freaking traveling across the country promoting myself and having a blast.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Michigan Sports Business Conference
• MSU vs Michigan at The Big House
• University of Michigan Practice
• Eastern Michigan University practice
• Michigan State University practice
• Detroit Pistons practice
• Speaking at Huron High School to the basketball team
• Meeting with leaders and faculty at my cousins' high school
• Working out at a ninja gym
• Finding dairy free cheese that was delicious
• Traveling through Ohio for two days
• Living with my amazing family who gave me a 5 star experience :)​​

BIG LESSON I'M LEARNING - PATIENCE
Patience is one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned this trip. Whether I was observing my cousins interact with their parents or watching basketball players work with their coaches, I noticed some commonalities. Patience by the receiving party aka the parents and coaches is crucial for child and athlete development.  If parents or coaches get upset, or are too quick to correct and give input, the development can be stunted.
 
On the flip side, it’s imperative for my cousins and athletes to be patient as well. Not everything is going to be answered or solved right away and you have to be okay with that. Growing up and becoming a great player is a process. It takes time to figure life out and learn an offense. It takes time to understand the environment you are in and how to maximize your existence in it.
 
I’m constantly evolving and figuring it out. I mess up constantly and I succeed constantly, but the biggest thing is that I am always moving forward.
 
I know I’m the underdog when it comes to being a nationally known speaker at 24. I know I’m the underdog when it comes to creating and growing the second NBA combine. The best part, I love it! It’s so exciting that I have the chance to live my life the way I want to. Yeah, the struggles are tough but as I grow my patience and appreciate every minute of the ride, I know that I’m going to look back at the end of Elevate America or in 5 years and say it was worth it.
 
You can’t put a price on living life the way you want to. Even though I’m not reeling in millions of dollars (yet), I get to create my own schedule, sell myself, grow businesses, meet people from all over the world, spend time with family and friends, and ultimately, experience the trip of a lifetime.
 
Does it get better than that?

Next up is NY, Philly, LA, Florida, and San Diego before returning home for the holidays. If you like following along, make sure to connect with me on Instagram at @jakekelfer!

Jake Kelfer is a bestselling author, high energy inspirational speaker and founder of the Professional Basketball Combine. He aims to inspire millions of people on their journey to achieving their own definition of success. His first book, Elevate Beyond, provides a framework for gaining an advantage in school, work and life. You can connect with him on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, LinkedIn or by emailing him at [email protected]. 
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