Ruling the Kingdom Within

Ruling the Kingdom Within

This morning’s reflection reminded me of a truth that carries across every area of life: I rule my mind, which I alone must rule.

We live in a world where so much feels out of our control. The traffic, the outcomes, the way others act or respond—these things aren’t ours to govern. But there is a kingdom that is ours: the body and the mind.

We choose how we breathe. We decide how we carry ourselves, how we focus, how much effort and energy we bring to the moment. We determine whether we approach life with gratitude or resentment, whether we practice discipline or drift into distraction. That’s where our true dominion lies.

In mental performance, the same principle applies. Before you can execute a plan, you must have mastery over yourself. Control the body, steady the mind, and then put the plan into action. This cycle—control, plan, perform—opens the door to something greater: trust.

When we’ve disciplined our bodies and ruled our minds, we can release control and move into flow. That’s the space where performance feels effortless, where peace replaces pressure, and where the best version of ourselves shows up naturally.

As I walk this journey personally, I also see it in those around me—friends who give support, my wife’s circle that strengthens her, and most of all, my daughter Bella. She is learning that her true strength as an athlete lies not just in physical skills, but in mastering her body and mind, and then surrendering them to the process she trusts.

Life’s lesson is simple, but not always easy: rule the kingdom within.