Rebel Talk: Living

Life has a funny way of speeding by, doesn’t it? We’re constantly moving, planning for tomorrow, worrying about what’s around the corner, and it’s easy to miss the beauty in the here and now. But the truth is, *this* moment is all we’ve got. And if we’re not careful, we’ll let it slip away, unclaimed, unnoticed. That’s why we’ve got to start living like we mean it—living in a way that shakes us awake, fills us with purpose, and makes every second count.

I remember as a kid growing up going to "the cabin" with my dad, and the deep memories created that are engraved in my soul. I always wished I could somehow give my kids that same experience and engrave memories in their soul like my dad did for me. Going through my divorce and along with a really shitty low point in my life I had thought this was unattainable.

This past year I was able to make that dream a reality. It's not a palace, but I don't want a palace, I want the experience for me (and my girlfriend), and for me and my boys. My girlfriend and I are up here now. It's a special place to me where we can slow life down a bit. This morning I was sitting outside looking at the fog lift up off the lake in the crisp MN fall air having my coffee reflecting on the summer and Dierks Bentley’s song "Living," popped in my head. It really struck a chord in me. It’s not just a country song; it’s a life philosophy, a reminder to wake up and be present, and get busy living. I know this will be contradictory to the "Rise and Grind" mantra. But, while we are all grinding for a better life and a better self, life is happening now. It's important to remember that, and intertwine "living" and grinding. I believe they can coexist.

There’s a line where Bentley says, *“Some days you just breathe in, just try to break even; sometimes your heart’s pounding out of your chest, sometimes it’s just beating.”* Man, that hits hard. We all have days where we’re just going through the motions, where we feel like we’re just getting by. But then there are those days, like today for me—where you feel alive to your very core. That’s what living is about.

We’ve all been caught in the grind, and don’t get me wrong, the grind is essential. It’s where you put in the work to reach your goals. But real living isn’t just about grinding for tomorrow. It’s about taking a step back and appreciating today. It’s about noticing the sun on your face, the laughter of your kids, the thrill of pursuing your dreams with a fire in your belly. When Bentley sings, *“I’m right here and now, and I’m living,”* it’s not just a line—I think it’s a call to action.

The Power of Presence

When was the last time you really felt present? I’m talking about the kind of presence where you’re fully immersed in the moment, not thinking about what’s next on the to-do list, but fully alive in what’s happening right now. It’s so easy to get lost in the “someday” trap. We tell ourselves that once we hit that business milestone, once the kids are older, or once things slow down, *then* we’ll really live. But guess what? Life is happening now.

Bentley’s song is a reminder that life’s richest moments aren’t in the future—they’re happening in the here and now. It’s like when I'm on one of those summer trips with my boys, watching them laugh and play without a care in the world. They’re not thinking about tomorrow; they’re all in. That’s the essence of living.

Living Like a Relentless Rebel

I talk a lot about the Relentless Rebel mindset, about being relentless and chasing your dreams without apology. But part of living like a Relentless Rebel means knowing when to pause and soak it all in. It’s not just about the hustle—it’s about balancing the hustle with the moments that remind us why we’re doing it all in the first place.

Living isn’t just breathing, existing, or surviving. It’s finding meaning in the struggle, joy in the chaos, and purpose in every step. It’s those moments when you realize you’re *built different,* that you’re not just grinding for success, but grinding because you know deep down, you’re meant for more. And that "more" is happening in the process, not just the outcome.

Gratitude for the Grind

Think about those days when your heart is pounding with excitement. Maybe it’s because you just crushed it at the gym, closed a big deal, or simply spent quality time with the ones you love. Those are the moments when you feel alive, when you’re not just breathing—you’re *living.* That’s what Bentley is talking about.

But let’s not forget that even on the hard days, when things aren’t going your way, you’re still living. Even in the struggle, there’s something to be grateful for. Because every breath, every moment, is an opportunity to become more, to do more, and to live fully. It’s in the fight, in the grind, in the push to be better than you were yesterday, where you find the true meaning of living.

Living On Purpose

At the end of the day, living isn’t just about making it through the week. It’s about living with intention, with purpose. It’s about waking up and deciding that today, no matter what happens, you’re going to embrace it. Whether it’s a small victory or a tough challenge, you’re going to live it like it matters—because it does.

So, what are you waiting for? Turn up that Dierks Bentley song, take a deep breath, and step into today like it’s the only one you’ve got. Because in the end, living isn’t just about what you achieve, it’s about how you show up for every moment. Let’s live relentlessly, like we’re meant to.

Now quite reading this, and "get busy living, or get busy dying."

Stay Relentless,

Ryan