Triggered to Change: How a Coma Dream Sparked a New Beginning

In this post, we'll be delving deeper into the remarkable story of John Carter, exploring the transformative power of pivotal moments in life, and unpacking the meaning behind his powerful phrase, 'Triggered to Change.' This post expands on the insightful conversation I had with John in the latest episode, "Service Dogs, Discipline & Hope with John Carter." We'll examine how a near-death experience served as a catalyst for profound personal growth, leading to a life dedicated to fitness, service, and inspiring others. Get ready to be moved by a story of resilience, redemption, and the extraordinary capacity for change that resides within us all.

Unpacking 'Triggered to Change'

John Carter uses the phrase "Triggered to Change" to describe a moment of profound awakening – a realization that the current path is unsustainable and a shift is necessary for survival and well-being. This trigger isn't always a gentle nudge; often, it's a forceful jolt, a crisis that shakes you to your core. For John, this trigger was his coma dream, a vivid and unsettling experience that occurred after he was shot in the head. It was a stark confrontation with the potential consequences of his choices, a glimpse into a future he desperately needed to avoid. The phrase encapsulates the idea that significant change rarely happens without a catalyst – a pivotal event or realization that forces us to re-evaluate our lives and make a conscious decision to move in a different direction. It's about recognizing the urgency to change, embracing the discomfort that comes with it, and actively choosing a new path, one that aligns with our values and aspirations.

John Carter's Life: A Story of Transformation

John Carter's life is a testament to the human capacity for change and resilience. His early life was marked by challenges and wrong turns, leading him down a path of violence, addiction, and ultimately, incarceration. However, it's not his past that defines him, but rather his extraordinary ability to learn from his mistakes, embrace opportunities for growth, and dedicate his life to helping others. John's story is one of radical transformation, from a young man entangled in organized crime to a personal trainer, gym owner, TEDx speaker, and author. It's a journey fueled by a commitment to self-improvement, a strong support system, and a unwavering belief in the power of second chances. His life serves as an inspiration to anyone who feels trapped by their past, demonstrating that no matter how dark things may seem, change is always possible.

The Coma Dream: A Pivotal Moment

The coma dream stands as a pivotal moment in John's life, a surreal experience that served as a catalyst for his transformation. While in a coma after being shot, John experienced a vivid dream that forced him to confront the consequences of his past actions and the potential future that awaited him if he continued down the same path. The dream was unsettling and deeply impactful, leaving him with a profound sense of urgency to change his life. It wasn't just a fleeting nightmare; it was a wake-up call, a visceral understanding of the need to break free from the cycle of violence and addiction that had consumed him. Upon awakening from the coma, John was a changed man, driven by a newfound determination to make amends for his past and build a better future for himself. The coma dream served as a stark reminder of his mortality and the importance of living a life of purpose and meaning.

Addiction and Incarceration: The Crucible for Change

Addiction and incarceration played a crucial role in John's transformation, serving as a crucible where he was forced to confront his demons and forge a new path. His addiction fueled his destructive behavior, leading him down a path of crime and violence. However, it was during his time in prison that he truly began to grapple with the root causes of his addiction and the impact it had on his life and the lives of others. Incarceration provided him with the space and time to reflect on his past, take responsibility for his actions, and develop a plan for a better future. It was a harsh environment, but it also offered opportunities for growth and self-discovery. John utilized this time to focus on his physical and mental well-being, immersing himself in fitness and education. Prison became the unlikely setting for him to build the foundation for his future success.

Finding Strength in Prison: Fitness and Brotherhood

Within the confines of prison, John discovered the transformative power of fitness and the importance of brotherhood. Facing adversity and isolation, he turned to exercise as a way to cope with the challenges of prison life, both physically and mentally. Fitness provided him with a sense of purpose, discipline, and control in an environment where he had little autonomy. He became a dedicated athlete, pushing himself to improve his strength and endurance. More than just a physical outlet, fitness became a source of empowerment and self-esteem. In addition to fitness, John found solace and support in the bonds of brotherhood he formed with other inmates. These relationships provided him with a sense of community, accountability, and encouragement. Together, they motivated each other to stay on track, pursue self-improvement, and resist the negative influences that permeated the prison environment. The combination of fitness and brotherhood helped John to develop the resilience and determination he needed to turn his life around.

Re-entering the World: Fitness Career and Entrepreneurship

Re-entering society after a decade-long prison sentence presented significant challenges for John, but he was determined to build a new life for himself. He leveraged the discipline and work ethic he had developed in prison to pursue a career in fitness. Starting with an opportunity at Boston Sports Club, John quickly made a name for himself as a dedicated and knowledgeable trainer. His passion for fitness and his personal story of transformation resonated with clients, helping him to build a loyal following. With his hard work and determination, John eventually took the leap into entrepreneurship, opening his own private training studio, Titanium Health and Fitness. This was a significant step, requiring him to overcome numerous obstacles and take on considerable financial risk. However, John's unwavering belief in himself and his vision for helping others through fitness allowed him to succeed. His journey from prisoner to gym owner is a testament to his resilience and entrepreneurial spirit.

Sharing the Story: TEDx, the Book, and Helping Others

John's transformation is not just a personal victory; it's a story he feels compelled to share with others. Recognizing the power of his experiences to inspire and motivate, he began sharing his story through public speaking, writing, and mentorship. His TEDx talk provided a platform to reach a wider audience, sharing his message of hope and the importance of taking responsibility for one's life. He also authored the book "Triggered to Change," a powerful account of his journey from darkness to redemption. In the book, he shares the lessons he has learned, the challenges he has overcome, and the strategies he has used to create a fulfilling life. Beyond his speaking and writing, John is actively involved in helping others overcome their own challenges. He mentors individuals struggling with addiction, provides guidance to those re-entering society after incarceration, and uses his fitness expertise to help people transform their bodies and their lives. John's commitment to service is a testament to his belief in the power of paying it forward.

Service Dogs: A New Purpose with Great Danes

John's commitment to service extends beyond individual mentorship; he has also found a unique and impactful way to give back through his involvement with service dogs. Specifically, he works with Great Danes, training them to assist individuals with mobility challenges. This endeavor combines his passion for fitness with his desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. The Great Danes provide invaluable assistance to their handlers, helping them to navigate daily tasks, maintain their independence, and improve their overall quality of life. John's work with service dogs has given him a new sense of purpose and fulfillment, allowing him to use his skills and experience to create positive change in the world. He often speaks about his dogs, Jag (named after Mick Jagger) and Turbulence, highlighting their intelligence, compassion, and unwavering dedication to their handlers.

Client Transformations: Inspiring Stories of Change

As a personal trainer and gym owner, John has had the privilege of witnessing countless transformations in his clients. These stories of change serve as a constant source of inspiration and reaffirm his belief in the power of fitness to improve lives. He shared an example of a client who weighed over 340 pounds at the age of 22 and has been able to live independently at 71+ years old through commitment to fitness and health. These are just a few examples of the many lives that John has touched through his work. He emphasizes that transformation is not just about physical changes; it's also about mental, emotional, and spiritual growth. He strives to create a supportive and empowering environment for his clients, helping them to unlock their full potential and live their best lives.

The Power of Planning and Community

Throughout his journey, John has learned the importance of planning and community. He emphasizes the mantra "Fail to plan, plan to fail," highlighting the need for a clear vision and a well-defined strategy to achieve one's goals. He also stresses the importance of surrounding oneself with a supportive community. John's experience demonstrates that positive relationships can provide encouragement, accountability, and a sense of belonging. Conversely, he cautions against associating with negative influences, emphasizing the need to distance oneself from old crowds and habits that can derail progress. By prioritizing planning and cultivating a strong community, individuals can increase their chances of success and create a more fulfilling life.

Embracing Second Chances and Purpose

John's story is a powerful reminder that everyone deserves a second chance. He has overcome tremendous adversity to build a life of purpose and meaning. His journey is a testament to the human capacity for change, resilience, and the transformative power of hope. He encourages others to embrace second chances, to believe in their potential, and to never give up on their dreams. John's life is a living example of what is possible when one is committed to self-improvement, service, and the pursuit of a meaningful life. His story inspires us to look beyond our past mistakes, embrace the opportunities that lie ahead, and strive to make a positive impact on the world. I hope this post has inspired you to pursue your own transformation and to seek out the support and resources you need to create a life of purpose and fulfillment. Be sure to listen to the full conversation with John Carter on the Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast for even more insights and inspiration!