Why True Success Can Only Be Built in the Dark

So, there are two types of training: training in the dark and training in the light.

Training in the dark is when you put in the work when no one is watching. It’s shooting shots alone on the basketball court, sharpening your writing skills in a quiet room, studying the Word, praying, or even meditating to strengthen your mind. This is the type of training that builds real mastery.

Then there’s training in the light—unfortunately, this is what most of us rely on without even realizing it.

When You Train in the Light, It Shows

Your lack of preparation shows. Your rustiness shows. Your incompetence shows.

I remember back when I was in car sales, and I wasn’t doing enough training in the dark. So, I found myself training—on my customers. I was stuttering, struggling to handle objections, and failing to close deals. And because of that? I lost a lot of sales.

But once I switched my approach—practicing my meet-and-greet scripts, watching tons of Andy Elliott videos, and actually warming up before the “game”—I saw my sales skyrocket. 💰

This is just one example of why training in the dark matters. In my latest video, I break down how legends like Kobe Bryant and Muhammad Ali mastered this principle. You can check it out here.

Why Training in the Dark is a Game-Changer

Training in the dark isn’t just about preparation—it’s about transformation. It’s where you develop the skills, confidence, and mental toughness needed to dominate when the lights come on.

Eric Thomas said it best:

“Champions aren’t made in the ring. They’re recognized there.”

This means the real work happens long before anyone sees you shine. The hours in the gym, the extra reps, the study sessions when no one is forcing you—that’s where greatness is built.

Here’s why training in the dark is so powerful:

• You Build Unshakable Confidence 🦁 – When you’ve put in the work behind the scenes, you don’t hesitate when the moment comes. You know you’re ready.
• You Separate Yourself From the Average – Most people only show up when the crowd is watching. The ones who train in the dark? They set the standard.
• You Master Your Craft on a Deeper Level – When you train alone, without the pressure of performance, you focus on refining the details that make all the difference.
• You Eliminate Excuses – Training in the dark removes the need for external validation. It’s about discipline, not motivation.

Kobe Bryant was legendary for this. While others were sleeping, he was in the gym at 4 AM putting up thousands of shots before practice even started. That’s why he dominated on game day—his work was already done before he even stepped on the court.

Bottom Line

It’s impossible to truly master your craft if you’re only training in the game. You’ll never stand out that way. So… start training in the dark, so you can actually perform in the light.

I’m out, Hero. Peace. 🦸🏽‍♂️

Rasta White