Meet Anthony Blackburn

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Anthony Blackburn a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Anthony, thank you so much for joining us. You are such a positive person and it’s something we really admire and so we wanted to start by asking you where you think your optimism comes from?

My optimism has always been within. But, at certain times in life when everything stacks up and your fighting to see clearly, it certainly can fade. Having a positive outlook on life genuinely changes how we experience it. Being optimistic with your intentions and beliefs go hand in hand with your everyday interactions. I find that if I put more thought intentionally into thinking about being optimistic it can drastically change my mood when im feeling challenged! Ive often found myself struggling with negativity and hate. Through changes, and different steps towards being optimistic i have greatly improved all aspects of my life!

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

I am Anthony “Babyface” Blackburn

I compete in Powerslap! A fast rising new combat sport in which competitors take turns slapping each other in the face. This sport is captivating! I knew as soon as I saw videos online that I could compete with the best! Its now two and a half years since I started this Journey and i can proudly say that I am 6 – 0 – 1 and undefeated!

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Kendama has been the most impact full tool in my journey. The Japanese wooden skill toy has been a lifestyle for me for 10 years now. I got addicted to it as soon as I played my first time. Ever since then its been a constant push towards getting better and unlocking new potential. It teaches you discipline and drive! The principles behind kendama instill in you that if you practice and want something enough you can work and make it yours!

The 2nd skill i think helped me in my journey is cooking! Specifically making pizza! From making the dough to working the ovens. I always took pride in pizza making. When food looks good it tastes good! I loved to make the best looking pies wherever I worked. I didnt start out the best pizza maker. I had to work my way up and learned different skills as I got into better positions. Looking back without having the tests in my pizza making journey i would have not forced myself to get better and pass them!

The third skill i think helped attribute to my journey was sports. I competed in every sport I could. It was fun to compare myself to others! I always wanted to be the best no matter what. Having competition makes you better. Always testing yourself in new areas makes you better.

I would suggest to anyone to test themselves. Push their boundaries and see how far they can take them. Things will be hard and there will be challenges but giving up will not get you to your goals.

Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?

My friends and family have been my biggest supporters in my life. Without them none of my successes in life would have happened. They are always there to lend a hand or advice or even console me when Im feeling down. Family is everything to me.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @babyfacepowerslap
• Facebook: Anthony Blackburn
• Youtube: BabyfaceVentures

Image Credits

Powerslap