Sitting down (late) to start my work day, I was about to start complaining.
Complain that I have too many items on my plate.
Complain that I there’s not enough time in a day.
Complain that I wish life were different (easier).
I was trying to figure out what I needed to do differently. How can I make real progress? What responsibilities I need to drop?
But then I remembered my run from a few hours ago…
It was about 28 degrees this morning and I decided to go for an easy jog around my neighborhood.
Sorry, I think “decided” is a little fecicious — in two days I’ll be running in my second marathon, the Tulsa Route 66 Marathon. So I kinda needed to run 4 miles, but the deciding part was to run outside as compared to running inside the gym.
The weather on race day will be similar to how it was this morning. Thus I figured I needed to man up and get out there to be ready for race day.
As soon as I stepped out the blistering cold wind smacked my face and made me want to go inside — (light the fireplace, put on some thermal pjs, curl up on the couch with a cup of SBX Christmas blend and continue reading Allegiant.)
But no, I fought the urge and started running; assuming it would get better after a few minutes…
It didn’t get better.
As I left the residential area it got worse. Being less obstructed by houses and trees, the winds picked up along the major roads.
But then, as I got into a rhythm, I made up little melody and started chanting, “this is what my training is for…. this is what a challenge is for…”
I was siking myself into associating the freezing temperature and forceful winds as resistance training – mentally and physically making me better for race day.
By the time I finished my run I was really enjoying it and felt accomplished and more ready for Sunday.
Back to the present…
I’ve got calls, emails and text messages trying to get me off my game. So many things vying for my time and attention. I can either complain — which is very unproductive — or I can assume them to be like the cold weather this morning. Take them as they are instead of wishing they go away, and stay focused on my goal.
I cannot and will not please everyone.
But will I be true to myself?
It’s easy to respond to taps on your shoulder.
It’s natural to give in to whatever thought makes it’s way to your mind.
But sooner or later, you have to prioritize your core values or goals or they will never get done.
I’ve heard and I think I’m learning that the more time I spend daily on my strengths and values the better I become. The things that whisper are often the most important and most neglected.
Everyday. Be true to yourself. Fight and be relentless about making progress towards your goals.
– Arvell