As I’m writing this I am quite proud to say that I am into the 6th week of my 10-week fitness challenge, and it’s the toughest week yet. I mentioned last month about change and how this shift to winter makes us all a little more tired these days. I’ve always been in good shape; maybe a few extra pounds here and there, but overall, I’m in good health. This challenge for me is really to look at all aspects of my health, not just what’s on the outside, but what’s happening on the inside too.
I must admit, at first I was feeling a bit over-confident, and thought I should do Karen McCoy’s Advanced Challenge not start with the 10-week program. Those of you that know me know I’m very competitive. Well, let’s just say that on more than one occasion along this journey so far I’ve been reminded of a favourite well-known fable: The Tortoise and the Hare by Aesop. You know how it goes; slow and steady wins the race. I realize that we all have our own course to complete; no one else can do it for us, nor tell us how best to finish. Speed matters, but more important are endurance, preparation, observation, and inner discipline, to know how to get to the end.
I think many things start with small steps: a seed that is planted or an idea that grows into a business. Brands that take their time to embrace, and even master, new technologies can eclipse their competition in the end. I’ve learned a lesson about overestimating the benefits of experience and accomplishments. Although helpful, it’s the daily doing, the little choices that we make along the way that determines our success; it’s not always about our pedigree or our past. I think the trick is to be aware and reflect on all that is around you at all times – the good and the bad. Opportunity lies in the smallest of details and in the darkest of corners. It’s how you see them and how you perceive them.
It’s been said before, ‘life is a marathon, not a sprint’. I have to remind myself of this often. As for this 10-week Challenge, I will be patient and see myself to the finish line in a few weeks and then decide what makes sense next. I have lots of time to practice.
