It was hot. I was tired. My legs hurt and I was wondering, “How did I get myself in this mess”? It started out as a dare. Then it seemed like an exciting adventure. At the end of day one I just wanted to throw in the towel, call my Dad and go home. My challenge? I was attempting to ride my bicycle across the United States of America. It was day one, and I was only 35 miles into my 3237 mile trek!
I learned two lessons that summer as I rode my bicycle from Solana Beach, California to Rehobath Beach, Delaware: “gear down” and take life one day at a time.
The first lesson, take life one day at a time:
On May 28th, our first day, I was convinced that I would be riding for the rest of my life and panic set in. By taking it one day at a time, even one hour at a time the daunting task began to seem possible as the miles, mountains, Great Plains, Mississippi River went by. The Ohio Valley, the West Virginia Mountains, our Nation’s capitol and then the final road into Robeth Beach, Delaware on July 4th came and went. Yes, it was fun. The accomplishment was even greater. Knowing that I did something that for most people would seem impossible to do, by taking life one day at a time.
The second lesson, “gear down”:
The reason I was in so much pain the first day is that I wanted to be the first to the top of the hill. I want charging up in high gear. Yes, I made it and was totally spent. As I learned to “gear down” it took a little longer but I was rested at the top and could enjoy the vistas. “Gearing down” allowed me to be consistent, avoiding the highs and lows that would have certainly derailed my journey either through discouragement or injury.
I know we live in challenging times. Here are some tips to get to the top and enjoy the vista.
- Live and enjoy each day.
- Realize that tomorrow will come, be present today!
- Remember there is a difference between fore thought and worry thought.
- Finally, “gear down” to increase your efficiencies and over all effectiveness.
These tips allow us to enjoy the trip and not be blinded by the final destination.
I have discovered a little secret in life that I will now share with you. No matter what you do, hiring the right person, closing the challenging sale, sweeping the floors, or riding your bike across the dessert in 120 degree heat. . . . .
Stay focused on what you can do rather than focus on what you wish you could do.
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