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It seems to me that this quote or tagline that NIKE branded is so true for many who find that sports–whether cycling, running, swimming, lacrosse, etc.– are some what of a necessary evil in life.
We all start out with some sort of goal in mind–whether it be to beat a fearless opponent, get a PR, meet new friends, win a medal or trophy–even just for the cool uniform. Whatever it may be…that is what gets you out the door, to the start line or on the court–but, it’s certainly not what wins the game or provides that second ( or 10th:) wind to get you across the finish line.
This is the point that I am reminded of a quote from Vince Lombardi…”Sports don’t build character, they reveal it!”. Something so unique happens within you-that the physical act becomes a very mental journey…one where you have to dig deep and fight your own personal doubts of why you CAN’T do it, SHOULDN’T do it, etc. These are all just obstacles to overcome–sometimes much bigger and stronger than the 250 lb Linebacker you may be up against!
For each and every “athlete”..(and I mean this in the most casual sense of the term, since I am including myself in this group)…it is just one foot in front of the other or one push at a time. The key is to be patient, listen to your body–quiet your mind and BELIEVE in yourself because there is a TEAM of people who believe in you that you didn’t even realize were paying attention.
No this technique will get you to about mile 24-25 of a marathon ( hopefully) or maybe even overtime in a soccer game ( penalty kicks) but the real challenge is to cross that finish line or score that game winning goal– this is GUTS!! We all have them, we just need to dig deep and tap into them–extraordinary things can happen.
I say this as I recover from running 26.2 miles this weekend..anyone that has knows that there are so many opportunities to give in–you really have to want it badly enough to cross that finish line. I am humbled every day by the Sportable athletes–some who are highlighted here for their achievements in marathons in NY and DC over the past few weeks and Deb Lockhart, our Development Director-new to the sport of running-who took on Richmond’s Half Marathon this past weekend. For each, there was a reason to sign up.. a hidden story that motivates them. For our athletes, they did not allow their physical limitations get in the way of their dreams.
So, if you doubt yourself or think you can’t do something…I challenge you to think again. Set a goal– EMBRACE IT– I can assure you that the journey will be worth it in the end.
