Well it doesn’t have to be a race. It can be anything you usually say no to. Just try saying yes and see what you learn. I run the Hot Chocolate 15K every year for the last six years. I am thankful every year that my friend Sarah convinced me to run in it for the first time in 2015. And every year I don’t think I can do it, mainly because I don’t really train for it. And every year after I finish, I am thankful I signed up and did it.
I think everyone should sign up to do something they don’t think they can do.
Reason #1 – It gets you out of your comfort zone. You should always try something uncomfortable – every month, every week, every day. Maybe this can be one of the ways to do it. If you don’t really run, then start with a 5K. If you already do 5K, then do 10K. You get the idea.
Reason #2 -Build your confidence – You will be amazed what your body can actually do. You may have a few thoughts of worry or fear of not finishing. it’s normal. Just know everyone thinks that if it’s a new distance.
Reason #3 – Great sense of accomplishment – There is a low bar since you already don’t think you can do it. As long as you show up and get to the finish line, you would have done something you have never done before. You will also likely get a finisher medal and definitely the official race record. It’s a great feeling to have just tried and finished something regardless of the result.
Reason #4: The energy is so positive – Whether you walk the entire race or run the whole way, it’s amazing to be surrounded by all kinds of people. I saw 9 or 10 year old running the 15K with their mom or dad. I saw handicap people running it faster than me. It was both humbling and uplifting.
Reason #5: Best natural high for the whole day – I love how I feel every time I finish this race. It doesn’t matter if I beat my time or felt completely drained. I showed up and finished. I have the best feeling for the entire rest of the day. The hot chocolate and treats right after the race are the best. We then take tons of fun pictures and go for greasy Chinese food for lunch. The afternoon include a long bath, a nap and perhaps even a massage. Doesn’t that sound like an awesome day?
Well, I don’t know if I convinced you. If a sports race is not your thing, then just pick something else that you usually would not do and do that. I think we are given many opportunities throughout the year by friends or colleagues to do something a bit new. If you have been saying no before, maybe pick one and just say yes. See what you can learn. Once you start saying yes to new things, it will open up all kind of new opportunities. Be bold! 😉
Your comments: Have I convinced you to do a race or just anything new? If yes, I would love to hear what you decided to do. If not, tell me why. I look forward to your comments 🙂
Your comments: Do you have an inner voice that tells you that you are not enough? Do you where it comes from and how to ignore it? I look forward to hearing from you.
Like this article? Please share it with your friends and colleagues on Facebook, Linkedin, Twitter, etc…
New to this Site? Start here – How to Succeed like an Executive
I am always in your corner.
Lei
Best wishes to your new adventures.
Lei
p.s: I am taking action to write shorter articles and during weekdays so I can be more present with my kids. This is my first one 🙂