In order to accomplish your objectives, you created the ideal plan, and it was working out as expected. You could feel the physical changes, and you were gaining the mental fortitude and outlook that nothing could stop you. Until “it” happened…
“It” comes in many forms and when you least expect it – disguised as a family crisis, work demands, or a nasty case of plantar fasciitis. Although it’s obviously not what you were expecting, it prevents you from moving forward with your intended goal. Although it may be disappointing to backtrack to re-gain fitness, re-lose weight, or simply gut out a less-than-ideal situation to get through your intended race, there is comfort in knowing that: “I’ve done it before, so I can do it again!” Even though it may not be the most comforting thought, there are times when it suffices to get you through (such as workout, training plan, or even the race) – and that’s all you need.
Let me share some personal experiences with you, and see if you can identify with any of these situations. I had been putting off surgery for a bothersome shoulder injury, but I finally had it done in 2012, following one of my best running years in a while. I had recently finished a new ultramarathon distance, which was a huge personal victory, and I was in great shape and lean. I underwent surgery after the race and was unable to run for three months. It took me many more months to recover to my pre-surgery level of fitness due to that significant setback in my training. It turns out that I ran the same race again in 2014 and won! By the end of the 2014 running season, I was exhausted. I had put in a lot of effort to get back in shape, but in the process I had lost my enthusiasm for running. I spent the majority of 2015 hiking, riding my bike, or engaging in a variety of other activities, but I believed that my running days might be behind me. I’ve been absent from running for almost a year, but I’ve returned and continue to love it. Although I’ve gained weight and lost fitness over the past year, at least I’ve found joy in running again and can work to improve both. Speaking of weight, it seems like a constant (losing) battle for me as time marches on. It’s tougher and tougher just to maintain my weight, so I accept that I need to adjust to a new “normal” and work with what life provides. It won’t stop me from going out and doing the things I love even though I’m not at my ideal weight.
From the stories I’ve shared about my own challenges, I hope you take away two important messages:
1) every woman you know is working on overcoming some obstacle between her and her goals – so you aren’t alone
2) know that whatever challenge you are facing can be overcome if you don’t quit trying!
We need to juggle a lot of balls while we are working through our plan to achieve great pursuits because, let’s face it, most of us are weekend warriors who don’t have the luxury of the singular pursuit of our personal goals. However, this makes the achievement that much sweeter. Recognize that your plans may need to change and accept that it is a necessary part of your journey. Most importantly, have faith in your ability to overcome these challenges and accomplish your objectives. And never, never, never give up on your quest for greatness!
— Linda