So I decided to add Spartan Race to my list of challenges…and a challenge it was. I certainly learned a few things about how to train, and not to train for an event like this. The biggest thing I learned is that there is no such thing as “I can’t” and excuses are just a waste of time. I purposely chose a team of Warriors who are fitter and stronger than me to force me to work harder and be faster. I didn’t disappoint myself! lol. I tried a couple of times to play the “I’m older than they are” card, but soon realized that I’d chosen a guy who was older than me and he consistently kicked my butt and made me realize that age doesn’t matter. Period.
I know, and have been telling patients for years, that if you want to grow you need to work outside your comfort zone. There is NO growth, at all, inside that nice, warm, fuzzy area of comfort. The gap hurts sometimes, but that’s where we get better. In fitness, relationships, business, learning to play an instrument, your treatment plan with me, or whatever.
So, I know that in my future is some discomfort and likely some pain as I push myself further to become stronger and faster but that’s the only way I’ll tackle those events that totally kicked my butt this time and show them who’s boss. I’m a big believer in “if he/she can do it, then so can I!” and why not? The only difference between me and them is the work. Do the work, get the results. Don’t do the work? Don’t complain that you don’t get the results you want. Plain and simple. I’ve already got a plan in place to change how I exercise and eat that will yield results. I only have to show up and do it. No one else will do it for me. Spartan was different than other events I’ve done where you can sort of hide inside the team and allow people to help you more than you probably should. This was all me. I didn’t have the chance to cheat and get help whenever I needed it. I had to get mySELF up the hill and get mySELF over the obstacle. That’s it.
You’re responsible for your own outcome. You. Don’t blame others for your own outcomes. It sounds harsh but let’s just be honest about it. It’s my responsibility (read:fault) if I fail at something. It’s my responsibility (fault) if my business is failing, or my relationship is failing, or I can’t do the monkeybar obstacle. I didn’t do the work. I don’t get the results.
Take that to the bank.
Dr. B
