Break it down into micro-goals

When we have a big stretch goal, we have to break it down into micro goals. When you can’t accomplish your big goal today, you have to ask, “What do I have to do today to make the next step possible?” Without these small steps being taken, there would be no great achievement. There’s no big bang. Most of the steps to accomplish great things may seem ordinary and dull to an onlooker.

With two weeks to race day, we were making plans and getting last minute gear together every day. Tanner’s foot was healing. We were working out every day, and eating and sleeping with intention.

When I was a kid, I got this idea that I was put here for some important reason. I’m not sure where it came from. Maybe getting straight A’s in school bolstered my confidence and self-concept. Whatever it was, I firmly believe I was not put here to be okay, or even good. I have things to do, and damn it I am going to do them.

It took me a while to overcome the social stigma of “you’re no better than anyone else,” and I have people in my life that help me be humble. Worrying about people thinking I am better than them in some pompous way, is something I still struggle with. But this isn’t about anyone else. It’s about me. I’ve always made every day count – always. But now that I am 53 years old, my sense of “no time to waste” is at an all-time high. 

Giving kids and adults a sense of belief in themselves in the number one thing we can do to make the world a better place. People can take care of themselves and their families, and go far beyond that; they can do amazing things if they can overcome their own inner voice – the one they listen to all day long.

While social and family help, support, and love is required and makes life richer, the number one person to help you is you.

Just a few days before we had to fly out, Tanner hurt his lower back doing 185# overhead squats. It was bad. We were very worried. Would it get better in time?

I hadn’t been running as much as I was earlier in the year because of my foot damage from the hickory tree. Just six days before race day, I decided to go for a run in the woods. It was cold and damp. Fresh fall leaves blanketed the ground and hid the rocks, roots, and holes. I couldn’t see what I was stepping on and made dozens of small missteps that a healthy foot could endure without issue. When I was done, I realized I made a mistake. My foot was making grinding sounds. I reached down and massaged it and stretched it with my hands. When I stood up again, I could hardly put weight on it. Oh no…