Discipline. It’s the bedrock and foundation of all successful careers. Especially athletes. But I’m no athlete. I grew up with books and food. It’s not that I resigned myself into non-athleticism per se, I did get into some sports but I never really had a keen interest in them. Blame it on parents who were never really there or “significant others” who did things that disillusioned me. So much angst eh?
Anyways, fast forward to 20 or so years later, I got into the pursuit of getting fit and healthy. Thanks to a job requirement and some back issues of health magazines. But then again, you fall back into the pit due to circumstances like adjusting to time zones, parties, airline food, a retrenchment, and some desk jobs etc. These may be valid reasons or just plain excuses depending on where you’re coming from.
But I made a resolution since after my several failed attempts. That is never to give up and keep going. Thanks to a stay in the hospital, some fit friends, and some friends and acquaintances who never probably intended to make a lasting example of unhealthy choices. Discipline can be taught the easy way or the hard way. The point is simply to learn and stick with it. Even if you do have some really valid “excuses”.
Excuses may range nowadays from “It’s freaking hot!” “I don’t feel like it.” “I need to focus on my work.” and ”Race fees are expensive!” etc.. I can name a lot more but you know what I mean. Stay with me please. Believe me, I’ve fallen into these excuses slash reasons despite trying to squeeze in some miles on my runs. Once we get exposed to the most dire consequences of procrastinating our goal to stay healthy, we gain a better perspective. Even if we fall into the excuse trap, a bigger perspective from painful lessons will put us back on course. My goal is to simply fit back into my 1998 set of jeans. That simple. Reaaally easier said than done! But hey, if that means outrunning back pain, avoiding heart problems, and an ever expanding cabinet for oversized clothes, I’m not giving up.
Discipline. I just know if I keep going, I know this is something also good for the other areas in my life. I know my Maker only wants nothing but the best from me. He gave me His best and If He’s getting it, It also means my family, friends, co-workers and I will benefit. A full life and nothing less because I try to learn to persevere. It’s hard but it will eventually come easy. Just keep going. You will find out that you’re stronger than you think you are. (=
