I am a runner. I do belong to a couple of running clubs; one meets on Saturday morning and the other on Thursday nights. On Saturday mornings, we run races and eat big breakfasts with lots of coffee. On Thursday nights, we run, eat big dinners and sample lots of beer.
It was at one of those Thursday night gatherings back in April of 2008 that I informed the group that I had signed up to run my first marathon: The Marine Corps Marathon in Washington, D.C., that would take place in October of that year.
Someone joked, “You can probably win!”
Well, she was right. I could win if I first answered this critical question, “How would I defining winning for me?” So, considering my age, ability, and time available to train, I set 3 goals for myself:
- Finish the race — all 26.2 miles
- Complete the race in around 4 ½ hours
- Have Fun
I knew it would not be easy. I had only just participated in and finished my first half-marathon a few weeks earlier. The thought of running twice as far was a little overwhelming, but I believed I could WIN.
With some help, I created a rigorous training schedule. By September, I felt it would go well, and as it turned out—I WON! I finished the marathon, and my time was 4h 40min, and (looking back now) it was fun.
The Big IDEA: You must define ‘winning’ in and on your terms! In your life, both personal and professional, setting winning on your terms is the key to success. Don’t let someone define your life success by there metrics.
Try this short exercise for the new Year. Grab a cup of coffee or tea, find a place where you can concentrate, and answer the following three questions. Then share them with a trusted partner.
What is one thing I want to “win” this year?
How will I know if I am making progress?
What is getting in the way of me accomplishing them?
If I accomplish this, what value would it bring to my life?
Let me know what you come up with – info@globaledg.com