CHALLENGE YOURSELF AND COME ALIVE!

by Julia James, Certified Life Coach

I recently completed a 30km cross-country skiing
marathon – a real stretch for a girl who lacked
confidence and skill in high school athletics. But this
journey wasn’t about competing; it was about
completing… and contributing. My efforts were
inspired by a desire to raise funds for my favourite
charities.

After four skiing lessons, I was armed with techniques
and mental queues to keep me going and make the most of
every stride: “pop,” “up” and “kick!” My excitement to
participate helped me push past lingering self-doubts,
and on the day of the race, not even the cold (-16 C!)
could deter me.

It took over four hours to complete the race, but I was
so absorbed in the gorgeous, sparkling scenery and my
constant self-cheerleading that I didn’t even mind
coming in last.

I learned several lessons about achievement:

Challenge Yourself

When we stretch beyond our history and perceived
limits, we step into a larger version of ourselves – a
stronger, more capable version that empowers us well
into the future.

Embrace Your Determination

Our most worthwhile goals take a serious investment of
time and effort to achieve, and when the energy begin
to wane, determination will drive you to the finish
line.

Use Positive Self Talk

When my body tired, I reminded myself to use efficient
ski techniques. I told myself to relax and enjoy the
blue sky, the crunchy snow and the joy of racing.

Celebrate Your Achievements

After the marathon, I noticed many participants talking
about past or future races. They had lost touch with
the day’s achievement. This reinforced one last lesson:
Savour today. Celebration generates energy and momentum
to take on the next challenge!

If my journey inspires you, I encourage you to:

1. Choose your own challenge, something that stretches
you beyond past experiences. Journal along the way to
help identify your lessons.

2. Consider making a charitable contribution to
celebrate my achievement. I’ve selected three charities
close to my heart; you can donate here.

Having troubles choosing a challenge? The mini-retreat
audio CD – Explore, Create, Succeed, can help you
explore and create what you would like to take on.
Visit www.juliajames.ca to order Guided Mini-Retreat
CDs.