“Create a framework that makes it impossible not to do the work.”
Craig Mod, The Rich Roll podcast (episode 913)
Reflections
My dad was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at the age of 50. Watching his steady decline over the past 15 years has been one of the most challenging things I’ve experienced. To see a parent lose their physical abilities so early in life is heart-wrenching, to say the least.
This past year, I suffered an injury that prevented me from doing one of my favorite things, running. During my forced down time, I spent a lot of time reflecting (and sulking) on my experience of losing the ability to run. As I reflected, I thought a lot about my dad, and what it must be like to have a condition that guarantees a permanent loss of functional movement.
Though I’ve suffered several injuries in the past that sidelined me from activity, this one hit differently. My forced hiatus from running has reminded me that movement is such a gift and, like everything in life, is not guaranteed. This reminder has left me with immense gratitude for my mobility.
I feel so fortunate that my loss of movement is only temporary. There are many people, like my dad, who are not so lucky. Coming back from this injury, I feel compelled (finally) to do it the right way; to treat my body with the respect it’s always deserved and address the weaknesses that have prevented me from moving well.
In the past, I’ve opted for the bare minimum recovery time needed to get back on my feet. I took a half-hearted approach to strengthening my weak spots; hence, why I’m injured, yet again. Lesson learned the hard way, I suppose.
To keep myself honest, I’m setting a goal that will make it impossible not to work on my weaknesses. The goal is this: run a 100-mile race at the end of next year. I’ve chosen this goal for three reasons:
- I’m curious. Others have shown me it’s possible to run 100 miles, and to do it in unthinkable times. I believe it’s possible for me, too. I’m ready for a big challenge, and this feels like the perfect fit.
- It’s focused on performance rather than aesthetics. If I want to run 100 miles without breaking down, I must build an efficient, resilient body that’s capable of going the distance. This process will require that I address my weaknesses.
- It incorporates movement. A theme has emerged in my work over the past few months: One foot in front of the other, we make our way forward. Nothing brings the rewards of moving. Just keep moving. Putting this idea into practice has helped me get through some really hard times. I truly believe movement is the most powerful medicine, for mind and body. And research supports this belief. Movement is considered one of the most potent medical interventions. It’s also proven to help manage Parkinson’s symptoms. By sharing my journey of getting to the finish line of a 100-mile race, I hope to inspire myself and others (especially my dad) to just keep moving.
I’ve heard it said that setting big, scary goals is the path to personal growth, increased focus, and greater achievement. It’s been a long time since I’ve tackled something this big and scary, but I’m ready to trade fear for courage and walk into the arena to see what I’m capable of.
I have my dad to thank for my relentless determination to succeed. But, whereas I used to chase perfection, I now understand that the process of getting better is the ultimate goal. I can’t wait to look back in a year’s time and see the beautiful transformation that resulted from my hard work and dedication to continuous improvement. Time to get to work!
Chasing a Cure
Part of my goal in sharing my journey is to raise awareness and funds for those who are working hard to advance Parkinson’s care and research. If you’d like to make a small donation, click the button below. All proceeds will go to the Parkinson’s Foundation. Thanks in advance for your support!
