My fiancé and I went on a moderately difficult hike in the Smokies a few weeks ago. While regular exercise is not a concern for our active lifestyles, it was our chance on a Sunday to enjoy each others company and nature at the same time.
To briefly set the stage, sometimes we talked, but mostly we tried to lose ourselves to the sights, sounds, and experience of the hike. We attempted to do the same on the way down, but we met many people, most of them obviously out of shape. Without fail, every set of people asked “how much further to the top?” Our collegial response always seemed to be “not much further,” regardless of how far down the mountain we were. Near the mouth of the trail, a group of people asked us “is the view worth it?” Before we could respond, one of the men simply told us “well, it better be spectacular.” The point of the story is that competition and life is a process. While there may be various goals, end-points, or results that we desire, the important part is the process.
The focus should be on the process of execution both physically and mentally. If the process is executed properly, then eventually results will take care of themselves. Yet, when the focus becomes result oriented, proper execution and frustration with poor results can be introduced.
More importantly, when the focus becomes solely on the process, fear and doubt are kept at bay. Focusing on what you can control does not allow yourself to agonize too long at missed opportunities or failures. The reality is that everyone trying to accomplish something great will fail and face disappointment sometimes, but that should only result in a stronger focus of how to accomplish and enjoy the process of your goals.
Unfortunately, not committing to the process is a recipe for eventual disappointment. We may not always get the results we desire and the view may not always be worth the struggle, however, you always can enjoy the hike.
-Let the results take care of themselves- |
