Enjoy the small victories! This morning I rode my bicycle for the first time in two months after I injured my foot when I fell off the back of a truck while helping a friend move. My foot is still swollen, and I can only get my shoe on by wearing compression socks. Having not checked my mail at the Post Office and wanting to get back on my bike, I decided to give it a shot. The Post Office is about 2.5 miles from my home, with a few moderate hills on the ride back. Before getting on the busy street, I rode in my neighborhood to ensure no safety issues. Feeling okay, I headed to the Post Office without any issues. I could feel my foot throbbing, but it wasn’t excruciating, so I continued. The return ride home was more demanding, but I made it through. I was so relieved when I took my shoe off and relaxed. Only being a 5-mile ride, this wouldn’t be something I would usually celebrate, but I am! This small victory reminded me of my challenges on my ride across America. Pressing on when I wasn’t sure I could. Perhaps more importantly, making the decision to do it! It was overcoming the pain (this short ride was as painful as anything I can remember from my ride across the country) and reaching my destination. Was this healthy for my foot recovery? I’m unsure of that; however, it was healthy for my soul and spirit! Saying good morning to the people on their morning walks with their dogs, enjoying the crisp morning air, and the satisfaction of completing this simple but real goal. Not wanting to overdo it and aggravate my injury, I will take it easy for the rest of the day. As I mentioned in my recent podcast, I’ve relied on Instacart to deliver my groceries. Tomorrow, I plan on riding my bike to the store once again! 
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There will NEVER be a "Perfect" time! I often revisit the moments from my bike ride across America in 2017. So many incredible people and challenges! Looking at the blog post I made on this day in 2017, the title was "Today was a rough day. Though I didn't elaborate, I still remember why I felt that way. Still, I rode about 26 miles that day, and my cumulative total had reached 1,768 miles. I posted one of my favorite quotes from the late Wayne Dyer, "when you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change." I've repeatedly stated that this ride profoundly changed my life, and it did! If I had waited for the "perfect" time to begin that journey, I would likely still be waiting. There will always be excuses why it's not the right time to embark on whatever adventure you're dreaming of... don't look for the reasons not to do it; instead, take steps towards it every day! One thing that has always worked for me is publicly announcing your plans. Tell friends, family, and neighbors, and post to social media; these things hold you accountable. I took it one step further; after I decided to do my ride, I was employed full-time. I remember meeting with my boss and telling him my plan would take approximately 3 1/2 months to complete. I told him I hoped I had his support but was prepared to lose my job. That's how much completing this journey meant to me. Not only did my employer support me, but they also followed my adventure on the company's social media pages, and customers followed me too! Whatever your dream, do it Today! No more somedays  |
