Today, I ran and walked a local event called Race to the Rocker. Conquering something like this, follows a similar process to chasing any dream or challenging project. For me, it’s been writing.
The past four years, I’ve seriously pursued a writing career, and much like today’s race, my feelings at various stages are similar.
When I started running toward the World’s Largest Rocking Chair, in Cuba, Missouri, my initial steps were infused with the adrenalin of a new and exciting adventure. My first few months as an aspiring writer, were equally infused with that kind of rush.
In today’s race, at Mile Marker 1, I was feeling the burn.
At the end of year one of writing, I felt the first tell-tale signs of burnout.
As I approached Mile Marker 2, a deeper sluggishness began to set in. Fleeting thoughts of giving up scampered across my mind.
And so it was in year two as a writer. Numerous times, I considered giving in to the deep fatigue that racked my brain and body. I wondered if the efforts were worth it. And I definitely questioned my ability to cross the finish line.
When Mile Marker 3 came into view today, I felt a renewed energy sprint throughout my muscles. My feet felt lighter. My pace quickened. My efforts once again slipped into a smooth rhythm. And I smiled as I moved.
This mirrors my experience toward the end of year three. I’d hit a quiet stride where I plodded along, but not a lot was happening. And then, things began to fall into place in rapid succession. I was signed by a great literary agent, one non-fiction proposal was completed and sent to publishers. Then a different kind of proposal was requested, so I rushed a new concept out, so it could be shopped as well. I smiled while I typed.
I rounded a curve this morning, and the finish line came into view. A marker noted there was a quarter of a mile to go, and I soon began to run.
This week has felt just that way. My first book sold, and the contract’s under way. I can see the finish line ahead.
I still have to finish nine chapters by September, while I continue working my day-job. But, fresh energy spurts through my mind and body, as I now know I’ll make it. After all, this first race is almost over. The Finish Line is just ahead!
Where are you in the race to chase your dreams?
Anita FreshFaith @ Work
Hebrews 12:1 (NIV)
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us,
Anita Agers-Brooks is a Business Coach, Certified Personality Trainer, Communications Specialist, national speaker, and author. She lives in Missouri with her family.
Contact her via www.freshstartfreshfaith.org or anita.freshfaith@gmail.com
Celebrating this victory with you, Anita! Do you see me in the grandstands cheering?
I do see you in the Grandstands. And I’ll be there for you shortly. Can’t wait to celebrate your finish!!!
Great post! I really like the comparison between words and music. Music is full of words, and words, rests, and dance. Your post reminded me of a poem by Rainer Maria Rilke. Thank you.
I Am the Rest between Two Notes
My life is not this steeply sloping hour,
in which you see me hurrying.
Much stands behind me: I stand before it like a tree:
But I am only one of many mouths
and at that, the one that will be still the soonest.
I am the rest between two notes,
which are somehow always in discord
because death’s note wants to climb over –
but in the dark interval, reconciled,
They stay here trembling.
And the song goes on, beautiful.
Rilke