the sky is the limit

For the first time ever, I’ve been riding my bike in the winter. For those of you who don’t live in California, I suspect you’re wondering “what’s the big deal?” With running always in my #1 activity spot, no sport has ever been considered in the winter time. But our winter thus far has been dry and relatively mild. A few added layers and the sky is the limit (so long as you have the endurance to get you there).

Speaking of endurance, while mine is not what it was this time last year, my experience in pacing myself to push for longer distances than I am trained up for has come in handy — that is as long as my ego doesn’t get in the way. You see, when my ego starts comparing my speed or hill climbing abilities against other younger or more experienced cyclists, I wear down more quickly and feel unfit for any sport. You and I know that this is a total lie.

My goals right now, be it cycling, running, or yoga, are centered on fun, recreation, and building a solid base for a time when more aggressive goals are sought. I don’t want to suffer from pushing myself harder than I am physically capable and miss the beauty all around me. Similarly, I want to enjoy the community of athletes (runners, cyclists, and yogis) rather than be at odds (in competition) with them.

Although I do lose sight of these goals, from time to time, I am lucky to have a couple of great friends who will hear me out but then pull me from the wreckage of juls-self-bashing. It’s because of these wonderful friends, that I continue to get back out there and go for more and more. After all, the sky is the limit. It is beautiful and warm…and in time I will build the endurance to get me closer and closer to it.