Challenges

Measurable challenges. We avoid them, because they inherently magnify the possibility of failure. Either we complete the challenge (the test, the race, the certification) or we don’t.

The best measurable challenges are the public ones. We can’t avoid these, we can’t half-ass them (or we more likely won’t.) Others are watching.

Kelly ran a half marathon a little over a week ago. She trained with my sister, she told tons of people that she was running it. And she did it. She dominated 13.1 miles — after never having run that far before. Others were watching. (Literally, in fact.).

The possibility of failure makes it real. Makes it something worth doing. Sure, it’s easier to be safe. But these risks make us grow, make us better, and ultimately (I would argue) make life worth living.

What’s your challenge?