When I wondered if I was worthy of a quest, it make me think of a story and a quest I’ve been on for 15 years (and counting)…
On December, 6, 1999, my second daughter Bethany was born. A week later, I went to the doctor and got on the scale; I had gained 40 pounds since the start of the Spring, when my ex-wife found out she was pregnant with Bethany. 40 FRIGGIN’ POUNDS!!! Mr. Workout King (in his early/mid 30’s) was now Mr. Fat Tire!
During the Christmas break, I read the book, “The Aerobics Program for Total Well Being” by Kenneth Cooper (1982). In the book, he outlines a point system to keep track of workouts, similar to what weight watchers offers its participants. So, on Sunday, January 2, 2000, to start the new year and the new century, I decided to set a yearly goal of 800 miles running (includes running, walking, Stairmaster, Elliptical, and step-up exercises) and 2,400 miles cycling (indoor, outdoor, stationary, and Schwinn Air-Dyne). The first week was hard; although he recommended 60 points for people in good shape, I let my ego control me and decided to aim for more. I felt dead to the world that week, but managed to hit 167 points by doing 20 miles running and 27 miles biking. And for the rest of the year, I documented every workout I completed each day. Finished the first year doing 1,000 miles running and 2,500 miles biking.
In December 2014, I completed my 15th year on Dr. Cooper’s point system! My target every year has been 1,000 miles running and 2,500 miles biking – and for the most part, I’ve achieved close to the running and biking goal every year but one – in 2001 I could only do 1/2 of the running goal due to a severely sprained ankle. I’ve kept track of EVERY workout I’ve done since that first workout on January 2, 2000 – and plan to continue for the next _____ years. So, if you ever want to know what gets me out of bed in the morning, first and foremost is my workout quest!
The best part of documenting this experience? I’ve been able to document places I’ve traveled for conferences, trainings, etc., races and charity/sporting events I’ve completed, and times I’ve spent visiting my daughters and my wife Rebecca. Just having the opportunity to relive these experiences makes life that much more enjoyable. Now, I understand better the “Happiness of Pursuit.”
I also know that I am ready to take on this next quest – to train 1,000 people to become Purpose and Vision Navigators – and that I have the ability, drive, motivation, and determination to fulfill that quest! Besides, it’s all about the journey, right?
The Dream Dean 