Life is a collection of stories, each offering lessons, humor, and opportunities for growth. Whether it’s a child’s innocent question, a personal challenge, or a touching anecdote, every experience shapes who we are. Today, I want to share some of my favorite moments and the wisdom they’ve imparted.
The Courage to Start
“Mom, did you win the race?” my son Alex asked one day.
“No, sweetheart. I didn’t win the Boston Marathon,” I replied.
“So, you lost? Then, you’re a loser?” he said, innocently.
I smiled and admitted, “Yes, I’ve lost every marathon I’ve ever run. But I’ll keep trying because I love it.”
The lesson? Winning isn’t the point. Having the courage to start makes all the difference.
Belief Changes Everything
Eric LeGrand, a former Rutgers football player, suffered a life-altering spinal injury during a game. When I asked him about waking up to this new reality, his response was inspiring:
“I knew if I believed in myself, I could shatter expectations.”
Today, Eric continues to inspire as a business owner, advocate, and hall-of-fame inductee. His story
reminds us that belief is the first step to overcoming any challenge.
Be an Imposter (For Good)
As children, we embrace transformation—whether through Halloween costumes or imaginative play. What if we applied that same mindset in real life? Identify role models and start mimicking their successful behaviors. Many successful individuals prioritize health, relationships, and a growth mindset. Why not try it?
Control Your Time, Control Your Life
Jesse Itzler’s philosophy on time hit home when he said, “If you see your parents twice a year and they live another 10 years, you only have 20 more visits.” This perspective reshaped my relationship with time, emphasizing the importance of being present and
intentional. Are you piloting your life or letting it drift?
The Power of Perspective
Heather, a breast cancer survivor, taught me a powerful lesson. She told me, “I only have cancer on Fridays.” Fridays were her designated days for doctor appointments and emotional release. The rest of the week, she lived fully. Compartmentalizing challenges can help you reclaim your life.
Moments Matter More Than Minutes
Our lives are defined not by the minutes but by the moments we cherish: booking that trip,
reconnecting with a friend, or crossing a marathon finish line. Make moments a priority, and your life will reflect it.
Show Up—For Yourself and Others
In 2022, during a 100-mile race, I was ready to quit at mile 70. But my husband showed up, walking the last 30 miles with me through cold, rain, and darkness. His support reminded me of the importance of showing up—for others and ourselves.
Advice for a Meaningful Life
1. Start Before You’re Ready: Don’t wait for perfection to begin. Whether it’s a race, a new habit,
or a challenging project, take the first step.
2. Believe in Yourself: Surround yourself with people who uplift you, and don’t let fear or doubt
hold you back.
3. Imitate Greatness: Identify role models and adopt their best practices to fuel your growth.
4. Rethink Time: Treat it as the precious resource it is. Prioritize moments over minutes.
5. Compartmentalize Challenges: Don’t let hardships consume your entire life. Create space for
joy and resilience.
6. Celebrate the Journey: Remember, the courage to try is often more important than the
outcome.
By embracing these principles, we can transform everyday moments into powerful catalysts for growth and connection. So, what story will you write today?
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