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Overcoming Challenges: Lessons from a 620-Kilometer Cycling Journey

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When Was the Last Time You Took on a Challenge?

Have you ever faced a challenge—physical, mental, or emotional—that made you question whether you could complete it? Taking on the unknown can be daunting, but it often leads to the greatest personal growth.

A while back, I had the privilege of cycling with 150 Canadians from southern England to Vimy Ridge to raise money for Wounded Warriors. The journey covered 620 kilometers through picturesque countryside, with stops at key memorials honoring the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in World War I.

Preparing for the Challenge

When I committed to this ride, I had never cycled that far in six days. I had no idea how my body would handle the physical demands.

Step 1: Building Endurance

Preparation was key. I needed to ensure I could handle the daily distances required for the ride. At first, reaching 50 km felt manageable, but as I increased my rides to 70 and 80 km, the challenge became real. My back and neck grew tight, and let’s not even talk about the discomfort of sitting on a bike seat for three hours straight.

Despite these difficulties, my confidence grew. However, there was one day looming in the itinerary—a 140 km ride—and I wasn’t sure if I could complete it.

Facing the Toughest Day

When the big day arrived, I felt nervous. Could I really do this?

The first 50 km were smooth, with flat terrain and calm winds. But as we progressed, the landscape changed. We entered what cyclists call “rollers”—a series of hills that allow for exhilarating downhill speed but demand tough uphill climbs right after.

After hours of pushing myself, I hit a wall at 118 km. Looking ahead at yet another hill, I wasn’t sure I could continue.

The Power of Support and Resilience

Just then, one of our guides stopped and asked if I was okay. I explained my exhaustion, and she handed me some energy bars to refuel. After taking a few minutes to recover, I felt renewed strength and finished the ride.

Key Lessons from the Journey

This experience taught me valuable lessons about overcoming challenges, both in cycling and in life:

1. You Are Never Alone

There are always people willing to support you—you just have to be willing to ask. Whether in sales, business, or personal goals, seeking help is not a weakness but a strength.

2. The 40% Rule

The Navy SEALs have a saying: When you think you’re done, you still have 40% more to give. Success in sales, leadership, and personal growth often requires digging deep and pushing beyond perceived limits.

3. The Only Failure is Quitting

It doesn’t matter how long it takes to complete a challenge; what matters is that you don’t quit. Growth only happens when you step beyond your comfort zone and challenge what you thought was possible.

Final Thoughts

Taking on challenges—whether in sports, sales, or life—pushes us to our full potential. The road may be tough, but with preparation, resilience, and the right support, you can achieve more than you ever imagined.

So, what challenge will you take on next?

 

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