Energize the Ride!

Runner's World Half Marathon - 2016

I remember several years ago I got started into running. My first run was miserable… I chaffed, my legs were tired and I lost almost an hour of my life. When I was invited out with about 5 other people I had no idea what this was starting. For some reason, I kept going back out, then I downloaded the app RunKeeper because I wanted to see how fast I was running. This created 2 things for me. First, it posted to Facebook every time I finished a run, secondly it showed me how fast I was getting. The Facebook posting brought other runners to me that further encouraged me on my journey, the speed tracking incentivized me to get better, before I knew it, 3 months in I was looking at better shoes, clothing… It was during this time that I said I would not run a race, that just was not for me, until later that year when I decided to, you know, sign up for a half marathon the following year. What happened, what transitioned me for a non-runner, to a full-time runner 5-6 days a week for the next several years.

Positive energy, engagement and support from others. That was all it took. I never wanted to, never saw myself as a runner and really was quite comfortable just lifting some weights and running a short distance each morning. All that positivity and growth sucked me in and took me for a ride.

My ask, what are you embarking on right now that requires some positive energy? Changes at work, changes at home, or maybe just some life changes. Change is hard, but the right energy around you makes a world of difference.

Part of this also requires removal of negative energy. Those naysayers that tell you it can’t be done. There are plenty of those out there, no matter what you are trying to do. Just try to not to use a credit card and listen to how many people will come out against you or go to church on a day that most don’t. Regardless of what you are trying to do, there are always going to be those against you, but you have to learn to get rid of that noise or tune it out.

The goal of this book is about leading through change, the impact to you and to others. As a leader, we need to step up, provide the positive energy and the reasons we are going to win through this change, if we don’t, then we need to speak up to those above us and voice our concerns. My takeaway from the book, is either get on the bus or get off and what you can do if you are on, to stay on the bus, stay focused and bring others along on your journey.

What journey are you on and where you want to bring some people along for the ride. I got saved and started following Jesus Christ, almost 18 years ago, 2 years ago I started my financial independence journey, and with both of those I continue to bring positive energy and lead others to do the same. Why because this is my bus, God drives it, but it is mine. I believe 100% in the direction I am being led and believe 100% it can lead others in the right direction as well. If you don’t, then by all means you don’t have to get on my bus, but I’m happy to have you join the ride and will continue to tell others about it.

Invest in you, believe in you and get others around you that do the same.

Book Recommendation: The Energy Bus by Jon Gordon – Amazon Link