Why Marathon of Learning?

Back in 2011 I started capturing stories from my life. Or simple observations. The idea being that I need to remember what I’m learning and track how I’m thinking.

That year I had read Mindset by Carol Dweck and realized I didn’t like how I thought on a lot of things, particularly struggles and failure. I needed a more growth oriented mindset. So, I started writing.

Why marathon? It’s proven to fit well as it’s now 2018 and I’m still learning. Learning isn’t a sprint. Not a 400 meter dash. It’s ongoing. It’s life long.

More recently I’m learning the value of knowing, sharing and writing your story. This is part of my story.

Thursday, April 19, 2012

Pull-Ups


I have a love/hate relationship with pull-ups.  When I can do them, I love them.  When I can't do them, I hate them. 

Two years ago I did the fitness test for P90x and did a staggering 2 pull-ups.  "Staggering", because that is what I felt like after I did them.  I'm not even sure they were a full 2 pull-ups.  Probably more like 2 pulls and 2 neck extensions that equaled about 3 inches total.  I hated pull-ups!

Tonight, I just got done doing 90+ pull-ups.  Not at one time, of course.  Many sets of 7-12 reps with about 1-2 minutes in between each set.  I didn't just try harder or want it more.  It took time and effort and discipline.  It was a process.  Not a perfect process, but a process none the less.  I didn't really commit to the pull-ups while doing P90x.  I always did the "cheating" pull-ups with a chair.  It was a process of doing P90x imperfectly, Insanity imperfectly, running imperfectly, dieting imperfectly and basic weight lifting imperfectly.  The process of fitness training overcame those imperfections.  I'm still far from perfect but I can now do as many as 14 pull-ups at one time.  7 times what I could do 2 years ago!  What if I hadn't started that process back then?  What if I had let the "hate" prevent me from trying and keeping at it? 

What could I do 7 times better in 2 years if I start the process now?  What could you do 7 times better in 2 years if you start the process now? 

In two years, what will I wish I had started 2 years ago?  Leading?  Scripture memorization?  Parenting?  Being a better husband/wife?  Some form of exercise?  How many books could I have read?

I'm pretty sure if I don't start the process now, I won't be any better off tomorrow, next week, next month or next year.  I'm not going to magically get smarter or more fit or become a better spouse (even though I know Kaylyn is praying for that miracle every day).  I may have some obstacles along the way, maybe even some setbacks but the process will ensure success over time.  It may take longer than I intend or hope but that success won't happen at all if I don't start now.     

Oh, and "I love pull-ups!"
 

               
      
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1 comment:

  1. AnonymousApril 19, 2012 at 9:31 AM

    I did P90X - Tony Horton became one of my best friends - and I never grew to love pull ups. Just tolerate. I do like push ups however. I do love however the little bar thing that goes over the door. Useful for so many things other than pull ups... band exercises, stretching, hanging clothes.

    Thanks for the word on learning. I would hope that I learn something new everyday.

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