I just spent four days in Tucson, Arizona with a “circle of genius” that any triathlete would covet. Amidst a group of nine incredible, elite female triathletes, it is not surprising that I was refreshed with inspiration. This inspiration isn’t necessarily athletically related, but rather, life related, as it was enlightening to experience the dichotomy of differences between our shared passion and work ethic for the same sport and our unique talents and directions in life. Under the passionate and attentive coaching of Cliff English, we explored both the dessert foothills and the canyon peaks in our workouts, swimming outside at sunrise in the morning and doing TRX group conditioning in our limited spare time for some extra fun.
Most striking about this petite circle of triathlon genius was the unique passion for the sport that tied each athlete to one another in solidarity. And while we shared many talents, interests, personality traits, and mindsets, we all had very distinct paths of purpose, each coming alive through the sport of triathlon through different mediums and ways. Each path beautiful, each path different, yet each path remarkably marked by the same sport.
It was a beautiful reminder to never compare my path to someone else’s, no matter the similarities or over-lapping direction we might share. Like the million ways to take coffee, there are a million facets of the same general journey that can unfold. And like coffee, no matter how it is taken, will always be coffee, so too will the success of your personal journey be as long as you keep your eyes and heart set on what you know to be true for your purpose.
Surround yourself with people who you inspire you. Create a circle of genius around yourself to uplift you, to challenge you, and to motivate you. Be confident in yourself and the unique gifts you have been given. Most importantly, never squander the gifts and journey you have been given because someone else’s coffee cup looks better than yours. Trust in your path and give thanks for the rock solid people in your life who inspire you to be confidently you.
To the wonderful ladies that refreshed my spirit this week, thank you, and onward!