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From Depression to Inspiration

Metamorphosis

I vividly remember the experience that transformed me from a state of depression to one of inspiration. As a 22 year old, struggling to find direction, feeling hopeless and worthless I casually began walking across a very busy 4 lane street in Chico, CA. Not necessarily wanting to be hit and killed by a car, but also not really caring if it happened either. Perhaps it would be my fate and perhaps not. All I really knew is that I felt like I was undoubtedly taking up oxygen without a purpose and that the world simply wouldn’t miss me.

Several days later, searching for something, anything to help me feel better I came across a book and more specifically two sentences that started the transformation. “People are not lazy. They simply have impotent goals - that is, goals that do not inspire them.” - Tony Robbins

After reading Unlimited Power by Tony Robbins I was on the hunt for a goal so massive that it would inspire me to take massive action. One day I stumbled upon IRONMAN on NBC Sports. I was instantly drawn in and decided my massive goal, my inspiration for going forward would one day do IRONMAN Hawaii. I didn’t even truly understand entirely what it was other than a swim, bike and run that ended with a grueling marathon through the lava fields of the Big Island of Hawaii. It seemed nearly impossible. A perfect way for me to test what Mr. Robbins was telling me in his book.

Fast forward about 7 months to July 31, 1993 crossing the finish line at my first IRONMAN known as Vineman in Santa Rosa, CA in 103 degree heat where I lost 15 pounds from dehydration I had completely shattered my beliefs about what I was capable of. Additionally in that moment I knew that my purpose in life would somehow involve inspiring others to live more fulfilled lives.

This realization sent me on a nearly 10 year journey towards opening my own running & triathlon specialty retail store which also unexpectedly led to coaching triathletes and runners.

Why this, why now, why me?

It’s very common for humans, myself included, to suffer from “imposter syndrome”. Why would anyone care what I have to say? The truth is, most people don’t, and that’s okay, but if what I have to say helps even just one person, then it’s worth it.

My goal through my writing is to share what I’ve learned through coaching athletes for the past 20 years so that I might help and reach more athletes in the future.

I’ll be sharing one new post each week on some aspect related to coaching endurance athletes. I would love to hear from you as well, your thoughts and questions.

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