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Motivation

By BrandonST on 1/11/2008 on BrandonST's blog

I think I need some help. I've been through a rough patch with work lately, and finally getting back into a happy place. With all the crap that went on though, I lost all motivation. I was seriously depressed. The sad part was, that when I forced myself out for a ride, I felt worlds away, and all the worry and stress melted away. The catch 22 of the matter was, that most of the time, I was too down and couldn't motivate myself to get out there.

There is a surreal sense of happiness and disconnet in doing something you truly love. Getting out in the open air, narrowly avoiding trees, adrenaline pumping, pedaling away the worry and doubt of your "other" life.

The questions I have for all of you is: 1. Why, if I know the feeling I get when riding, don't I get out there more often? 2. How does everyone else stay motivated and determined enough to get out there when the wife, kids, work, family, dog, bills, sleep, etc. all demand some of your time?

I think the spring will be a new time for me. I recently moved within riding distance to one of my favourite XC trails, I have a new job that I love, and a new bike that I've only used a handful of times. Things are looking good, just have to get out there and grab them by the proverbial balls.

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3 comments

rcwindell says:

You sound a lot like me.
I used riding last fall as a stress relief as well. One of the reasons I rode was to help cope with my brothers death in August. When were kids growing up, the family bike rides were always one of his happiest memories.

My wife actually helped me stay motivated to ride and helped make time for me to ride. She saw the positive benefits of me riding and encouraged me to continue. Talk with your wife, she may be as accommodating.

Having a couple different buddies to ride with helps as well. Usually one of them was motived to ride and would prod me to go if I needed it.

BrandonST says:

<em>BrandonST</em>'s picture

That's great RC, I will definitely talk to my wife about how riding helps me out. Glad the bike rides help you with your loss, I could only imagine how tough that would be to lose a brother. It's amazing how something that reminds you of someone can at the same time help out with getting over their loss. I'm the same way with fishing, and dealing with the loss of my father 11 years ago.

As for buddies, I hope to find some riding partners. I just moved to a new city, and the friends I have even close by are not quite into riding. I'm sure the summer will bring some riding companions.

If I get over this cold, I may head out this weekend for a ride in the snow. Actually, we lost most of it, so I may be okay!

epicmike says:

<em>epicmike</em>'s picture

Just keep on pedaling! Just take things one at a time. I know things can get stressful...

- Graduated from college in May
- Got married in May
- Moved from Delaware to Oklahoma in May
- Started a brand new job in May
- Loans are kicking in (way, way, way too much)
- Cars are breaking down

But you don't gain anything from worrying! It will work out if you just take things calmly and think them through. Really, don't worry, because what can be gained from worrying?!

It's like paying on a debt that may never come.

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