Longevity

As I am increasing in age and still wanting to perform at a high leveling, I realize I need to be intentional. Some people go out fast and fade, others take time to develop, while some stay strong throughout their life. I want to continue to grow regardless of my age.

While reading a biography on Albert Einstein, the author discussed the failings of great scientists who excelled in their 20s only to fade when they reached their 30s.  It was hypothesized that they no longer questioned authority and the status quo.  They became the authority and succumbed to the pressure of defending their positions & discoveries.  Einstein was no different. He became fixated on the notion that there must be order in the world.

I hope that I have the fortitude to periodically step back and question my beliefs and chosen path.  I hope that I continue to be optimistic and believe in a better tomorrow.  In order to achieve this path of perpetual growth, I know I must set aside time each week, each year, and be realistic with my schedule. Below are a few tips I've learned from athletes I admire.

Olympic runner Bernard Lagat, at age 39, just set a new US national record and a personal best in the 2,000 meters. He attributes his longevity and success to taking Sundays off and resting for 5 weeks at the end of the season.  He says it helps him refresh his body and mind.  Particularly now that he has a wife and two children.

Triathlon coach Gordo Byrn summarized his advice for success in the Ironman by "Gain control of, and simplify, your schedule." He suggests creating a simple routine you can complete each week that fits YOUR reality. "Qualifying for Kona is a huge investment in both time and emotional resources. Make sure it is fun and that you routinely schedule time for Joy."  Gordo says, "I meet too many athletes who think a result will bring them happiness. If the process is a burden then consider if your time is better spent elsewhere... Focus on removing mistakes rather than constantly adding stress."

Running legend and coach of Olympic Gold and Silver medalists Mo Farah and Galen Rupp, Alberto Salazar, has his athletes take 2 weeks completely off twice a year.  He also prohibits them from running on hard surfaces such as concrete or blacktop that inflict lots of muscle damage.

Each athlete seems to be intentional with their time and resources.  I like what Gordo says about being realistic and having fun, while focusing on eliminating the unnecessary instead of constantly adding things.  I've done that before and I run out of time.  I'm forced to cut corners that I wouldn't necessarily chose. Therefore chose at the beginning what is important and what is optional.  Currently, I create weekly goals, but I'm realizing I need to incorporate more longer term goals such as 90 days, 1 year, or 5 years.  In regards to off days and breaks, growth is a byproduct of stress and adaptation.  If I'm constantly stressing my mind or body without an adaptation phase, I'm going to get burnt out or fatigued.  Most of the time, my focus is on doing.  Intentionally creating down time provides me the opportunity to think and reevaluate. Thereby allowing me to stay on my desired path.