On your mark...Get set...

On your mark…Get set…

As the starting gun is poised to begin a new year I’d like to remind each of you that this race is meant to be run as a marathon…not a sprint.

For those of you entering your first year, be careful not to exude all your efforts in the first few weeks, or you’ll surely “crash and burn” sooner than expected. The year will be grueling, filled with unexpected twists and turns and HILLS…those blasted hills…but with each uphill battle there IS relief as the road flattens or even gives a brief respite as the elevation declines. Regroup, gather strength, take care of yourself physically and mentally, pace yourself accordingly, and enjoy the journey…learn…grow…there WILL be a new race next year, and you’ll be expected to do better as each year should prove to be a “Personal Best.”

For those of you entering this year with experience behind you, armed with a few secrets and self-confidence I urge you not to be complacent or caviler as you step up to the starting line. As you know, each year brings on new challenges, new unexpected potholes that can easily take the most experienced warrior down a path of despair. I have found that it’s the new experiences that can either excite us down our trail or wear us down. Ask any marathon runner; they’ll tell you running a marathon is just as much about your attitude and your mental conditioning as it is about your physical strength and endurance.

And for those entering your final marathon, your wisdom, courage, and stamina are to be celebrated. Many have started, but few have finished the entire circuit. I hope you consider modeling and coaching the less experienced, let them learn from your experiences, and perhaps you might be able to renew and learn from them as well.

To each and every one of you…enjoy your journey this year; set attainable goals and when you go out and exceed those goals take time to celebrate your accomplishments! If you fall and stumble…GET UP – KEEP MOVING FORWARD… there will be many on the sideline…myself included, cheering you on to the finish line…

…GO!

Be good to yourself…