Day 95: 22.0 miles/1:15
“The distance between insanity and genius is measured only by success.” ~ Bruce Feirstein
It is pretty exciting to realize how close I am to reaching my goal of 100 consecutive one-hour bike rides. When I look at where I was then compared to where I am today, it is amazing. I am also pleased to share that Brandon has had much to celebrate, as well. Progress is being made in many of the challenges in his life. I would like to believe that 100 Pedals created something for him, too. Not that I ever ask or pry – I have noticed that he continues to be engaged in my progress and, as a result, has created an awareness of his progress along the way. It is all pretty cool.
I love this quote because I remember what I said to myself as I pondered the situation I was in back in December – “I need to get off the insanity bus.” I was living and experiencing every up and down of Brandon’s problems to the extent that I had ceded all control and accountability for my life. As a result, my business, my health, and my relationships were all suffering. I was living the insane dream of believing I could help someone else manage their addiction for them. Until I realized that this dream was my own personal nightmare.
Here I am ninety-five days later on the verge of a pretty awesome accomplishment. I am in better health, better spirits, my business in one the verge of improvement, my relationships have significantly changed, I have discovered a much healthier perspective of faith and ego, and I just plain feel good. On top of that, my ability to share my story in this manner has inspired and touched others in very unique and special ways. I find incredible, unanticipated accomplishment in the community that exists around the 100 Pedals experience.
I would not call this venture “genius.” I would dare to say that the road from insanity to success requires a moment of personal brilliance and illumination. The transition from an existence that is painful, frustrating, depressing, or insane to a celebration of success occurs when you recognize in a moment of clarity and commitment that you can and will do something to change what is going on. And, in that moment you allow yourself to explore with unlimited, creative freedom what that change looks like. It may not be genius, but it is clearly brilliant to you and it is that perfect opportunity to break clear of the situation you find yourself stuck in.
Allow yourself to wander off and brainstorm those things you need to change or improve in your life. The patterns, the habits, the self-destructive or self-limiting behaviors are what have prevented you from being who you are meant to be. When you start to explore all the potential you have in your skills, your talents, your passion, and your purpose, you will discover there is a spark of genius inside of you that can take you to a new and exciting level of success. Go for it!
