Achieving a goal is often portrayed as a moment of pure triumph—a scene where the protagonist reaches the pinnacle, arms raised in victory, basking in the glory of their hard work. Yet, the reality is often much more complex. It takes time to fully understand the gravity of a goal reached, and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with it can be both unexpected and overwhelming.
The Journey to the Finish Line
One mile from the finish line of my first half marathon, I found myself unable to move. My legs felt like lead, and my spirit was equally heavy. I had to stop, walk, and cry. Yes, I walked the last mile of my first half marathon, tears streaming down my face, mingling with sweat, as onlookers cheered me on. Their smiles and encouragement felt like a world away from my internal turmoil. I couldn't explain why I was crying; I couldn't even look at the crowd.
Then came the moment I knew I had to jog in. Hearing my name over the loudspeaker brought another wave of tears. I hadn't known they would take pictures; I wasn't ready to capture this raw, emotional moment. After crossing the finish line, I sat in the grass, trying to collect myself. I was done for the day, both physically and emotionally. Celebrating was the last thing on my mind.
That night, I reflected on the wisdom I had gleaned from reading The Four Agreements, particularly the part about doing my best. I had done my best, and somewhere deep down, I was proud. But it took days to truly understand and appreciate the full process and journey—not just the race, but the months of preparation that led up to it.
The Reality of Reaching Goals
This experience is a powerful reminder that the path to achieving our goals rarely goes as smoothly as we hope. Sometimes, it feels like a failure, even when we've given our all. The emotional toll can be surprising and intense. The tears, the struggles, and the moments of doubt are all part of the process.
Recognizing that the race might end in tears doesn't diminish the accomplishment. Instead, it adds depth and authenticity to the achievement.
Wait Until the Tears Pass
Embrace the journey! It takes time to truly grasp how a performance felt, its aftereffects, and your next steps. Just like in business after a big launch, step back for a bit. Then return to the table to celebrate with a fresh perspective and a full understanding of the outcome. Reflect on how far you've come, the lessons you've learned, and the personal growth you've achieved. Remember, the real magic of reaching a goal lies in the journey, not just crossing the finish line! 🌟

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