Denver Broncos Show Hard is Just a Word

1:00:00 – 5.5 miles

If it’s not hard, then you’re doing it wrong.

I read this quote in a running book about 3 years ago and it still resonates with me today. What does it mean? Is it saying that I’m not working hard unless a bone is sticking out of my body? I’ve taken this quote with me to work and in running. Whether it be in how I approach a current job, look for another, teach my kids, learn something new, or approach a race. It applies in almost every facet of life.

In the business world, if money is pouring in and everything is going well, that generally means a rough bump is around the corner. What are you doing to prepare for it? As uncomfortable, or hard, that it may be, you need to have those conversations now. Just as it’s easiest to look for a job while you have one, it’s easier to plan for the future while nobody is pushing you under the water. Take your mind into the world of Hollywood and think of a solution in a world without restrictions.

For running, I have learned a lot about my body and the conversation it has with my mind. There was a time I thought completing a 10k (6.2 miles) was hard. Then I thought I would never make it past a half marathon. 8 marathons and a 50 mile ultramarathon later, I’m looking to redefine “hard.” People tell me the odds are against me all the time and that I create more challenges. For me, each challenge provides an opportunity to learn something. Some run from them while I run straight at them. I know I can’t control the universe, but just maybe I can understand it better and guide where I am going.

Below is a video of the Denver Broncos celebrating in the locker room after defeating the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first step of the playoffs. They weren’t spraying champagne, chugging beer, or talking smack … they were hugging and shaking each others hand. Congratulating each person on the team as they did it as one. While Tim Tebow is the one people talk about, he is the leader. A great leader is surrounded by great people.

“People said you couldn’t. People said you can’t. And you did. It took a lot of heart, a lot of guts, a lot of hard work, and you are to be commended.” – John Fox

Even when people tell you you’re crazy, that it’s impossible, or the odds are slim, put in the work and get it done.

 
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  • http://www.facebook.com/budandluciana Luciana Smith

    Right on Alex! We think things are hard until we push past them, then all of a sudden they were just part of the progress. Remember the first long runs? 16 & 18 milers seemed nearly impossible, but toward the end of the training they weren’t anything out of the ordinary.

  • LifeisaRun

    GREAT post, Alex!!! And yes, love ”
    If it’s not hard, then you’re doing it wrong.”  It’s true though some days you have to give what you have that day and sometimes it’s not as much as the day before or the next day, but you gotta do your best!