Joyful Tenacity

Joyful Tenacity

One of my greatest passions in life is kids. They are so full of life and fearless, for me, it's hard not to be motivated by their energy. For the past four years, I've had the opportunity to coach kids at the club level for Cross Country and a couple of seasons of Track. With their ages ranging from 7 -1 4, I've seen many different maturity levels and personalities but they all seem to hold a desire to work hard and to work together.

At the beginning of practice, the kids show up eager to play and see their friends. They chit chat, goof off and tease each other through the dynamics and stretching sections of the workout. However, when it's time to run, the gloves come off! They are all business. The chit chat ends and the conversation becomes about “splits” or their fastest 5K time. They put every ounce of their heart and soul into each step. Their little faces turn red and sweat pours from them and soaks their clothes. They just push harder and harder.

When they toe the line at a meet, they bring a level of determination that it is tough to match at a Master’s race. They race like it is the first and last race they’ll ever participate in! A lot of times they cross the finish line exhausted, beat up and sometimes crumpled on the ground or bent over puking! They know they’ve executed everything they practiced; pace, technique, and strategy. They have given every last fiber of their being into that one race.

This is why I admire them; I’m motivated by their strength, their fearless attitudes and their dedication to the goal. I am continuously inspired and amazed by their excitement for living! Without even knowing it, they set the example of how we (adults) should be living life. We should meet life with the same fearless focus. Whatever our goal, occupation or passion is we need to apply the same determination that kids do. The odd thing is that we always hear “that adults need to set the example for their kids.” While I agree with this wholeheartedly, I tend to learn from their example more often. Whenever I train for a race or lace on a timing chip, I am reminded of the love and passion they have for racing and for life and it always reminds me to push harder and love it all at the same time!

The truth is I think we all have something to learn from kids. I think we can learn how to be joyful, fearless and tenacious. So the next time you’re in the presence of children, see what you can learn from their excitement and joy for life!

Share with me your inspiration for life or how a child has transformed your view on life! And of course, I’m always open to hear your feedback!

“Life is so much better when you live it!”

-Tara