When I first started blogging about miles and things that happened or thoughts while riding, it was like when I first joined Myspace or Facebook; I wanted to accumulate as many "friends" or miles as possible and get more with each passing year. Since 2012 was the roller coaster year of all roller coaster years, I've dug deep and restructured my thinking.
While I managed to squeeze 224 miles in 2012, it's now the quality not the quantity that count. I've enjoyed every 1/10th mile I've ridden this year. Whether it's hammering out miles around town, or riding our MTB track int the back yard with the kids; I've enjoyed every bit (probably the latter the most).
I started thinking that this was a crappy year given the obstacles thrown at me (loss of job, custody battle, life) but I've decided to look at them as opportunities. Let me explain.
I lost my job of 7 years on April 13th. Yes, a Friday. Sure, it sucked. Looking back, what that event gave me was the opportunity to find a new job. One that didn't require me to be away from my family as much. It also gave me the opportunity to meet some really great people. My new job keeps me in Northern Arizona and I have met some of the best people. Losing my job also gave me the opportunity to reflect inward and figure out what is really important to me. I don't need or even want the latest electronic gadget, I want a healthy family, a productive garden, and a sustainable lifestyle. Going with a less is more theme.
This summer's "custody battle", while not fun, has actually opened up the communication between me and my ex-wife. I am grateful for that and that's all I'm going to say about it.
Ah, life. Interesting how things seem to work out. I have found that by putting my intentions "out there", things seem to work out. It's all in your mindset. You get what you give. If you think that a particular task is going to be impossible or hard, it will be. If you look at the same task as a challenge and find out what it is you're supposed to learn and enjoy learning it, it will be enjoyable. All too often, people seem to gravitate towards the negative side of things. It's easy to do. I find myself slipping in that direction too sometimes. But, if you project a positive outlook on things, life seems to be much more enjoyable. That's how I'm approaching this new year. I'm not going to beat myself up for not beating last year's mileage (although that wouldn't be hard to do), I'm going to embrace the year with enthusiasm and see what I can learn.
Perhaps you'll join me in this mindset, perhaps you won't. I'm OK with it either way. This is MY decision on how to move MY life forward. Don't get me wrong, I will ride, but I am going to focus on quality, not quantity. I look forward with great anticipation of what the new year will bring.
Happy New Year!
