Run to “YES”!

By Gail Lynne Goodwin.

One of the things that I love most about Sir Richard Branson is that he’s know for saying YES to most things. In fact, his board affectionately calls him Dr. Yes. But sometimes saying “Yes” isn’t easy, as it makes us step outside our comfort zone.

About a week ago I received an invitation from my daughter to run a half-marathon late this year. I am not, nor have I ever been a runner. I doubt that I could run a mile right now if I tried to. I’ll be 55 years old this October. I broke my leg skiing last season and my knee still isn’t happy. I can give you a long list of reasons why this is not a good idea for me.

However… I know that opportunity knocks on our door daily, and most of the time, we’re not listening. Today, I am.

My initial reaction was to say “No” and to explain why I couldn’t do this. As I was listing to myself explain all of the reasons why I couldn’t do this, I caught myself and started laughing. After all, this is what I teach to others!!!

I know that every mountain, no matter how high, always starts with the first step. I know that we have infinite potential to do whatever we put our mind to. And, I also know that I’m a little bit crazy… so, I said “YES”! Even though I have no idea how to run, or if I can… I still said “YES”.

Once the decision has been made, the rest… is just details. Richard Branson would be proud of me.

Making this commitment required me to step outside of my comfort zone- and that’s why I’m sharing it here. It’s easy to renege on this if nobody knows anything about it. It’s more difficult when thousands of people are holding me accountable.

So, I’m in the process of taking baby steps to make this a reality. In the past few days I ran/walked 3 miles twice. Baby steps. I’m tracking my progress through an awesome app for my iPhone called MapMyRun. (If you’re a walker/runner, check this out!)

Another reason I’m sharing this is to invite YOU to join me. I know what you’re thinking because I was there too, just a week ago when I was invited to do this. I know it’s a bit crazy for most of us. But THAT’S what makes this something we have to do.

I have a friend who says….”If you can’t do something, that’s why you must”. Tell him you can’t do something and he’ll explain to you why you must do that exact thing. And I get it. It makes sense.

When we step outside of our comfort zone to accomplish anything, it makes all the other possibilities hanging out in the “impossible” zone, just a little bit more possible.

So, YOU are cordially invited to join me. My first big race will be in mid September in Whitefish, Montana. Who is crazy enough to join me and get into the best shape in your life? If you can’t make it to Montana, that’s okay. Run where you are.

The important thing is to say “YES” to opportunity when it knocks, even if it seems a bit scary, and especially if it seems impossible.

I’ll keep you posted on the progress. Now, let’s go for a run!