There Are Levels to This Game of Life

What really stops us from going after the things we want? It’s not just fear…      It’s our ego.

A few weeks ago, I shared about completing the Spartan DEKA event. Recently, I leveled up again by taking on the Spartan Super in Big Bear, California:

·       A grueling 10K

·       25 brutal obstacles

·       All set on the steep slopes of Snow Summit Ski Resort

It’s tough enough to push yourself through the obstacles of mud, walls, and barbed wire. But add a mountain, altitude, and exhaustion, and it becomes a whole new beast. As I stood at the starting line, I looked around, the crowd was packed with fit, fierce athletes who looked ready to sprint up the mountain like gazelles. For a moment, I felt it: intimidation.

Then I noticed something else…  I was in better shape than some people there and they were probably looking at me, thinking the same thing.

That’s when it hit me: THERE ARE LEVELS TO THIS!!!

Everyone is at a different Level, and we are all at different points on our journey. At different levels. On different challenges.

Whether it’s a Spartan race, a marathon, a local 5K, or just starting something new, you’ll find people at all levels:
✔ Some are advanced.
✔ Some are beginners.
✔ Everyone is struggling with something.

And here’s the most beautiful part: At these events, people cheer for each other, help each other, and push each other because we’re all here to test our own personal limits.

Your ego wants to keep you small, keeping you from even starting! Your ego plants seeds to make you afraid to look slow. Afraid to look weak. Afraid to look like a beginner.

But here’s the truth… Everyone who’s ahead of you was once where you are now. The only way to level up is to show up again, and again, and again.

— This Week’s Challenge to YOU —

Do the thing you’ve been avoiding.

• Go to the gym.

• Sign up for that 5K.

• Hit the open mic.

• Try karaoke.

• Write that poem.

• Start that side project.

Whatever it is — drop the ego. Be proud of your level. And know you’re not alone on the path.

Final Reminder: Your ego wants you to stay small. Your soul wants you to GROW.

So… What are you going to choose this week?