Start with "Where", not "Why"

Ultra marathons transport us to profound realms within ourselves, inaccessible amidst the comforts of our everyday existence. The challenges of these endeavors push us beyond our physical and psychological boundaries, unlocking doors within our souls that often remain closed in ordinary circumstances.

Following my participation at UTMB in September 2023 and a relocation to The Bahamas, I seized the opportunity to embark on a 100km Ultra between Colorado and Utah. This arduous journey, lasting over 17 hours amidst the relentless heat of the desert and rugged canyons, reinforced my belief that prioritizing "Where" over "why" is paramount.

I have long believed in the importance of starting with “why” as a result of the many business books and other self-improvement material we are exposed to at some point or another in our careers. Today, I am convinced it is the wrong starting point. This statement would merit a much longer explanation, but I will try to summarize it here.

Humans are inherently aiming creatures. Having a target gives structure and direction to our lives. That direction paves the way to a destination, a big hairy audacious goal. It becomes the true north, the guiding star, the city that shines on the top of the mountain. It is our judge, representing an ideal and aspirational state of being. Without a goal, you can’t score.

This destination or goal needs to be one that deeply resonates within us; it should give us goosebumps. It is an objective that infuses powerful enthusiasm within us. Few may realize that "enthusiasm" originates from the Greek word “Entheos”, translating to “The God within”. As we embark on our journey towards this ultimate objective, it transforms into a quasi-religious endeavour, akin to a sacred pilgrimage. And as with any journey, pilgrimage, or adventure, a clear direction or guiding star is indispensable.

As we ascend toward the towering summit, scaling the peaks of effort and embracing self-initiated challenges, we embark on a journey of self-discovery. It is through this arduous path, guided by a clear destination, that we unearth our purpose, our raison d'être. Contrary to common belief, the question of "why" is often too abstract and convoluted to provide meaningful direction. Instead, start with "where" – identify what truly ignites your passion and sends shivers down your spine. As you press forward, conquering obstacles along the way, your body releases dopamine, the ancient reward chemical deeply ingrained in our species' survival instincts. Throughout human evolution, those driven by goals, whether to secure sustenance, build shelter, or foster social connections, were more likely to thrive and propagate their genes. Thus, goal-setting emerges as a pivotal starting point in our quest for fulfilment and achievement.

The journey ahead will undoubtedly be fraught with challenges and obstacles, often forcing you to confront your deepest fears – akin to facing the mythical dragon guarding the entrance to the coveted treasure-filled cave. It is this hero's journey, mirrored in countless tales, that resonates with us deeply, representing the embodiment of our aspirational selves. Yet, it's crucial to recognize that what we yearn for most frequently lies beyond our greatest fears. The self-initiated challenges encountered on our path towards our goals serve as catalysts for growth, transforming us on multiple levels – mentally, spiritually, and even physiologically. Research indicates that these challenges prompt our genes to encode new proteins, fostering the creation of novel neural networks within our brains. Thus, with each hurdle overcome, we undergo a profound metamorphosis.

My Ultra running journey serves as a poignant metaphor for life itself, offering me profound insights and opportunities for introspection. Through these pilgrimages, I've delved into deep, fundamental questions that not only contribute to my personal growth but also equip me with invaluable wisdom to aid others on their own journeys towards self-improvement.

Instead of dwelling on the question of why you're pursuing something, set your sights on the lofty goal that stirs your passions and curiosity. As you journey towards this aspiration, you'll uncover the intricate layers of motivation that fuel your enthusiasm. Prepare to be surprised by the depth and complexity of your reasons. Ultimately, our life's path revolves around four essential elements: Devotion (the destination: “Where”), Dedication (the purpose: “Why”), Discipline (the actions: “What”), and Determination (the strategies: “How”). Embrace this journey wholeheartedly, for in its unfolding, you craft your own myth.

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