READY : SET : GO - By Matt Grady
Apr 17, 2023
PLANNING
I just entered my first 60km Ultra Marathon, running 5 valleys in the Lake District in September. I have never run through the Lake District before, nor have I run 2500m of total elevation. Planning will be essential. I have dreamed about running such races. Achieving our goals can sometimes be a daunting task, and often, we get caught up in the planning and strategising phase, without ever taking the necessary action. The truth is, taking action is the only way to turn our dreams into reality. But before taking action, it's important to get clarity on our values.
VALUES
Knowing that challenge is one of my top 5 values keeps me aligned to this Ultra. One of my other top values is fitness. Values are the guiding principles that help us make decisions and navigate life's challenges. When we're clear on our values, we're better equipped to make decisions that align with our goals and aspirations. This clarity helps us stay focused and motivated, even when the going gets tough.
CONSISTENCY
There is no doubt that I will have to be consistent in my mindset, nutrition, training and recovery leading up to this race. Once we have clarity on our values, the next step is to take consistent and disciplined action. Consistency is essential when it comes to achieving our goals. It's not enough to take action sporadically or when we feel motivated. We must commit to taking action every day, even when we don't feel like it.
DISCIPLINE
I am certain that there will be days where I don't feel like putting in the miles. Discipline is therefore paramount when it comes to achieving stretch goals. Discipline means sticking to a plan, even when it's difficult or uncomfortable. It's about doing what we need to do, even when we don't want to do it. It requires a strong will and the ability to push through discomfort.
But why is consistency and discipline so important? The truth is, achieving our goals requires a lot of hard work and effort. It's easy to get sidetracked or distracted along the way. But when we're consistent and disciplined, we build momentum and create habits that will help us stay on track even when things get tough.
WHERE CAN YOU START TODAY
So, how do we develop consistency and discipline? The key is to start small and build from there. Set achievable goals and commit to taking action every day, even if it's just a small step in the right direction. Celebrate your progress along the way and stay focused on your values and the big picture.
Achieving your goals requires clarity on our values, consistency, and discipline. When you're clear on our values, you're better equipped to make decisions that align with your goals and aspirations. Consistency and discipline are essential to building momentum and creating habits that will help us stay on track. So, commit to taking action every day, even when it's difficult or uncomfortable, and stay focused on your values and the big picture. With persistence, resilience, and a focus on your goals, you can turn your dreams into reality.
Matt Grady running at The Roaches - Peak District, UK - 1'657 Feet or 505 Metre Peak
WHAT'S NEXT
We have recently launched our free 'High-Performance Wheel Test' where you are invited to complete it for free, and book a Clarity Call where we will share with you our process to clarify your values.
Written by:
MATT GRADY – COACHING DIRECTOR and MASTER COACH
JPDV – Mental Performance Coaching
