I went to the pool last week and struck up a conversation with the woman next to me while we did water aerobics.
I asked her, “Are you excited that football is back this week?”
She shook her head, “No, I get tired of all the hype.“
I get it—cynicism is easy, especially with all the noise. Except I see football as an opportunity to look beyond the hype and find hope.
Instead of focusing on the endless ads and commentary, why not focus on the athletes who dedicate their lives to the game, overcoming obstacles to achieve their dreams?
Think of a player who battled back from a serious injury to return to the field stronger than ever. Or a rookie who, against all odds, made the roster and is now shining on the big stage.
I say let’s champion those IN THE ARENA, putting in their 10,000+ hours, enduring ups and downs, and risking it all for their dreams.
No matter what you’re pursuing in life, there are inspiring examples of dedication and perseverance all around us—reminding us that it’s never too late to step into the arena, take control, and strive to become the person we’re meant to be.
ACTION
Grab your journal and reflect on these questions:
Am I in the arena?
Where have I identified a goal, put in my 10k hours, persevered through ups & downs, put my dream on the line?
Have I become a critic on the sidelines?
Where am I striving valiantly to achieve, add value, make a difference?
Will I respect myself at the end of my life because I applied myself to worthy goals and did my best?
Or will I have regrets because I frittered away my time/talent instead of giving my all?
