On your mark!
When a runner positions himself or herself at the starting line they know the distance of the race they are about to run. If they are running a sprint, their mind must be set to shoot out of the starting block as fast a they can and to maintain the fastest speed possible throughout the race. A long-distance runner, on the other hand, is not looking for the fastest start or their fastest pace possible, rather they measure their start and their pace based on a speed that they can maintain for the duration of the race. In either case, the runner’s confidence and poise at the starting line will be based on how well he or she prepared for the race. As we come to starting lines or starting points in our lives, our confidence and success will largely depend on our preparation. Training and preparation require discipline.
Get set!
When a runner in a race hears the announcer say, “Get set,” their body now braces and prepares to engage. Relaxed and tensed at the same time the runner now listens carefully and awaits his or her opportunity to demonstrate the results of their discipline and training. Just as the runners in a race, we have an opportunity every day to set ourselves to demonstrate the skills, talents, endurance, and required pace needed to complete a successful run each day.
Go!
When the starter gun goes off or the announcer says go, the adrenalin begins to flow, emotions must disengage, the mind must be determined, and the body must be summoned to give everything it has been trained to give. As they say, “it’s on and poppin now.” When we train and discipline ourselves for anything in life, we will be prepared whenever we take our mark at the starting line. When we set ourselves to be fully engaged in whatever we do, we will relax and brace ourselves to shine. If we are disciplined for success, each day we leave the starting line, we will not only take our mark, but we will be able to leave a mark to inspire others in their race.