You need to get out of your own way sometimes.
Read time: 3 minutes.
Welcome to my weekly newsletter – Where I use real stories from my life to unpack lessons and insights I have learnt. I hope you enjoy the material and gain something impactful to apply to your life.
What’s in store:
- How many countries can you name in Africa?
- How to win a brand new 4×4.
- 4 Life lessons you need to implement.
- Humility is an essential virtue that reminds us of our continuous capacity for growth.
- Consistency is your ticket to freedom.
- Quote: Press on. Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence…
The torrential rain cascaded relentlessly, drenching everything in its path as the clock struck 10 pm. Glancing at my watch, I realized I had been pushing myself to the limit for the last 2 kilometers; my body pushed to its redline. My pounding heart seemed determined to escape my chest. Yet, despite the intensity, I knew I couldn’t afford to slow down, not even for a single moment. I needed to keep running. My partner Kirsten McCann(an Olympic rower) followed on a mountain bike, trailed by an official in a golf cart, ensuring we did not cheat. Finally reaching the checkpoint, a map of Africa, outlining all the countries awaited. Armed with 20 country tags, we just needed to place them where we thought the country was, the task seemed simple until we faced the smaller nations, second-guessing ourselves. The rain intensified, the coveted 4×4 SUV prize slipping away. With two countries left, we struggled to get them right. Time was running out. The other teams had closed in on us.
I submitted an audacious ninja warrior-style obstacle course video a year earlier, believing I was perfect to be selected for the competition. But as weeks passed without a word, I faced both dejection and humility as I was not selected to compete.
Lesson #1 Humility is an essential virtue that reminds us of our continuous capacity for growth and the ever-present possibility of being humbled. No one should become too proud or believe they possess all knowledge, for they will swiftly be brought down. Life can swiftly transition from triumph to a position of vulnerability, where one finds themselves grasping for even the smallest glimmers of success. Embracing humility means acknowledging that we are perpetual students with countless lessons yet to be learned. There is always more to discover and understand, and it is in this recognition that true humility thrives.
A year had passed when I chanced upon a television advertisement for the Toyota Fortuner 4×4 challenge. Intrigued, I hurriedly went online, only to discover it was the final day to submit my entry video. Without hesitation, I made a bold decision: I would resubmit the video from the previous year. What did I have to lose?
A week later, my phone rang, and to my astonishment, I learned that I had made it to the shortlist of competitors vying for the coveted vehicle. Answering a few additional questions, I eagerly awaited their decision. Another week passed, and the phone call arrived, confirming that I had secured my place in the competition. Overwhelmed with excitement, I delved into comprehensive research, determined to expand my “luck surface area” (as previously explained in a newsletter), leaving no stone unturned in my quest for victory.
Lesson #2 Persistence is the key to unlocking success. When faced with rejection, remember to keep going, refusing to surrender or lose hope. Embrace the opportunity to rise, brush off the setbacks, and try again. And again. And again. You possess a unique set of skills and qualities, ones that others may not immediately recognise. It is your responsibility to make them aware. Don’t relent until they fully comprehend the value you bring to the table. Let your tenacity and unwavering belief shine through until they, too, acknowledge your worth.
The path was laden with countless challenges and fierce battles. We sprinted for vanishing beach flags, reminiscent of life-saving scenarios. We conquered the Knysna lagoon, manoeuvring kayaks with precision. Navigating through treacherous terrains, we relied on our trusty Fenix Garmin watches guiding us during the demanding trail runs. Equipped with determination, we scoured the surroundings for necessary tools, constructing rafts with GPS assistance to cross a daunting dam. In the midst of the chaos, we honed our focus and unleashed our shooting prowess in clay pigeon shooting. The competition pushed us to our limits, demanding every ounce of strength and skill. The intensity of the battle was palpable, and we gave it our all. They made us work for the grand prize – as expected.
Lesson #3 Consistency serves as the cornerstone of success. It’s not about achieving perfection or being right at every turn. Instead, it’s about relentlessly propelling yourself forward. Maintain the momentum, keeping your efforts alive and your determination unwavering. Embrace the concept of failing forward, for it is through failures that progress is made. Every step, no matter how small, accumulates over time, creating a profound impact and yielding remarkable results. Your ultimate goal is to attain those desired outcomes, and consistency is the vehicle that will take you there. Stay resolute, stay consistent, and witness the transformation that unfolds.
In the final challenge of the competition, the wind swirled fiercely as the pressure mounted. With only 9 shots remaining and the need to hit at least 6 clays, the fate of the coveted car hung in the balance. My closest rival, a remarkable athlete Michelle, stood poised to claim victory. Partnered with none other than Ganiel De Villiers, the celebrated Dakar rally driver and a force to be reckoned with, their alliance seemed unstoppable.
My hand trembled on the trigger as I summoned the courage and shouted, “pull”! The first shot missed its mark, leaving me with 8 shots and an uphill battle. But then, an extraordinary turn of events unfolded—I struck 4 consecutive clays, surpassing my own expectations. With just 4 shots remaining, I desperately needed 3 more clays to secure my triumph. Alas, I missed both attempts, leaving me with one final shot. The pressure was unbearable. I steadied myself and took aim, but to my dismay, I missed once again. Disappointment consumed me as I questioned whether I had just relinquished the entire competition. After all, in this battle, it was winner-takes-all, and second place merely received a token acknowledgment.
That night, at the gala dinner and awards ceremony, uncertainty lingered in the air as I anxiously awaited the results. Time seemed to stretch infinitely as I waited, contemplating the outcome. Finally, the moment arrived, and the dinner commenced, with the formalities swiftly carried out. And then, as if suspended in disbelief, my name was called. I was overcome with sheer astonishment. I had emerged as the victor. We had emerged as the champions.
Lesson #4 If you harbor a dream within you, seize every opportunity to transform it into reality. The thought of reaching the end of your life with a myriad of regrets, unfulfilled aspirations, and missed chances is truly disheartening. Avoid looking back and uttering the words, “If only I had given it a try.” Remember, it is always preferable to attempt and stumble than to never have tried at all. Sometimes, it may entail taking on additional work to meet financial obligations while you actively pursue your dreams. Don’t dismiss the possibility just because of present financial constraints. You never know what remarkable outcomes may unfold. Your attitude and mindset hold immeasurable power and can propel you further than you ever dared to imagine.
“Press on. Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent.” – Ray Kroc.
Please note all previous newsletters are up on my site should you have missed one or if you want to pass them on to friends who may enjoy the stories and lessons.
In your day, be courageous, confident, and curious.
Your Friend, Trev
