Over the summer, I saw the cutest Youtube video. It's basically a kid saying that he believes in you and if you believe in yourself, you will know how to ride a bike.
I've spent a lot of time recently thinking about what the little boy in the video was saying. Believing in yourself can be a really hard thing to do, especially if you've already failed at whatever it is that you are trying to do. Trying new things can be pretty intimidating.
Right now I'm trying something new: cross country. I thought it was going to be the worst thing EVER, but it's actually pretty fun. Meets are stressful, but afterwards I always get this sense of accomplishment, especially if I've just gotten a good time.
There are definitely times that I wonder, "Why the heck am I doing this?" Well, it wasn't entirely my choice--my dad signed me up and told me later. I thought that I was going to die a slow, painful death. But I went running a lot over the summer, and when practice started I realized that it really wasn't that bad. Sure, it's tiring and it can get really hot sometimes, but in the end I have to admit that I'm in the best shape I've ever been in.
My only regret is that I didn't start cross country my freshman year. The truth is that before sophomore year, I was considering doing cross country. I just didn't think I would be able to--I didn't believe in myself. I was sure that I would be the slowest person and that I would be miserable.
The kid in the video starts off by saying "I feel happy of myself!" Well, after a good meet or even a good practice, I feel a bit "happy of myself." I'm happy that I did it. Happy I didn't give up. Happy I didn't quit, but instead gave cross country a chance.
Trying new things can end badly. But that doesn't always happen. It's better to try and have the possibility of failure, than to not do something and regret it. You just have to believe in yourself. If you think you're going to fail, chances are you will. Give something new a shot, and you might just surprise yourself by how fun or fulfilling it is.
This was so inspirational! And such a cute video. It's great to see/hear that you're enjoying cross country. I can't imagine myself doing it-- I'd want the friendships, not the running part-- but it gives me a little hope for my future that my once running buddy is making great strides.
ReplyDeleteI thought this was a really good post! Trying new things is a pretty difficult thing to do, until you actually get around to doing them. If you think about it, you have a new experience just about every day--it just depends on what you choose to try anew that determines whether you'll have a good or bad time of it. Oddly enough, I saw the youtube video before your post and thought it was amusing then, as it is now. I find it rather interesting that some of the most inspirational things in life come from those we think know the least.
ReplyDeleteI'm a sucker for positivity, I'll admit it. But this was wonderful! We need more of this kind of outlook in the world! Besides, your post was really well written and conversational. I can't wait to see more on your blog, and I'm glad that cross country is working out so well for you.
ReplyDeleteCross Country seems like a really scary sport to do. It's really awesome that you stepped up and ran even though you were unsure. I think if more people had this attitude, there would be a lot more involvement in all extracurricular activites and we would all be better, well-rounded people.
ReplyDeleteGood first post, Alana! I might expand a couple of things. Describe the video a bit more in the first paragraph – those of us who haven't seen it need a bit more context and a sense of the little kid's message. I'd also explain briefly why you thought Cross Country would be a mess. Give some background on your relationship with running (or whatever else accounts for your initial pessimism) when you mention this reaction. I like the way the post develops, and the way you bring it back around to the video and wrap up with a nice message.
ReplyDeleteSo I had to come back and comment again, because I just watched the video. (Good idea to link it, by the way). I love it. So cute. I will definitely show this to my little girl when we're teaching her to ride her bike, a process which we have just started.
ReplyDeleteI like how this post has such a positive and inspiring message, and the video is super cute.
ReplyDeleteHaving just started swim team this year, I can totally identify with what you're talking about. I was pretty worried beforehand, but like you, I only regret not having joined sooner.