Wishful thinking is very evident with me. Optimism is also utilized by myself. It is good to have goals. It is also good to make those goals reachable and obtainable. I am not nor ever will be a professional cyclist, but it is a intense hobby/sport for the physical aspect, yet moreover the mental strength needed to persevere.
Motivation by others will help reach goals, but you’re truly put to the test in a solo ride. This morning, I awoke with the game plan of a big ride. I mapped out a route on Strava at 140 km. The forecast was not very cycling friendly, but was deemed a go when I was mostly ensured the rain was not supposed to drop until evening time. I suited up, a bit underdressed, and rodeOn. I skipped breakfast and only ate B12 and C vitamins (with water) prior to my ride attempt. It was super cold the first hour and then the sun peaked through and my whole entirety of outlook was given a new life. Sun, energy, life is a huge contributor to my motivation.
I quickly began feeling warmer and more confident and immediately fell into the (my) normal routine. The new wheels recently acquired helped boost confidence as well. I changed my route to better my safety away from busier roads and traffic. I absolutely love riding gravel and not so much road (smooth terrain). I believe I roll better without increasing the power and gravel is usually dead with traffic other than occasional dogs that chase you (me:).
The (head) wind was blowing from every direction. I take pride in my ride, I went faster than not. I rode road, gravel, dirt, mud, water (puddles), grass and crushed limestone on this Gran Fondo.
It is a challenge on Strava that I oftenly partake in. Usually, I involve a beer or two towards the end of any ride, but chose not to today. I had to keep my mind clear and spin fast. I rolled back into town and forced my willpower and brain through another 15 km to reach the goal of the 100 km mark. I have before influenced myself to go the distance with a beer as motivation. I did not today. I concentrated on my average speed with the little energy brain power that I still did obtain.
I reached my goal of the Strava Gran Fondo challenge with 100.6 km with just a help from our little star, the sun, providing our world with life since time. I just wish to convey through my horrible English and run-on sentences, that having optimism and wishful thinking can be sparked and ignited by the littlest of things like a ray of sunshine when you’re about to back down and give up.
I had a victory beer after the actual victory. I had some food involving ORGANIC AVOCADO. I love making food, I just need to make portions smaller. I’ve been breathing Minestrone soup for weeks:)
Think positive, stay smart, and hope y’all are enjoying the weekend.
VeggHead BeerCyclist 