Finding the Edge

 Let's say you've decided to get in shape, and that your chosen method of exercise is running.

On day one, you set the following goal: "In one hour, I will run half a mile."

Let's be honest: This is barely a goal.  You could walk half a mile in an hour, even if you walk slowly.

So, what if the goal was to run a full mile in the hour?  How about in half an hour?  Or 15 minutes? 10 minutes? Five?

At some point, the goal becomes uncomfortable. This is the point you should be looking for; the goal is achievable, but it will take some effort.  Beyond that point, the goal becomes overwhelming and potentially unbearable, and you're done before you even begin.

As you set your goals for the day, for the week, and so on, look for that edge between "easily achievable" and "absurdly impossible".  Look for the edge where the goal can be reached, provided you put for the effort necessary to obtain it.  Then make it a habit of finding the edge, reaching the goal, and in doing so, moving the edge just slightly so that little by little, the goal that initially was absurd to even consider, becomes the next edge, the next obtainable goal.

Find your current edge, starting today.  And work to move the edge ever so slightly for tomorrow.

Make every day count.

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