The path

Thursday, February 20

We’re currently booking out team sessions for spring and fall. These focus on communication, leadership, mindset, culture, high performance and more. If your team needs to get better in any of these areas, shoot me a note. Sessions can be virtual or in-person.

The wind chill in Oklahoma on Tuesday afternoon was seven degrees below zero. It got even worse Wednesday—when I woke up, it was -15.

Naturally, I decided to go for a run.

I don’t run as much as I used to, but I make it a point to go when the weather is terrible. Snowing? Windy? Ice on the ground? Sub-zero temps? Sign me up.

Why? Because discomfort is a choice before it’s a reality.

I run in tough conditions because it builds both physical and mental toughness. It’s a way of voluntarily doing hard things—so that when life inevitably throws hard things at me, I’ve already trained for them.

And honestly? It wasn’t that bad. Two layers on the legs, three up top, a face cover, beanie, gloves—and by the time I finished, I was hot.

Growth belongs to those who learn to push through challenges. And when adversity hits, it’s too late to start preparing.

Midway through my quiet, empty neighborhood run, I turned a corner and saw another runner. As I passed, I waved and kept moving. Then I heard him behind me. “Mind if I join you? Figured if we’re both out here, might as well suffer together.”

So we ran the next few miles side by side—two strangers, doing hard things, training for life.

Ian is preparing for the OKC marathon and committed to running 200 miles this month. “This weather obviously doesn’t make that goal easier,” he said. “But it’s a short month so my opportunities are limited.”

He could’ve made excuses. Nobody would’ve judged him. Everyone would’ve understood. But he didn’t. Because he’s someone who lives his commitments—not his feelings, not his excuses.

We were the only two people out there. A reminder that the road to average is crowded, but the path to growth is often lonely. Until, one day, you find others on the journey. People who embrace progress. Who refuse to make excuses. Who keep moving forward. People who make you better.

So today, keep running. Keep doing hard things. Stay on the path.
​
Keep chopping wood. 🪵🪓

-Kevin

Seeking impartial news? Meet 1440.

Every day, 3.5 million readers turn to 1440 for their factual news. We sift through 100+ sources to bring you a complete summary of politics, global events, business, and culture, all in a brief 5-minute email. Enjoy an impartial news experience.

Join for free today!