Double or Quits? What would you do?

Here is a dilemma for you!

You have worked incredibly hard to get to a situation in your life, and things seem to be going well. Then, all of a sudden, you realise you are only half way to your goal, and that to reach your outcome will take twice as much effort as you have already put in!

What do you do? You are exhausted! Any energy you had left seemed to disappear as soon as you realised what else was expected of you.

In front of you appears a sign which says “Double or Quit”. As you look at the sign, you see people heading toward the exit, clearly taking the option to get out, with the thought of the extra effort clearly too much. Everything in your body is telling you that you have had enough, to join those others and get some well earned rest, and yet there is something about that word “Quit” which just doesn’t sit well with you!

I remember a quote that says most people are unsuccessful because they do not stay in the game long enough to win. They reach a point of challenge or plateau, where progress is not as quick as they would have liked, and they decide that the perceived effort outweighs the expected benefit. They simply quit, and then go and try something else for a bit.

I have made a commitment to stick, to choose the “Double” option! I know I will stay in the game long enough to make myself a success.

Today, this was in the physical realm. Somewhere on an equestrian park, I approached a fluorescent sign with the phrase “Double or Quit” emboldened upon it. Before I got to that point, I got a little disheartened with people passing me, only to see these same individuals taking the first possible opportunity to get out of the game.  It seems this happens a lot in life as well, doesn’t it?

Tempted as I was by the thought of a well earned rest, I knew I couldn’t do it to myself. I chose to take the double route, knowing that another five gruelling miles would have to be endured by my already fatigued legs. With the energy already drained, I had a feeling that this was going to be a tough second lap.

However, almost as soon as I had past the point of no return (at least in my mind) and had cut myself off from the option of quitting, I found myself invigorated and refreshed. It seemed as if simply deciding to stay in the game was enough to give me the energy to succeed. Oh yes, it was still going to be tough, but there was a refreshed spring in my stride which encouraged me to go on.

The second five miles mixed pleasure and pain. Whilst my senses were able to take in the incredible scenery and weather, my legs ran on autopilot attempting to get me round with the least possible distraction. There were a few moments which required my undivided attention, but for the main part I was able to enjoy the rest of my journey.

I was so glad at the eventual end of the race to have completed both laps, as it made the eventual victory (personal that is) so much sweeter. I also know that the journeys I am on in my life will require a lot more energy, and yet I am committed to staying in the game. I suggest you do the same.

1. Get in the game

2. Commit your energy

3. Stay in the game until you win!