This past week I decided to see how many push ups I could do in one hour and the answer (for now) is 1,323. Most people who’ve reached out to me have the same question (why?) and this blog is the simple set of answers. On the other side of the words below I hope that you find yourself even just a little bit more determined to do hard things in the pursuit of growth. If you’d like to watch the push up video recap, you can do so below.
___________________________________________________
Why Not?
If you asked my mom, she would tell you that I didn’t grow up as an adventurous person; I liked (and still like) routine and control. With that being said, I see how lack of adventure could lead to regret and I’ve been making an active effort to do things for the sake of doing them (as long as downside risk is low). For that reason, I decided to do the push up challenge because it was something that I would look back on and smile, so… why not? (that’s reason enough for me).
Add Value
In addition to a spirit of adventure, I chose to take on this challenge (and record it) because it has the potential to impact others in a positive manner. While that might sound far-fetched to some, it’ll hit close to home for others. On a personal level, I’ve been impacted in a profound way by people like Nick Bare and Christian Guzman who chose to share their lives through social media – I understand that simple content can meet people in certain places to spark significant change. I hope that these push ups can give someone else the push that they need to take their next step, big or small.
Struggle
The main reason that I pursued these push ups is the same reason that I quit my job; I wanted to find something that would put me up against the limits that live in my mind. This hour was a place where I could learn more about who I am and what I’m made of. I found that wall at minute 38 and I’m proud to share that I endured the pain and came out as a better version of me. There’s no strength to be found without struggle or as it’s been said (Emma Cruz): easier doesn’t make you stronger.
___________________________________________________
Listen – the path to self-improvement doesn’t involve push ups for everyone and that’s not what I’m encouraging you to do. However, the path to our potential (and fulfillment) requires struggle so what I’m challenging you to do is… something hard. When you’re done with this blog, think of the thing that scares you; the one that you’ve been avoiding. Then, consider how you might be better off if you ran toward that thing (instead of away from it). Now, here are some wise words to finish up….
“And once the storm is over, you won’t remember how you made it through, how you managed to survive. You won’t even be sure whether the storm is really over. But one thing is certain. When you come out of the storm, you won’t be the same person who walked in.”
Haruki Murakami
Do hard things.
Joe Rinaldi
IG: @joearinaldi
P.S. If you enjoy my content and want to support me while getting access to my exclusive email and audio newsletter, please click here. I appreciate your time, consideration and support so much!
P.P.S. If you enjoyed this blog, I’d love for you to subscribe below (one email per month).