When was the last time you took on a personal challenge? I’m not talking about those challenges enforced on you – the curveball of a serious illness, an unexpected redundancy, the sudden loss of someone close. I’m talking about a self directed challenge. Something which we are in control of achieving and yet takes us beyond our comfort zone. Something that might scare us a little or take us to places or distances unknown.
It doesn’t matter what sort of challenge. It could be physical: Couch to 5km or maybe a marathon. It could be learning something new, taking up a new hobby, going booze free for a period of time.
I think there’s just something so rewarding about focusing and pushing ourselves to make it happen. And for me a timeframe or a date to achieve it by helps.
This year, like many other years, I’ve set myself various challenges. Firstly to be more focused! (Which is a challenge in itself). Secondly, my 50 at 50 list, a mix of fun as well as challenging activities. And within that 50 at 50 list, I said I would walk the 50km (really 53km) Peak District Ultra Challenge. And I did it. I’m not gonna lie, it wasn’t easy. Before I’d even headed north there was the worry that my newly diagnosed hip issue (which incidentally doesn’t hurt when I move) would cause me gip. And then there were the peaks themselves, the many of them. And finally the under 12 hour goal. Not an easy feat.
But I was raising money for Menopause and Cancer. I walked alongside a group of amazing women and supported each other along the way
(There’s still time to sponsor me here!)
But What Are the Benefits of a Personal Challenge?
01
Gives Us Focus and Purpose
Having a goal to work toward creates structure, direction, and sometimes even a daily drive. It can really boost motivation – I particularly discovered this when training for the London Marathon. Not only was I focused on getting my runs in each week, I was more efficient at work and planned in my life so I could make time to run.
02
Boosts Confidence and Self-Belief
There is no better boost than completing a challenge, finishing something we set out to do. It gives us proof and evidence that whatever we set our mind to you can accomplish. It boosts confidence, self esteem and can lead to motivation for taking on other new challenges
03
Builds Mental Strength and Resilience
Not every challenge goes smoothly and sometimes there are obstacles or set backs – but overcoming these obstacles can strengthen our ability to handle stress, change, and uncertainty And overall build resilience. It helps us develop a growth mindset too.
04
Strengthens Brain and Creativity
Pushing beyond what we think we are capable of and out of our comfort zone boosts neuroplasticity and problem-solving, helping our brains stay sharp and imaginative as we age.
05
Lifts Happiness and Momentum
The sense of progress and achievement releases dopamine and positive energy, creating fulfilment and momentum for perhaps bigger life change or maybe another challenge….
Watch this space….who knows what’s next and I’m open to ideas.
