Play Your Song

When I used to teach a math support class for struggling middle-school students, we would spend one day a week previewing concepts they would need to learn in the coming weeks or months in their regular education classes.

Because the data showed that students who were exposed to concepts early on were better able to master the skill later, it was a preferred strategy for those with an academic weakness.

It was challenging for all involved. It was difficult for me because there was little certainty that the students would actually learn. It was tough for students because they would experience frustration at being unable to easily grasp the concept.

I may never witness my students achieving success from this method of acceleration; and students, although likely to benefit from the teaching —‘cause that’s what the data showed; may never know how or why it worked.

When I think about this approach to learning in terms of starting or continuing an exercise regimen; I am aware that we are really no different than a struggling math student. As soon as we feel discomfort or are unable to experience success, we quit: If not right away then certainly after weeks of perceived failure.

I’ve witnessed some folks, while showing marked improvement that continue to need constant encouragement and motivation because of a lack of endurance and dedication. Isn’t feeling better incentive enough? It would seem that most of us are just hard wired to stay in our comfort zone, no matter how miserable it can feel.

A few months ago my column stressed the importance of having a positive attitude and having gratitude as a catalyst to attaining the body you want. Without contradiction, I still believe, practice and encourage this way of thinking.

I also wrote about the importance of cleaning your emotional house. If I were to merge these two “stay positive” but “get real” concepts —maybe we would be able to keep the smile and the positive attitude—but also deal with adversity head on.

Let’s face it, without these, seasons of sorrow, fear, pain or intense discomfort—change can’t take place. Times of discontentedness, if met with acceptance, will get you unstuck and are necessary in one’s quest for peace.

As my pastor so succinctly delivered in her message several months ago—if we were like a violin string in search of producing our intended life chord AND for it to be heard—we will have to be stretched; anchored on both ends by a foundation of faith on one end and love and compassion for your neighbor on the other.

When I imagine being pulled and anchored in this way it makes me squirm—a lot! But knowing that this struggle has the potential to produce beautiful music makes it all worth it.

The next time you are stretching for success and it causes you discomfort, don’t quit. In fact, lean into it, be like an instrument and experiment with the new sound. With this gentle push and exposure to new challenges —you can move to a place of deeper understanding of your potential.

As I explore new territory in my own journey, I must accept that change is scary but inevitable. These “column writing” years have brought me joy and have helped me to expand my awareness by sharing my experiences and knowledge in health and fitness.

I’m not sure what my next chord will be, but I do know it will sound just like me.

Thanks for reading.

Much love and gratitude,

Suzanne

For questions or comments email: suzannemcginnis@me.com.