The author racing Silver Rush, the 50 mile run in 2018.

In two months I’ll be lining up for a sixth time at the Leadville Marathon and the beginning of my sixth attempt at Leadman (aka Lead Challenge). This five race series has been at the forefront of my mind for almost nine years. It includes the marathon, a week later a fifty-mile run, a month later a hundred mile mountain bike a 10K run the next day and a hundred mile run the following week. All at over 10000’ to 12000’ in the mountains of Colorado.

I’ve been to the finish line of each race only missing the cutoff of the hundred mile mountain bike race by fifteen minutes. I’ve never been to the finish line of all the races under the cut-offs in the same season and as such never earned the title ‘Leadman.’

To say I’ve been tenacious would be an understatement. This is tenacity in pursuit. You have a dream, a goal, aspiration and you keep striving. Keep moving forward in spite of the set-backs.

In the vast tapestry of human endeavors, few traits stand as resolute pillars of success as tenacity. It’s the fuel that propels athletes forward when faced with adversity, the unwavering determination that transforms challenges into stepping stones, and the relentless pursuit of excellence even in the face of uncertainty. In this exploration, we delve into the essence of tenacity and unravel its significance in the pursuit of our goals.

Tenacity

At its core, tenacity embodies the refusal to surrender in the face of obstacles. It's the quality that separates those who merely dream from those who dare to act. Tenacity isn’t just about persistence; it’s about resilience, adaptability, and an unyielding commitment to one's aspirations.

Embracing Challenges

The path to success is rarely linear; it’s fraught with setbacks, failures, and moments of doubt. Lord knows Leadman been that in so many ways. Yet, it’s precisely in these challenging times that tenacity shines brightest. Instead of viewing obstacles as insurmountable roadblocks, tenacious individuals see them as opportunities for growth and learning. They understand that setbacks are not indicators of failure but rather crucial milestones on the journey to success.

The author racing the Leadville 100 MTB in 2018.

Cultivating a Growth Mindset

Central to the tenacious spirit is the cultivation of a growth mindset. Rather than being hindered by limitations, those with a growth mindset see them as temporary barriers that can be overcome through effort and perseverance. They embrace challenges with an attitude of curiosity and resilience, constantly seeking to expand their capabilities and push the boundaries of what’s possible.

Learning from Failure

Failure is an inevitable companion on the road to success, but for the tenacious, it’s not a deterrent—it’s a teacher. Instead of dwelling on their mistakes, they extract valuable lessons from each setback, using them to refine their approach and move forward with renewed determination. Every failure becomes a stepping stone, propelling them closer to their goals with greater insight and resilience.

Nurturing Grit

Grit, the unwavering passion and perseverance in the pursuit of long-term goals, is the heartbeat of tenacity. It’s the relentless drive that keeps us going when the journey becomes arduous and the destination seems distant. Nurturing grit requires discipline, self-belief, and a steadfast commitment to one’s vision, even when the odds are stacked against us.

Celebrating Progress

The author sips some broth at Hope Pass Aid station on the way back to Leadville for a hundred mile finish.

Amidst the trials and tribulations of the pursuit, it’s essential to celebrate every milestone, no matter how small. Each step forward is a testament to our tenacity and dedication, reminding us of how far we’ve come and fueling our resolve to keep pushing forward. By acknowledging our progress, we reinforce our commitment to our goals and inspire ourselves to continue the journey with renewed vigor.