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Me and my big mouth.

There is always a risk when you have a job that is both public in its nature and also predicated on language. As a writer, speaker, and blogger, I end up throwing lots and lots of words out into the universe.

And most of my words are about potentially challenging (and hopefully fruitful) personal acts of wellness and self-improvement. I encourage people to seek positive change. I want colleagues to be better to each other. I believe in setting (and keeping) strong and audacious personal goals. And I believe every word I speak.

But that means I need to live by them too. And that can be tough.

Today marks one of those moments. Last summer I got sucked into the world of triathlons. I did three of them last year and worked hard to get ready. I trained. I read books, magazines, and websites. I got up early to run, bike, and swim. I took very few days off. I ate right, slept enough. And I went into this summer thinking I’d do the same.

Alas, something has happened to me this summer and I haven’t gotten myself into the same mental and emotional space. My training has been spotty. I haven’t even signed up for a race. And despite all the advice I give to others about setting goals and sticking to them, I simply wasn’t living up to it in my own life. But I also tell people that sometimes it takes a little help from friends and family to get going. And today was that day.

I got a call two hours ago from my friend Matt, the same friend that got me into the tri world last year. Matt has done a full Ironman and recently qualified for the national championships for the half ironman distance. He’s a complete stud (and inspiration). That’s him in the above pic at my first race last year.

Prior to this morning, I thought my first race was going to be July 27th. But Matt called this morning and said, “Oh yeah! You ready to race THIS Saturday?!”

Gulp.

Matt, in his imitable way, had pulled some strings and got me signed up for this Saturday’s Life Time Fitness triathlon.

So instead of three weeks to whip myself into shape, I now have 5 days. I’m freaking out a little bit. Okay. Maybe a lot.

But at the same time, I’m grateful that I have a community of friends and family who push me to be better, offer opportunities to excel, and believe that I’m capable. So I guess, in a round-about sort of way, I am following my own advice today.

As for you, dear readers. You’re more than welcome today and everyday to send out emails or comments like, “So Nathan. Exercise today?” I can take the heat!

I’ll let you know how it goes.