Wavy lines

When we work hard, we want to progress. It seems natural that our progress should be linearly related to our work. Although that would be nice, it is rarely the case.

We’ve all heard the story about the stonecutter who strikes the rock 99 times with nothing happening. But on the 100th strike, the rock splits in two. The first 99 smashes, though seemingly ineffective, were weakening the rock, so the 100th strike could make an impact.

When we don’t see progress, it can be easy to think that we are getting nowhere. But if our work does not translate to immediately obvious results, that doesn’t mean that we should stop working.

As Deena Kastor shares “Progress is rarely a straight line. There are always bumps in the road, but you can make the choice to keep looking ahead.” 

In running and in life, our progression is often a wavy line with lots of bumps.

3 ways to consider wavy lines.

1. Focus on the inputs: By consistently putting in effort, our actions compound over time. If our effort levels remain consistently high, results tend to take care of themselves. Instead of getting discouraged, focus on delivering a high level of effort everyday.

2. External factors can ebb and flow: Sometimes we run into the wind, other times we run with the wind at our back. Sometimes we run up a hill, other times we run down a hill. It can be easy to focus on the external factors that make things harder for us. In reality, external factors both hurt and help us. Focusing internally can help us to continue to progress, even if our progress looks like a wavy line.

3. Expect bumps: Instead of expecting smoothness, understand that there will likely be bumps. Be ready for things to go sideways and continue moving forward. An expectation for bumps can help us to continue thinking clearly when we encounter them.

Thanks for reading. Let’s have a great week!