Moderation
Moderation
To
many, total abstinence is easier than perfect
moderation. Saint Augustine
I must say, I agree with Augustine. Moderation is
hard.
I have got where I have in life by sustaining a
single focus, often over long periods, and often at
the expense of other, competing interests. It may not
surprise that I have been married more than once –
lost the same 20 kg over and over again. When the
focus on daily life is subsumed to the newest
obsession, life might fall by the wayside.
In 2012, I line up for my second Ironman race. The
race is 343 days away today, but already I am out the
door at 4.30 each morning to swim, bike, run and gym
my way to the start line. The focus, dedication and
hard work are essential – without them I may as well
withdraw my entry fee and sit on the couch. This time
though I will be kinder to my workmates, kinder to my
partner, and kinder to myself.
Somewhere, deep inside, I must find moderation, take
a broader outlook and keep the rest of my life on
track as I pursue my dream.
Moderate does not mean mediocre – it means excelling
in more than one area at once.
That is my aim for the rest of my life.
How do the rest of you cope with moderation?