I was driving home from work the other day and came across the above 0.0 runners bumper sticker. I though it was a good comical jab to those of of who have the 13.1 and 26.2 stickers.
This did get me thinking, while I find it funny some runners may not. Some may find it disrespectful, a way to dismiss their achievements, etc. I think such a reaction is silly but it does lead to the reality that not everyone will appreciate your accomplishments. Not everyone appreciates what I’ve done or what I plan to do. But whether others can appreciate my hard work or not cannot be my concern. My concern is knowing what I want to accomplish and setting out to do it.
In an era where everyone gives their opinions so freely and without regards to thinking it can be daunting to attempt, well, anything. If someone wants to pursue music others are there speaking about how hard or dumb the idea is. The same happens with languages, cultures, sports, art, etc. There is always a cynic around, and the more fringe the interest the greater the cynicism. This is an unfortunate reality.
In the end, though, it’s not about how much or little others encourage you, it’s about finding your passion(s) and pursuing them. Detractors will always exist. It’s at those times when they are the loudest and you want to smack them you need to be concerned about them the least. Rather, get laser focused and simply pursue your passions – moving on from the zero mile.
Attempt it. Chance it. Try it. Get to It!