“Whatever your ship and wherever your sea Keep hauling, keep hauling Whatever your storm or your rocks may be Keep hauling boys” – Fishermen’s Friends, Keep Hauling
When was the last time you did something hard? I am talking about something that really challenged you?
What aspects were challenging? Were you challenged, physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, or multiple levels? How would you go about describing what you felt during the process?
Introduction:
Life can be full of challenges that push us to our limits, demanding physical, mental, emotional, and even spiritual strength. These challenges often present us with opportunities for growth. They can enable us to discover hidden or forgotten capabilities, and reshape our self-perception. Recently, I embarked on a project that pushed me out of my comfort zone: rebuilding an entire deck. At the start of the project I did not know it would be the whole deck, replacing an initial eight deck boards morphed into a much larger project as previously hidden deck issues emerged.
As someone who isn’t particularly known for their handy skills, this project was a true test of patience, determination, and resilience. Over the course of six weeks, I experienced a rollercoaster of emotions, ranging from exhaustion and frustration to excitement and pride. Reflecting on this experience, I realized something I may have known for but have forgotten. Conquering a challenging task can yield numerous long-term benefits and contribute to personal development.
The Battle of the Boards:
Undertaking the project of rebuilding our deck required a significant mental investment. I had to overcome self-doubt and silence the inner voice that whispered, “You’re not capable of doing this.” Especially when I realized the project was far greater than anticipated. Initially, I felt overwhelmed by the size and complexity of the task. The lack of familiarity with construction techniques and tools fueled my doubts. However, as I dove deeper into how-to YouTube videos and got the first few boards in, my doubts started to subside. Each step forward bolstered my confidence and allowed me to tap into practical problem-solving skills laying dormant for years. Having a friend help one afternoon just set me up for success. We achieved more together in an afternoon than what I did the whole previous day.
Physical Demands:
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The physical aspect of the project was no less challenging. Lifting heavy boards, operating power tools, and working long hours under the scorching sun tested my endurance and stamina. There were moments when fatigue threatened to take over, but I persisted. I realized that physical challenges not only shape our bodies but also strengthen our character. The physical exertion required for the project reminded me of the value of perseverance and the satisfaction that comes from pushing through physical barriers. It has been many years since training for the nationals track meet, somehow the same feelings surfaced again and it felt great.
A Spiritual Journey:
Although not explicitly a spiritual endeavor, the process of rebuilding the deck also touched upon a spiritual level. I am not really one for meditation but the word allowed me to focus and be still in my head for what seemed like hours at times. Creating something tangible and enjoying morning coffee or an evening bbq on the deck is almost as good as going to church.
Emotional Rollercoaster:
Throughout the six-week journey, I experienced a range of emotions. There were moments of frustration when things didn’t go as planned, but also exhilarating breakthroughs when pieces fell into place. Finding the words to describe that feeling when the last board finally settled in place with a near perfect fit is a struggle. I say near perfect because the board needed some coaxing from a mallet and a few stomps but drilling it into place resulted in the lasting kind of emotional high. The process of overcoming obstacles and achieving deck area built evoked a sense of pride and self-assurance. Success is not only measured by the end result but also by the personal growth and emotional resilience cultivated along the way.
The Long-Term Benefits:
Engaging in challenging tasks and achieving success brings about a multitude of long-term benefits. Firstly, it expands our comfort zones and enhances our self-confidence. Accomplishing something that initially seemed insurmountable provides a lasting sense of empowerment and the belief that we can tackle future challenges with determination and resilience. Moreover, the skills acquired during the process of overcoming challenges can be transferred to other areas of life, enabling us to confront future obstacles with a fresh perspective and an enhanced toolkit.
Conclusion:
The journey of rebuilding our deck became much more than a mere construction project. It was a transformative experience that pushed me beyond my perceived limitations and revealed hidden depths of strength and resilience. This endeavor not only tested me mentally and physically but also allowed for moments of spiritual connection and emotional growth. The long-term benefits of embracing challenges and achieving success are undeniable. They foster personal development, enhance self-confidence, and provide valuable life lessons that can be applied to future endeavors.
As I reflect on this experience, I encourage you to seek out challenges that will stretch you in more than one way. Also, never forget about the value of community, without a friend helping I may never have made it past the first few boards.
If you liked this post you may also enjoy this TED talk from Angela Lee Duckworth about Grit.
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