by Amy Throndsen, Waterbeds for Cows
I run, but I am not a runner. I work, but I am not an employee. I do yoga, but I am not a yogi. I punch a clock, but it does not have 8 hours. I bike, but I am not a biker. I move, and I follow my passion. I’ve been lucky to not suffer from injuries (knock on wood), and I’ve followed my heart for my “day job” around the world.
I’ve committed to move (a.k.a. run) 1,000 miles this year, and my professional passion is focused on developing the international market for my family’s agricultural business. I’ve got my hands full, but I try to remember these 3 things:
Set achievable goals.
Be intentional.
Allow forgiveness.
If you run regularly, doing the math on 1,000 miles in 365 days doesn’t seem like an unreasonable goal. And, it’s not. It’s committing to consistently run 4 miles 5 times a week for 52 weeks. When a goal is reasonable, it’s achievable. I’m slowly chipping away at my miles one day at a time, and after only 8 weeks it’s easier for me to get to 5 miles than I ever thought. I set professional goals that focus on building relationship, gaining an understanding of the markets and listening to the needs of dairy professionals, rather than solely focused on numbers of beds sold.
I guard my schedule. I’ve become better at politely declining invitations, which allows me to be present at the events I do attend. I’m mentally and physically less tired, because I’m not chasing cocktails down K Street or jet setting to meaningless meetings or conferences to fill up my schedule.
I make mistakes. I miss workouts, and I don’t always push myself as much as I should. I’m human. It happens, but just because it happens once or once a month doesn’t mean I should hang up my running shoes, lock up my bike or throw in the towel. With forgiveness comes a peace in knowing that trying is worth it. It’s worth the risk of failure, it’s worth the effort and it’s worth the pain. More often than not, there’s reason to celebrate.
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If she's not at a farm show talking to dairy professionals about waterbeds for cows or at a conference learning more about the dairy industry, you can bet Amy Throndsen is serving up a meal at her dining room table in downtown DC. Oh, and she probably just got back from a run and is sweaty. Her friends don't mind - they like her for her & she generally showers before going out in public.
Website: mythousandmileyear.com & waterbedsforcows.com | Twitter: @amyserves
