During our current times I felt it appropriate to share an older blog post about the time I pushed myself to try a new challenge. I hope this post can offer an opportunity of reflection when facing hard times, that we are capable of overcoming challenges and can excel at anything we put our minds to.

 

We are at that time between holidays when the mind starts to turn a bit reflective, thinking of connections with family and friends, the status of projects we’ve been working on and starting to take stock of what we accomplished in 2017.

So, I thought it would be a good time to get you thinking about what is next and to challenge you to…do your own Ironman. It doesn’t have to be an actual Ironman triathlon race, which I felt the need to do last year. For me, that was the lofty goal that meant a lot. For you, it might be something completely different. But, we are all capable of so much more than we realize. And we only get one shot at this life, so why not “go for it?” I’ve been thinking a lot about the importance of setting goals, even very difficult ones that might not be met, in order to drive meaningful growth and stimulate true authentic expression of what MATTERS to you. The way to really find your true authentic self, is to do what you feel drawn to, even if it’s scary. Even if you might fail. You’ll grow and learn no matter the outcome.

So, check out this very unprofessional video of my 50th birthday challenge to myself, and think about – before you start making those 2018 resolutions – what will your Ironman be?

We choose to go to the Moon! We choose to go to the Moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard; because that goal will serve to organize and measure the best of our energies and skills, because that challenge is one that we are willing to accept, one we are unwilling to postpone, and one we intend to win.” —John F. Kennedy in his “Moon Speech” at Rice University, Sept 12, 1962

Wondering what others areas of your health could use your attention? Consider taking my Optimal Men’s Health quiz. It’s designed to help you determine your next best step to getting healthier and closer to winning.
Myles Spar, MD, MPH is board-certified in Internal Medicine and in Integrative Medicine. As a clinician, teacher and researcher on faculty of two major medical centers, he has led the charge for a more proactive, holistic and personalized approach to care that focuses on cutting edge technology and preventative care. Dr. Spar has traveled with the NBA, presented a TEDx Talk, appeared on Dr. Oz, and been featured in publications such as the Men’s Journal and the Los Angeles Times.