Have you ever tried searching for the term 'Limit' on
Google? I see there are innumerable quotes which many renowned personalities
have stated on one's limits. What do these quotes convey? They all pretty much sing
to a single tune - 'never allow anyone to limit yourself'. Taking the advice, I
have decided to limit myself (instead of others) on things that are essential
to my existence.
There are limits in life for a reason. Staying within limits
have done wonders in life and at the same time one must remember, it is not
easy to define a certain limit. It is not something one can copy looking at
what others have achieved. A limit should be defined in life depending on one's
own lifestyle, surroundings we live, interests, profession, motivation, commitments,
getting out of comfort zone, the need to create new benchmarks and so on....
I do not believe in the adage - 'there are no limits'. From
my experience so far, as long as human life is limited (as death is certain),
how can one define 'limitless'. Instead, I would say, we can reach a new limit,
create a new benchmark, set a new time - all these are possible and within reach.
Limitless cannot be measured and hence wonder, how can I achieve that state!
Let me give you an example from my own life. It took me a
long time to admit about me not enjoying running long distances (10k and more).
Was I limiting myself? No, I have been running long distances for quite some
time and it doesn't quite give me the 'kick' I need at the end of it. Since
this realisation, I have started to enjoy my short bursts of running and now
confident of completing 5k at ease. Currently, happy with this arrangement, I
feel my body and mind are in tune with this new set up. And plus, all that's
needed is 30 minutes of my time, three to four days a week. That's 2 hours out
of 168 hours and I can gradually see the overall benefits devoting this little
fraction of time in a week.
Now that I have worked out (till the time I realise something
new) a schedule, not following this routine is my definition to limit myself. Having
many interests in life, committing myself to remain fit is just one of them - a
important one indeed. When I know I am good at other things (can improve and
learn more) or if I need to give attention to other aspects of life, why do
things which is devoid of enjoyment and waste my time on just one aspect? Fitness
is important and there is nothing extraordinary here - I have just repacked my
fitness schedule (lifestyle) to suit my personality. Let that be running or on
a clear day cycling or just walking or just doing some floor exercises, swim, play
a sport with friends, partner or kids etc. An idle mind is a devil's
workshop, what about an idle body?
Next time when you are encountering a situation where you do
not find any time - all you have to do is - get out of everyone's attention and
honestly ask yourself, if you want to do this. If the answer is yes, start
small, learn to enjoy, and climb up. Ensure you are not giving up other
commitments that are necessary and instead you are welcoming a value addition
in your life. That's how I look at it. If it is no, well........... I leave
that with you!
