Music

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My avenue for physical fitness is riding a road bike. As a 61-year-old guy, I take pride in the fact that I can complete a 30-mile trek at a fairly robust pace. So, I took this pride to a recent appointment with my cardiologist and a stress test. To my disappointment, after 12 minutes at a run and steep incline on a treadmill, I found myself telling the nurse that I was finished. Although the nurse announced that I did well, my ego was telling me that I should have been able to complete 30 minutes, with a smile! I left a disappointed man.

My problem is that I only exercise by riding my bike. I don’t lift weights or run. Guess what, these exercises demand different muscles. It appears that my bike riding, although valuable, was holding me back from realizing the full benefits of a well-rounded exercise regimen. Lesson learned.

We all get caught up in our routines. The question is, does our routines impede our personal growth, whether it be physically, emotionally, or intellectually? I have always worked on my vocation of economic development. Although I am proud of my accomplishments and skills, there has always been this nagging feeling that I needed other pursuits to be a more rounded person. For example, I’ve always loved listening to music, especially good guitar playing. Yes, frequently I envision myself on stage fronting a band with a screaming audience of adoring fans. Reality check; I have virtually no musical talent.

In late 2013, I made a decision to pursue learning to play the guitar. The past 2-plus years have been difficult largely because I made the decision not only to learn to play guitar but to also learn music theory. It has been a struggle, but I am committed to pursue this dream and to learn a fundamentally different skill and knowledge base. I’m walking a new path, and establishing new neuro connections long abandoned. It may be a difficult journey but I am a more rounded man as a result.

We all need to wander outside our comfort zones and pursue other interests, even when the haters tell us we’re too old. Believe in yourself and eliminate the phrases, “you’re too old” or “it’s too late.” Develop new strengths, new skills, new talents, and new interests. In the end, you will be a better-rounded person and you won’t have to tell the nurse in your life, “I’m finished.” Dude, you’re only beginning.