Small decisions, big impact
In the summer of 2021, my daughter, Amelia, received a flyer advertising an opportunity to join the cross-country running team in her upcoming 7th-grade year. Amelia was not particularly sporty. She had barely run down the street, let alone miles and miles. I was sure she would toss the letter immediately, but as an obligation to be good parents, we asked her if she wanted to join.
She stood in the kitchen, shrugged her shoulders, and said, “I’d like to try.”
I would not know it for a long time, but that seemingly small kitchen table moment and brave choice would be transformative. Over the coming weeks and years, she found her tribe, learned to enjoy running in the rain, and battled tremendous fears on race days. She became best friends with her teammates and found inspiring role models. Because she chose to join the cross-country team, seventh and eighth grade became the best years of her life rather than the dreaded awkward middle school experience.
Last week, she qualified to run in a special regional race in South Dakota hosted by Nike. What a far cry from the young girl who had never run one mile a few years ago!
After returning from the trip with a personal record for her fastest time in a 5k, she profoundly announced her reflection. “Mom! If I hadn’t chosen to run cross country, I would have no friends, no PR today, no team, and no purpose!”
I nodded in eager agreement. Amelia made one seemingly small decision years ago, without much fanfare, that overwhelmingly changed the trajectory of her life.
This story is not about running. It’s about the small decisions we make every day with limited information, solely relying on a combination of gut instinct, faith, and brave curiosity.
Saying yes to the unknown can ultimately create the greatest joy. Amelia literally ran straight into her fears. While her running speed is impressive, her decision to do something unknown and scary is the most inspiring.
Years ago, I was afraid to have a double mastectomy, and today it’s my greatest source of joy. There were thousands of small decisions along the way made with the best information available. It took quiet bravery to know that hard things can be good things. When you go forward despite fear, healing can find you.
If you are facing an unknown, a curious opportunity, or a double mastectomy, listen to your inner voice and trust yourself. What is the next small decision you can make today?
Run your own race. Whatever it may be, I’ll cheer for you.
