When I’m hearing the adventures of Curtis Christopherson I often shake my head. It’s the kind of shake that says, “How can he do that?” His adventures seem to always include some kind of super human feat that I can only try to fathom. “How can you do that?” I mumbled between shakes.
Now granted he is a young man – 27 years old (that explains some of it) but it seems he enjoys testing himself. Pushing and challenging to see what he can do. Each time it seems he exceeds the previous. Most of his adventures are sport related but not all. What I have observed is that he applies the same test to all he does sport, business etc and he keeps out performing himself. This was a great opportunity for me to ask a “How can you do that?” in regards to one of his most punishing and difficult ‘tests’!
It was in March 2008 – the event called 100km Del Sahara Run. Yep you guessed it! That’s (actually) a 110 km run across the Sahara Desert!
Cheryl: Curtis How did you do that?
Curtis: Developing a well-thought out training program & a detailed plan on how you are going to progress towards your goals is very important. This will allow you to get from the initial commitment to the finish line injury free & allow you to enjoy the overall experience.
Cheryl: Are you kidding me – we’re talking the Sahara Desert! It can’t be just about training!
Curtis: It is a level of mental toughness & determination that will allow you to achieve whatever it is that you want to achieve.
Cheryl: What drives you?
Curtis: The sense of accomplishment that you receive when you complete anything that challenges you is extremely rewarding. And thus, my driving force is centered around achievements in my lifetime & accomplishing things that many think might not be possible.
Cheryl: I know the run must have been incredibly difficult what kept you going?
Curtis: I have always said, ‘pain is temporary & regret is forever’. If you want to achieve something – do it! Because it is amazing what your body can handle that the mind tries to tell otherwise. Sky is the limit – push your limits & enjoy life’s experiences.
It all sounds so matter of fact – cut and dried – almost easy!
What I do know is that this young man walks his talk – he lives fully- he is friendly, upbeat and usually smiling. He has achieved a level of success in business and in life well beyond his years. I think Curtis Can do because he approaches each adventure as fun and uncomplicated. Maybe that’s the secret to the can do!
We all have the power to frame things anyway we want, we can choose hard, difficult, impossible or complicated.
Can do or can not?
What will you choose?
Author: Cheryl Wilson-Stewart Director of school initiatives. “Our responsibility is to mentor and support these young people they are outstanding!” She is also the founder of Mindblasting and author of several creativity curriculum in use throughout the world, Cheryl is a consultant to both business and education sectors.
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Isabelle Julien is a personal trainer for Innovative Fitness in White Rock, BC.
