There are goals and there are principles. Sometimes goals and principles do not always align. It is great to set goals, train or prepare accordingly, and finally execute. If a goal however gets in the way of your core principles, it might be time to revaluate your goal.
For a simple goal of running a marathon, there might be some sacrifices made where work is neglected or a story time is missed, to get that extra training run. However if a goal is so overblown or committed that it has a material impact on your life or relationships, it might be wise to reevaluate where you are heading.
Myself, Jeff and Paul had a goal of riding from Pittsburgh to DC to Baltimore. While we were behind our schedule due to rain and some other technicalities, everyone was mentally and physically prepared to finish the journey. Unfortunately, Paul encountered a stick hidden by leaves on the trail. Okay a branch. Well-it was more like a club. Said club popped itself into the front spokes, fender, and fork, which caused him to sail head and then shoulder into the ground. Jeff, drafting behind, soon ran over him and crashed as well. Fortunately for me, my light was disconnected and had to stay further away. I had enough time to brake.
Paul took a beating. He couldn't continue. [Elaborations to follow] We called his wife to pick him up. At that point, Jeff and I had to make a decision. Continue down to DC or ride back with Paul. We both agreed to finishing our journey. When Paul's wife came to pick him up, Jeff and I went back with him.
The goal of the trip was to make it down to DC and then up to Baltimore. But something unexpected happened. The moment one of our teammates went down, we knew the true journey was in the friendship and bonds that occurred over the prior 270 miles. Our goal was no longer relevant-seeing your friends safely out was just the right thing to do. After all, this is just one of many other crazy rides we will be having with friends like Paul.
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