Last week, my friend Godfrey and I rode our bicycles Seattle over the course of three days. It was a whirlwind trip that tested our physical resolve and, at times, problem solving abilities. After two flat tires, countless sports beans, over 300 kilometers of scenic riding and at least two Americanized greasy spoon breakfasts, we reached our destination. Here are a few lessons we learned during the trip:
Ask for directions
Godfrey and I used a great map app called Maps.me to navigate most of the way. But occasionally, even after checking our little map a dozen times, we couldn’t quite figure out the best route. Asking for directions not only helped us with our way-finding challenge, but also connected us with some new and interesting people. We had great interactions with a host of characters ranging from a Mount Vernon cabby to Everett off-duty police officer (who incidentally thinks I bear a striking resemblance to Mad Men’s Don Draper). The same logic can apply to a project you’re working on. If you aren’t sure about the direction you’re going, don’t just put your head down and keep slugging – ask your boss, colleague or even a peer who is un-attached to the project if they think your approach makes sense. This will allow you to create team buy-in, allow for potential shared success and will definitely avoid backtracking.
Fuel the fire
When you’re cycling, staying fed and hydrated is key. In the first two days we rode over 100 km, first making our way from White Rock to Mount Vernon and then heading along some countryside roads and separated trails to Everett. You don’t do those kind of kilometers if you don’t take good care of your body. I did this by eating a significant amount of sausages, eggs, muff
ins and American gravy, tasty (watermelon sized) apples, and delicious samosas from the amazing Mount Vernon co-op. Godfrey did this by indulging in blade-sheared oats, yogurt, a waffle, tasty Thai food and lots of weak espresso. Both diets worked (at least for three days). Similar principles apply when I head back to work the next day. Ensuring you’re starting the day with breakfast and hydrating with something other than just coffee is critical for setting yourself up for success.
Be warm and curious (like an American)
Americans can be a particularly warm and friendly people. During the three days of riding we were frequently hailed down by people on the side of the road in residential neighbourhoods who were curious of where we were riding to/from and eager to give directions. Whether it was the soap lady in the Mount Vernon farmers market or the gun salesman at the “American Armory” everyone was curious, chatty and engaging. This engagement was a highlight for our trip and a reminder of how a little bit of curiosity and warmth – even with strangers – is just a great thing.
Savor the unexpected challenge
On the morning of our first day, we managed to deflate my rear tire. Bike shops weren’t opening for another hour and we were stranded in White Rock. Woops. I spent the time fretting about the set back. Godfrey cracked open a newspaper and wandered around savoring the quiet. He didn’t take a moment for granted. It was a lesson for me. Even though flat tires and waiting around for a bike shop to open can be frustrating, we were still on vacation together and might as well enjoy it. Making this mental shift isn’t easy, but always know that while you can’t control your circumstances, you can control your attitude.