Photography, Fitness Challenge, Triathlon, Scary Zone

How to Kick Butt in Your 50s

My first-ever triathlon at age 51 and why I never stop trying: “Freestyle”

Trying hard — embracing the scary zone.

Last month I did my first-ever triathlon! My article about my experience has been published in Better Humans. It was one of the toughest things I’ve done to date (fitness-wise) and even with the anxiety, pressure, and nightmares I struggled through before the pre-race day, I got through it. I experienced a new adventure, a fun experience, and trained for the race in only 29 days!

I hope my story encourages people to try something they’ve never done, whether it’s a new challenge, a race, an activity, or something on their bucket list. As I grow older, I realize it doesn’t matter how old I am — I defy and embrace middle age by pushing myself into the scary zone.

The key is to persevere, no matter what my goal is. Goals can be made possible when I follow my self-mantra, “Try, Mary, Try!”

Do you have a self-mantra?

If my goal on my bucket list is something that scares me and keeps me awake at night, I know it’s something I need to achieve that will be worth the time, effort, and energy I spend on it. I’m happier knowing that I tried than if I just fantasized about it, held myself back, and kept it on “dream island.”

This time, I swam off the island and made it happen even though I was terrified of drowning.

What’s on your bucket list that keeps you awake at night?

Can you write a story in six words inspired by a photo?

If you’d like to submit to the Six Word Photo Story Challenge, please read and follow the submission guidelines.

About the Writer

Mary Chang is the editor of the Six Word Photo Story Challenge publication — inspired by her original 6-Word Photo Story Summer Challenge writing prompt (2021) on Medium. She’s also a writer, parent, and fitness enthusiast who takes a good photo sometimes — and loves creating monthly challenges.

Fueled by cartwheels, laughter, and encouraging people to shine. Read her blog at www.marychangstorywriter.com.