Building Capacity for the Race Ahead I believe this will be helpful not just for the coming year but also for the days and years ahead, particularly as we focus on setting and achieving goals, meeting resolutions, and hitting targets. In times like these, it’s important to reflect on how we can strategize effectively for the future. I want to discuss what I call the “relay focus” in a race. This analogy can help guide us as we prepare for the new year and work toward our goals. Whether you’re planning to lose weight, take a new course, explore a new career path, write a book, or make lifestyle changes, these reflections can be valuable. Whatever your aspirations or resolutions—what you want to stop doing or start doing—this is a worthy pursuit. I encourage you to go for it. But first, let me share a story to provide some perspective. The Two Athletes in High School Back in high school, during athletic competitions, two young athletes always drew attention and applause from the audience and student body. There was Anas Moro—an energetic young man with an athletic build, well-statured and full of vigor. He excelled in sports, particularly in relay races like the 4×4, 100-meter dash, or 400 meters. Whenever Anas competed, he was always at the top of his game. Then there was another athlete, AK. Anas and AK were often neck and neck, each winning or losing to the other in close contests. However, something about Anas stood out to me back then—his energy was remarkable. Most athletes start and finish a 100-meter dash with the same level of energy, maintaining a consistent pace. Anas excelled at this. But what amazed me even more was his performance in the 200-meter and 400-meter races. Anas would start with incredible energy and sustain it to the finish line. Whether he came in first or second, his unwavering intensity was always evident. Reflecting on Anas’ approach, I realized something profound. Some of us are like Anas. When the year begins, we charge toward our goals with the same high level of energy and enthusiasm, maintaining focus and zeal throughout. Even when we don’t hit every target, our energy rarely falters—we stay determined and keep moving forward. But not all of us are like Anas. Who are you: Anas or AK? You might be more like AK. Let me tell you about him. In every race, whether it was the 400-meter dash or another event, AK had a different approach. He would start slowly but gain momentum along the way, particularly during the curves. In a 400-meter dash, the curves often give runners an extra boost, as the wind seems to push them forward. AK took full advantage of this. During those stretches, he would overtake several competitors, steadily increasing his energy as he advanced. By the time he reached the final stretch, AK was often in a much stronger position, sometimes even winning the race. What stood out about AK was his ability to tap into a new wave of energy and zeal as he progressed. It was as though he shifted into a higher gear, catching the wind and pushing through with renewed determination. Move at your own pace Some of you may find yourselves like AK. You might start the year, a project, or a new venture slowly, gaining momentum as you go. Don’t compare yourself to someone like Anas, who maintains a high level of energy throughout. You might be more like AK, building pace gradually and making steady progress over time. You might start slowly, peak gradually, and move forward step by step—building momentum until you finish your race. Don’t compare your start to someone else’s. Your capacity, energy, and approach may differ from another person or competitor. Avoid trying to match someone else’s pace or copying their strategy. Instead, take the time to understand yourself. Reflect on how you should approach a new project, course, or venture. Assess the capacity you’ve built in that area and how it can help you progress—starting small, gaining momentum, and ultimately achieving your goals. Remember,
