“Today is the day” is a catchphrase heard on many great ski days – in particular powder days. On a powder day things are more… possible, steeper runs, narrower lines and bigger jumps. Even if you haven’t discovered the joy of powder skiing yet, it’s the ephemeral nature of fresh powder snow that makes you feel like living the day to its fullest. It’s the same ephemeral nature of skiing itself that draws those brave souls from
That was THE day
the comfort of home to the raw environment of the mountain – because if you don’t get out and enjoy it today it might not be there tomorrow. The biggest barrier to enjoying skiing – and life for that matter – has nothing to do with ability, athleticism or equipment; it is always because of some element of fear. Think about the number is wipe outs, crashes and tumbles you’ve had when trying to mitigate risk or when you were being timid. These kinds of wipe-outs probably outnumber the crashes you’ve had when “going for it” with full confidence by about 20 to 1. The same is true in life; when asked, most people will admit that their biggest regrets are not what they have done, but rather the things they have not done.
Skiing is one of those rare sports where you are constantly challenged to defy what is comfortable so that you will get better and enjoy it more. Think about it. You are not likely to meet an accomplished skier that has not had their fair share of significant wipe-outs, not necessarily life threatening crashes, but the kind that make you realize you are mortal. It is these mini failures that compel the skier to get back up and try again. In almost no other setting does a failure like a crash on skis give you such an adrenaline rush AND great party anecdotes. More importantly, is the confidence you feel afterwards that will manifest itself in other areas of your life.
So the message is this: “Today is the day” is not to be punctuated with a question mark but an explanation point! In the words Dr. Seuss, “Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting. So…Get on your way!”
