“It’s a ride, not a race”

You’ve probably heard the phrase, “Comparison is the thief of joy.” And it’s true—every time you measure your journey against someone else’s, you risk trading truth for illusion.

Part of the comparison mindset comes from how most of us were raised. From first grade through high school, we moved more or less together—same classes, same expectations, same milestones, year after year. That rhythm made it feel like everyone was on the same track.

But once adulthood hits, paths begin to diverge. Some people accelerate. Others pause. Some switch lanes altogether. And suddenly, it’s easy to feel like you’ve fallen behind.

But life isn’t school—and it’s definitely not a race. It’s a ride.

Pelotonia, the annual bike-riding fundraiser for cancer research, has a slogan: “It’s a ride, not a race.” It reminds its riders that the goal isn’t to finish first. It’s to keep moving, with purpose, at your own pace.

The same is true for you. You’re not here to outpace anyone. You’re here to become—and becoming takes time. You are not behind. You are on your way.

So how do you enjoy the ride?

Here are three practical ways:

• Go at your pace, not someone else’s. Define success by your own values, not other people’s timelines. It’s okay to go slow. Progress is still progress.
• Check in with yourself regularly. Pause. Reflect. Ask: “Am I living in alignment with who I want to become?” If the answer is yes, keep going. If not, adjust—gently, and without shame.
• Don’t ride alone. Whether it’s coaching, therapy, community or trusted friends—get the support you need. Riding with others doesn’t make you weak; it makes you wise.

Keep moving forward. And trust that you are becoming exactly who you were meant to be. You’re not behind. You’re on your way.

Stay in your lane and enjoy the ride.

PS: If you’d like to support Pelotonia’s fundraising for cancer research, consider supporting my friends, Erin Walberg and Felix Quachey for their rides.

Erin: https://www.pelotonia.org/profile/EW0024

Felix: https://www.pelotonia.org/profile/FQ791008