Sometimes, you’re not going to be your best.

It happens to all of us, when we have days, weeks, or even fall into prolonged ruts where it seems like nothing goes right, despite our best efforts. You try and try to turn things around, but no matter what you do, things keep falling apart.

Other times, we’re on a roll. Things start going well and just get better and better. It feels like luck is on your side. You can’t really put your finger on why things are going so well, but there’s no need to question it and you just ride the wave.

Have you experienced these ups or downs – or both?

Personally, I think that’s just part of life. Sometimes, it feels like our feet are stuck in mud and it takes a Herculean amount of energy and struggle just to stay still.

And then there are those golden times when it feels like the universe’s cosmic tumblers click into place and our success is manifest destiny.

I’ve learned that life will throw both at me, and it’s important not to get too high and definitely not get too low. I equate it to cycling; for those who have watched the Tour de France, you witness the incredible strength, tenacity, and sheer willpower it takes to climb the mountain passes.

Other times, they are headed downhill, and coasting at dazzling speeds without expending any effort.

But just like any cyclist knows, you make your move on the mountain passes. The uphills in life are when it really takes strength of character to push through the pain and keep focus.

You earn it in those times, when it’s all a struggle. But the mentally tough athletes (or anyone in life) understand that by pushing through when life is hardest, the reward is always there for you at the top.

Then, it’s time to enjoy the effortless speed and success of the downhill, when everything falls into place and goes smoothly. During those times, you have wind in your sales and karmic momentum because you’ve put in the work, kept the ultimate vision in mind, and never lost faith.

So, next time things seem at their darkest and nothing is going right, just keep fighting, keep working, and keep believing,

because you’ll understand that the downhill is coming soon

–J.D.