I came across a video of Chris Nikic about a year ago.

I love his story so much.

Completing an Ironman Triathlon in the required time (17 hours) is no small feat for any person.

One day I rode my bicycle for 56 miles against headwinds and with lots of hills. For me that was a huge thing. I also one day swam a mile in a pool, not open water that has tides and currents. And one day I ran six miles. Each of these feats were big for me but they were singular and months apart. Whenever I hear of people doing an Ironman Triathlon, I marvel. A one-mile open-water swim, a 100-mile bicycle ride and a marathon (26.2 miles), consecutively, all in one day, within 17 hours. That is a super-human feat for anyone.

I love what has come of this for Chris, a passionate life with family and friends’ support, being part of the community and that great feeling of getting better every day.

His dad and a coach developed a great philosophy for him: 1% better every day. That caught my eye– not 20% or 30% or 100%– 1% better every day. One lap in the pool, learn to ride a bike, one extra step a day. 

I feel the keys in any goal setting are to have passion for its accomplishment and to have support.

Chris’ plan gives him one year of training. 1% better every day. No excuses, no complaining, no days off.

After following his story, I have taken that mantra: 1% better every day, no excuses, no complaining, no days off.

For me this has taken me out of overwhelm, and the feeling that my own personal goals are beyond reach, to getting 1% better every day. Even the smallest accomplishment gives me an uplift.

I hope you will enjoy these videos and be inspired to accomplish your own goals.