On Track Book Releases TODAY!
I’m excited to announce the release of my very first book TODAY!
On Track: Life Lessons from the Track & Field
Here’s a bit of the introduction from the book to wet your appetite:
I haven’t always been a runner.
In fact, there were many moments when I utterly despised running.
Somewhere between college and my early thirties, I discovered running, or maybe it discovered me. I began pounding a couple of miles at a time around my neighborhood after I came home from work one night and realized I was starting to develop a bulge around my midsection. My love for food and my slowing metabolism had to be counterbalanced, and running seemed like the natural cure.
Despite running cross-country for a season in high school, along with a season of winter track, I was not a confident runner. Now in my thirties, I jogged around my neighborhood trying to go as fast as I could for as long as I could. I ended up running two or three miles, and I was done.
Then a good friend of mine invited me to join him in preparing for a half marathon. This was an utterly crazy idea in my opinion, but somehow he convinced me to join him on a nine-mile training run one Saturday morning. I had never run this far in my life. This nine-mile run flipped a switch in me. I suddenly wanted to run more. I was now looking forward to running the half marathon with my friend.
Writing has been a similar journey for me. I wasn’t a bad writer in high school. In fact, I somehow managed to survive four years of high school honors English. But my first love was always math and science. These two subjects pushed me into the world of engineering.
I wrote several papers in college as a requirement for classes, but writing was not something I considered fun. I graduated and entered the real world of construction and engineering, where I stayed away from long writing assignments unless absolutely necessary.
And then another good friend introduced me to the world of blogging. He helped me set up my first blog, and I was off and running (I mean writing).
Blogging, like running, became a refuge from the demands of work and raising a family. It became a place for me to reflect on life’s stretching moments and to stretch readers. As the years went along and the blog posts began to pile up, I began to receive encouragement and confirmation that my writing was connecting with readers.
My blogging took me down roads I never imagined. I’ve written about life from many different angles. Somewhere along the road my interest in running, my interest in writing, and my faith started to intersect.
This book is the product of this intersection.
This book isn’t just for the runner or athlete. I believe it provides practical life lessons we all can embrace.
If you’re stuck in a rut or need a little guidance in finding your way, I’m hoping this book will help you get On Track!
On Track has picked up several great endorsements and some wonderful reviews. Here’s what readers are saying about the book:
“On Track is a fantastic, quick read! The stories are inspiring, the lessons life changing and the motivation undeniable! Jon will have you hooked from the very first page! The only challenge to reading this book is wanting to stop to apply its principles in your life immediately! I highly recommend this book to anyone wanting to get or keep their life On Track!” Mark Sieverkropp, entrepreneur, speaker, author of Project: Success (www.sieverkropp.com)
“This small book packs a big punch. When Jon writes about his races, I feel as though I am there. He draws me in and then promptly gives me a life lesson to take away. Whether you’re an athlete now, have one hidden inside, or have never so much as laced up your running shoes, read Jon’s book to discover how to get your life ‘on track.’” Matt McWilliams, entrepreneur, leadership guru, author of The Power of Gratitude (www.mattmcwilliams.com)
“Jon offers a tidy little book, a parable if you will, comparing life to running at a track meet. Readers will enjoy sharing the author’s personal experiences and will find the extra boost they are looking for to get their life back on track. An easy, enjoyable and worthwhile read.” Matt Appling, teacher, artist, author of Life After Art (www.mattappling.com)
“In this marvelous, short, easy to read book, Jon Stolpe likens life to a track meet. He uses track and field analogies to help the reader think through life choices. Each scenario is practical and applicable, even if you have never had track and field experience. The reader is consistently pointed to Jesus Christ as the key to staying ‘on track’ in life.” Leah Adams, speaker, author of From the Trash Pile to the Treasure Chest and HeBrews A Better Blend (www.leahadams.org)
Head on over to Amazon today to order your copy!
Once you’ve had a chance to read it, I hope you’ll leave a review on Amazon. Also, take a few minutes to tell your friends about On Track!
Also worth considering, I am offering a FREE pdf copy of the interior of the book to subscribers of The Stretched Newsletter. Head over to the main page of the blog and sign up on the right hand menu bar to get your copy today for FREE!
Will you be picking up a copy of On Track? How would your life be better if you lived on track?
On Track – One Week to Launch!
April 22, 2014
“On Track is a fantastic, quick read! The stories are inspiring, the lessons life changing and the motivation undeniable! Jon will have you hooked from the very first page! The only challenge to reading this book is wanting to stop to apply its principles in your life immediately! I highly recommend this book to anyone wanting to get or keep their life On Track!”
Mark Sieverkropp, entrepreneur, speaker, author of Project: Success (www.sieverkropp.com)
In one week, On Track – Life Lessons from the Track & Field will be officially released. Initially, On Track will be available on Amazon as an eBook and in paperback.
This week, I’m spending time writing guest posts, doing podcast interviews, and answering questions about the book. If you are interested in joining the On Track Launch Team, it’s not too late. I am looking for people who are interested in reviewing the book on Amazon and on their blog. I’m looking for people who will promote the book via their social media channels. I’m open for podcast interview opportunities and other creative ways to get the word out about On Track. If you have an idea and want to help out with the launch, send me an email at jon@jonstolpe.com, so we can connect.
How are you being stretched to get part of your life on track?
No More Buts – Another Lesson from the Track & Field
I spent most of the day on Saturday at the track helping out at the 7th Annual Viking Track & Field Invitational hosted by my daughter’s track team. The day was absolutely beautiful and perfect for a track meet.
I was recruited to help out with checking in runners and handing out lane assignments before each of the races. With twenty-five teams participating, it was a pretty busy job. I had a great time working with the other “clerks” who had also volunteered in an effort to support their kids and the track team.
A minor mix-up happened at the end of the day that resulted in a relay team being assigned a heat and lane that didn’t necessarily match up with their seeding time. The coach of the team came over to express his frustration with the situation, and I initially jumped in to explain what may have happened.
Eventually, I sent the coach to the officials tent at the finishing line. I did not hear from the coach again, but our team’s track coach came over to find out what have happened at check in. I told the coach how I made a mistake checking in the team after the team was late in checking in for the race. I took partial blame for the problem, but I pushed it back at the team for failing to check in on time. After I explained the story, our coach said something like, “That was our fault. We screwed up.”
The coach didn’t push blame on the other team. He took responsibility. And he moved on.
What a great example!
So often when confronted with a problem, we seek to shift blame. We don’t want to take responsibility. We are typically looking to blame someone else. We say things like, “I didn’t check them in correctly, BUT they were late checking in.”
It’s time we took responsibility. We must learn to take the BUT out of our responses. My story should have simply been, “I didn’t check them in correctly.” Period. No BUT….
I should have apologized to the coach and sent him to the officials tent (the officials were the only ones who could change the lane assignments). Mistakes happen. We need to take responsibility for our mistakes. And we need to move on.
Hopefully, this didn’t ruin the day for the coach and his team. It was a beautiful day for a track meet, and the rest of the meet seemed to go very well.
Do you struggle with shifting blame? How can you take responsibility today? What suggestions do you have for taking the BUT out of your responses?
8 more days until the release of On Track – Life Lessons from the Track & Field!
Enjoy the Journey
Focus on the journey, not the destination. Joy is found not in finishing an activity but in doing it.
Greg Anderson
Last night, I posted a picture of the proof copy of my new book, On Track – Life Lessons from the Track & Field.
It came in the mail yesterday. Actually, I received four copies.
Part of the self publishing process includes an opportunity to review an actual copy of your book before it goes public. Honestly, I’m not sure I knew this was part of the experience until recently.
Writing a book has brought about a lot of new experiences. I am doing my best to enjoy each aspect of this journey. Believe me, I’m looking forward to the actual book being complete and available to the public, but there is so much that happens along the way. I don’t want to miss it.
Most of life is the same way.
We have goals. We have dreams. We have targets.
One day, we’ll get there. We’ll reach our dreams. We’ll achieve many of our desires. We may also miss out on reaching some of our targets and goals.
But there is a lot that happens between now and the achievement of our dreams. These happenings aren’t meant to be missed. They are meant to be experienced and enjoyed. To quote Billy Joel (sorry David), “This is the time to remember, ’cause it will not last forever.”
Enjoy the journey!
What’s happening on the journey to your dream? How are you making the most of the experience?
Get a Copy of the Introduction to On Track
The excitement is building. In just over two weeks, my first book will be released. It’s been an exciting journey so far. The proof copies of the book are on the way to may house this week. It hardly seems possible that the book will become a reality.
It has been exciting to answer people’s questions about the book. I really appreciate the excitement that others have for this project.
On Track – Life Lessons from the Track & Field will get you thinking. It will encourage you to get out of the rut you’re in, and it will help you get On Track!
I’d like to offer a special sneak peek at the introduction of the book. If you’d like to get an early look, sign up for the Stretched newsletter today. Check out this post to find out how to sign up. the Stretched Newsletter. I will send out the On Track Introduction as part of the Newsletter this Wednesday to all subscribers. I promise not to spam you or to send too many e-mails to you. The Stretched Newsletter is simply a place to get a little extra STRETCHING content from time to time. It’s also a place where you can occasionally get early word on new things coming to The Stretched Blog and The Stretched Community. If you want to get a copy of the On Track Introduction, click here for more information on how to sign up.
The On Track Launch Team is growing. It’s not too late to sign up for this. Launch Team members get an early preview copy of the book in exchange for a review and help in promoting On Track.
How is your life on track? Where do you need help getting on track with your life?
On Track Book Launch Update
On Track – Life Lessons from the Track & Field is coming together. I wanted to give you a little update on the launch.
The book front cover design is complete, and the editor returned the manuscript to me on Friday. In addition, the book has picked up a few endorsements. Here is what people are saying so far about On Track:
“This small book packs a big punch. When Jon writes about his races, I feel as though I am there. He draws me in and then promptly gives me a life lesson to take away. Whether you’re an athlete now, have one hidden inside, or have never so much as laced up your running shoes, read Jon’s book to discover how to get your life ‘on track.’” Matt McWilliams, entrepreneur, leadership guru, author of The Power of Gratitude (www.mattmcwilliams.com)
“This well-written, easy-to-read book is a great reference for any runner. But it’s so much more. Jon Stolpe teaches us great strategies for winning the race, both on and off the track. This little book is packed with lessons for runners and lessons for a life of faith. Take an hour to read this book. I guarantee that you’ll be motivated to run the good race.” Dan Erickson, musician, teacher, author of A Train Called Forgiveness and At The Crossing Of Justice and Mercy (www.danerickson.net)
“I have known Jon for over 7 years, and followed his blog since its start. I find his unique perspective on life so very intriguing, and refreshing. It is not often that you find a writer who integrates his faith, his hobbies, his family – his life – into his writing. ‘Get out and live your life’ is not just a catchy quote from his book. Jon shares how life can be lived as a race that can be run at your own speed, but it’s a race you need never run alone. With his faith out in front, On Track, is a great example of how to live a life with God right by your side. No matter if you are starting, finishing or just trying to get in the race, you will find something inspiring to take with you.” Diane Karchner, Life Coach, author of Losing the Mask (www.dianekarchner.com)
“Jon is a runner. At times a reluctant runner, but that’s what makes On Track so enjoyable. It’s not a book written by someone who never struggles or has all the answers. It’s a book written by a real person who has learned a thing or two about how similar a relationship with God is to running. Jon includes great quotes, Biblical insight, and personal experience into a book that can speak to the seasoned or rookie runners in life.” Rob Shepherd, pastor, author of Even If You Were Perfect Someone Would Crucify You (www.robshep.com)
I’m excited and anxious to release the book. I had originally planned to launch the book on Monday, March 31, 2014. After careful consideration and timely advice, I’m moving the launch date back to Tuesday, April 22, 2014. This will provide more opportunity to strategically release the book. If you’d like to be part of my launch team and pick up a preview copy of the book, let me know. You can e-mail me at jon@jonstolpe.com, and I will send out a preview copy to you later this week. I am looking for people who can read the book, write a review on Amazon.com and possibly on their blog the week of April 21-27, 2014, and promote the book to their friends, family, and social media contacts.
On Track will be sold on Amazon.com, and there will be a special discount available for subscribers to the Stretched Newsletter. Check out this post to find out how to sign up.
Book Project – Learning To Release / A Call For Your Help
Last week, I posted on the blog asking people to Help Me Pick A Book Cover Design. Traffic spiked on this day as people responded with their thoughts, encouragement, and criticism. I’m discovering courage is required when launching book ideas into the public. I received so many comments. Mostly, I received encouragement. Some readers offered constructive feedback on how the designs could be better. And I even had a couple of people submit their own design ideas.
Honestly, I wasn’t prepared for the deluge of feedback. I’m glad I put it out there for the “world” to see. And I’m thankful everyone responded. It was so helpful, but I just wasn’t quite ready for the variety of responses. I’m naturally a people-pleaser, so I am cursed with wanting to make everyone happy. I don’t think this is possible. Everyone has their own perspective and preferences.
I’m starting to realize the importance of writing and publishing for me first and then for everyone else. Obviously, I want my writing to challenge people and even be well received, but this won’t always happen.
I am getting ready to launch my first book project. If all goes well, On Track – Life Lessons From The Track & Field will be released by the end of the month. There’s a natural tendency to hold onto it until it’s perfect, but I’m learning I need to let go and release it; otherwise, I will fall into the trap of failing to ship.
On Track takes a spectator’s perspective from the athletic field to the classroom of life. Each chapter takes a look at a certain aspect of the track and field world and translates it to everyday life. From the practice field and the starting blocks to the finish line, we can all learn important lessons from the track for living and running the best race possible.
Here’s where I could use your help:
- Pray for me. I’d really appreciate your prayers. I want my writing to glorify God. Pray I’d stay focused on finishing up this project. Pray I’d release it. Pray that it would stretch people.
- I’m looking for some people to read and review the book. You don’t have to be a track athlete to get something out of this book. I think it has something for everyone. At this time, I’m looking for the reviews to be posted on March 31st. If you’re interested in reading and reviewing the book, leave a comment, send me an e-mail at jon@jonstolpe.com, or fill out the contact form below, so we can connect. If you are up for this opportunity, I’ll send you an advance copy a week ahead of time.
These two things will push me to the finish. I appreciate your help!
What keeps you on track towards finishing a goal or project? What project are you working on now? How can I encourage you to keep going?
Special thanks to John Noonan of True Blue Media for the incredible cover design. I’m looking for an editor who can read over the manuscript prior to release. If you can help, let me know.
Track & Field – 3 Lessons From The Long Jump
My son, Isaac, ran track and field for the first time this year. One of his events was the long jump. It was interesting watching him compete in this event. There is definitely a mix of athleticism, strength, speed, timing, and coordination that is required to be successful in the long jump.
In the long jump, runners start at the end of a running path that leads to a sand pit. As the runners run towards the pit, they accelerate in an effort to get as much speed as possible. Right before the sand pit, jumpers hit a take off board. From the take off board, the jumper leaps as far as possible into the sand pit.
Watching the long jumpers at both the middle school and high school level, I think there’s something we can all learn from the long jump. Here are 3 lessons from the long jump:
- Momentum is key. As an engineering student, I learned in physics class that momentum equals mass times velocity. If a jumper does not move with any speed, he will not get very far if or when he reaches the take off board. While there is importance in taking time to be still. We are called to have an active faith. The book of James says it well: What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him? If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, and one of you says to them, “Depart in peace, be warmed and filled,” but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit? Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. James 2:14-17
- Precision is required. A jumper practices over and over again, so he can learn where to start on the run way, how fast to run down the runway, and when to jump. One of the keys to the long jump is jumping off the take off board as close to the sand pit without going over the take off board. When a runner doesn’t practice, he will either go over the take over board which is referred to as a fault, or he will jump too early and fail to get the most out of his attempt. As Christ followers, we must become a student of our faith. It starts with God’s Word. We must know God’s Word, so we can make the best “leap” possible. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. Psalm 119:11
- Faith makes a difference. When the jumper leaves the take off board, there is little else he can do except allow his body to fly towards the sand pit. There are times in life where we must take a leap of faith. We have to trust that things will work out even when we can’t see the outcome in full view. Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1
What lessons could you add to the list above? What leaps of faith have you faced in life? What have you learned through taking a leap of faith?
Track & Field: 4 Lessons From The Relay Race
From a spectators standpoint, a track meet can seem like organized chaos. There are athletes running on the track, walking in the stands, warming up in the parking lot, jumping, throwing, and socializing with other athletes. If you attend enough meets, you begin to realize that there is a method and organization to the entire meet.
As a father, my favorite events are the one in which my kids are competing. There nothing quite like cheering on your own kids. Besides that, I especially love watching the relay races. It’s fun to watch teammates cheering each other on, running as fast as possible, and passing the baton to their teammate. A well polished relay team is so amazing to watch as the baton flows around the track from one athlete to the next to the next.
For those of you unfamiliar with relay racing at a typical track meet, the race is made of four legs each run by a different runner on the same team. At the high school level, the typical relay races are the 4 x 100 (each runner runs one-quarter of the track), the 4 x 800 (each runner runs two laps of the track), and the 4 x 400 (each runner runs one lap of the track).
As I watched the relay races from the season, it was obvious which teams at practiced together and which teams needed a lot of work. If I looked more closely at the relay race, I came up with 4 Lessons From The Relay Race that we can apply to everyday life:
- It takes a team effort. It’s highly unlikely that one runner running the whole race could beat a team of four who have fresh legs. Runners have to work together. Each person on the team plays a key role in the effort and success of the whole. In life, it is somewhat similar. You play an important role in the body of Christ. The body will not operate properly without YOU! Paul talks about this in his first letter to the Corinthians: The eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you!” And the head cannot say to the feet, “I don’t need you!” On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty, while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the parts that lacked it,so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. I Corinthians 12:21-26
- The baton pass is critical. Races are won and lost based on the pass of the baton. There is a transfer of momentum from one runner to the next. If a runner drops the baton, the race is over. Each runner must run all the way through the transfer zone in order to make the most of each exchange. In life, we will have opportunities to receive the baton from those who run before us, and we will eventually have the opportunity to pass the baton to those coming behind us. In family life, my parents and grandparents have done an incredible job passing the baton to me at appropriate times, and it’s my responsibility to do the same for my kids (and eventually grandkids). At work, it’s the same. And in our spiritual lives, it’s important to have mentors in our lives along with people who we can mentor.
- Teammates cheer each other on. Especially at the 4 x 400 relay race which typically ends each meet, the track is lined with teammates cheering as loud as they can for their fellow athletes. The encouragement makes an incredible difference in the outcome of the race. In life, we need to surround ourselves with others who can cheer us on. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Hebrews 10:24 We were not meant to run the race of life in isolation. We were meant for community.
- We need an anchor. The 4th (and last) runner of each relay team is called the anchor. This runner is typically the strongest, fastest runner on the team. He is sometimes called upon to make up any difference left by the previous three runners. It’s his job to leave it all on the track and to find any way possible to win. We have an anchor – Jesus Christ. He would go to any lengths to see us to the finish. (In fact, He did this on the cross.) Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance;perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us. You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:1-8
What lessons could you add to the list above? How have you experienced these relay lessons in your own life? What baton are you currently carrying? How are you preparing to pass the baton?
Track & Field: 6 Lessons From Long Distance Training
Coming off the trails for a lap around the field at The Thanksgiving Marathon
Yesterday, I ran in the first ever Servefest 5K. It was a great event and a wonderful workout for my legs and lungs. I’ve been running quite a bit these days, and the 5K was a great test to see how effective my training as been. As I was out for my morning run this morning, I was thinking about the parallels between long distance training and life. A couple of weeks ago, I posted some tips for those who are thinking about running a longer race for the first time.
As I was processing this post, I was thinking about things that inspire me in my running and in my life. For example, I’m inspired when I hear stories of people overcoming adversity to reach new heights. I think that’s why I like movies like Radio, Remember the Titans, and The Blind Side.
I’m also inspired by scripture. The scripture below is a great reminder to persevere and to keep the right focus.
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:1-3
It is so easy to give up and to lose perspective when we face the challenges of life. As with my tips a couple of weeks ago, here are six tips that I have found helpful in keeping my eyes on the prize.
- Follow a plan. God’s Word should be the center of the plan. I have tried different methods for staying in God’s Word on my own, but I have found that existing plans are most helpful in keeping me on track. Two plans or programs that I have used recently to help me are YouVersion.com and The Daily Audio Bible.
- Find some accountability. Get plugged into a small group or even a one-on-one relationship where you can be challenged with the tough questions like: ‘Have you spend time in God’s Word this week?’ and ‘Have you lived with integrity since we last met?’
- Cross train and rest. There are some great resources out there to get the most out of your walk. I use several Bible-based blogs and books to give me a deeper perspective. Getting to church on a weekly basis is also important. This is a chance to be fed and to worship on a larger, corporate level. Also, take time to rest. We live very busy lives. We must take time to reflect and to rest.
- Practice. Practice. Practice. Get out and live your life. Make a concerted effort to go about your daily activities in a way that would honor God.
- Set goals but learn to be flexible with God’s direction. I’m a huge goal oriented person. Setting goals is a great way to keep focused. But we also need to be alert to the movement of the Spirit.
- Have fun and a positive attitude. God doesn’t promise that this life will be easy, but we have a choice to make. We can have a poor attitude when it comes to life’s ups and downs, or we can choose to have a positive attitude.
It’s amazing how these things line up with the tips from my earlier post.
So what inspires you in running and in life? What other tips would you add to the list above?