A few days after surgery to repair my broken neck, I found myself asking a question that would shape my recovery: What’s next? My life had just changed in a significant way, but I knew dwelling on the past wouldn’t help me heal. I needed a plan, a goal, and a vision for moving forward.
Before my accident, I had already committed to a 150-mile bike ride, scheduled for six months after my surgery. At first, the idea of completing that ride seemed almost ridiculous. But deep down, I knew I needed something to work toward—something big enough to challenge me, yet structured enough to keep me motivated through the grueling recovery process.
Step 1: Assessing the Possibility
Before committing to my goal, I needed to know if it was even possible. My first step was consulting with my surgeon. When I asked if my neck would be stable enough to ride in six months, his response gave me hope:
“If you progress as I expect, structurally, you should be fine to do the ride.”
That was all I needed to hear. The possibility was there—I just had to put in the work to make it happen.
Step 2: Building a Step-by-Step Plan
Recovering from a major injury requires patience, discipline, and a methodical approach. I knew I couldn’t just jump on my bike the next day, but I also knew that every step of the recovery process mattered.
At first, my doctors limited me to 30-minute walks each day. So that’s exactly what I did—every single day, without fail. When I was allowed to ride a stationary bike, I combined that with my walking. Each time my doctors gave me a little more freedom, I pushed myself up to the maximum limit they allowed.
I treated every small milestone as a stepping stone to my bigger goal. Some days were frustrating, and progress felt slow. But I reminded myself that each walk, each short ride, each check-up was part of a much larger journey.
Step 3: Staying Mentally Strong and Focused
Navigating any major life change—whether physical, emotional, or situational—isn’t just about adapting to new circumstances; it’s a mental challenge as well. Doubt creeps in, fear takes hold, and the temptation to focus on what’s been lost rather than what’s still possible can be overwhelming.
That’s why setting a clear, meaningful goal is so important. Without it, it’s easy to get stuck in the past, dwelling on what was instead of focusing on what can be.
For me, the bike ride wasn’t just about proving I could do it—it was about refusing to let my injury define me. It became a symbol of progress, resilience, and forward motion. Every time I felt discouraged, I reminded myself of the bigger picture.
Step 4: Adjusting and Adapting Along the Way
By the time the ride arrived, I was physically prepared, but I still faced challenges I hadn’t anticipated. My limited neck mobility restricted my visual range while riding, making it harder to see my surroundings. But rather than seeing it as a roadblock, I adapted.
I relied on my friends to help with my peripheral vision, signaling when I needed to be aware of things I couldn’t easily see. I found new ways to succeed within my limitations.
That’s another key lesson in overcoming change: Adapting is just as important as preparing. No matter how well we plan, unexpected obstacles will always appear. The ability to adjust—without losing sight of the goal—is what allows us to keep moving forward.
Step 5: Crossing the Finish Line—And What Came Next
Six months after my surgery, I completed the ride. It wasn’t easy, but it was incredibly rewarding. More than anything, it proved that moving forward, setting goals, and taking consistent action can help us overcome even the toughest challenges.
This experience reinforced something universal: change is inevitable. Whether it’s an injury, a career shift, or a personal setback, we all face unexpected challenges. But how we respond defines our path. Instead of focusing on what’s been lost, we need to look ahead. Having a vision creates momentum, and progress comes from small, consistent steps. While setbacks are inevitable, adaptability is just as important as perseverance—because no journey ever goes exactly as planned.
Your Challenge
When life shifts, it’s easy to feel stuck. But forward progress starts with a simple question: Where do I want to be? Whether your goal is three months, six months, or a year away, setting your sights on the future gives you direction and purpose.
Once you have that vision, commit to taking action—no matter how small. Some days will be harder than others, but progress isn’t about perfection; it’s about persistence.
Every step forward moves you closer to where you want to be.
So—what’s next for you?
See you next week,
Brent, your Rivr Guide
