Trust the process. A mantra I wish I learned to embrace so, so much sooner. The truth is I’ve only begun to appreciate the power of trusting the process in the last year—and it’s a lesson I learned accidentally. Looking back at old footage of myself learning to ride one night it just dawned on me. It’s astounding how far I’ve come compared to what I thought I’d ever be capable of doing.

I love riding dirtbikes. Some of the happiest moments of my life have been out on the bike. Riding is my recreation, my therapy and my passion, but it hasn’t always been enjoyable. And for that I only have myself to blame.

Life feels like it moves so fast these days. We work so hard to make ends meet, to find time for the things that make us happy. All the while being bombarded online by images and videos of people who seem just like us doing the things we want to be doing. Except they are doing them better, in more interesting places and with a spotless new bike that isn’t plagued by mechanical problems. It’s so easy to let that frustration creep in when the one thing in life you want to go right just doesn’t, but it feels like it is for everyone else.

When you allow yourself to go down that path and give in to the negativity, it’s all you will ever see. Slowly, but surely, it will poison the things that used to bring you joy. The antidote: trust the process.

Progress isn’t one size fits all. Yet we create expectations for ourselves based on what we see other riders doing. We want to conquer all those same skills and we want it done fast. But we don’t control those outcomes. And that’s okay! We are individuals with our own strengths and weaknesses to grapple with. In the grand scheme we are all capable of so much more than we realize at any given point in time. How I ride now, I never would have dreamed of six years ago. And I’m excited to see where I end up six years from now! That’s trusting the process.

Some rides go better than others, but seat time is always a positive thing. Even on days when I feel like I can’t do anything right I remember that I’m still learning and improving more than I would be if I had stayed home.

I no longer feel like I’m in a rush to be successful.

Or to compete against others to validate my skills on the bike. I want to be the best that I can be, for myself. And most importantly, to put my best effort forward when I ride. If we put our best effort forth then that’s all that we can control and it’s something to be proud of every single time.

Surround yourself with people who lift you up. People that encourage you. Having fun riding is what keeps you coming back for more. More seat time means more progression. It’s true that growth happens outside of your comfort zone, but that discomfort should be you pushing your own limits. Not being made to feel uncomfortable by your riding crew. Don’t force it. Chase good times on the bike and you’re going to improve faster than you’d believe.

Most importantly, pay it back. Looking back now at how far I’ve come, I can’t help but think of everyone who helped me get here. I worked really, really hard for the progress I’ve made, but it would never have happened without the guidance, mentorship and support of the friends I gained along the way. Now I want to take those lessons I’ve learned and be a positive influence for the next generation of riders. Pass on things I wish I’d learned sooner. Dirt bikes are fun! Keep it that way. Pursue what lights your fire and have faith you’ll find your way. Trust the process.

Chrisma MacLennan (@Enduroxma)

Chrisma MacLennan (@Enduroxma)