Executive Summary
This case study looks at how thoughts of the mind can be
converted into reality, exploring in particular, Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s
statement: "A goal without a plan is just a wish.” Through Kelvin Kiptum’s
career, we demonstrate how a goal, backed by passion and progressively pursued
with intent can inevitably translate into success.
Key findings:
- · A smart goal with strong motivation is key to translating a dream into reality
- · Resilience is key to bouncing back and achieving a dream
- · A strong belief system is necessary for completing a dream
- ·
A
strong vision is key to overcoming adversity
Determination and discipline cannot be compromised.
The study applies the smart model: specific, measurable,
achievable, relevant and time-bound as a framework in illustrating how goal
setting can lead to significant achievement in people’s lives. The research
explores how an initial thought can be solidified both mentally and physically. Fueled by motivation and energised by commitment, dreams can be fulfilled regardless
of adversities and setbacks. It also examines how developing an unstoppable
mindset can traverse adversity when supported by the necessary effort.
Introduction:
We all have aspirations hoping that one day these aspirations
will become reality. But Antoine de Saint-Exupéry‘s quote reminds us that it
is of little consequence to have a dream if the dream lacks a corresponding plan. Experts
have furthered this thought of not just having a goal but having an effective goal. A
goal is just a map that provides direction to a particular destination. This
destination must have a purpose, with the goal not only being relevant but
achievable.
The case study will establish how individuals can pursue
their goals with remarkable success through the experiences of the late
marathon runner, Kelvin Kiptum’s journey. We aim to extract invaluable insights from
this narrative, expecting that individuals will use them to shift their perspective. We will
conclude by providing recommendations with actionable steps for readers.
Problem statement:
While many of us set goals, we often struggle to complete
them because of some kind of adversity or demotivation along the way. This can lead to dissatisfaction, where many lose out on potential greatness.
Each of us has a reason for failing to continue one dream or the other. This
case study aims to tackle the fundamentals of this failure so that people can
achieve their goals and find fulfilment in their lives.
Methodology:
The case study gathers information from publicly available records using an academic framework to dissect the content. It applies the smart model to provide a structure for goal setting. The case study also explores how goals can be achieved with contentment and further considers the pitfalls involved. We illustrate how thoughts of the mind – dreams can be translated to tangibility by examining the reality of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s quote.
Case Study: Kelvin Kiptum
Challenge: Kiptum's early life was marked by poverty,
which presented numerous obstacles to his athletic aspirations. While specific
details of these challenges are explored in another case study, it is important
to acknowledge the significant hurdles he overcame to pursue his dreams.
Solution: Kelvin Kiptum persisted through his challenges by building resilience. While fueled by passion, he adapted well to his changing
environment. But most of all, he pursued his goal with unmatched determination,
discipline and focus, stunning the world with his brilliant success.
His dedication to winning the marathon is revealed in the setting of goals and consistent alignment of his training routine with his goal. Kiptum’s goal was to win the marathon and he attacked his purpose with a comprehensive plan. The first step we see according to the table below is the documenting of his dream. The process crystalised his idea both mentally and physically. Seeing his idea on paper stirred in him possibilities and strengthened his belief in his dream.
While the specific deadline for achieving each marathon is unknown, it is obvious that he broke his goal into manageable parts, converting them into daily routines as indicated in the table below.
Table 1
|
Day |
Morning Session |
Afternoon Session |
|
Monday |
25-28 km run at 4'10"-3'40"
per km |
12 km easy jog |
|
Tuesday |
Track session or fartlek (e.g., 3'
fast/1' slow for an hour) |
12 km easy jog |
|
Wednesday |
25-28 km run |
12 km easy jog |
|
Thursday |
30-40 km run at close to marathon pace |
Rest |
|
Friday |
25-28 km run |
12 km easy jog |
|
Saturday |
Track session or road splits |
Easy jog |
|
Sunday |
32-40 km run at a fast pace |
Rest |
This plan fits well into the smart model of goal setting. For instance, Kiptum was fully aware of his daily target, making his goal specific. The table above illustrates that Kelvin's goal was measurable. He subsequently was able to evaluate his progress and adjust his goal to reflect his target when required.
Another thing that made his success inevitable was the culminative effect of his consistency. This action gradually improved his confidence and increased his likelihood of reaching his goal. It is obvious that Kevin was on target, making his overall plan relevant to his purpose.
Kelvin’s ability to rapidly bounce back from adversity was another contributor to realising his dream. He employed visualisation tactics to relive his positive experiences. This enabled him to transcend discomfort and focus on his goal. By combining the celebration of little wins to vivid imagination, he further affirmed the possiblity of his dream. Practising mindfulness also facilitated a paradigm shift that shaped his response to unpleasant events. While setting time aside for rest, deep breathing with good nutrition helped restore his physical strength.
Finally, he was time-bound, making him ready for the
marathon, so that despite his various adversities, he developed the confidence and assurance for success. He simply invested in his career.
In chasing dreams, individuals can also model Kelvin's discipline and determination. Whether it is a career goal or weight reduction, this model is applicable. For instance, a daily study plan could qualify you for that promotion.
Result: Kiptum achieved these mileages, weekly: 250-280 km. Monthly mileage (first month): approximately 900 km, (second
month): 280-300 km. He went on to win the Valencia race in 2022 and the London Marathon in 2023. He also shattered the world record in Chicago. Sadly,
Kiptum lost his life in a car accident in 2004, ending a brilliant and
promising career.
Potential Pitfalls in Pursuing a Goal
Kiptum’s practising routine was highly intensive and not
under any circumstance a recommendation for non-elite athletes. It is a caveat
to the individual that over-exerting oneself can result in exhaustion and even
stress. Some of the symptoms of over-training might manifest through persistent fatigue, increased injury risk, or decreased performance.
Incorporating preventative measures such as rest days, varying training
intensity, and listening to the body's signals can significantly reduce this
risk.
Furthermore, goals must not only be measured by ones capacity to achieve. It must also reflect the right motivation for supporting the goals, as demotivation is known to be one of the causes for dream abandonment.
In addition, a vision must be strong enough to be successful. A weak vision is the mother of all abortions.
Other pitfalls include procrastination,
fear of failure, lack of support and doubt.
Conclusion:
While dreams may be exhilarating, it is important to remember
that lack of planning has ended many aspirations. Effective goal setting that
applies models like the SMART model is key to realizing your dreams. By
breaking down dreams into smaller, manageable parts, goals can be completed
with confidence, while celebrating each small victory through progress.
Setbacks are inevitable, but by practising self-care such
as deep breathing, exercising, and getting enough rest, you can develop the
transformational mindset essential to shift your perspective from limitation to
limitless possibility.
Remember Kelvin Kiptum, who faced poverty and still rose to
shatter world records. Like him, cultivate a strong belief in your vision and
consistently align your actions with your goals.
Failure can introduce doubt and fear, but you need to counter
these with bravery. Challenge that inner chatter and reverse it with favorable
thoughts. Affirmations such as "I am capable of achieving this goal"
can overpower negative thoughts, and over time, you will begin to cultivate
empowering beliefs.
By embracing the SMART model, cultivating resilience, and
nurturing a strong mindset, discipline, and determination, you can transform
your aspirations into tangible realities. The journey may be challenging, but
with a clear plan, unwavering dedication, and the right mental fortitude, you
can achieve your dreams and find fulfilment in your life, just as Kelvin Kiptum
did.
Recommendation:
- · Develop a smart goal that you are motivated to pursue
- · Develop resilience to counter setbacks
- · Develop a strong belief system
- · Develop a strong vision
Actionable steps:
- · Cultivate a strong belief system by developing an unstoppable mindset. Using affirmations can transform your perspective to achieve your goal.
- · Visualise your vision through vivid imagination and relish in the outcome of your dream. This strengthens your belief that the dream is achievable.
- · Practising self-awareness would enable you to bounce back from setbacks quickly and progress in life.
- · Cultivate
mindfulness and reflection. By observing your actions, you can eliminate those
triggers and experience peace. Also, mindfulness reduces stress and anxiety as
you will learn to exercise patience and calmness under pressure. It means you
can respond to issues thoughtfully rather than reacting with your emotions.
Source: A Look At World Record Holder Kelvin Kiptum And His Career Stats
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