You may be wondering, what is a “Gnar Quest” anyway? I’m glad you asked.
Steven Kotler launched the term in his upcoming book Gnar Country: Growing Old, Staying Rad. As you might have guessed, “Gnar” is short for “Gnarly,” like the totally awesome dudes who shred down a snowy mountain on skis or snowboards. Kotler’s book is based on the idea that you can stay “Gnarly” at any age—and even achieve your peak performance later in life.
During a recent workshop, Kotler shared the idea of coming up with your own personal “Gnar Quest,” using the science-based practices he shares in his book to achieve a personal goal – one that exemplifies Peak Performance Aging.
So I have chosen my own Gnar Quest: training for my seventh Ironman race. Many of you may know that I have been rehabbing from knee surgery for the last four months, and I am finally ready to get back into training mode. I need every edge I can get, and a disciplined approach to do as much as I can, every day, to achieve my goal. THAT is my Gnar Quest.
So how do I begin?
Well, I learned that one of the foundational principles of PPA (Peak Performance Aging) is identifying activities that create a “flow state.” This is a state of mind where you are fully immersed in an activity with focus, involvement and engagement. Performers and athletes often refer to it as being “in the zone.” And it’s a great feeling, at any age!
My go-to “flow” activities include challenging workouts that have a strong cardio component, writing, and learning something new that is hard or challenging. For me, it takes a bit of work and intention to get into a flow state; otherwise, I get distracted with everything else that is vying for my attention.
So now, as part of my personal Gnar Quest, my goal is to schedule two “flow blocks” every day. This will force me to focus on one or two of the activities above, always including some form of a workout.
This week I am traveling and not in my usual environs, so I will need to be creative and flexible. My cardio workout might involve running up and down the hotel stairs. Nobody said a Gnar Quest would be easy!
But even though it may not always work out the way I plan, I definitely start with good intentions. I know that if I can get into that “flow state,” my brain will release neurochemicals that increase my focus, feelings of personal well-being, and personal efficacy. And that makes me feel like I can conquer any curveballs that come my way.
Come along on this quest and check back next week. Until then, stay rad…
You are SO rad Bobbie and it will be fun to follow along and inspire to you!