Ep.086: Risa August on living like you have nothing to lose.
When you are at the end of your rope, that's when you can grow the most.
Risa August, author of 'The Road Unpaved, Border to Border with a Brain Tumor and a Bike,' shares her journey of resilience and self-discovery after being diagnosed with a brain tumor. Despite the challenges she faced, Risa refused to let her diagnosis paralyze her and instead made a conscious decision to live. Starting with small goals, such as walking to the mailbox, Risa gradually built her strength and confidence. Along the way, she discovers the power of reframing her thoughts and embracing connection with others. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of resilience and the importance of community. Risa August shares her biking experience from Canada to Mexico across Northern Spain on the Camino de Santiago. She discusses her challenges, the support she received, and the mindset shifts she experienced. Risa emphasizes the importance of visualizing success and focusing on the rewards to stay motivated. She also talks about the lessons she learned from these journeys and how they have influenced her everyday life. Risa encourages listeners to embrace challenges, shift their perspectives, and live life fully.
Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:
When faced with a difficult diagnosis or challenge, it's essential to make a conscious decision to live and not let it paralyze you.
Setting small, measurable goals can help build confidence and momentum in adversity.
Reframing negative thoughts and focusing on gratitude can shift perspective and foster resilience.
Embracing connections with others and seeking support can be instrumental in overcoming challenges and finding strength.
Resilience and self-discovery often go hand in hand, leading to personal growth and transformation. Visualize success and focus on the rewards to stay motivated.
Embrace challenges and shift your perspective to navigate obstacles.
Don't limit yourself, and be open to different ways of achieving your goals.
Learn from every experience and apply the lessons to your everyday life.
Live life to the fullest and prioritize what feels important to you.
"When my back is up against the wall, some interesting things can happen."
"Having all the options taken away from you with your diagnosis was somewhat freeing."
"I remember focusing on what it would feel like to get to the U.S.-Mexican border, what that would feel like. What would it taste like? What would the food taste like? What would the air smell like? What would the sun feel like on my skin?"
Listen to the full episode:
For more conversations like this one, check out my book, Vulnerable: Rethinking Human Trafficking.