Stepping into the Narrative
Books, folktales, and fables have always been more than mere stories on paper, or narratives passed from generation to generation by word of mouth; they take us to worlds of imagination and provide wisdom. Embedded within the narratives and entertainment factors you can sometimes find moral lessons that extend beyond the characters and plots. This is why at MedalMad we let books inspire some of our favourite challenges to keep us motivated while we get the steps in. Here are some of our favourite tales and why they inspired us:
Slow and Steady Marathon – Inspired by the classic fable of the Tortoise and the Hare
“The Tortoise and the Hare” tells the story of a race between a slow-moving tortoise and a fast-running hare. The hare, confident in his speed, initially dashes far ahead of the tortoise and becomes complacent, taking a nap midway through the race. Meanwhile, the tortoise continues steadily on, never giving up despite his slower pace. In the end, the tortoise wins the race while the hare sleeps, proving that slow and steady progress can ultimately lead to success.
This resonated with the MedalMad Team as just as virtual challenges, the “The Tortoise and the Hare” relates to the concept of pacing oneself and maintaining consistent effort over time. Just as the tortoise remains focused and persistent throughout the race, participants in virtual challenges need to stay committed to their goals and continue making progress, even when faced with setbacks or obstacles.
The story also highlights the danger of overconfidence and complacency, as demonstrated by the hare’s decision to take a break during the race. During any challenge individuals may encounter periods of rapid progress or early success, which can lead to a false sense of security. Or challengers can cause injury by pushing themselves too early to get that speedy progress. Both elements can result in falling behind or failing to achieve one’s objectives.
The most important element for MedalMad from this fable is how it highlights the importance of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Despite his slower speed, the tortoise’s perseverance ultimately allows him to surpass the hare and emerge victorious. Similarly, our participants may encounter difficulties or setbacks along the way, but by remaining resilient and staying focused on your goals, you can overcome obstacles and achieve success in the long run.
Grimm Trails, Hansel & Gretel & Little Red Cap – Inspired by the Brothers Grimm, Grimm’s Fairy Tales
The Grimm Brothers, Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm, are best known for their collection of folktales, commonly referred to as “Grimm’s Fairy Tales.” These stories are primarily folktales rather than fables. Folktales are traditional narratives passed down orally through generations within a culture. They often feature fantastical elements, magical creatures, and supernatural occurrences. Folktales typically focus more on entertainment rather than moral teachings.
While Grimm’s Fairy Tales are not focused on moral teachings if you look closely, you can find inspiration from these characters that will help drive you through your virtual challenge!
In the Little Red Cap, also known as Red Riding Hood she embarks on a journey through the forest full of unexpected obstacles, uncertainties, and risks along the way to visit her grandmother’s house as does a challenger taking on a virtual challenge as they try to achieve their goals. She meets with cunning wolf who tries to tempt her away from the path. At MedalMad we understand the temptations and distractions that threaten to derail our progress in challenges. These temptations could include procrastination, self-doubt, or competing priorities in day-to-day life which pull you away from your SMART objectives.
Overall, “Little Red Cap” offers timeless lessons about perseverance, resilience, preparation, and the importance of seeking support, all of which are relevant to individuals participating in virtual challenges.
As with the Little Red Cap, Hansel and Gretel also mirrors the same underlying themes about resilience, while they embark on a journey through the forest full of unexpected obstacles, uncertainties, and risks as they encounter the witch. In the story, Hansel and Gretel are tempted by the witch’s gingerbread house, which lures them into danger. Similarly, participants in virtual challenges may encounter distractions or temptations that divert their attention from their goals. Like the siblings, they must remain focused and disciplined, resisting the allure of short-term gratification in favour of long-term success.
The MedalMad team particularly enjoy the underlying tones of this tale as when you look beyond the story you can find timeless lessons about resilience, collaboration, focus, and personal growth, all of which we work towards every day.
