Alternatives are everywhere. It\’s human nature to think of what else we might have, or could be doing, isn\’t it? That\’s true even if we seem to have a dream job. \”The grass is always greener…\”

What might I be doing is I weren\’t an accountant/barista/code-writer…? What would I be doing if I didn\’t have to work? If I won the lottery, or if I were retired? What are my alternatives?

Pro cyclists do it, too. After all, they\’re human. I notice that coffee shop/bakery/goodies comes up several times. A stop at a coffee shop seems to be a ritual part of many a group ride, which might explain it.

Pro cycling is a tough life. Behind the apparent glamor of shiny bicycles and colorful kit flying past is a lot of work; dedication; sacrifice; and preparation. There\’s the training, and being away from home for long periods of time. There\’s the diet, and worrying about making weight. 

Pro cyclists sometimes have terrific headwinds to fight during a race; and they might race through pouring rain, or even snow at high altitudes. Racing through the rain can mean getting plastered with mud; and fans can be a problem (hanging out in the path of oncoming racers to get a better view, for instance). Not to mention crashes that sometimes result in serious injury, or even death.

I can\’t blame pro cyclists for having dreams of what else they\’d like to do besides ride a bicycle; and of what they\’ll do once their racing careers end. I don\’t blame them for dreaming of goodies, either. In fact, those strawberry-white chocolate muffins sound most tempting!