Running is easy, right? You just put one foot in front of the other, and you’re off! While the foot part is true, there is so much more to the rest. Just like many other activities, there is this unique opportunity to learn a lot about yourself and about life. Here are a few life lessons I have been able to take away from running.
1. You are stronger than you think you are
The body and the mind are capable of extreme measures. If you say you can’t, you’re right. If you say you can, who can stop you? Whether you’re running a half marathon or pushing through a year and a half of grad school, nothing in your life has stopped you from getting where you are right now in this moment; what should stop you now?
2. Failure is a guarantee if you’re not willing to try
You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take. It’s that simple. Have you ever pushed yourself out of your comfort zone and lived to regret it? Now, think about how many opportunities you had to push yourself but let it slip by only to regret it. I’m sure we have all been there, but what stopped us from trying?
Don’t let fear stop you from trying. EVER. Whether is fear of failure, fear of being embarrassed, or fear of being rejected, the point is you went for it and have an experience to reflect on. You don’t have to be the first person to bust a move in the dance circle, but don’t miss your chance to shake it off! If you don’t, you’ll merely be the person clapping to help keep a beat.
3. If it were easy, everyone would do it
This one almost goes without saying! The feeling of accomplishment comes by pushing yourself to do something you didn’t know you were capable of. Do you give yourself a solid pat on the back for brushing your teeth every morning? No! That’s because it’s something you and millions of other people do everyday! The fact that you are taking on a challenge is what will lead you to accomplishment.
4. Age is a number, will power is everything
It doesn’t matter how old, tall, or strong you are. If you aren’t willing to put in the drive, no one else will do it for you. Push yourself to be the best you right now! Harriette Thompson ran a marathon at 92-years-old. If she can do that, you can too! The only thing stopping you is you.
5. It’s about the journey, not the destination
Don’t let your end goal distract your from your journey. The journey is the best part! This is when and where you truly test your limits and learn about yourself. Reaching the end will be memorable, but the entire process that got you to that point is what you will reflect on.
6. Breathe
Inhale. Exhale. This is life, and you are killing it! I believe in you, and so should you.
