Running Towards Dreams: The Journey to a 42K Marathon and Life's Unexpected Lessons
90-Day Challenge: Day 34 of 90
Running reminds me of life. Both are journeys filled with challenges, small victories, and big dreams. One exciting dream I have is to run a 42-kilometer marathon. This is no small feat, and I hope to achieve it when I turn 42 next year. It's more than just about hitting the road—it's about preparing myself, physically and mentally, to achieve something meaningful. Today, let's explore how running connects to life and the motivating lessons it brings along the way.
The Power of Preparation and Persistence
In the past, I've participated in many fun runs and races. My longest was a 16-kilometer run in Perth, Australia. That race was memorable but also taught me a hard lesson: preparation is key. I wore the wrong shoes on a challenging terrain, leading to a painful injury that kept me off my feet for a week. This experience taught me the importance of having the right gear and being well-prepared for any journey. You see, in running and in life, preparation helps you avoid unnecessary pain so you can move forward with confidence.
The dream of a 42-kilometer run isn't just about the distance. It's about the preparation and persistence it takes to get there. Before tackling long runs, I make sure to practice with short distances first. This gradual increase helps build my stamina and self-belief. With each stride, I find ways to improve my technique, choosing the right shoes and gear to prevent injury and setbacks.
Embracing Your Own Pace
One important lesson running has taught me is to honor my personal pace. I don't rush to the finish line. Instead, I respect my capacity, focus on finishing, and enjoy the journey. This approach applies so well to life. Each of us is unique, and we move at our own speed. When we respect our pace, we avoid feeling overwhelmed or burned out. By starting slow and managing our energy wisely, we have a better chance to achieve our dreams and stay fulfilled.
Breathing and Discovering Purpose
Breathing while running is crucial. It supplies the oxygen needed for our heart to pump and our muscles to function. Similarly, in life, having a purpose is like oxygen. It keeps us motivated and helps us push forward even when things get tough. Without a clear purpose, we may feel lost and tired, like running out of breath.
When I run, I pay close attention to my breathing, making sure it’s steady and strong. In life, having a strong sense of purpose ensures I keep moving in the right direction. Knowing why I want to achieve something drives me and helps me overcome challenges. It's vital to find your "why"—it fuels your journey and fills your path with meaning.
Lessons from Walks and Travels
Walking is also a joy, especially when traveling. During a 12-day trip to Japan, I aimed for 20,000 steps each day. Walking helps me discover new places on foot and connect with different environments. Although it can sometimes be tiring, every step brings a new experience and lesson. Just like in running and life, taking one step at a time helps me get closer to extraordinary destinations.
I hope to run a marathon not just as a personal achievement but as a testament to the lessons learned along the way. Running teaches me about preparation, respecting my pace, and the significance of purpose. These lessons don't just apply to running—they’re guiding principles for life. As I continue this journey, I invite you to find your own race to run, your own path to follow, and to find purpose in each step you take.