“Why do you do that?”
I hear that a lot. I have been running consistently for almost 10 years, and after numerous 5k’s and 10k’s, a dozen half-marathons, nine marathons, and one (and only) Tough Mudder, I think I’ve got an answer.
Running is a microcosm of life.
Life is hard, so is running. Life tests your mental and physical abilities, and so does running. Life is a marathon, not a sprint, and well, you get the idea.
Neither promises to be quick or easy. To help me stay focused, I have a running coach and a professional coach. I’ve learned a lot about myself because I work with both, and what I have come to realize is that there are many parallels between the two disciplines. I believe there are stories worth sharing.
Think about the most important things in your life – your “pillars”, if you may. For me, those pillars are Family, Health, Career, Finances, and Spirituality. Adjectives such as love, longevity, vibrancy, youth, energy, planning, conditioning, awareness, and completeness describe the meaning of all of these pillars, and I think of all of them when I’m out on the road running. Life can feel like running on a treadmill at times, and sometimes it just feels like an uphill slog. Strengthening these pillars, and the meanings behind them, helps to keep me moving forward.
Running exposes vulnerabilities, strengths, and weaknesses. It is one thing to be comfortable running in the pack, but the thrill comes from pushing forward. Growth comes from within, and gains come through an open mind, willing to change, and the ability to adapt. You have the chance to go lone wolf, or be part of a group… that’s your choice. Fast forward to a running race – there are planning and strategy considerations, risk/reward opportunities, discipline and focus, and ultimately success at the end of the road. Sound familiar?
Running used to be just a way for me to stay in shape. It still is, but it’s much more. The physical and mental exercises I do every week enable me to enrich my “pillars” – and my life in general. A morning run prepares me for my day, and is a tune-up for the challenges that lie ahead. I can’t imagine a better “walk through” before I tackle the world. Whether it is at home, at work, or out in the community, the lessons I learn on the track and trail allow me to “sharpen the saw”, and give me the focus and discipline to achieve greater things.
That’s the intersection of running and life, and it’s meaningful to me. I look forward to sharing my stories, observations, and insights through the lens of a runner and professional, striving to get better, one step at a time.
jamescoope.com 