Looking for inspiration? It may be closer than you think!

Sometimes looking back can sharpen our focus for the road ahead.

I recently took a trip down memory lane – I tuned in to ESPN2 on Sunday to watch the 45th running of the New York Marathon.  Few races – or events period – compare to the New York Marathon.  The broadcast brought back a lot of great memories. It was exactly one year ago that I was one of those 50,000+ runners in New York, and it was the most memorable (and fastest) marathon of my running career. Walking out of Central Park on a cold and windy afternoon never felt so good!

Fast forward one year, and I’ve all but wrapped up another season of racing. I ran eight races, achieved 3 new PR’s and logged another marathon. A successful and fulfilling year, but it is hard to beat the excitement of last year in New York.  Facing a long and cold winter season, I needed something to get me fired up for what is ahead!

 Watching the race and following my friends and teammates conquer NYC brought back so many great memories – including the thrill of a marathon PR on a tough course on a tough day.  I’ve heard inspiring stories from friends who ran the race this year, and another chapter of inspiring stories and cherished memories has been written.  For me, I’m still in “recovery mode” from my marathon a couple of weeks ago, but after connecting with the New York experience this past weekend and hearing all of the great stories from this year, I’m inspired, energized, and planning my 2016 race calendar!

One of the most important lessons running and racing has taught me is the value of drawing on past experiences.  Whether they be lessons learned, remembering great events, or sharing accomplishments, looking back can help set you back on course with priorities, goals, and inspiration.  It’s a lesson that applies in so many facets of life.  Sharing and celebrating these moments in life is a great way to recapture that energy and passion!