Life's A Marathon

I'm writing this the day after the Boston Marathon, now back to its traditional April start after being canceled in 2020 and moved to a fall date in 2021 due to COVID-19. Boston, as it's called, has a place in my heart, having run it 20 years ago after surprising myself in my first Chicago marathon and qualifying. This year is extra special as it marks the 50th anniversary of the first woman to officially run the race (hats off to the women who broke the rules and ran in earlier years)!

I think running a marathon changes you. I'm constantly telling clients that life, running your own business, navigating a career, etc., is like training for and running a marathon. You're going to have miles that feel easy and ones that are hard. At times you'll wonder why you ever thought this was a good idea, and you'll contemplate dropping out. You'll often feel very alone. You'll experience your own particular Heartbreak Hill. At some point, you're likely to get injured and have to slow down and rest. There will be other runners jockeying for position and running faster or slower than you, and you'll realize you have to run at your own pace.

You'll also be grateful for snacks, hydration, and being well-rested. You'll be glad you trained in the cold, heat, and rain, so you're resilient to handle anything. And you'll benefit from people cheering you on, many of whom you didn't even know when the journey began.

So if you've ever contemplated running a marathon (or half-marathon, 10K, 5K, etc.) I say go for it! You'll come away forever changed, knowing that you can do just about anything if you don't give up. And that's a life lesson you'll never forget.

And while we're on the topic of how running can change your life, check out the movie, Brittany Runs a Marathon on Amazon. Based on the true couch to marathon story of Brittany O'Neill, roommate of the film's writer and director, Paul Downs Colaizzo. Brittany is played by the funny and talented Jillian Bell, who brings heart and soul to the story. I dare you to watch this movie and not come away inspired.

In my experience, standing at the finish line of a marathon is an emotional, spiritual experience. I cry as I see the runners cross as I see their smiles, tears, grimaces, limps, arms raised, and high fives. And I can only imagine the unique journey each has taken to get there.

One incredible journey is Adrianne Haslet's, who saw her first marathon finish in Boston in 2013 when she lost her leg in the terrorist bombing. Never a runner, she later decided to take on the challenge to run Boston herself someday, and three years later, she did, finishing dead last in just over 10 hours. On Monday, she ran Boston again, finishing in 5 hours, 18 minutes, and 41 seconds. Adrianne's story is unforgettable!