I ran a 5k this morning and couldn’t help but reflect on the ways that running is a metaphor for life. I’m a terrible runner, a slow runner. I’m never in the front of the pack and rarely even keep pace with the middle. It is one area of my life I am solidly below average. And I’m ok with that.
I started running at 40 and run a few times a year for charity runs. While running today, in a heat wave, a few observations occurred to me.
Running can be hard. It can also be fun. Running also requires focus. One foot in front of the other, until you reach your destination. It doesn’t help to look behind you, that just distracts from moving forward. The best way to run is to look ahead and not think of how far behind you are or if you are the last runner.
A few running rules that apply to life as a writer:
- Keep moving. No matter how slow, don’t stop. Go at your own pace
- Don’t look behind you. You’re not going that way and it only distracts you from your goal
- Pace yourself. Go only as fast as you can. Don’t try to keep up with someone else. Run your own race.
- Find a kindred spirit to run with. Running goes much faster with a buddy.
- Compete against yourself. It’s ok if you’re not the fastest on the course but the fact that you are out there counts.
- You’ll get to the finish line. It may take longer than others, but you’ll make it.
As with running, is with writing life .These rules work just as well when developing your skills as a writer. Some people may get to their goal faster, but that doesn’t mean you won’t get there as well. Find support in the community and focus on your goals. Everyone finds their success on their own timeline in their own way.
What running lessons apply to your life at the moment?