We all run. We run to work, school, errands, and back home again every single day. What are you doing that is outside of your everyday? What are you doing to put the “ing” into your movement?
We are in constant motion, even when we are sitting still. We are thinking of what to do next, anticipating the next time we will get up and move. When I refer to the “ing” in running, what I mean is what gives purpose and meaning to your actions? Do you run just to get from point A to point B? or is there intention and purpose?
Action creates clarity
On October 15, 2016, I ran my first marathon. I’ll be completely honest, running a marathon was not something I set out to do at first. My husband and I started running together several years ago, and enjoyed participating in charity races where beer was involved at the end. It became a social event with friends, and we enjoyed the camaraderie of other runners, and the push it gave us to go farther. When my husband made the suggestion to run 26.2 miles, I cringed. Thinking of completing that length of a run when my husband first mentioned it was daunting. I didn’t think it was possible. I then got out a calendar, and googled marathon race training. With 6 months of planning, I could feasibly complete the task at hand. The only problem? I had to move, and move with purpose.
We began in March with some shorter runs during the week after work, and longer runs on the weekends. As the weather got warmer, and the days longer, our runs became our routine. We researched nutrition for creating stamina, to keep cramping at bay, and to stay hydrated. We mapped our training routes to keep us pushing the mileage, and to be close enough to home in case an emergency came up. We nursed blistered feet, swollen legs, and snarky complaints as the runs got tougher.
The race day came, and we were ready. Before the sun came up, we are off. I’m pleased to say that I successfully completed this marathon, with my amazing husband with me every step of the way. It was hands down the hardest thing I’ve ever done. It hurt – a lot, and my feet were a mess, but I never wanted to stop. The one thing that my husband kept saying to me was “it’s all in your mind.” He was right. Pushing yourself to do something extrordinary has mostly to do with your will to succeed. The “ing” of that serious feat was the motion of my thoughts, the ability to think ahead, and the support I had put in place to get me across that finish line.
As we wrap up 2017, think about the “ing” in your life. Where do you want to go, and what steps are you willing to take to get there?