5 lessons that I learned from running a marathon
When I was training for my first full marathon, somebody told me: “the marathon will change your life”. At the time, I didn’t realize what he meant, and I couldn’t figure out how a non-professional race could impact my life. Surely, it was a long-distance race, requiring a lot of preparation and time invested, but still, I didn’t get it. Over the years, I can see my approach to life has changed. Indeed, the marathon is a life-changing event and for every person is a unique experience. When you decide to do something new and out of your comfort zone, you change your perspective. I use the marathon as a metaphor because it’s part of my experience, but this is the story of life. It can be a marathon or any other event that forces you to leave your comfort zone.
So, how has the marathon changed my perspective?
When I signed up for a marathon, I was super excited and started thinking about all the details, visualizing the finishing line and the moment I would celebrate. Then, when I started training, things changed a little bit. The training is intense, and, although the intensity of the workouts is easy and low effort, the mileage is high. There were days I felt great, super ready to run the marathon and hit a PR, and days I wasn’t so sure and felt unmotivated and tired. That is completely normal; it’s part of the process, but I never regretted doing it. I realized the marathon makes you not only physically but also mentally stronger. You have to be committed; if you start missing your runs, your performance will eventually decline. Moreover, you have to be ready to give up a few things, squeezing your schedule to fit the workouts or canceling appointments with friends. It is true in life as well, if you want to achieve something, you have to invest time and effort and be focused on your goal, giving up something to prioritize it.
From my experience, at least, there are 5 lessons that I learned from running a marathon and that I apply in everyday situations:
Be flexible and adapt to the current situation: When I started my training, everything looked so perfect, but in reality it was a long way to go. There were days I didn’t feel good, I experienced some muscle soreness or I had some personal situations that forced me to change my plans. If your plans do not work well, be ready to find an alternative solution.
Approach challenges with enthusiasm: Not all days are the same. Some days I was tired, and my motivation was not great, but I kept moving. Every day you have to make choices that sometimes are not easy and fun. Learn to approach difficulties with enthusiasm and full of energy. Sometimes the course is uphill because it will eventually go downhill.
Getting comfortable being uncomfortable: In long-distance running, you have to get used to running with tired legs. When I’m tired, I want to stop and cut off the miles. In those moments, I resist this temptation and let my body adjust to the uncomfortable situation. Although something is not pleasant and comfortable, accept the challenge. It’s the way to grow and improve.
Invest time in yourself: Pay attention to nutrition, stretch, sleep well. Eating well and sleeping a good amount of hours is essential for your own being. I think taking care of ourselves is one of the top priorities in life.
Believe in yourself: You can do more than you think. You have to trust yourself and the process. Running 26.2 miles is physically challenging; the mind questions our abilities and the chances of success, but always believe in yourself.
My advice is to experience and try new things, marathons or not, you will improve from those experiences. Pick a marathon or something more suitable for your personality and aspirations, and fully experience it. Life always has something to teach us.