There’s a weird kind of tension that builds when you know you’re capable of more, but things just aren’t clicking the way they should. You watch other people hit milestones, make moves, and part of you feels inspired—while another part feels left behind. It’s not always about talent or effort; sometimes it’s just timing, access, or mindset that shifts things. But that gap between who you are and who you could be can get heavy, especially when you’re not sure what’s missing.
Summary:
Brian Barraza is a pro runner and designer based in Boulder, balancing elite competition with creative work. He’s got degrees in sports and design, and he’s all about pushing limits—physically and personally. Today, he talks about how running has taught him discipline, vulnerability, and the value of support systems. His focus isn’t just on performance but on creating space where people can grow and feel seen. It’s a mix of grit, reflection, and genuine connection.
Quotes:
* "The true meaning of toughness is not about grit and bearing down. That’s not sustainable. You perform best when you identify sources of tension and relax them."
* "Running points to something for me. Running has always been the space where I can meet myself and gain deeper knowledge of who I am through experience."
* "Excellence becomes the expectation, and expectation erodes inspiration. It changes the way you relate to these things."
Takeaways:
* Create accountability structures that reduce mental friction and make desired actions automatic.
* Practice "zooming in and out" when facing challenges - examine both microscopic details and broader context to maintain perspective.
* Start a multi-purpose journaling system tracking different life areas (daily recap, training, personal growth, professional work).
* Ask yourself deeper "why" questions when pursuing goals, pushing beyond surface-level motivations.
* Build social networks that challenge you to maintain high performance standards while supporting personal growth.
Timeline:
[00:03] Brian Barraza Talks Running and Creative Work
[02:20] How Brian Builds Real Trust with People
[05:57] Inside the Daily Life of a Pro Runner
[11:52] Staying Grounded While Chasing Big Goals
[19:58] What Toughness Really Means in Coaching
[25:21] Books and Tools That Help Brian Stay Centered
[28:12] Where to Find Brian and His Creative Work
Conclusion:
Achieving true professional excellence means building a clear structure, staying accountable, and understanding what truly drives you—not just chasing titles or status. It's less about working nonstop and more about setting up systems that support steady progress without constant stress. When you take time to reflect, face your doubts honestly, and step back to see the bigger picture, you gain the tools to turn setbacks into growth. This kind of thoughtful approach helps you work smarter, not harder. Over time, it leads to real progress that feels both sustainable and personal.
Links/Resources:
Website:
https://www.ink-and-echoes.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianbarraza
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ink_and_echoes_creative/
https://www.instagram.com/brazzledazzle5k/
If you like what you're hearing and want to dive deeper into credibility, clarity, and how to show up as your best self, visit MitchellLevy.com. You can also book time directly on the calendar at https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us to start your journey toward greater credibility today!
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