I was really moved recently when a Strider reached out to share that they had just completed the New York City Marathon and were reflecting on what that experience meant for them. They realized after crossing the finish line that they wished they had celebrated more and invited others to cheer them on, because training for something so big ends up being a rite of passage. Their honesty stirred up memories from my own marathon experiences and reminded me just how powerful those transitions are when we separate from who we were and stretch ourselves into something new.
It got me thinking about the lessons we learn when we take on something that feels huge, unknown, and uncomfortable, and then come out the other side stronger. Life asks us to pace ourselves, to stay connected to our why, to lean on a support system, and to celebrate each milestone along the way. On today's Wise Walk let's explore what our literal or metaphorical marathons can teach us about self belief, resilience, and finishing strong.
- What lessons can you learn from the idea of running a marathon, even if you never plan to run one?
- What experience or accomplishment are you in the midst of right now that feels like a marathon?
- Can you apply the lessons of training, pacing, and consistent effort to help you cross your own finish line feeling strong and proud?
- What is the marathon you are embracing in your life, and how is it shaping your self belief and confidence?
- Are you setting yourself up for success by understanding your why, pacing yourself, and honoring rest when you need it?
- Are you practicing self care in the ways that support your highest and best self?
- Who is part of your support system, and how can you let them cheer you on through the ups, the downs, and everything in between?
You do not need to have a massive goal to honor your own rite of passage. Whatever you are working toward, set the intention and take steady steps forward. With consistent effort you will discover that you are far more capable than you realize, so keep going. We are here to cheer you on and celebrate each milestone.
I would love to hear what spoke to you today, so feel free to reach out and share your reflections. Thank you for spending this time with me. Tune in next Thursday for another Wise Walk.
In this episode:
- [05:23] When I took myself on a Wise Walk and reflected on the lessons learned from my marathons, I realized that these lessons apply to so many things in life.
- [06:17] With consistent effort we're capable of way more than we think. Lessons Learned include setting goals and following a plan.
- [07:43] I also learned to listen to my body and pace myself to avoid burnout.
- [09:03] I met a runner who stuck with me, because I was really good at pacing myself. No matter what you're working on, pace yourself and finish strong instead of burning yourself out.
- [10:05] Self care is not a luxury.
- [11:03] Focus on what you can control and prepare.
- [12:46] How can you support your body and your training towards achieving your big goal?
- [13:09] Also consider what your "why" is.
- [14:16] "The real purpose of running isn't to win a race. It's to test the limits of the human heart." Bill Bowerman
- [15:09] My goal was to enjoy the spectators and finish while feeling strong.
- [16:04] Celebrate your wins with a support system. Lean in and feel their support and presence.
- [17:50] A story about how I felt seen and heard by my good friend.
- [20:32] The New York City marathon is a big melting pot with 50,000 runners taking over Manhattan.
Memorable Quotes:
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- "Life asks us to keep showing up even when it feels hard, because that is where we discover what we are truly capable of." - Mary Tess
- "Pacing yourself is not slowing down. It is choosing strength over burnout so you can finish with pride." - Mary Tess
- "You were not meant to walk every mile alone. Let people cheer for you. Let them lift you higher." - Mary Tess
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