Running is a journey—and we’re all at different places along the road. I can’t compare my journey to anyone else’s, and neither can you.
I remember when I first started running. I was struggling badly. The concept of slowing down didn’t make sense until years—and a few injuries—later.
I still recall one humbling moment early on: I was giving it everything I had, breathing hard, legs burning, when an elderly gentleman passed me with ease. I say “elderly” with complete respect—at the time I was in my early thirties and he may have been twice my age. But man… he smoked me.
For a moment, I felt humiliated and defeated. How could I let this “old man” surpass me? What I didn’t realize back then is that running isn’t a contest—it’s a conversation with yourself.
There are so many factors that affect performance—training experience, overall health, stride length, biomechanics, nutrition, even genetics. None of us are the same. Comparing ourselves to others only distracts us from our own progress.
Running can be tough—mentally and physically. But taking time for rest and recovery isn’t weakness; it’s wisdom. It’s okay to walk a little. It’s okay to walk a lot. It’s okay to intentionally go slow.
Running gives us a space to practice grace—for ourselves and for others. We don’t always hit our goals or meet our expectations. Some of us have a habit of being overly critical, but running teaches us to celebrate progress instead of perfection.
There’s power in small victories: completing that first mile, returning after injury, or crossing a finish line—whether it’s a 5K or a marathon. Even balancing life’s demands and staying healthy is a win worth celebrating.
Sometimes we break down but still find our way across the finish line. Sometimes we never see the finish line at all, but walk away with a lesson that matters more than a medal.
So today, whatever pace you’re at—run easy, breathe deep, and remember: Easy does it.
