Running: A Game of Challenges and Lessons Why did I decide to run, and how running changed the way I see things.

One of the fundamental principles I recently gleaned from Stephen Covey’s book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, is the profound impact perception has on our lives. Yes, I do listen to podcasts while I run! Our perception of the world directly influences our decisions, which in turn shape our lives. Imagine perception as a map—a guide that helps us navigate our path. Having the right attitude and a well-prepared physique doesn’t guarantee success; true achievement only materializes when we acquire the right perception. If our mental maps (perceptions) are flawed, our goals will remain elusive, and we may never reach our desired destination. Thus, a deliberate shift in perception during any task becomes imperative for success.

But let’s delve deeper. Whenever I lace up my running shoes, it’s no longer a mundane obligation. Instead, I embrace it as a challenge—a series of levels waiting to be conquered. Just like in video games, each task becomes an opportunity for growth, learning, and improvement. And just like in video games some tasks are boring and some are highly impactful, however these tasks are still in and of themselves necessary. The finish line isn’t the end; it’s merely a checkpoint leading to the next level. This altered perception helped me embrace running. If you were to ask me what brought me here, it was more of an experiment that eventually unfolded into a surprising discovery—a hobby I never thought I’d enjoy. Initially, running seemed dreadful—the prospect of breathlessness, sweat, exhaustion, and sore legs the next day was a complete turn-off. However, viewing it as a level to overcome made it more appealing(to me at least!)

Running teaches us that failure isn’t defeat; it’s an invitation to try again. Just like in games, where you respawn after falling, life offers second chances. When I stumble or had a "bad" run, I don’t give up or merely make decisions based on that single event. I persevere, understanding that setbacks are an integral part of the journey. This resilience extends beyond the track, shaping how I approach other aspects of life.

Running and Strategy: Lessons Beyond the Track

In the world of games, we meticulously optimize our moves to secure victory. Surprisingly, this same principle applies to life’s tasks. Running, in particular, has been my training ground for strategic thinking. Here’s how:

Prioritization and Goal Breakdown:

Just as in games, where we prioritize objectives, I’ve learned to break down my life goals. Whether it’s pacing myself during a long run or managing work deadlines, I approach each task with a strategic mindset.

Initially, my running strategy was simple: run fast. But that was merely scratching the surface. I hadn’t considered technique, pace, cadence, mileage, or even the effectiveness of my breathing. Electrolytes? Not on my radar—until those cramps hit!

My transformation began when I started watching online videos of seasoned athletes. These bite-sized lessons were perfect for my short attention span. Suddenly, running wasn’t just about putting one foot in front of the other; it was about mastering a skill set.

The Starting Line: Day 1 and Beyond:

Day 1—the tarmac. The next day you step onto the road make sure you did your homework. What terrain are you navigating? What challenges lie ahead? Building a habit is crucial, but it’s not enough.

As you gain confidence, you transition from merely moving to strategizing. Each step becomes intentional. You learn to adapt, adjust, and optimize. It’s like leveling up in a game.

The Art of Starting Slow:

Here’s a golden lesson: Start slow. It’s not about sprinting from the get-go; it’s about building stamina. Slow and steady wins the race (or the run, in this case).

Those initial minutes may feel unremarkable, but they’re the foundation. They condition your body, prepare your mind, and prevent breathlessness. You’re laying the groundwork for success.

The Sprint Finish:

As you near the end of your run, unleash your inner sprinter. Those last 2-3 minutes—go all out! Feel the wind against your face, your heart pounding, and the exhilaration of pushing your limits.

It’s like crossing the finish line of a marathon. You’ve kept your promise to yourself. Endorphins surge, and you raise your hands in triumph.

Remember, running isn’t just about physical endurance; it’s a metaphor for life. Embrace the strategy, celebrate the small victories, and keep sprinting toward your goals.

Running: A Meditative Journey

When I step onto a trail, my mind undergoes a transformation. The rhythmic pounding of my feet creates a meditative flow—an escape from the cacophony of daily life. Much like in games, where time slips away unnoticed, running allows me to be fully present or blissfully lost in the rhythm.

The Rhythm of Running:

Each step becomes a beat, a cadence that syncs with my heartbeat. I attune myself to this rhythm, and suddenly, I’m immersed in a cycle of motion.

Rustling leaves, the whisper of my breath, and the rush of wind—they all merge into a symphony. These small moments remind me of life’s inherent beauty.

Meditation in Motion:

Traditional meditation often involves sitting or lying down in a comfortable position. But for me, running is a form of meditation. It calms my busy mind.

Focused on a single goal—putting one foot in front of the other—I find solace. The repetitive motion clears mental clutter, leaving room for clarity and creativity.

The Benefits of Running Meditation:

Running isn’t just about physical fitness; it’s a mental game. As my breath aligns with my steps, I experience a sense of peace.

Ideas flow freely during these runs. It’s as if my mind, unburdened by distractions, opens up to new possibilities.

Like rest for our bodies, running provides rest for our minds. It rejuvenates, resets, and sharpens our mental faculties.

Perseverance, Strategy, and Mindfulness:

Beyond physical endurance, running teaches us resilience. When fatigue sets in, we keep going. Setbacks become stepping stones.

Strategy comes naturally. Just as in games, we optimize our moves, adjust our pace, and plan our routes.

Mindfulness blooms—the awareness of each step, each breath. Running becomes a moving meditation, a way to connect with ourselves and the world.

So, the next time you lace up your shoes, remember: Life is indeed a game. And running equips us with the skills to play it well—physically, mentally, and soulfully.

Investing in the Right Shoes: A Lesson from Running

1. Fashion vs. Functionality Before I embraced running, my shoe choices were driven by aesthetics. I’d pick shoes based on how they looked, often ignoring comfort and functionality. But once I started running, I realized that comfortable shoes were essential for better performance. Just like in life, appearances matter, but functionality matters more. The right shoes can elevate our experience, whether on the track or in our daily tasks. Life is a journey, and along the way, we acquire tools to help us achieve our goals. Running taught me that investing in the right gear—like those comfortable, better-looking shoes—can significantly impact our performance. If something enhances our ability to navigate life’s challenges, why not invest in it? Whether it’s a gadget, a skill, or a mindset, these tools become our means to an end not the end in itself. In Tim Ferriss’s book, The 4-Hour Workweek, he discusses how achieving freedom allows us to indulge in our deepest longings(with more emphasis on experience). We acquire gadgets or tools to enhance our experiences. While others may perceive these(material things) as luxuries, successful individuals recognize that the gadget itself isn’t everything—it’s the task or experience it facilitates. Just like running shoes, gadgets are means, not destinations.
   

2. The Joy of Research and Decision-Making Choosing the right running shoes isn’t just about functionality; it’s an adventure in itself. Researching online, comparing features, and deciding which pair suits you best—it’s like a day of joyful window shopping. And when you finally step into a mall to try them on, it’s an experience. Life, too, offers similar moments of exploration and decision-making. Embrace them—they’re part of the journey. Investing in quality shoes for running taught me that life is about more than just covering miles or achieving speed records. It’s about seizing opportunities, building endurance, and enjoying the highs that come with completing each run. So, whether it’s shoes or life choices, remember: It’s not the destination; it’s the journey that truly matters.
   

Discipline and Habits: The Runner’s Journey

1. The Initial Effort Discipline often begins with a burst of effort—a conscious decision to lace up those running shoes, step out the door, and hit the pavement. It’s the moment when you override inertia and choose action over comfort. This initial effort is crucial, like pushing a boulder uphill. But here’s the secret: effort becomes easier with repetition.
   

2. The Power of Habits Habits are the unsung heroes of discipline. Once you’ve put in the effort consistently, habits take over. They’re like autopilot systems, gently nudging you forward. When fatigue sets in, habits keep you moving. Whether it’s waking up early for a run or writing that blog post, habits ensure progress even when motivation wanes.
   

3. The Embodied Identity As a runner, you become more than someone who runs. You embody the identity of a runner. It’s not just about physical activity; it’s a mindset. You start thinking like a runner—setting goals, tracking progress, and celebrating milestones. This identity seeps into other areas of life. Suddenly, you’re the person who perseveres, who doesn’t give up when the going gets tough.
   

4. Fear, Shame, and Fuel Fear and shame, often seen as negative emotions, can be powerful allies. When fear of failure or shame of falling short grips you, it becomes fuel. It propels you forward, urging you to prove yourself wrong. “I can’t” transforms into “I will.” So, embrace these emotions—they’re part of your toolkit. When laziness tempts you, remember the fear of not reaching your potential.
   

5. Choosing the Unappealing Path Discipline isn’t always glamorous. Sometimes, it’s choosing the less appealing path—the early morning run over the cozy bed, the salad over the pizza. It’s saying no to distractions and yes to commitment. But each time you make that choice, you reinforce your discipline muscle. And soon, it becomes second nature.
   

Running teaches us that discipline isn’t a rigid drill sergeant; it’s a gentle guide. It’s the art of showing up, even when motivation falters. So, whether you’re chasing miles or life goals, remember: Discipline is the bridge between intention and achievement.

Exploration, Boundaries, and Becoming Better

1. The Competitive Journey Within As runners, we embark on a dual journey: the physical one on the track and the internal one within ourselves. We explore our limits, measure our progress, and compete—not against others, but against our former selves. Each step becomes a challenge, a chance to surpass yesterday’s version. It’s a silent race where the finish line keeps shifting, urging us to be better with every stride.
   

2. Priorities and Passion Running isn’t just about burning calories or logging miles. It’s an act of self-love—a commitment to becoming a better version of who we are. When you lace up those shoes, you’re not just running; you’re investing in yourself. And this investment spills over into other aspects of life. Suddenly, saying no becomes easier. Boundaries form naturally because you know what truly matters.
   

3. The Power of “No” Saying no isn’t about rejection; it’s about protection. By prioritizing what you love—whether it’s running, writing, or spending time with loved ones—you create a protective shield. It’s a boundary that keeps negativity, distractions, and draining commitments at bay. When you say no to something, you’re saying yes to your well-being, your growth, and your passions.
   

4. Rediscovering Joy Perhaps you ran before, but this time, it feels different. Maybe it’s the wisdom that comes with age or the hunger for experiences. Whatever the reason, you’ve rediscovered the joy of running. And in doing so, you’ve unlocked a better version of yourself. You’re not just a runner; you’re a curator of your own life—a guardian of your time and energy.
   

5. Boundaries: The Art of Selective Yes

Boundaries aren’t rigid walls; they’re flexible fences. They allow the good to flow in while keeping the bad out. When you say yes to running, writing, or any passion, you’re saying yes to growth, fulfillment, and purpose. And in that selective yes lies your power. So, watch out for my upcoming piece on boundaries—we’ll delve deeper into this essential art.

Running isn’t just about covering distances; it’s about discovering who you are. It’s about saying yes to the right things and no to the noise. So, keep exploring, keep setting boundaries, and watch how it transforms you—one step at a time.

Sleep Like a Rock and Dream

Running has gifted me the sleep of a contented rock. The rhythmic pounding of the track lulls me into a deep slumber at night. Perhaps it’s the physical exhaustion or the mental clarity that comes with each stride during a run. Anxiety, once a relentless companion, now retreats to the shadows. I’ve learned that suffering need not be a permanent state; it can be replaced by restful nights.

1. The Arsenal of Well-Being Running isn’t a solitary remedy for anxiety, but it’s a vital tool in my arsenal. Alongside meditation and journaling, it forms a triad of resilience. When life’s storms brew, I lace up my shoes, breathe in the crisp air, and let the rhythm of my feet chase away worries. It’s a dance between movement and stillness—a balance that keeps anxiety at bay.
   

2. The Habit Loop As running becomes a habit—a desirable one, after dinner, fatigue wraps around me like a cozy blanket. My body craves rest, and my mind anticipates the next run. It’s a cycle of exertion and rejuvenation. Soon, the habit solidifies, and I find myself yearning for those miles. Good habits, like loyal companions, stick around—they become part of our identity.
   

3. Boundaries and Dreams Saying no becomes easier when you have boundaries. Running, writing, and pursuing passions create a protective fence. They guard our time and energy. And within these boundaries, dreams flourish. New York beckons (or any country you wish to visit for your next marathon) —a marathon awaits. It’s not just about the race; it’s about weaving memories into the fabric of existence. Dreams keep us sane amidst chaos; they’re our compass in a turbulent world.
   

4. Let’s Run the World So, my friend, let’s lace up and run. Not just on tracks, but through life’s alleys. Let’s chase dreams, create core memories, and leave footprints on distant roads. The marathon isn’t just a race; it’s a celebration of resilience. And as we run, we’ll discover that the world is vast, yet our steps matter. So, let’s run—towards New York, towards dreams, towards sanity.
   

Gratitude: The Finish Line

As I reflect on this transformative journey, I’m filled with gratitude. Grateful for the miles covered, the lessons learned, and the resilience cultivated. Running isn’t just about physical exertion; it’s a celebration of life—the highs, the lows, and the steady rhythm that carries us forward.

So, as I tie my shoelaces and step into the next adventure, I carry gratitude in my heart. Grateful for the ability to run, the freedom to explore, and the privilege of chasing dreams. And amidst the chaos of the world, gratitude becomes my compass—a reminder that every step is a gift. It truly is.

Thank you, running, for being more than a sport. Thank you, life, for the winding trails and unexpected detours. And thank you, reader, for joining me on this journey. Let’s keep running—towards joy, towards purpose, towards gratitude.