Marathon Man

Last week I signed up for the Grand Rapids Marathon for October 2021. When I tell friends and family, they immediately get big eyed or concerned that I’ll collapse during the run. That's because I have never been a runner and am also overweight. Over the last 20 years, my focus has been on being the best student I can be, obtaining a college degree, getting a job, progressing my skillset, and raising a family. On the other side of all that, my physical health has suffered due to the lack of attention and some mental health too in the form of anxiety.

Being a programmer and having a sedentary job has taken a toll over the years. My weight peaked around 250 lbs. After a doctor visit, I was told my blood pressure and cholesterol were slightly elevated. I knew I had to do something different, but did not have the willpower or an idea of what to do. Then last month, I started running with a couple neighbors, and they were so patient allowing me to get my legs underneath me. Each additional run, I could see incremental improvements (running a little bit longer, faster, stronger) each time. I soon joined a running group that meets on Saturday mornings and the energy is contagious. I guess you have to be a little crazy to look forward to running a few miles after a long day of work or getting up early on the weekend instead of sleeping in, but a cherish each opportunity to get a little better each day. I actually look forward to the runs now.

I’ve never ran track or cross country in high school, and no common sense should give me confidence I can run a marathon, but I know in my mind, body and soul that this marathon goal is going to happen. I have mentors who have been there, a group of runners whose energy I am chasing, and a newfound social avenue. With a plan in place, and good people around us I think we can all accomplish more than we can do individually. But, even if for some reason, I am unable to cross the finish line, the life lessons learned and the friendships I've developed on the journey will be the real prize. Life is all about the journey and not necessarily the destination.

I guess the reason I am mentioning this, is to potentially inspire others. If you have a goal, whether it’s for professional or personal, seek out your mentors, managers, and support group to come up with a plan. There will be plenty of people who don't want to see you succeed for any number of reasons. But if it is important to you, don't wait. Now is as good of time as any, there is always going to be a reason to not do it, so why not now!

What's my WHY in all this? I'm going all in to create a lifestyle change for my family and I. I want to be around to create fun memories with my wife and kiddos for many years to come. And, committing to the longer term goal of a marathon will hold me accountable and teach me discipline, dedication, and determination that I hope will stick with me for the rest of my life.

What's a goal you've been thinking about and haven't acted on? What's your why?

Is today the day you make that commitment?