I once desired one of those “26.2” stickers that many people affix to their cars, often sitting pridefully alongside “My Child is an Honor Roll Student” decals. However, my vehicle lacks both the running and honor roll stickers—a reflection of my personal journey with running and self-acceptance.
Historically, I haven’t been particularly competitive or athletic. As a child, I was typically the last pick during team sports in physical education classes. Yet, I eventually took up running, initially competing against myself to a point that might be deemed obsessive. For years, I labeled my running as “survival”—until I realized that merely showing up was, in fact, enough.
After years of running, I found myself sprinting across various small towns, reminiscent of Forrest Gump, until my body started to rebel against me. Despite numerous injuries and costly chiropractor visits, the thought of giving up running never crossed my mind. Reflecting on those times, I wonder if I was running toward a goal or fleeing from something deeper.
After each run, especially when nursing an injury, I would often say to myself, “I guess that was good enough.” However, this notion of “good enough” felt more like a shortcoming, a marker of failure. I began to evaluate my self-worth based on the success—or lack thereof—of each run, equating good enough with inadequacy.
This mindset drove me to push through pain, exacerbating injuries even when my body was pleading for rest. It led me to pursue perfection with the belief that failing was not an option.
Recently, though, I’ve noticed a shift in my mindset. Just last week, I laced up my shoes, stepped outside, and embarked on a run without any specific destination or distance in mind. It was simply me and the open road. In the past, I always focused on my pace or the distance I covered, obsessively checking my watch. But that day was different; for the first time, I looked up and took in my surroundings.
Running transformed from a competitive ordeal into an opportunity for gratitude, allowing me to appreciate what my body could achieve. I completed four miles, and instead of feeling like I had to validate my effort, I realized it was simply enough—without conditions.
I still don’t possess that coveted 26.2 sticker, but I’ve reached a point in my life where I take pride in simply showing up. This act signifies strength, confidence, and deep appreciation for my capabilities. My efforts are valid, and like my running journey, this understanding has taken time to develop. Just as a long run unfolds at a manageable pace, so has my journey of self-acceptance.
I’ll arrive at my goals when I’m meant to, and that will be enough.
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Summary
This article reflects on personal growth through running, emphasizing the shift from a mindset of inadequacy to one of acceptance. It highlights the importance of simply showing up and recognizing one’s worth, aligning the journey with the broader theme of personal fulfillment.