Updated: February 18, 2016
Originally Published: September 14, 2015
This year has been one of significant physical transformation for my partner, and it hasn’t gone unnoticed by those around us. His rigorous training and dedication have yielded remarkable results, and I couldn’t be prouder. However, there’s a noticeable difference between his appearance as a runner and mine. This discrepancy has led to a series of rather interesting (and often awkward) exchanges with family, friends, and even acquaintances.
The conversations typically unfold like this:
Acquaintance (to partner): You look incredible! You must be running!
Partner: Yeah, I’ve been running a bit…
Acquaintance: That’s fantastic!
Me (standing silently, feeling overlooked): Go ahead, ask him who inspired him to start running again. Yep, that was me, dammit.
Or another scenario:
Acquaintance (to partner): Have you participated in any races?
Partner: We’ve done a couple of half marathons…
Acquaintance: Wasn’t it raining during the last one?
Partner: Yep, it rains every time we run a half—definitely a cure for drought. Samantha ran it with me.
Acquaintance (surprised, turning to me): Oh. You ran it too?
Me: Absolutely! (Internally: Damn straight, every single step of those 13.1 miles, and did we mention the pouring rain?)
Similar reactions arise when I mention my entry into the New York City Marathon, often met with shock and disbelief that I, not my husband, am training for such a significant event.
It may sound like I harbor resentment, but that’s not the case. I understand why I’m not the obvious choice. No one would look at me and immediately think “runner,” and unless they were referring to binge-watching a series, they wouldn’t associate my name with “marathon.”
Strangely enough, I find empowerment in people’s skepticism. I’m not entirely sure what that says about my character or my chosen profession, but I perceive being underestimated as a strategic advantage. It compels me to exert more effort, to push harder, and to dig deeper—all for the satisfaction of surprising those who doubted me.
Ultimately, what matters most is my self-belief. Doubts may linger about my ability to achieve my goals, but each time I overcome my inner critic and accomplish something I thought was beyond my reach, I grow stronger. This resilience prepares me for future challenges.
In the end, regardless of how many friends, family members, or race spectators cheer for you, it all pales in comparison to believing in yourself. And if you ever lose sight of that belief, there are always motivational T-shirts to remind you.
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Summary:
This article reflects on the author’s experiences as a runner who does not fit the stereotypical image of one. It discusses the challenges faced when others underestimate one’s abilities and highlights the importance of self-belief and resilience in achieving personal goals.