Running a marathon is a lot like life. You have many different types of personalities that attend the race for a number of different reasons. Not everyone in life is seeking the same goal, but everyone is looking to finish.
Running is said to be an easy activity. That is until your legs start to become tired and the pain begins to develop, or you begin to gasp for air as your running out of breath. We all have experienced these feelings. If running and working out were painless, we wouldn’t have to motivate ourselves to go. Much like life.
What motivates you to succeed? The gratification received from others? The happiness rushing throughout your body? These incentives are addicting. A majority of people crave for recognition, but what about when that’s not enough? What about when the pressure is too much?
As human beings we are pleasure seeking animals. We all have different goals. Most of our goals are set up to end with the result of happiness. Happiness can be defined in many different ways, but in retrospect very few people actually get to experience the sensation of pure happiness. This is because it is not guaranteed. Almost nothing in life is promised, but one thing is guaranteed; hardships. We all understand this. We’ve all been through it.
At some point in time, most of us have felt overwhelmed. Whether it is with our jobs, school, or our life involvement. If you are one of the lucky few that haven’t yet, get ready. Unfortunately, it’s inevitable. In your life, you will experience the weight of the world on your shoulders. Most likely more than once.
However, more often than not, exposing questions and accusations soon follow. Forcing our weaknesses to shine in the light. Manifesting the impression of being naked, displaying your vulnerability. Causing the feeling of suffocation; as if you are trapped. Consequently forcing many to retreat.
In a race, many people don't finish. Failing to accomplish what they set out to achieve, was the race too hard? 80% of all runners that end the race early relate it to their mindset. Some say they can’t continue because of their shoes. Others say they have to use the bathroom too bad.
In life people stop growing or events occur that stop them in their tracks. They become stagnate and unhappy in most cases. We’ve seen this throughout our lives. Maybe an unexpected pregnancy, or tragic life events come about. These are obstacles that we must overcome. There are times that we will fail and times where success will bring a sense of relief. One can’t function without the other. Success sprouts from the nutritious soil of failure.
Furthermore, how are you running your marathon of life? Analysis yourself. How are you making your decisions? How do you learn? Who are you? Take five minutes and ask yourself these questions. Self-awareness is the road you run your marathon on, the foundation of your legacy.
Successful people don't look back. When the world is pressing down on their shoulders, but they always remember where they began.
How far have you come? Life is a marathon. There will always be long roads ahead. There will be times when quitting feels like the only option.
NEVER GIVE UP. Take life one mile at a time. When hardships arise. Remember how far you have come.
