Lessons Learned

People matter most.

I used to think running was a solo sport . I’ve covered plenty of miles alone, decompressing and enjoying time to myself I knew I would need help preparing for the WMC but I did not anticipate that the greatest rewards from this experience would be the human connections I made along the way . I couldn’t have gotten through the training process without family and friends cheering me on, running buddies who kept me going on many long runs, amazing care providers that kept me healthy as I loaded up the miles, and an amazing coach who encouraged and guided me through the whole process It became very clear this was a group effort and I loved my support team

During the WMC there was an instant bond between runners We came from different backgrounds but had one thing in common– we were all crazy enough to take on this adventure! We shared french fries in the airport, high-fived during the races, and basically looked out for each other We struggled together and celebrated together through the ups and downs of a whirlwind trip .

I thought this experience was going to be about a personal achievement . I’m so grateful it was anything but solo

Rest makes you stronger.

I knew I had to work hard to be ready for the WMC but I didn’t realize how critical rest was too I thought too many days off would make me lose progress I really had to trust my coach when my schedule included drops in mileage and longer breaks than I thought I needed I eventually came to learn that when we rest, our bodies have a chance to restore and get stronger . Resting isn’t weak or lazy . It’s an important part of the growth process

BE WHERE YOU ARE.

I distinctly remember the sinking feeling I had when I looked at my watch and saw I was only 8 miles into a full marathon . It was the final run of my biggest week of training I had already put in over 120 miles that week and I was beyond tired I had no idea how I could possibly keep going for 18 more miles! Marathon running (and life) can be like that It’s easy to get discouraged when the distance to our goal seems insurmountable . Over many long runs I have learned the power of staying mentally focused . Instead of fretting about the remaining miles and wishing I was at the finish line, I try to embrace the moment I’m in . I tell myself I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be I put my thoughts and effort into what I can do right now, which is to take the next step and keep moving . This approach helped me many times during the seven marathons of the WMC! It has also helped me tackle non-running goals and be more present in general And yes, I kept going for 18 more miles–one step at a time .

TAKE THE LEAP.

I had plenty of reasons not to pursue the World Marathon Challenge But saying yes to this adventure is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made! It was a life-changing experience that will stay with me forever I did something that was “impossible” for me and it opened my eyes to the great potential in each of us . It was one wild ride with lots of bumps and thrills along the way and it taught me that life is much more rewarding outside of our comfort zone .

Running For A Reason

As part of this endeavor, I chose to run in support of Operation Underground Railroad, an organization whose purpose is to end human trafficking, specifically child sex trafficking

O .U .R has rescued over 6,000 survivors and assisted in the arrest of over 4,000 predators . They operate in all 50 states and over 40 countries

Trafficking is an issue more widespread and closer to home than most of us realize .

If you’d like to join me in making a difference, please visit ourrescue.org to learn more about human trafficking and ways you can support this life changing organization