The Miles We've Run: What Our Past Races Whisper to Our Present Selves

Lately, as the Tulsa  air warms and the familiar urge to lace up my running shoes returns, my mind has drifted back to the miles I've covered. Not just the easy morning jogs, but the marathons, the grueling ultras, the countless races where every step was a testament to grit and determination. Running those distances wasn't just about crossing a finish line; it was a journey inward, a conversation with myself that stretched over hours and sometimes days. And as I reflect on those past endeavors, a powerful question arises: what do those glimpses into my former running self teach me about who I am today?

Those early races, the nervous excitement at the starting line, the surge of adrenaline with the gun, the sheer will to push through the discomfort – they remind me of the resilience I've always possessed. Life, much like a marathon, throws its share of hills and headwinds. Remembering the times I dug deep, found that extra gear when my body screamed to stop, reinforces that inner strength that still resides within me, ready to be called upon when life presents its challenges.

The ultras, those seemingly impossible distances, taught me an even more profound lesson: the power of sustained effort and the importance of breaking down overwhelming tasks into manageable steps. Each mile in an ultra is a small victory, a testament to mental fortitude as much as physical endurance. This resonates deeply with the long-term goals I pursue today, whether in my business, my relationships, or my personal growth. The memory of conquering those vast distances whispers, "You have the capacity to endure, to persevere, one step at a time."

And then there are the races that didn't go as planned – the ones where I hit a wall, where doubt crept in, where the finish line felt miles away. Those experiences, perhaps even more than the victories, taught me about self-compassion and the importance of learning from setbacks. They showed me that failure isn't the opposite of success; it's often a crucial part of the journey. Today, when I face obstacles, I can draw on those memories, knowing that I've weathered storms before and emerged stronger, wiser.

Looking back at my running log, I see a younger version of myself, driven by ambition and a desire to push physical limits. But I also see the beginnings of the woman I am today – the discipline, the mental toughness, the unwavering spirit. The miles I ran weren't just about physical achievement; they were about building character, about understanding my own capacity for both strength and vulnerability.

So, what does this glimpse into the past teach me now? It reminds me that the resilience I cultivated on those racecourses is still a vital part of me. It highlights the power of breaking down big challenges into smaller steps, a strategy that applies to any goal I pursue. It reinforces the importance of self-compassion in the face of setbacks. And perhaps most importantly, it shows me the continuous thread of strength and determination that has always been a part of my journey.

Our past endeavors, whatever they may be, hold valuable lessons. They offer glimpses into the core of who we are, the strengths we possess, and the resilience we've built. Taking the time to reflect on those journeys can be a powerful way to understand our present selves and to draw upon the wisdom we've already gained as we continue to navigate the path ahead. The miles we've run whisper truths about the woman we are today, encouraging us to keep moving forward with confidence and grace.