361: Running Both Matters and Doesn't Matter: A Deep Dive

Why It Both Matters and Doesn’t Matter

It Matters

Running, or any form of physical exercise, requires a level of commitment and passion. If you want to be successful at it, it needs to matter to you. That goal you're working towards, whether it’s a race or a personal fitness milestone, needs to hold significance in your life to fuel your motivation.

“Success requires us to commit to something and make that something matter to us if we want to be successful at it.”

When you hold running as an important part of your identity, it shapes your actions, decisions, and even your approach to challenges.

And Yet, It Doesn’t Matter

Here's where the weird duality kicks in. Despite running being a vital part of our identity, we can't let it consume us entirely. “You have to start to make this separation so that we can really become better in all areas of our life.” If we tie our entire self-worth and identity to running results, we run the risk of encountering emotional highs and lows that can destabilize us.

The challenge is finding a balance.  We need to understand that while running matters when you’re racing or training, the results at the end of the day do not define your worth or who you are as a person.

Flipping the Switch

Training vs. Life

It's essential to integrate running into your life in a healthy, balanced way. This means recognizing that different times in our lives may require us to shift how much we let running "matter." For example, the importance of times when running needs to be flexible to accommodate life’s demands, such as family commitments or unexpected events.

Kevin shares his personal struggle when he was running an ultramarathon and realized he was prioritizing his family's comfort over his race. This situation embodies the essence of this duality: sometimes, you need to flip the switch from "super competitive runner" to "Dad" or "caregiver."

Identity and Adaptability

Being able to switch between these identities is crucial. We’ve discussed the importance of understanding who you are and what values you want to focus on based on your current goals. This adaptability can lead to healthier relationships with both your running and the people in your life.

Your identity as a "runner" allows you to commit to your training and goals, but not to the point where it overshadows other important aspects of your life. 

Embracing a Healthy Approach

Seasons of Training and Life

Embracing the concept of seasons in training can help mitigate the impacts of over-committing to running. Intense periods of training should be balanced with off-seasons or lighter training periods. This cyclical approach helps prevent burnout and ensures that running remains a fulfilling part of your life rather than a burdensome obligation.

The Example of Elite Runners

Even elite runners incorporate balance. While they are highly dedicated to their sport, they also prioritize rest, nutrition, and mental health. This holistic approach is something all runners can learn from, regardless of their level.

While running and training are significant parts of a runner's life, they should not overshadow everything else. Holding space for both the importance and irrelevance of running at different times can help promote a healthier, more enjoyable running experience and life balance.

Remember, it matters and also, it doesn’t. Being able to navigate this balance is essential for long-term success and well-being.