Runner’s Spotlight Part 2: Mark’s Life Lessons

Last week, Mark H. shared his running journey with us and he had a few more words of wisdom to share with us. Here are his life lessons learned from running. Thanks again, Mark for sharing with us!

1. Never say you can’t do something.

2. Never say you never will do something.

3. You might be surprised at how something (or someone) you were never interested in before suddenly becomes very appealing.

4. Learning to be disciplined in one area can overflow into every area of your life.

5. Keep going at a steady pace.

6. Don’t go to fast or try to get ahead of yourself or you will wear yourself out.

7. Set goals that are challenging, but that you can reach and once you do, then set another one.

8. If you see a big hill ahead of you, take it one step at a time. You will eventually reach the top and be able to rest.

9. Looking back will never get you where you want to go. In fact, if you are trying to run while facing backward, you can trip yourself up and get hurt.

10. Deep breathing will help push you through some of the tougher moments.

11. You have to have the right tools (or shoes) to do the best job and to keep you from getting injured.

12. It’s worth spending a little extra money for the right tools (or shoes.)

13. You may not think you are getting any better until you think about where you were only a short while ago and take a look in the mirror to really see and appreciate the changes.

14. If you are approaching obstacles, like dogs, just keep moving. Sometimes you will have to try to find ways to avoid them, but you eventually have to pass through them and overcome them (or run real fast).

15. Just like God walks with you and knows your every step while you walk, He is also with you every step of the run, guiding and protecting you.

16. If you are not sure which way to go at a crossroads, choose a path. You may feel lost at times, but you will eventually finish the course. One path just might take you longer and might be more difficult.

17. A little kindness along your way (a smile, wave or nicely talking to a dog) can go a long way.

18. Listen to the encouraging word of those cheering you on from the sidelines. You are surrounded by a crowd of people who have gone on before you and finished the race successfully, and they are confident you can too. (Hebrews 12:1-2)

19. Pain is good. It means you are growing stronger (most of the time).

20. As the Bible says, trials produce endurance and endurance produces strength of character and character produces hope. And hope NEVER disappoints us. (Romans 5)

21. Stay focused on the task at hand. Do not get distracted by things that do not matter

22. Talking it out can actually help you finish your race quicker than you expected.

23. Whether you are sprinting, jogging, walking or crawling – keep moving. You will never experience the satisfaction of achieving your goal if you stop or turn back.

24. Don’t hold on to or carry things that will weigh or slow you down (wallet, keys, the past hurts, discouraging people, negative feelings)

25. The hard parts may seem like they are lasting forever, but they will be over before you know it, and you will build strength if you conquer them and be so encouraged by the results of your hard work.

26. No matter how exhausted you feel or how hard the road gets or how long it seems – never, ever give up! The end result is worth every ounce of effort and pain.

One last thing that is not really a life lesson, but is still important: Avoid routes that take you on busy roads during rush hour and that pass by dogs that are not on leashes and that are faster than you are.

A bientôt!

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