Running My Life: A Journey of Transformation through Endurance Sports

‘SELF-RENEWING COMPULSION.’ Scott Real. Journey to Freedom

In the cadence of my footsteps, I re-discovered not just the rhythm of the run, but the melody of my soul. Running marathons and my 1st triathlon wasn’t just a physical endeavor; it was a profound voyage back to self-discovery, a return to the person I once was, and the person I was meant to be.

NOSTALGIA.

For the first 21 years of my life, I was a long-distance runner, a walker, a hiker. These pursuits were my companions, my sanity, my source of happiness and health. Then life intervened, disrupting the harmony I had known. Anxiety replaced running, insomnia replaced walking, and mild depression overshadowed the joy of hiking.

REFLECTION & OWNERSHIP.

The past 20 years were a tempest, a relentless storm I struggled to navigate. Life threw me curveballs – unemployment, the relentless grip of anxiety, and a fierce battle with the Delta Covid variant that kept me isolated from my family for what felt like an eternity. Amidst these adversities, I sought professional help, a choice that became the cornerstone of my recovery.

‘I am the Sum of everything that was and is Good, bad and ugly about me.’ Papaa

TINDER GLASS BOTTLE HALF EMPTY-HALF FULL.

Psychological tests revealed my ADHD, personality tests unveiled my ESTJ traits, and anxiety tests diagnosed a severe Anxiety Disorder. These diagnoses painted a challenging picture, but they also provided me with the knowledge I needed to begin my journey of healing.

‘MAN SHOULD NOT LIVE ON AN ISLAND EATING FISH ALONE.’ Papaa

Yet, my recovery was not a solitary endeavor. It was a symphony of support from my family, friends, professionals, and even strangers who crossed my path. Their encouragement buoyed me; their criticism, although harsh at times, became a catalyst for change. The strangers who cheered for me during races and the critics who challenged me unwittingly played pivotal roles in both my mental demise and my eventual recovery. ‘I am because we are.’ From the African saying [umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu]

FRIENDSHIPS FOR A REASON. A SEASON. A LIFETIME.

I recall a conversation with my best friend, a day before I decided to seek help. Their words echoed in my mind: “You are your number one fan, coach, critic, and manager. How about, for once, you put yourself first?” It was a revelation. In that moment, I realized the power of self-compassion, the need to prioritize my own well-being.

‘THIS LOCOMOTIVE HAS LEFT THE STATION.’ Papaa

Armed with this newfound insight, I turned to endurance sports. Walking, running, and hiking became not just physical activities, but rituals of self-love. I committed to walking 2-5 kilometers every day, a commitment that gradually transformed into my solace, my sanctuary. Running entered my life as a fierce companion, accompanying me through the miles of emotional healing. From 500 meters, I pushed my limits, conquering distances that once seemed insurmountable. Each stride was a testament to my resilience, a defiance against the odds.

‘I AM NO LONGER AFRAID OF THE STORM. I AM THE STORM.’ Unknown

Endurance racing became my metaphor for life. The challenges of a marathon mirrored the challenges of my existence. A 100-meter sprint might be over in seconds, but a 42-kilometer marathon demanded hours of unwavering determination. I embraced the pain, the exhaustion, and the mental battles. And I emerged victorious, not just in races, but in life.

‘Make not your thoughts your prisons.’ William Shakespeare
‘IF YOU ARE BROKEN YOU DO NOT HAVE TO STAY BROKEN.’ Selena Gomez

This journey isn’t just about the miles I’ve covered; it’s about the battles I’ve fought, the scars I’ve earned, and the victories I’ve celebrated. It’s about the profound impact of mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being. I urge you, dear reader, to take your well-being seriously. Prioritize self-care, seek support, and embark on your own transformative journey.

‘Eat well. Sleep well. Feel well.’ Kaya Kapesi Müller
‘Nothing diminishes Anxiety faster than Action.’ Walter Anderson
‘OUT OF SUFFERING HAVE EMERGED THE STRONGEST SOULS, THE MOST MASSIVE CHARACTERS ARE SEARED WITH SCARS.’ Khalil Gibran

Remember, recovery is not a solo act; it’s a collaborative effort between you and the world around you. Embrace the support of your loved ones, acknowledge the strength within you, and put yourself first. As I share my story, I hope you find echoes of your own struggles and the courage to embark on your journey of healing.

‘Tough times never last, but tough people do.’ Robert Schuller

With unwavering determination and newfound self-love, I NO LONGER REQUIRE ANYONE’S PERMISSION OR VALIDATION TO GET GOING. I HAVE MY OWN IGNITION KEY FOR LIFT OFF.

‘Change what I can. Manage what I cannot.’ Raymond MCcauley  

Bonus quote.

‘Vulnerability sounds like Truth and feels like Courage. Truth and courage aren’t always comfortable, but they are never weakness.’ Brené Brown