Seeking and Finding Inspiration

In the pursuit of my multi-year goal to run a half marathon in all 50 states, I recently took Kentucky, Tennessee, Missouri, and Indiana off the list, making it to 34 states. The Wendell Foster evet in KY was an all abilities, all-inclusive race open to runners, walkers, hand cyclists, and wheelchair users. The Pistol in TN was an all-distances event, with distances from 13.1 to 100 miles. These two races were both unique and inspirational running experiences, each for a different reason. The last two races were just your run-of-the-mill running event.

The Wendell Foster Half Marathon was a fundraiser to make a difference and empower people with disabilities. It was truly inspiring to run with people with diverse capabilities in an all-inclusive race catering to different abilities and needs. It really emphasized that success comes in many shapes and forms. We each have a unique and personal journey. No one is ahead or behind; we are all just running or walking our own path marked by adversity and achievement. Both challenges and success come in different sizes, whether big or small, what matters is showing up and actively participating in life’s challenges and opportunities. The Pistol provided a different kind of inspiration. This running event offers one distance loop (10.35 miles) that runners run a different number of times based on their running goal, from 13.1 miles to a 100-mile. Starting fresh in the morning and sharing the trail with ultra-runners who have run through the night is awe inspiring. An ultra is an incredible feat of physical endurance and mental fortitude. It pushes runners to explore their limits and discover what they are truly capable of. It’s the (long) road to self-discovery. This is a powerful metaphor for life. Running long distances forces you to confront the full spectrum of emotions, from exhilaration to utter misery. There are long miles you have to run with pain, sometimes excruciating pain. But in the end, it is a testament to the human spirit, to resilience and the mind's ability to stretch beyond limitations.

It’s often said that running is a selfish endeavor, even somewhat obsessive. It’s a pursuit that when going the distance leaves little time for much else outside of running and racing. For me, running goals are a mindset and a lifestyle. Running keeps me grounded and strong, both physically and mentally, through life’s ups and downs. Goal-setting gives me inspiration and motivation and a sense of direction and purpose. I also see goal-setting as a way to build my professional credibility. In my work, I help my clients set and achieve career goals. Hence, I must walk the talk and set ambitious goals for myself. When hitting 50, I sought a BHAG (Big Hairy Audacious Goal.) In December 2021, I set the goal to run a half or full marathon in every US state, aiming for a “Grand Finale” finish running the NYC Marathon in 2026. So far, I am finding the pursuit of this goal rewarding in and of itself.

I am an "eternal seeker of inspiration." For me, inspiration is an important and transformative force. Although inspiration is abundant, finding it can be challenging at times. Running is not always fun. There are good days and bad days. When running in every state, some races are inspirational and some are primarily functional. Struggling through a tough race is a common experience. Although I put a lot of time and effort into selecting the races I sign up for, some fall flat, literally and metaphorically. In the process of running the distance, I am learning to look inwards and find inspiration from within. It’s true in almost everything we do, much of the work is not inspired. It’s about showing up and delivering on task. However, even in the mundane, there are moments of inspiration. Inspiration is a mindset of appreciation for the small details and simple pleasures that can often go unnoticed. Inspiration is an active pursuit of wonder and joy in the everyday.

Here are some ideas to cultivate a Mindset for Inspiration:

• Live life fully: embrace life with enthusiasm and engage with life as an adventure reaching out for richer and deeper experiences.

• Get outside into nature: bring nature into your daily life and engage with green spaces to enhance your well-being and promote inspiration.

• Interact with people: connection, community, conversations and shared experiences can inspire new ways of looking at the world and seeing things from a fresh perspective.

• Notice the small things: look for interesting things at random places, see beauty in the everyday, and wherever you are, recognize the small joys around you, and find a reason to smile.

• Embrace the journey: do your utmost to achieve your personal best accepting all experiences as valuable: the peaks, the valleys, the highs, the lows and the in-between.

When life feels like a race in which you are running toward some imaginary finish line, remember to mindfully look for and find meaning in every step you take. Accept and appreciate the process of life and trust that every experience can be a stepping stone to your self-actualization and achieving your full potential; your best-self unfolding. Embrace the journey and find inspiration in the process of becoming who you aspire to be.