Embracing the Journey: Why Progress Isn’t Always the Goal
Embarking on my first half marathon at the age of twenty-seven, I crossed the finish line with a pace just over twelve minutes per mile. Despite being among the last to finish, the sense of accomplishment was overwhelming. Fast forward thirty years and countless races later, I recently completed the same half marathon in May with a finishing time of 1:38 and a pace of 12:06/mile. While my speed hasn’t improved, I haven’t slowed down either.
Jokingly, I ponder the idea of qualifying for the Boston Marathon at the age of 80 with the qualifying time for that age group being 5 hours and 20 minutes. Slow, steady, and persistent – that’s my mantra.
Life, much like running marathons, isn’t always about constant improvement, striving for perfection, or winning. It’s about showing up, being present, and enjoying the journey, even if you find yourself at the back of the pack, taking in the scenery and chatting with fellow runners.
In a culture that celebrates achievement and advancement, it’s important to remember that it’s okay to love something even if you’re not the best at it. Personally, I enjoy running and dancing, despite not excelling in either. The key is to continue participating in activities that bring joy, regardless of skill level.
Consistency is key in various aspects of life – from creative pursuits to self-care routines. Unfortunately, many individuals give up on activities they love because they feel pressured to excel. I recall a client who left a job he adored because he felt it was beneath his education level and professional status. The transition to a new job with a prestigious title left him feeling unfulfilled.
Do you feel pressured to constantly improve in areas where you are content with your current level? Remember, it’s not necessary to always strive for perfection. What truly matters is dedicating time and effort to the things you love and finding joy in the journey, regardless of the pace of progress.
Whether progress is gradual or rapid, the important thing is to savor the moments along the way. Sometimes, being at the back of the pack allows for a deeper appreciation of the experience.