It was about a year or so after I moved that I found myself immersed in the running culture. I was writing a biweekly running column and I was making new friends. I didn’t know it at the time but it was probably one of the better decisions I made in my life.
Today it has been three years since I have identified myself as a runner. Like many people I was always reluctant to call myself a runner because I didn’t have the “typical” running body and I wasn’t “fast.” I quickly got over that as I met some positive and fantastic role models. I’ve never had a strong support system in my life and I welcomed the embrace.
I was inspired to write on this topic again after reading this post from the Haynes sisters. I thought about my own life and how a simple action like taking up running made such a huge impact in my life. I don’t want to get into it too much but some of you may know about where I came from and my background. Some people will say that I have done a great job of breaking the cycle. Sure in many respects, I could be considered a “success story” but that doesn’t mean I’m done. My life continues to be a “work in progress.”
It was only through running that I got to know myself better than I had ever imagined. I stepped outside my comfort zone and pushed my new limits. This version of me is stronger mentally and physically. I am finally ready to deal with the stuff that has haunted me for years. I truly believe it is the confidence that I have developed through running that has cleared my brain fog and opened my heart. (I’m also a tad bit less bitchy.)
I am a better person for the time that I spend on the pavement or the trail. I love the sanity I feel after I run. In many ways, I truly believe running can be a life-changing experience if you are open to the challenge.
Are you a better person because of running?
Great post Crystal, I remember your posts from a few years ago. As you know, I too know all too well on what running can do for someone. Running is a great tool to improve and show yourself that your are capable of so much. Yes, I believe that running has made me believe that I can accomplish so much more than what I was told I was capable of.
Keep it up! Crazy that something as simple as "running" can has such an amazing impact.
Glad to see you wrote the post, Crystal! I love to read stories like this! 🙂
Thanks Leah for the inspiration! Love your blog 🙂
I am a better person because of running. It has taught me so much in the four years that I've been running. How to plan, take my time, injury prevention, how to encourage others – and it also led me back to coaching track and field, which has involved going out of my comfort zone and start to coach competitive track.
That is awesome. Good for you!
Awesome post! I am totally a more happy, fit, healthy and strong person since I found running. 🙂
🙂
I am absolutely a better person due to running, it's good to have an outlet for all the crazy. My first reaction when people ask if I'm a runner is still to say no, which is ridiculous but I'm working on that.
It's crazy how our minds work sometimes 🙂