Five Miles

Just because you’ve always done it, doesn’t mean you still have to!

For years, running was part of my identity—a way for me to challenge myself, escape from the chaos and center my mind. Running brought me so much joy...

until it didn’t.

I don’t really remember when it started to feel like a chore, but the thing that I used to look forward to became the thing I dreaded.

But I kept powering through because I always had. I felt this sense of responsibility—but to whom? Myself? My family? Even worse, my social media followers? I didn’t want to let anybody down. So I kept going letting everyone believe I was a powerhouse, a force to be reckoned with.

In March 2018 I ran the Tuscaloosa half and barely made it to the finish line due to a difficult season in life, a derailed training program and major burnout.

I spent weeks in an epic internal debate until I finally made a drastic decision to do something I NEVER do about something I’d ALWAYS done: I QUIT. After running at least one half marathon every year since 2013, I decided it was time to take a break from distance running.

For the past 20 months I ran less often and much shorter distances, averaging 3 miles or less each run.

Until yesterday.

Yesterday I set out to do my standard 3 mile run, but everything felt in sync and I just kept going. I felt the joy in running that I’d been missing for nearly 2 years.

I was shocked when I realized I ran 5 miles. Not because I had to for a training plan or a group challenge. But simply because I’d finally reconnected with the bliss that comes when both feet leave the ground.

What do you do when the vision you cast no longer fits the season you’re in? Do you try to power through, despite how out of sync you feel? Or do you adapt?

Just because you’ve always done something doesn’t mean you have to keep doing it. Don’t stay stuck for the sake of staying the same. Step back and reassess. Change your strategy. Adapt to the season. If it doesn’t feel right anymore, God is calling you to change. Are you willing to listen?