In 73 days, I’ll be standing at the start line with about 50 other runners, ready to kick off the Great World Race, starting in Antarctica. The excitement is off the charts—every nerve in my body is buzzing.
But there’s a part of me that’s not ready for this training phase to end.
Right now, I feel strong, powerful, and alive, and I don’t want that feeling to go away. Yet, these past four weeks have shown me that this journey is about more than just physical endurance; it’s about mental resilience and all the lessons I’m learning along the way.
When Injury Strikes: Identity Crisis, Anyone?
Four weeks ago, I had a nasty fall. My left leg and hands took the hit, and while I walked away ultimately fine, the incident left me shaken. Then, a few days later, my left foot started hurting—like, really hurting. It wasn’t just the typical pain you push through; this was the kind that stops you in your tracks. Running was out, and even walking felt impossible.
I was days away from turning 37, and I had this plan to celebrate by running 37 kilometers. Instead, I was stuck on the couch, wrestling with a tough question: If I can’t run, who am I?
Running isn’t just a hobby; it’s how I stay sane, how I connect with myself and the world around me. The idea that I might not be able to complete this dream of running around the world was terrifying. What happens if I can’t do it?
Finding Meaning in the Mess
That week was rough. My mind spiraled into a pit of doubt and fear. But in that space, I rediscovered something important: my love for running didn’t disappear just because I couldn’t do it. If anything, the forced break made me realize how much running means to me, not just as exercise, but as a core part of who I am.
4 weeks later, my left foot is still not 100%, but it’s getting there. Now that I can finally ease back into training, here are some lessons I’ve learned that will help carry me through the final 73 days of prep and each marathon ahead.
Resilience Lessons
- Embrace the Setbacks: My injuries taught me the value of listening to my body. Sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is rest. Setbacks aren’t failures; they’re chances to rebuild stronger.
- Identity Beyond Running: The question, “Who am I if I can’t run?” was tough. But it showed me that my identity isn’t just about running—it’s about resilience, passion, and flexibility. I’m not just a runner; I’m someone who overcomes.
- Mental Strength: Pulling myself out of a mental slump after the injury showed me how strong I am mentally. The strategies that helped me—mindfulness, positive self-talk, and rest—will be crucial in the races ahead.
- Patience is Key: Healing takes time, and rushing it could make things worse. I had to trust that this downtime was a necessary part of my journey. Every day of rest was progress, even when it didn’t feel like it.
- Renewed Passion: Not being able to run made me appreciate it even more. This renewed passion will fuel my training and push me through the toughest moments in the marathons.
What’s Next?
With 73 days left, now’s the time to ramp up my training, but I’ll be careful to respect my body’s limits. I’ll keep listening to my body, gradually increase my mileage, and continue with the mental practices that have gotten me this far. Visualization, meditation, and positive affirmations will prepare me for the physical and emotional challenges ahead.
As the start line in Antarctica gets closer, I’m realizing that this journey isn’t just about finishing the marathons. The training, the setbacks, and the lessons are just as important. The excitement is building, but so is my determination. I’m ready to take on this challenge—one continent at a time.
