Leadership Lessons from my Half Marathon

At the conclusion of my first 'half' there was no going back! I thought I was going to collapse, I couldn't breath, talk or move! I was totally exhausted. 

Now that I've successfully completed my second 'half' I can reflect on what a great lesson these runs have had on my life. 

I have an unlikely profile which sees a interest to take on challenges and see them to conclusion. So when I set my sights on something, and there's others involved, there's no looking back.  (A word of warning if you work with me!) 

There is no such thing as 'an overnight success' - when running was first suggested - little did I realise it would take two years of hard work to get across the 21.1km Finish Line - early morning training, alcohol free weeks, black sore toes and lots of green smoothies!

From a leadership perspective there have been several lessons: 

-whilst we started with time goals, when someone is falling back, you stay with them and coach them along - finishing together is far more important than PBs (there is always another run)

-cheering star performers (the Marathon runners) helps them perform and is highly likely to tag your own internal motivation - and when one person cheers you on it is magic

-being part of the bigger movement is exciting, thrilling and contagious - you work (and run) as one

 -wellness is paramount - stretching, hydrating and snacking keeps the body functional and keeps you in a position to keep leading  

-the impact on others is quite amazing - there are many many folk watching you - every move is visible, your behaviour is critical - people openly shared how my run has inspired them to move! 

So, will I do another 'Half'? Maybe - but I'm more excited about running with a team in the City2Sea. Want to join us?

 

 

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The medal collection grows ....