The Quiet Marathon

Typically marathons, the popular ones, are done with others.

They have a start time and starting line.

An outlined and visual route.

A finish line.

Sometimes, there’s a way to qualify.

There are crowds.

Energy at almost every turn. 

Hydration stations and rest tents. 

Volunteer support. 

And a date announced a year in advance.

Above all, they have excitement, high energy and peers.

The lesser popular kind of marathon is one that anyone can run, any day of the year. You put on your shoes, run out the door and come back 26 miles later. These are rare.

It’s worth noting that much of what we do in creating a project, launching a business or developing a career is a lot closer to the second kind of marathon. There is no defined route. There is no definitive start or end. There aren’t cheerleaders and volunteers along the path helping keep your energy going and support your perseverance. 

No wonder it’s so difficult.

If it feels like you’re undertaking a solo marathon, know that you are not alone. You don’t have to be alone in the process, but it is a solo journey. 

It is difficult. But not impossible. You got this.