My Running Journey

Why Running Matters to Me

Running has become more than just an activity for me, it has become a big part of who I am. It reflects my personality, my drive to meet goals, and my ability to stay consistent. Running teaches me to show up for myself even when it’s hard, and that same mindset carries into how I approach school, work, and life.

Through running, I’ve learned the value of resilience and determination. Training for races requires me to commit to a schedule, push past challenges, and keep going even when I feel tired. This has shaped my ability to stay disciplined and focused, even outside of running. I’ve learned that progress comes from taking small steps consistently, a lesson that applies not only to academics but also to career goals and personal growth.

SKILLS DEVELOPED FROM RUNNING

Running doesn’t just build physical strength; it also builds skills that make me a stronger student, worker, and teammate.

Goal Setting & Achievement

Running has taught me how to set both short-term and long-term goals. For example, my challenge to complete 25 races in 2025 keeps me focused on planning, tracking my progress, and celebrating each milestone along the way.

Self-Motivation

I’ve learned how to push myself without relying on someone else to guide me. Running requires me to show up and put in the effort even when no one else is watching, and that mindset carries into how I approach school and work.

Accountability

Following a training plan has made me accountable to myself. I know that if I want results, I have to stay consistent and follow through on the commitments I set.

Patience & Long-Term Thinking

Running has shown me that progress takes time. Building endurance doesn’t happen overnight, and I’ve learned to stay patient, trust the process, and commit to the long-term effort needed to grow.

Problem-Solving

Every run is different, and I’ve had to learn how to adjust my pace, hydration, or mindset depending on the day. That problem-solving skill helps me adapt to challenges in other areas of life too.

Emotional Resilience

Not every race or run goes the way I plan, and sometimes setbacks happen, like tough training days or missed goals. Running has helped me bounce back from those moments and keep moving forward instead of giving up.

Confidence

Each finish line I cross builds my confidence. Running has proven to me that I can handle bigger challenges than I thought possible, and that belief carries into everything else I do.

Leadership

Through run clubs, I’ve had the chance to encourage others, share experiences, and support teammates during runs. This has helped me grow as both a leader and a teammate.

Run Clubs & Community

Being part of local running clubs has given me a chance to connect with others who share the same passion. Attending various clubs has demonstrated my commitment to building community, and it has also taught me valuable networking and teamwork skills. Whether it’s encouraging someone through a tough run or learning from more experienced runners, I’ve gained valuable lessons about collaboration and support.

I’ve also had the opportunity to meet community leaders, business owners, and other professionals through these clubs. Building relationships and rapport with them has expanded my connections beyond just running, giving me a broader network that adds value to both my personal and professional life. These connections have also strengthened my communication and networking skills, which are essential for long-term success in any career.

Picture of A group of runners that meets every Friday morning at 6 am

Norfolk Run Club

Friday Mornings @ 6am

Races & Goals

One of my most significant personal accomplishments has been setting and working toward the goal of completing 25 races in 2025. This challenge has motivated me to stay consistent throughout the year.

By the end of the year, I will have completed: 17 5Ks, 3 8Ks, 2 10Ks, 1 10-miler, 2 Half Marathons.

Each distance has taught me something different. The 5Ks have helped me focus on speed and consistency, while the longer races, such as the 10-miler and half-marathons, have tested my endurance and mental toughness. Every race represents progress toward my larger goal, and each finish line reminds me of the importance of persistence.

Races Completed

Maritime 5k
March Madness 5k
Shammrock 8k
Dont Sit on Colon Cancer 5k
Dont Struggle in Silence 5k
Big Blue 5k
Above the Clouds 5k
Strides of Honor 5k
Hard Cider Run 5k

Joggin for Frogmen 5k
Lost in the Woods 5k
Virginia Beach 5k
Virginia Beach 10 Miler
9/11 Rememberance 5k
Elizabeth River Run 10k
Neptune Festival 8k
Crawling Crab 5k
Crawling Crab Half Marathon

Pink Ribbon 5k
Wicked 10k
Salute to Service 5k
Norfolk Harbor 5k
Norfolk Harbor Half Marathon
Glowing Gobbler 5k
Christmastown Dash 8k

Maritime 5k

March 1, 2025

More Than a Hobby

As I continue my running journey, I plan to finish my 25-race challenge for 2025 and set new goals beyond that. Running has taught me that growth is a continuous process, and there is always another milestone to reach. Just as I aim to improve my race times and take on new distances, I also apply this mindset to my education and career — always striving to get better, one step at a time.

Running is more than just a hobby for me; it’s a reflection of my values and work ethic. It has taught me to be disciplined, consistent, and adaptable, while also giving me opportunities to build community and friendships. Whether on the racecourse or in professional settings, I bring the same dedication and determination. Running has shaped me into someone who shows up, works hard, and never stops moving forward.