In February 2019, I picked up running for the 3rd time in 3 years, and for some reason, this time it stuck. In August 2019, I started training for my first marathon ever slated for January 19, 2020.

But I won’t be racing tomorrow, and that’s okay.

Runner training for a marathon doing the world's greatest stretch
Photo by Q’Mariha Lewis Photography

Before now, I had spent a lot time wondering if I’d ever have my own business. For the longest time, it really bothered me that I couldn’t really think of a business idea I felt relatively confident about, and could pursue.

I’d always loved photography, and done it as a hobby. It was a way for me to relax and explore my creative side. I liked that is was a complete 180 from my career as an IT business analyst.

But one evening in September 2019, I decided I was going to start a photography business. I came to this decision after I saw other photographers who love what they do, and have managed to make something of it. 

At the time, I didn’t realize that I had just signed away whatever free time I had left in my life.

Just like any other skill, becoming a better and more efficient runner takes a lot of practice. And you know the number one resource you need in order to practice? Time.

Between a full time job, and spending time building my business, I simply could not find the time to keep up with my training.

Marathons are difficult races, and anyone who has trained for one knows that you need to put in your long runs. I couldn’t keep up, and so I decided to quit training, and focus on building my business.

 

I have spent the last few weeks avoiding social media posts that are related to this race (and failed),  and even though I’m a little sad that I won’t be racing tomorrow, I understand that something had to give.

I am proud of what I have built so far, and as I begin to establish a business workflow and settle back into a routine, I know I’ll find the time to run more consistently, and train again should I need to. But I will not be signing up for any other major races.  Not in 2020 at least.

Here’s to hoping every runner has a great time at RnR AZ 2020, and I hope you find what you’re looking for at the finish line.