Things doesn’t always happen the way you plan it.

When I found out that I was chosen to run NYC Marathon I was super excited. I had never run a marathon before, but I knew I could pull it off if I only worked hard enough. And it would be hard. Running a marathon is not like taking a stroll around town. I also had to manage a fundraising, which takes a lot of effort. But I still knew I could do it. I really wanted to do it. I needed this run. I needed this goal. For so many reasons.

But deep down I also knew that the timing couldn’t have been worse, as I’m currently on sick leave and I honestly don’t know when I’ll be back. At least not full time. When I told the organizers about this, it was suggested that I perhaps should postpone the run. For my own sake.

I spent several days thinking about this option. To be honest, the thought of not running made me feel like a complete failure. I had announced for all to see that I was running, and I couldn’t go back on that. How would that make me look? And besides, I was really looking forward to it. I was really focused on the task.

But then again, it wasn’t like I’d never get the option to run again. My participation in the NYC Marathon wasn’t cancelled. Merely postponed. For a year or so. It took some time, but I managed to see the bigger picture. Yes, it would be so cool to be in the first group of runners from work. But this is a once in a lifetime opportunity, and wouldn’t it feel so much cooler if I knew I’d given it my best and finish the run at my best? Cause no matter how much I want this, it still wouldn’t be the case if I run this year. I wouldn’t be at my best.

I’m so grateful for even getting the option to postpone and not just cancel. The organizers could have just said that I’m not fit for a run and that was it. But instead they understood my situation and did what they could so I would have the cake and eat it too.

 

So, I said yes to the suggestion and will not be running this year after all. It sucks. Big time. But it’s the right call. I will spend 2018 focusing on my health, so that I can spend next year focusing on rocking the marathon 😊

 

*C*