As a casual (and admittedly, so-so) runner, this year, I decided to step into the world of running races. Three times for 10k races.
I began running in 2022, celebrating every small victory along the way — first 1 km, then 2 km, and eventually 5 km. Each milestone felt like a massive achievement, especially when I think back to my school days, when I absolutely hated running and was terrible at it. On top of that, asthma often left me gasping for air. But what kept me going was a strong desire for change and the hope that running could make me healthier. I may not be fast, but I enjoy every step and every part of the process, which has gradually built my endurance.
When I see someone effortlessly breeze by me at a faster pace, I tell myself, “Hey, take it easy. You’re not falling behind; these people are probably training harder. And honestly, this is already a huge improvement compared to where you started.”
Comparison is truly the thief of joy. There’s no point in measuring my journey against someone else’s, because doing so only reveals that I’ve lost sight of what truly matters — understanding and appreciating my own progress.
What’s important is sticking to my own path. Everyone has their own strengths and starting points, but in the end, we’re all heading toward the same finish line. I constantly remind myself that the toughest competition is the one against my former self.
It’s a shame to waste precious energy comparing ourselves to others, especially when we have so many hidden gems within us, waiting to be unlocked.
The real race is with the person I was yesterday — and that’s the one that truly counts.
