Run Your Own Race

Have you ever felt that you are running at top speed, but you are still at the starting gate? You’ve prepared for the race, but the finish line is nowhere in sight! You’ve trained countless hours, you’ve eaten the balanced meals, you’ve purchased the perfect running shoes, and of course, the “all eyes on me” outfit but you are still at the starting gate. It seems like giving up deep dish pizza for a beautiful bed of dark green spinach was a waste of time. Your commitment to the gym could have easily been replaced by a commitment to shopping at the local mall. Fret no more, I know the source of your dismay! You are running someone else’s race. While you might not like this imagery, you must imagine yourself as a grand stallion running in the Kentucky Derby. You are lean, sleek, and super-fast! You are also wearing blinders, so you can’t see the horses who are in the neighboring corrals. Sink or swim, your focus is straight ahead!

I’ve shared this analogy while talking with teachers who meander into my office when the only people left in the building are us and the evening custodian. I’ve also used it, when I’ve needed a big gulp of “I CAN, and I WILL” diet soda. My team is comprised of skilled people who care about kids. Each person has a special talent that makes our team successful. There are no races to the finish line.  The only race scheduled in our school, is the race to improve yourself! A previous teacher, whom I so admire, once told me, ” Oh my gosh, you are in a race with yourself!” I just smiled!

The mindset of “running your own race” embraces the ideas of others and seeks the support of others but eliminates unhealthy competition. The competition exists but it is between you and yourself. Running your own race requires self-reflection and self-motivation! It requires stamina and a willingness to explore. It allows you to fly freely. Exploration encompasses collaborating with colleagues, attending professional workshops, reading professional journals, or simply regrouping and refocusing. It removes stress, allows laughter, and promotes success.

Each day, there are more than three hundred races scheduled in our school. Each race will have a winner. Each student, teacher, and member of our team will fly freely!

Spread your Wings! Learn how to FLY!

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2 thoughts on “Run Your Own Race”

  1. Love this! It’s an important reminder, especially at this time of year! Lately, I feel like I’ve been trying to run other people’s races, I need to focus on my own race. Thank you for the reminder. 😊

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