Eight years and 5,000 miles later...

I ran my first 5k race eight years ago today. I decided to celebrate by doing a 3.11 mile recovery run this morning. While I was running I reflected on the runner and the person I've become since I took those first strides all those years ago.

I've gone for more than 1,000 runs. Each step has made me a better person. I use running to exercise my body and mind. A former colleague of mine recommended it when she noticed I was carrying around a lot of toxic energy. My self confidence was at an all time low. I took everything personally and was quick to anger.

I still struggle with my self confidence and anger at times, but when I run I have the time to ask myself why I'm feeling the way I am. Sometimes it's even easier than that. While I'm focused on form and breathing my mind is working away and I often finish running with a resolution even when I didn't know I was looking for one.

I'm going to keep running and keep challenging myself. Eight years, 1,000 runs and 5,000 miles. That's a lot of progress and a lot to be proud of!

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