My Top 10 Life Lessons Learned from Running

I love reading lists.  Especially the ones I create. :)

Like just about everyone I know, reading the 'Top 10' or 'Top 7' lists is appealing.  Since last September when I injured my foot and I've been walking not running, I've had some time to think about the things I've learned about life from running.  In this case, not running.  Enjoy:


#10.  Life is life!  What I'm doing today is important.  I'm not practicing for the future. Today is all I have.  I've got to live it completely and thoroughly.

#9.  Sometime it rains.  And I am going to get wet.  So what?  Clothes and skin dries so I might as well get out there and enjoy it.  It will be sunny again.

#8.  You will loose your way.  Unlike Sisyphus who did the same thing over and over again, I hate repeating myself.  I've learned that I never learn anything new without trying something new.  And sometimes I get lost...dammed if I don't experience some fun things though.

#7.  People will help you...if you ask.  If you have some idea of where you want to go, stop and ask for help in getting there.  Good people are eager to help.

#6.  Breathe.  As a runner that's why I'm outside in the first place:  to get a breath of fresh air.

#5.  'ABL'...'Always Be Learning'.  Ask a lot of questions especially when I don't know the answer.  I've found that until I fully understand something I don't sleep well at night.

#4.  Get up early!  Forget the 'early bird gets the worm...I hate worms...and fishing.  I get up early to get a head start on the day...and on life.

#3.  Listen.  Then listen some more.  I find it easy to give unsolicited advice.  Especially when I've made up my mind before I've heard the entire situation.  Life is so much better when I take the time to listen completely (I wouldn't have endured this silly foot injury if I'd truly listened to my body).

#2.  Give Thanks Every Day!  If you go to church each week that's great.  Spend a few minutes every day giving thanks that you woke up!

#1.  Go Running!  I'm a runner.  Have been for over 30 years.  If you don't run, go for a walk, a bike ride or a swim.  It doesn't matter, just get out there.

Until next time...
ThatRunninGuy

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I'm raising funds for the Heart & Stroke Foundation in 2013.  My goal is to raise $2,000 by December 31.  My planned races in 2013 include:

1. The Sporting Life 10K, May 12
2. The Toronto Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront 1/2 Marathon, October 20
3. The Reggae Marathon, December 7.  

Please join me on Facebook at Run for Heart.