What Are You Running From?

There were many amazing people at Write This Run on Saturday - as always, a conference that informs, amuses and inspires.

I don't normally write about personal issues on my blog, but something that Sophie Walker said on Saturday at Write This Run, resonated. Not that my problems are on a par with her struggles...

Sophie Walker - mother, marathoner, author, campaigner

"what are you running from?"

Honestly? Everything.

My relationship of 5 years has ended - over, boom, all my dreams and plans for the future gone, just like that. I won't dwell on the details, but running is something I'm clinging to like a life-raft at this point.

It's so tempting just to hide away, curl up on the sofa and bury my sorrow in chocolate. And don't get me wrong that definitely has it's place!

But running offers a focus or distraction.

A time to think, if needed, or to completely zone out. An opportunity to be sad away from other people, where you don't have to put on a calm, "totally together" face. A chance to be angry, let the fury out - scream at cars like Sophie if you really want to.

It also adds an element of control and confidence back into my life when it feels like everything else is falling apart - this is something I can do.