Just a few things I've realized after consistently running:

1. It's no fun to focus on what other people are doing. No one enjoys running when you are overly concerned with how all your competitors are doing--it is most gratifying to focus on how you personally are improving. Same goes for life, it sucks to try and keep up with everything everyone else is doing, you just have to strive to be the best you that you can be.

2. Encouragement is essential. Sometimes you need a little, "You're doing great!" in a race, and sometimes you need a, "You're almost done!" in the practice that pushes you to your limits. Either way, it is crazy to see the physical effects of as little as three words of encouragement in running, as well as in everyday activities. Encouragement can get you through the workout, and get you through the day. Everyone needs to be lifted in life; be that person who encourages others.

3. Sometimes, it's okay to just go through the motions. There are definitely times when you don't feel like training or even competing. Sometimes you question if the effort is even worth it, and if this is even your passion anymore. You have to keep pushing yourself through that hard time, whether it be a day, week, or even a season in your life. Just as the joy in running returns after a period of exhaustion, so does the joy in any other passion after facing a trial. If you care enough about it, you have to stick it through the hard times, and you'll eventually remember why you love it.

4. Plateaus aren't forever. While the goal is to always be improving, there are undoubtedly times when you feel stuck in place. Not getting worse, but not getting better either--just stuck despite all your efforts. Your time won't budge, and you don't understand why you can't shave off that second even though you have been working so hard. You're stuck for a reason; see what you can learn from it. Whether it be in running or in life, sometimes you get in a rut that forces you to take time and reevaluate. Learn from it, know it is not the end, and be grateful when you get to the other side.

5. It is never too hard if it is worth it. Improvement doesn't come from the easy training runs--it comes from the times when you had to push yourself beyond what was comfortable. Same goes for life. This theme runs through all the lessons: Do NOT give up when things get hard. Sure, it may be tough for a time, but once you work past that period, it is unbelievably gratifying. If all the best things were easy, then everyone would have them. If it is important enough, nothing will be able to keep you from it. Cling to the things and the people who matter to you.