Why I Run

"Every runner has a story, and this is one of mine..."

"Running has given me moments like this-where

 I feel free, strong, and at peace with myself. "

I wasn’t always a runner. In fact, I used to hate running. Growing up, I struggled with self-esteem, social anxiety, and being a little on the heavier side. On top of that, I was an overthinker, constantly questioning everything I did. I often wondered, "Maybe this is just who I am."

Some of my siblings trained by running, and every now and then, I’d tag along. It sucked. I couldn’t keep up, and I hated how it made me feel. But deep down, even as that little girl, I wanted to be better—even if I didn’t know how.

Find Myself Through Running

It wasn’t until college that I decided I was ready for a change. I wanted to improve every part of myself—physically, mentally, and emotionally. I started small: 5 minutes of running, followed by walking. The next day, I pushed for 10 minutes. I’ll never forget how proud I felt—it wasn’t much, but it was a start.

One day, the cross-country team asked me to join them. I couldn’t believe it. "Me? On a running team?" I told myself, "If they think I’m good enough, why not?" So I joined. It was tough. I was slower, less fit, and struggled to keep up. Eventually, I quit the team, but I didn’t quit running. And that made all the difference.

But quitting the team didn’t mean I quit running.

I kept going, but this time, it was on my own terms. Running stopped being about competition or being the fastest. Instead, it became about showing up for myself.

Every run became a chance to clear my mind, connect with my body, and push through challenges that once seemed impossible. I ran because it gave me something no one else could—it reminded me of my strength and resilience. This realization transformed how I approached running and ultimately, myself.

"A moment of growth and determination: Every step brings me closer to the best version of myself."

Over time, running became more than just exercise—it became something I deeply connected to. It gave me discipline, peace, and a way to clear my mind whenever I felt stressed or overwhelmed.

What started as a way to change how I looked turned into something much deeper. Running became about finding who I truly am.

Now, here I am—three months postpartum—and I’m still running. You might ask, “Why push yourself so soon after having a baby?” The answer is simple: running has become a part of me. It’s my stress reliever. It’s how I reconnect with my mind, my body, and my goals.

"Progress isn't always glamorous, 

  but it's always worth it"

Running teaches me that growth isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up. Some days are hard, and I feel like quitting, but I don’t. I lace up my shoes and run because I know I’ll feel better afterward.

What Running Taught Me

Running showed me that I’m capable of change. It gave me:

• A sense of accomplishment: Knowing I can push through challenges.
• Peace of mind: A way to quiet my overthinking.
• A connection to nature: Fresh air, open skies, and the sound of my steps.
• Improved health: Physically and mentally.

To Anyone Struggling

If you’re looking for clarity, peace, or a way to improve yourself, start small. Run for 5 minutes. Walk when you need to. The distance doesn’t matter—the effort does.

Running isn’t about competing with anyone else; it’s about growing for yourself. You’ll be amazed at how far you can go when you keep showing up.

This is why I run

To grow, to heal, and to find a little more of myself with every step.

"Every run is a reminder that growth happens one step at a time."