9 Traits of a Marathon Runner That Make Them a Valuable Employee
That’s me in that photo. 4 hours and 48 minutes of running on the morning of October 21, 2001 in the Detroit Free Press Marathon.
As I search for employment, I realize there’s more to my abilities than what you see on a resume. Completing a marathon exemplifies traits crucial for any job. Marathon runners exhibit distinct characteristics essential for enduring such a demanding race, which are equally valuable in the workplace.
Marathons test human endurance and determination, embodying perseverance and strength. The 26.2-mile course challenges runners both physically and mentally. To join the elite club of marathon runners, one must possess some key traits: vision, discipline, confidence, preparation, focus, resilience, consistency, time management, and tenacity, to name a few.
Vision: Good vision in athletics includes the ability to see objects quickly and track moving targets.
Discipline: Runners focus on their training, making short-term sacrifices for long-term goals.
Confidence: Knowing your physical and mental strength helps you perform at your best.
Preparation: Understanding the route, terrain, and having the right equipment are crucial for readiness.
Focus: Marathon runners set specific goals and don’t let anything hinder their achievement.
Resilience: Runners face hurdles like injuries and illness. Resilient individuals push through these challenges to reach the finish line.
Consistency: Successful training builds week by week, focusing on long-term goals over immediate results.
Time Management: Preparing for a marathon requires managing time effectively to meet weekly mileage goals alongside other tasks.
Tenacity: The heart, determination, and athleticism required for marathon training make daunting tasks achievable.
Each of these nine traits is a desired trait in a quality employee. Employees with vision can anticipate challenges, set long-term goals, and devise effective strategies. Discipline enables employees to stay focused, meet deadlines, and maintain consistent performance. Confident employees trust their abilities, take initiative, and contribute positively to team dynamics. Well-prepared employees are thorough in their planning, reducing risks and ensuring smooth execution of tasks. Focused employees prioritize tasks effectively, ensuring that goals are met without unnecessary distractions. Resilient employees adapt to setbacks, maintain productivity under pressure, and quickly recover from difficulties. Consistency in work ensures reliable performance and builds trust with colleagues and clients. Employees with good time management skills efficiently balance multiple tasks, maximizing productivity. Tenacious employees persist through challenges, demonstrating dedication and a strong work ethic.
In other words, the traits that have allowed a runner to complete a marathon are the same qualities that enable them to be an effective and valuable asset to any organization.
One last story, because it defines the marathon experience for me: I remember picking up my marathon bib the night before the race. First-time runners had different colored bibs to distinguish us from seasoned participants. As I received my bib, a gentleman behind the table, put his hands down, looked me in the eye and said, “I don’t care if you run, walk, or crawl across the finish line, do whatever it takes to finish. You made it this far, and I hope you’ll do whatever it takes to finish that race tomorrow.” His advice had an impact on me, and I finished the race, running the entire way, even as people began dropping out around me around mile 22. I will always do whatever it takes to finish the proverbial race.
Go be ridiculous with your life
XO Laura
Additional Reading & References:
Personality of marathon runners: a narrative review of recent findings - PMC
How to run a marathon in your mind: 12 tips for winning the mental fight | Running | The Guardian