“Life is a marathon, not a sprint”

What does that even mean?

Based on my observations of this year’s Hartford Marathon, here’s what I’ve been able to figure out.

(1) Whatever attire one chooses is correct for the occasion. A dinosaur costume in a foot race? Those are running clothes. A dinosaur costume in the board room? That’s a corporate uniform. We’re all better off when we truly let people show up as they really are, even if that’s as a T. Rex.

(2) You can taco ’bout it and be about it.

(3) When the way something is done makes no sense for you, do it your own way. Chances are, there are others who also want to take a different path.

(4) Rugged individualism is highly overrated. Everyone needs support. Everyone needs a co-conspirator.

(5) Just because something has “always” been done one way does not mean that’s how it needs to be.

It might take a lot of energy to keep reminding yourself that this is the turn you need to take, and your body might be pulling you in the only direction it knows, but it’s worth the effort.

Change is possible. Change is good.

And if you realize you fucked up, change direction.

Even if it feels awkward. And everyone is definitely watching you.

It’s okay to feel confused and to not know where you’re going.

(Also, don’t unhesitatingly follow others. They may not know where they’re going either. Don’t be fooled by confidence.)

(6) Roads are for people, obviously. This is the highest and best use of Broad Street.

(7) Know where the cameras are at all times.

(8) The simplest solution is typically both the most efficient and most underrated.

(9) It’s good to have good company.

(10) Nobody bothers sweeping until they expect guests, but they probably should do it more often so the amount of debris doesn’t pile up.

(11) Your soundtrack changes everything.

(12) Spend more time in the park.