The End of the Season

The 5K season has come to an end. I’m no longer signing up for races, no more bibs pinned to my shirt or early morning alarms to catch that perfect race start. But that doesn’t mean my running stops.

I’m still running. Over lunch breaks when the clock allows, and on weekends when there’s a bit of free time. Sometimes under the blazing sun, sometimes through the humidity that makes every step a little harder. Even on days when I really don’t want to. After all, there’s only 203.3 miles left until I level up on my Nike Run Club app.

What Truly Matters

I didn’t break any records this season. I wasn’t speedy or first across any finish line. But that’s okay.

What matters most is that I kept going. I showed up for myself, proving I could do it. Every step I took made me feel stronger, not just in my legs but in my spirit.

So while the race calendar is closed for now, my journey isn’t. This running thing — slow or steady — has become my reminder: strength isn’t about speed, it’s about perseverance.

Things I’ve Learned Along the Way:

1. The only person you have to beat is your previous self.

2. Some race volunteers will lie to you about how much farther you have to go. (“You’re almost there!” = a full mile left.)

3. Running clothes should NEVER be chosen based on how cute they look in the mirror. Function over fashion. Always.

4. Getting passed by a guy twice your age filming a finish line selfie isn’t the end of the world. It’s… humbling. But also kind of inspiring.

5. The medal may be plastic, but the pride is real.

6. Sometimes you run to clear your head. Other times you run to chase the last bit of quiet you’ll get before dinner, homework, and laundry call your name.

7. A slow run is still a run. And walk breaks don’t mean you failed—they mean you listened to your body.

8. Water stops are a sacred, holy thing. Plan accordingly.

9. If you wait until you feel like running, you’ll never run. Just put the shoes on.

10. You can be a mom, a runner, a hot mess, and a work in progress—all at the same time.

Looking Ahead

The finish line may be behind me for now, but the miles ahead still matter. I’m not fast, but I’m not last—and I’m definitely not done.

Here’s to the next lap, the next run, and every step in between.