By: Jamie Thompson
Updated: Feb. 18, 2023
Originally Published: Sep. 14, 2022
This past year has seen a remarkable physical transformation in my partner, and it has certainly caught the attention of everyone around us. His commitment to training has yielded impressive results, and I couldn’t be prouder. However, the contrast between our appearances has sparked some rather interesting—and often uncomfortable—conversations with family, friends, and even acquaintances. These interactions typically unfold like this:
Acquaintance (to my partner): “You look incredible! You must be running!”
Partner: “Yeah, I’ve been doing a bit of running…”
Acquaintance: “That’s wonderful!”
Me (standing quietly on the sidelines, feeling overlooked): Go ahead, ask him who inspired him to start running again. Yep, that was me, darn it.
Or another variation:
Acquaintance (to my partner): “Have you participated in any races?”
Partner: “We’ve completed a couple of half marathons…”
Acquaintance: “Wasn’t it raining during the last one?”
Partner: “Yep, it rains every time we run a half—definitely a drought remedy. Jamie ran it with me.”
Acquaintance (turning to me in surprise): “Oh, you ran as well?”
Me: “Absolutely!” (Silently: Every single step of those 13.1 miles, all while enduring the pouring rain.)
This same surprise arises when my training for the New York City Marathon comes up in conversation, with a mix of disbelief that it is I, not my partner, who is preparing for such a significant event.
While it may seem like I harbor some bitterness, that is far from the case. I understand that I don’t fit the conventional image of a runner. Most people wouldn’t glance at me and think “runner,” and it’s likely that my name wouldn’t be associated with “marathon” unless it’s in reference to binge-watching a series on Netflix.
Surprisingly, I draw strength from these doubts. While I’m not entirely sure what this reveals about my character or profession, I see being underestimated as an advantage. It compels me to work harder, push myself, and dig deeper, ultimately allowing me to catch others off guard and prove them wrong.
Ultimately, it’s essential to remember that public perception is irrelevant; what truly matters is my belief in myself. There will undoubtedly be moments of doubt about my ability to achieve my goals, but overcoming those feelings fosters my resilience. Each time I silence my inner critic and accomplish what I once thought was impossible, I grow stronger.
In the end, even if you are surrounded by supportive family and friends, or even a crowd of race spectators, it means little if you don’t believe in yourself. And if you happen to forget that along the way, there are always motivational t-shirts to jog your memory.
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Summary:
The author reflects on their experience as an underestimated runner, contrasting their journey with that of their partner, who has undergone a physical transformation. They emphasize the importance of self-belief over external validation and how overcoming doubt strengthens resilience.
Keyphrase: Running without the runner’s physique
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