The Journey Is the Reward

Marathon runners don't take shortcuts. Here's why the rest of us shouldn't either.

"When you sign up to run a marathon, you don't want a taxi to take you to the finish line." - Derek Sivers

I thought about this quote during a recent walking date with a friend. We were talking about new hobbies we're picking up. She casually mentioned she's about to train for a marathon.

"Just once," she said.

"And then I'll never do it again. I want to prove to myself that I can do it."

I couldn't help but smile. It's amazing she's committing to something that requires so much effort. A marathon isn't just 26.2 miles. It will be months of training and sore muscles. I know I could never do it.

My friend isn't looking for shortcuts. She's not trying order an Uber to get the end. She's working with a trainer to prepare for her first and only marathon. She gives herself a year to train.

We often chase quick fixes in life. We want the medal without the sweat.

But the real reward isn't just crossing the finish line. It's in becoming the person you become during the process.

The journey with a…