This month (August) I embarked on a major milestone – running 100 miles in 30 days!  For some, this may be mere child’s play, but ever since I started running I would typically cap out around 60-70 monthly miles.  I know I have more fuel in the tank, so I set out on this new journey to see what heights I can achieve.

Do I consider myself a runner? Obviously, the answer is: Yes!  I mean, why would I go through the trouble of blogging and sharing my passion on social media?   The real question is, do I feel like a runner?  I know this may seem trivial, but the more of a presence I have on social media, the more I can’t help but notice there are some serious runners out there.  So serious, that I almost feel silly at times posting much of anything.  Maybe that’s why I set this 100-mile goal?

A wonderful thing I noticed about running is that I don’t seem to catch a sense of elitism from other runners (at least from my perspective), just profound respect.  That profound respect is earned through your reputation and your accomplishments.  Not saying there aren’t elite runners, but I rarely catch us runners looking down on other runners.

In fact, in articles from the elite runners, they are just like you and me – they set goals, they train, they have ups and downs, but they just keep showing up and the reward pays them in dividends.

“Some days it just flows and I feel like I’m born to do this, other days it feels like I’m trudging through hell. Every day I make the choice to show up and see what I’ve got, and to try and be better.

My advice: keep showing up” – Desiree Linden

Regardless of distance run, or pace, (for me personally) I think what matters most is getting out and giving it your best effort.

KEEP SHOWING UP.

Now, I’m not downplaying pace or miles – after all, that’s how I measure my own accomplishments, but it doesn’t have to be just distance or pace.  I respect other runners who log daily miles, carry on a run streak, set goals and work for their achievements, and embrace the overall sense of community running brings.

I guess the question is: What do you feel makes someone a runner?

By the way, I hit those 100 miles.
110 miles to be exact.