Running is about more than just putting one foot in front of the other; it is about our lifestyle and who we are. - Joan Benoit Samuelson, one ofthe greatest female long-distance runner in American history
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As both a runner and a designer, I find myself constantly running—both literally and metaphorically—between two worlds that are as demanding as they are rewarding. My passion for running and my career in design have shaped not only my daily routine but also my identity. Balancing these passions has been a journey of self-discovery, discipline, and creativity.
Running, for me, is more than just a form of physical exercise; it's a release. Every morning, as I lace up my sneakers and step out into the crisp air, I feel a sense of freedom. The rhythmic pounding of my feet against the pavement clears my mind and offers a purity of focus that’s hard to find elsewhere. Running is where I solve design problems without thinking directly about them, where my subconscious mind takes over, bringing clarity and creative solutions by the end of a few miles.
In contrast, design demands a different kind of focus. It requires sitting down, sketching out ideas, and tinkering with prototypes. It’s about precision, perspective, and patience. While running allows my mind to roam free, design anchors my creativity, turning abstract concepts into tangible realities.
Finding a balance between these two passions means making deliberate choices about how I spend my time. Mornings are reserved for runs because that’s when I feel most alive and invigorated. This practice not only kickstarts my day but also energizes my creative process. Post-run, I transition into my designer role—often feeling more inspired and ready to tackle whatever project is at hand.
The key to managing these roles lies in setting priorities and recognizing that sometimes, the balance itself can be fluid. There are days when a looming project deadline takes precedence, and my running shoes have to wait by the door a bit longer than I'd like. Other days, when I'm feeling creatively blocked, a longer run can be just what I need to reset.
Running influences my design work in more ways than one. It teaches resilience, the importance of pacing, and how to push through discomfort to achieve a greater goal. These lessons are invaluable when applied to design, where challenges and setbacks are part of the process.
Moreover, both running and designing are forms of self-expression. In each stride and sketch, I see elements of my personality and values—whether it's the persistence in perfecting a design or the endurance in a marathon training.
Both communities—runners and designers—play a crucial role in my life. Running groups and design networks provide support, inspire new ideas, and offer opportunities for collaboration. Engaging with these communities keeps me motivated and fuels my growth in both arenas.
To anyone struggling to manage multiple passions, know that it is possible to find a fulfilling balance. The journey may require adjustments and some days will feel like a juggling act, but each passion fuels the other in unexpected and rewarding ways. In running, I find the stamina and strength to keep pushing my limits as a designer. In design, I find the meticulous attention to detail that benefits my training and performance as a runner.
Embrace the journey, trust the process, and remember that in the interplay of different passions, you might just find your unique path to fulfillment and success.