Getting gutsy is all about stepping outside your comfort zone to reach your goals and live a life that makes you truly happy. This post is my entry for Jessica Lawlor’s Get Gutsy Essay Contest. To get involved and share your own gutsy story, check out this post for contest details and download a free copy of the inspiring Get Gutsy ebook.
In 2014, I really stepped out of my comfort zone when I ran my first marathon!
It all started with a man named Jesse, who I had met at a music store and took me for Indian food one evening. We had a great time chatting about nothing and everything, and of course, eating delicious curries. Eventually we started dating and I met his close friends, one of which had a crazy idea to sign up for a half marathon in the spring of 2013. I opted out immediately but Jesse, who was already running a fair bit, decided to go for it. I stood in the rain on race day for over two hours while he and two of his friends completed the half marathon. I was inspired by them and jealous of their accomplishments so I decided that I would do one too!
Several months later I ran my first half. After a few days of me asking Jesse “Should I do it!?” and him responding “What’s the worst that could happen?” I pulled the trigger registered for the Vancouver FULL marathon to take place in May 2014. I also later convinced a friend to sign up too! Thank goodness I did, because she got me through the last 10 km of wondering why on earth I had signed up for this??
In 2015, I have big plans to get gutsy! I am going to run a 50k trail ultramarathon!
I started trail running a few months ago and absolutely love it! I’ve met a lot of friendly and experienced trail runners who have encouraged me to sign up for the 50k race. I know it won’t be easy and this race will push me to my limits. It takes place next August and prior to it, I will be running the Vancouver Marathon again in May (which doesn’t seem so daunting in comparison). I am looking forward to spending more and more time running local trails through forests, around lakes, and up mountains.
The following month, I will marry my best friend, soul mate, and partner in crime, Jesse. The one who always believes in me even when I’m doubting myself, and who supports me in all my endeavors.
Sounds like 2015 will be a great year for you. Congrats on all you’ve accomplished and on everything you have yet to accomplish! It sure is an added bonus when you have someone to share it with 🙂
Wow what an awesome goal! I’m sure you can do it! Can’t wait to see your Strava details for that race!