Dear Reader,

A client of mine recently ran a pretty challenging trail race.

Now, before you panic, don't worry: he did not inspire me to do the same. 😂 The only trails I enjoy are the ones that lead me to a concert venue, a baseball stadium, or a really good brunch spot.

But his story stuck with me.

He was describing the race and all the uncertainty that came with it. The weather. The terrain. The route. He had a map, but not a particularly useful one.

In other words, he knew where he was starting. He knew where he was ending. Everything in between was a bit of a mystery.

As we talked, he described the steep inclines throughout the course.

In fact, at certain points, he had to walk.

Not because he wasn't capable.
Not because he wasn't committed.
Not because he was giving up.

Because the hill was steep.

And then he said something that made me smile:

"When you get to a place where you can run again, you run."

What a refreshing perspective.

So many of us approach our careers as if the only acceptable speed is full sprint.

We push harder.
Work longer.
Take on more.
Convince ourselves that slowing down is somehow the same thing as falling behind.

But experienced trail runners know something many professionals forget:

Walking isn't quitting.

It's strategy.

It's pacing.

It's understanding that the goal isn't to look impressive for one mile.

The goal is to finish the race.

In fact, when I asked him what his goal was for the event, I expected to hear something about time or placement.

Instead, he laughed and said: "My goal was to finish without getting hurt."

Honestly? The older I get, the more I respect that answer.

Not every season of life is about setting personal records.

Sometimes you're building something new.
Sometimes you're navigating uncertainty.
Sometimes you're recovering from burnout.
Sometimes you're balancing a demanding career with family, health, or other priorities.

Sometimes the smartest thing you can do is walk the damn hill.

So if you're facing a particularly steep hill right now, here's your reminder:

You do not have to sprint every inch of the journey.

Slow down when you need to.
Catch your breath.
Adjust your pace.

And when the terrain levels out?

Run again.

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With ease, Tracy

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