The 10K Edge: How Running Boosts My Software Engineering Skills
Have you ever wanted to share a great experience with the world, so others can benefit from it? That desire brought me to pen my first article as part of a new tech initiative at Intel.Granulate: the Granulate Engineering Blog.
Our mission, on the Data team is to process, organize, and store our data efficiently and make it accessible to the right stakeholders. Most of our data is high-volume time series data. Our innovative product enables users to optimize resources and costs by increasing efficiency, all without a single line of code change. It’s truly brilliant. You might wonder how all of this ties to running — stay with me, it’s coming.
Running: More than Just Physical Exercise:
During my last summer vacation, I received a message from a brilliant engineer named Ziv, who used to be part of my team. Ziv, a marathon enthusiast, had penned an article drawing parallels between marathon running and achieving life goals. The piece not only inspired me but also made me reflect on the synergy between my bi-weekly 10k runs and my growth as a software engineer, educator, husband, and father to two amazing French Bulldogs: Mango & Lychee.
For me, engineering is an art, and just like artists craft masterpieces, engineers kindle that same creative spark. To nurture this creativity, it’s vital to find quiet moments to connect with one’s inner voice. However, with daily life overflowing with commitments, distractions, and responsibilities, carving out such moments can be daunting. The balance between our personal and professional lives is essential. Each influences the other, with our work reflecting our personal values and vice versa.
An article I came across two years ago stated, “Runners are happier.”
Being an engineer, I naturally questioned the logic: If I run, will I become happier? Intrigued, I decided to run 10k twice a week. Initially, it was tough, but over time, the benefits became clear. Running sharpened my concentration and boosted my creativity.
Benefits of Running:
Clarity of Thought: As engineers, we’re problem-solvers. Our role often involves crafting software solutions. Running puts me in a unique state of mind. With each stride, my thoughts flow freely, allowing me to focus, reflect, and visualize. Running has sparked clear and clever answers to my work challenges.
Cognitive Boost: Studies indicate that aerobic exercises like running can enhance cognitive functions, particularly in areas associated with memory and learning. Running has amplified my ability to concentrate, improved my memory recall, and bolstered my problem-solving skills.
Physical and Mental Well-being: Apart from the cognitive benefits, Running has greatly improved my physical health. After a run, I feel more energized, sleep better, and experience less anxiety. The evidence lies in my improved run times and reduced sick days.
Performance Optimizations:
The discipline of running 10k consistently has shown me the fruits of persistence. This mindset has allowed me to optimize various aspects of my life, such as my relationships, chores, and achieving work-life harmony.
Upon joining Intel.Granulate nearly a year ago, the concept of performance optimization was at the forefront of my mind. With an ever-increasing data-driven world, the possibilities for optimization are boundless.
In conclusion, remember: simplicity is key. Start with small steps, remain consistent, keep your goals in sight, and you will achieve them.
What strategies do you use to maintain balance and stay motivated in your life? I’d love to hear your stories.
Dave.
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