Succeed in Running Without Winning
I never win races, yet I consider myself a successful runner
In many sports, the concept of success is defined by winning. You hear quotes such as:
“Second place is just the first place loser.” — Dale Earnhardt
“There is no such thing as second place. Either you’re first or you’re nothing.” — Gabe Paul
“Nobody remembers who’s second place. Everyone remembers the winner.” — Alexander Ovechkin
“There is no room for second place. There is only one place in my game and that is first place.” — Vince Lombardi
However, success has two definitions: 1) the gaining of fame or prosperity, and 2) the achievement of something desired, planned, or attempted.
In running, you can gain fame or prosperity by winning races. Eliud Kipchoge is considered a great success. In the marathon, he has won countless races, holds the world record, and has broken the 2-hour barrier. After Kipchoge crosses the finish line, thousands of runners follow who can still count themselves as successful. Although not everyone can win a race, everyone can succeed by achieving something they desire, plan, and attempt.
In my younger days, I attempted to succeed by winning races. I was not very successful from…
