Greetings, warriors and wonder-seekers!

In April 2023, I did the unthinkable: conquered the London Marathon – and emerged transformed. This whirlwind of blisters and breakthroughs taught me life’s ultimate truths:



The Twist?


When a dear friend encouraged me to enter the 2022 ballot, I imagined another casual 10K… until fate laughed louder. Cue my shock when I became the lone winner from our group – on my first try!

Now I know: Life rewards those who dare to say “why not?” before “what if?”

When has life surprised you by saying “yes” when you least expected it?




From Reluctance to Resilience: My Unlikely Marathon Journey


Let’s be clear – I was nobody’s idea of a runner. When that ballot confirmation landed in my inbox, “lucky” wasn’t the word I’d use. More like “terrified.” But with my spouse and friends cheering me on (read: refusing to let me chicken out), I took the leap in November 2022 – secretly clinging to the escape hatch of backing out later.

The turning point came in January 2023 when two realizations hit:

1️⃣ This race wasn’t about me anymore – I’d run (and walk!) for a cause greater than myself

2️⃣ Fundraising lit me up in ways training never could (though those grueling sessions did teach me volumes about perseverance).

Sometimes our greatest adventures begin with someone else’s belief in us before we find it in ourselves. Who’s been your unexpected cheerleader pushing you toward growth?




Race Day: When Fear Met Joy at the Starting Line


The morning air buzzed with nervous energy – mine included. But I’d made a pact with myself: this wouldn’t just be an endurance test, but a celebration. Every step and mile became a tribute – to supporters who believed in me, to the version of myself brave enough to try.

I created my own rhythm:

  • Running when my legs could.

  • Walking when they couldn’t.

  • Dancing past every cheering squad – band, DJ, and crowd with blaring speakers (because why not?)


The real magic? Hearing my personal cheer squad – my husband, daughters, friends and loved ones – roaring my name. Their faith became my fuel when my own wavered.

Crossing that finish line taught me:

✨ “Your best” is always enough

✨ We shine brightest when we embrace both effort and joy

✨ The dreams we dare to chase are already within us




20 Resilience Lessons From the Marathon That Changed Everything

Training for London wasn’t just about miles logged – it became a masterclass in whole-life transformation. I discovered:

🔥 Mindset is your first finish line.


🥑 Nutrition fuels more than muscles.


💦 Hydration is liquid resilience.


🧘 Self-care isn’t selfish – it’s strategic.


⚡ Recovery is where growth happens.


The London Marathon? Just a 26.2-mile metaphor for life. Every hill mirrored our struggles; every cheer squad echoed the support we often forget we have.

Now I’m passing the baton to you – here are the 20 game-changing resilience lessons this journey burned into my soul. These aren’t just running tips; they’re survival tools for when life throws its hardest marathons at you.

Which lesson will resonate most with YOUR journey? Let’s find out together.

Embrace The Starting Line Jitters

Just like the jittery excitement at the beginning of the London Marathon, facing new challenges can be nerve-wracking. Embrace the jitters, take a deep breath, and remember that every great journey starts with a single step, or in this case, a stride.



Embrace The Rain, Embrace The Pain

In London, rain is as inevitable as life’s challenges. Embrace the discomfort; after all, the most exquisite rainbows follow the storm. I danced in the rain.



Navigate The Crowds, Navigate Life’s Chaos

Maneuvering through the crowded streets of London teaches us to navigate life’s chaos with patience and grace. Sometimes, the scenic route is worth the detour.



Pace Yourself, Life’s Not A Sprint

Life’s challenges are more of a marathon than a sprint. Learning to pace yourself ensures you have the stamina to endure the long haul. Take breaks, recharge, and enjoy the journey without burning out too soon.



Fuel Your Body, Fuel Your Soul

Just as runners nourish their bodies with the appropriate nutrition, you need to feed your soul with experiences, relationships, and moments that energize and sustain you for the long run.




Hydration is Key – Drink In Positivity

Just as runners stay hydrated, fill your life with positivity. Quench your thirst for optimism, and surround yourself with uplifting people. Remember that a positive mindset can carry you through the toughest stretches. Find joy in the little water stations of life because those small, refreshing moments keep you going.

Good Shoes Take You To Good Places

Step into success with the right shoes – because in the marathon of life, good shoes take you to good places where each stride brings you closer to triumph. Lace up, run resiliently and let the wisdom of well-chosen shoes guide you through the miles ahead. Your path, your pace, and good shoes leading the way!” Hoka and New Balance running shoes were the welcome saviors of my feet in preparation for this marathon and on marathon day.



The Power Of A Supportive Crowd

The roaring crowds of London are like a cheering section for your soul. Surround yourself with a supportive community – their encouragement can propel you forward, especially when the going gets tough. Having my husband, daughters, close friends, and family members cheering for me at designated stations made me so emotional, loved, and supported. Their love and support powered me to the finish line since I was not alone.  I also had friends following me on the TCM London Marathon app and cheering me along the way.

Mind The Hills, Mind The Challenges

Tackling the inclines of London’s terrain is a metaphor for life’s challenges. Keep your head up, maintain a steady pace, and remember that the view from the top is worth the climb. It is!



Celebrate The Small Victories

Every step forward is a victory. Whether it’s hitting your personal best or conquering a daily hurdle, celebrate the small wins that make the journey worthwhile.

Run Your Own Race, Live Your Own Life

In the London Marathon, it’s crucial to run your race. Similarly, in life, stay true to your path and pace, resisting the urge to compare your journey to others. I stayed in my lane metaphorically and ran my race. I accepted my limitations and walked when I was tired.




Adaptability Is The Ultimate Superpower

London’s unpredictable weather teaches us the importance of adaptability. Embrace change, adjust your sails, and learn to dance in the rain when necessary. I danced in the rain and loved every moment of it.

The Power Of A Well-Earned Rest

Rest is not a sign of weakness but a strategy for success. Take a breather when needed, recharge, and return to the race of life with newfound vigor.



Find Joy In The Journey, Not Just The Finish Line

The London Marathon is as much about the journey as it is about the finish. Similarly, find joy in each day, relishing the process rather than fixating solely on the destination.

Mindfulness In Every Step

Pay attention to each step, each breath. The beauty of life is shown in the here and now; seize the opportunity to appreciate it.



Learn From Setbacks, Bounce Back Stronger

Just as a stumble doesn’t define a marathon, setbacks don’t define your life. After gaining what you can from them, stand back up, and carry on.

Your Body Is Stronger Than You Think

Your body is a resilient machine. Trust in its strength, both physically and mentally, and discover the depths of your capabilities.



The Importance of a Well-Deserved Finish Line Celebration

Crossing the finish line is a monumental achievement. Celebrate your victories, big and small, and take a moment to revel in your resilience.


Your Active Recovery Footwear Loves Your Feet

Like I said earlier, good shoes take you to good places but OOFOS footwear takes you to even better places. I survived the walk to the station and got home wearing OOFOS. They felt like I was walking on cloud nine. Your self-care post-marathon is important. In life, always prioritize your self-care.



Pass The Baton Of Positivity

Spread positivity like a baton in a relay race. Your resilience can inspire others, creating a ripple effect of strength and perseverance.


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Run Your Race with Courage

As we wrap up this journey, let the 20 lessons from the London Marathon fuel your resilience in life’s own marathon. Whether climbing steep challenges or gliding through smooth stretches, every step proves your grit and determination. So lace up, lean into the adventure, and charge forward—your greatest victories lie ahead.

The London Marathon is more than a race; it’s a blueprint for life. No matter the terrain, keep running with heart, humor, and unshakable resolve. The finish line is just the beginning.

Could a marathon be in your future? Which lessons sparked your fire? Dive into the comments and share your thoughts – I’d love to hear what moved you.

Remember: I’m in your corner, cheering you on every step of the way toward resilience, growth, and unstoppable strength. Now go chase those finish lines – both on the road and in life!


Thank you for being a VCC reader!