Malnad Ultra Run,50 kms of leadership

The Ultra Running world is a place where the Acceptance of Normality is outweighed by the curiosity of what’s possible – Michael D’Aulerio

On 27th November 2021, I participated in the Malnad Ultra Trail Run (50 kms). This was my 2nd attempt and this time I was able to crack 50kms of grueling terrain in tough weather conditions. While I was running, I was fully present to the experience and recorded a few points in my mind that I wanted to share in the business world. Here's my perspective on what this Ultra has taught me and how I relate it to the business/corporate/professional side of the world.

1.???Running an Ultra Marathon heavily tests one’s mental endurance and not just physical endurance. This is similar to challenges that come our way to test how tough and resilient are we to the ever-changing demands of our business? C19 has made us experience the true meaning of being resilient. How can we rise up to the occasion in the face of current and future uncertainties?

2.???Passion, Passion & Passion. When you love what you are doing, the journey becomes memorable. Celebrate the small milestones you conquer during this journey and give a pat on your back. Be generous when you appreciate yourself!

3.???What’s your Purpose? It’s typical for a Marathoner to hit the wall and experience sudden loss of energy and fatigue. Your strong will will be challenged & perhaps make you question the purpose in every facet of your life. A bit of positive self-talk will help you to re-align to the purpose you would have created to keep you going. Isn’t this so common in our work environment?

4.???Expect the unexpected. We all have enough experience to understand and acknowledge the gap between Planned Vs Actual. The external dynamics are so volatile in nature, it just hijacks the plan we would have created. How agile and flexible are we as a team or organization to adapt and improvise? Assess and reassess the situation all the time and adjust your thought leadership accordingly.

5.???Bouncing board? Yes, it is important to find a buddy when you run for long and hold good even in the corporate world. When plans and strategies crumble down due to tough conditions, an “Outside-In” view always helps and enables you to get back on track.

6.???Fall, but get up. I participated in my first Ultra Run 2 years back and I could not complete it.?The feeling about not finishing or giving up halfway through is an unpleasant experience. What’s key is NOT to give up, but keep it going. Work harder, practice more and bag the laurel.

7.???Whistle for help! A whistle was given to all the Ultra runners who participated in the run. Interesting fact about this deadly terrain is that there is a chance to get lost in the forest while running. And when you feel that you have lost your path, blow the whistle and catch the attention of fellow runners to get you back on track. What’s your way of asking for help?

8.???Delegate, not always. There are times when runners feel like delegating their run to fellow runners. I know it might sound funny but holds good to me! Well, these are moments when one must sleeve up and dig in deeper. Not everything can be delegated and should not be.

9.???Dream & Visualise Success to the T. Whatever distance you believe you can run is the exact distance you will end up running.

10.?Keep learning and keep it simple. Like they say, the basics of ultra-marathoner is to follow the simple principle - left foot, right foot, left foot, right foot. Repeat for 3 to 72 hours depending on your target.

The adrenaline rush experienced by a runner when they see the finish line is incomparable to anything in the world. Like they say, if you want to run, run a mile. If you want to experience a different life, run a marathon. If you want to talk to god, run an ultra!

It’s a great feeling to have my finisher medal in my hand and celebrate the success.?And just when this accomplishment is starting to sink in, there are thoughts already creeping up in my mind asking me – What’s next, Dilip?