Part II: Triumph in Defeat: 10 Lessons Learned from a 50-Mile Ultramarathon and the DNF Experience

DNF (Did Not Finish)–Three letters that strike fear into athletes’ hearts. At first glance, they represent failure the moment we surrender, giving up on our pursuit of victory or completion. They haunt every competitor, but their weight can be heavier for some. Initially, the mere thought of stopping plagued my mind with feelings of failure and disappointment, not just for myself, but also for those who had supported me on this journey. However, through introspection, I discovered the true essence of success hidden within.

Reflecting on my experience running the Keys100, the grueling 50-mile race event, I find solace in the valuable lessons I learned along the way. While I didn’t cross the finish line, only completing 30 miles before deciding to call it because of various reasons, I realized that the race itself was just one aspect of a greater journey—one that resonates with the challenges leaders face daily.

I’ll share my insights and the lessons I gained from this intense endurance test, relating them to leadership principles. May these lessons inspire you to embrace setbacks, build resilient teams, and strive for continuous improvement.

Lesson 1: This was not a failure:

Falling short of completing the race could easily be seen as a failure, but I choose to view it differently. Just as in leadership, setbacks do not define us—they provide an opportunity for growth. By reframing failures as learning experiences, we unlock the potential for personal and professional development.

Lesson 2: A support group is critical for our success:

The race reinforced the importance of having a reliable support team in leadership. Whether it’s colleagues, mentors, or friends, their encouragement and guidance play a vital role in achieving our goals. A cohesive support network boosts morale and provides the strength to navigate challenges and overcome obstacles.

Lesson 3: Planning is required; falling in love with it is not.

Preparation is essential, both in a race and in leadership endeavors. However, it’s equally crucial to remain adaptable and open to unexpected changes. The altered aid station locations reminded me that rigidity could hinder progress. As leaders, we must adjust our strategies, adapt to developing circumstances, and embrace new opportunities for success.

Lesson 4: Be adaptable and agile:

Have the mental and physical ability to adjust quickly. In the race, the ever-changing conditions demanded mental and physical flexibility. Similarly, leaders must cultivate adaptability to navigate shifting landscapes. Adapting quickly to unexpected challenges and making well-informed decisions enables us to respond effectively, steer our teams through uncertainty, and capitalize on new possibilities.

Lesson 5: Slow down to speed up:

Sometimes, our desire for speed and achievement can overshadow the importance of pacing ourselves. As the scorching heat threatened to drain my energy, I realized that slowing down was necessary to preserve my strength and reach the finish line. In leadership, it’s essential to recognize when to recalibrate our pace, ensuring we can sustain our efforts in the long run, even if it means taking a temporary step back.

Lesson 6: Listen to your body:

Know when it’s time to rest, take a break, keep going, or stop. Throughout the race, I learned to listen attentively to my body’s signals—whispers and cries for respite. Leaders, too, must cultivate self-awareness and tune in to the needs of their teams. Recognizing when to pause, reevaluate, and recharge helps maintain overall well-being and enables leaders to make informed decisions for themselves and their organizations.

Lesson 7: Embrace uncertainty and unexpected challenges:

Running the Keys100 taught me that embracing uncertainty is a prerequisite for success. Just as races present unforeseen hurdles, leaders face unexpected challenges. By embracing the unknown, we foster adaptability, resilience, and the ability to pivot effectively in the face of adversity.

Lesson 8: Effective communication is essential:

The miscommunication regarding the crew support location highlighted the importance of effective communication. In leadership, transparent and timely communication is vital for success. Leaders must ensure that information is conveyed accurately and that everyone involved understands their roles and responsibilities. By fostering open and transparent communication channels, leaders can minimize misunderstandings, prevent errors, and build trust among team members.

Lesson 9: Stay focused on your purpose and goals.

During the race, it was necessary to slow down and adjust your pace to prioritize completion over speed. Similarly, in leadership, staying focused on your purpose and long-term goals is crucial, even if you need to make short-term adjustments. Sometimes, taking a step back, reevaluating your strategies, and reassessing your priorities can lead to better outcomes in the long run. By maintaining a clear vision and purpose, you can inspire and guide your team toward success, even in challenging circumstances.

Lesson 10: Reflect and learn from setbacks.

Even if we don’t finish a race, it’s essential to see setbacks as chances for growth and learning. As leaders, we will face setbacks, but how we handle them counts. We should take the time to reflect on what went wrong, identify areas for improvement, and apply those lessons to our future endeavors. We can succeed by adopting a growth mindset and consistently seeking development opportunities. Become a more effective leader and inspire others to do the same.

My journey through the Keys100- 50-mile ultramarathon and the experience of a DNF have taught me invaluable lessons that extend far beyond the racecourse. I invite you to join me in embracing setbacks, building resilient teams, and striving for continuous improvement in your leadership endeavors.

Remember, setbacks do not define us; they provide growth opportunities. Reach out to me with any questions or insights about this article. Together, let us transform failures into triumphs and inspire a new generation of leaders. Contact me today, and let’s embark on this transformative journey together.

I will be back, Bob.?

Thanks for hosting a fantastic event and experience.

Josh Fisher