Running for scale – why growing a business is tough on the body

I’m not a natural runner, though I like it.? There’s something special about being outdoors (my preferred way of running), listening to your favourite tunes and exercising all at once.?

As I completed my 9km personal best this week, I reflected on how running is like growing a scale-up such as Future Anthem in many respects, so I thought I’d share my thoughts.

• Goals drive positive outcomes.? On my runs, I’ve always set markers – that lamppost, that car, this hilltop.? I like to break down my run and milestones into manageable chunks, as I do with Anthem.
• Starting is the hardest.? Running is the only activity I find myself procrastinating – it often takes me 15 minutes to drag myself out of the house – I re-tie my shoe laces three times, select the right playlist, stretching etc.? I suspect I’m just putting off the task ahead as I’m a little daunted, though in reality I quickly find a rhythm and enjoy it more than I expect.? Similarly at work, the hardest tasks are the ones you often put-off – don’t, they’re often not as difficult as you might think.
• You need a lot of stamina.? I’ve now had 2 work periods recently when I’ve found myself wanting for stamina, which is highly unusual for me – one towards the end of last year, and the other at the end of Q1.? Maybe it’s because I’m now 51 (I know I don’t look it!), or possibly because I needed bit of a pause from running all the time with Anthem, only taking a short break on the weekends when I’m usually working for several hours.
• Endurance above all. Just like running requires endurance, scaling a business demands resilience and perseverance. It's not a sprint; it's an endeavour that requires consistent effort over time.
• Pace Yourself.? I sprint at work and expect others to join me.? Not everyone keeps up the pace at work – some like to go steady, others jog, few walk. When you find team members who like running with you, grab and hold them as it creates huge momentum across your team and business. Be careful though – regular pauses are needed – your body and mind often need to rest.
• Continuous Improvement.? I’m always measuring my performance, a self-competitor.? Similarly, businesses must continuously seek ways to improve services to stay competitive and meet customer demands.? This is a core focus for us as a team as Anthem as we strive to measure everything.
• Be happy alone.? I find running a solitary activity, as I often do as CEO and Founder.? Yes, I talk to my colleagues and friends, but there are some thoughts and ideas that are mine alone, best kept for private moments, planning or when they're ready to be shared.? In both running and work you need to be very comfortable with yourself.
• Physical effects beware.? My knees talk to me after each run, and are often grumpy.? I struggle to walk easily the day after as my quads seize.? Similarly, after a prolonged and engaged period in a scale up, the body often suffers – a cold, an eye infection, tiredness – be sure to reward yourself with a pause, and to nourish yourself with healthy foods and supplements – staying fit and healthy is key to success.
• Celebrate your success.? When I arrive home after a run, that little sense of achievement always feels good.? Pat yourself on the back, tell yourself “well-done”.? I try to self-reward where I can at Anthem, as it’s often too easy to self-criticise. If you don't, no-one will!

If you’re a runner, please share your thoughts as I’m interested to hear about how others regulate their work and wellbeing.