Training for an Ultra: Lessons for Work and Life

This photo captures the moment I crossed the finish line of my first (and so far, only) 100-mile run. It wasn’t my first ultra, but it was the culmination of years of training, grit, and learning. That finish line wasn’t just a physical destination—it was the product of countless hours of preparation, smaller milestones, and a deep commitment to the process.

Reflecting on that experience, I’ve been thinking about a concept I shared in a previous article: radical prioritization. It’s a mindset that requires focusing on what truly matters, and not just identifying your priorities but operationalizing them—turning intention into action. Training for an ultra taught me exactly how to do that, and it’s a lesson I’ve carried into work and life.

You don’t just wake up one morning and decide to run 50 or 100 miles (well, most of us don’t). It’s not something you can “wing” or tackle without preparation. Like any big goal, it requires breaking the journey into smaller, actionable milestones and committing to a plan. The finish line doesn’t happen by chance—it’s earned through focus, discipline, and intention every step of the way.

Breaking It Down: One Step at a Time

When I train for an ultra, I always start with the end goal: the race day, the finish line, and what I want to achieve. But staring down the thought of running 50 or 100 miles all at once? That’s overwhelming. So instead, I work backward, breaking the goal into manageable pieces—training weeks, long runs, rest days, and nutrition plans.

This approach mirrors how I handle challenges at work and in life. Whether I’m leading a major rebrand or organizing my home, I start by asking, “What’s the finish line?” From there, I map out the steps required to get there. Big goals become smaller, more achievable milestones, and suddenly, that massive challenge feels a lot less intimidating.

The Power of Community

Here’s the thing about ultras: while you’re the one putting in the miles, it’s rarely a solo journey. The community makes it special. From the volunteers handing out peanut butter sandwiches to the pacers encouraging you through the darkest miles, ultras are a team effort.

For me, this community also includes my run coach, who helps me stay focused, accountable, and on track. My coach ensures that my plan aligns with my goals and adjusts it as needed when life happens. That kind of support—whether on the trail, at work, or at home—makes all the difference.

At work, I have an incredible team I trust wholeheartedly. I don’t need to be in every meeting or manage every detail because I know they’ll deliver. At home, I lean on my family and friends. Trusting others to support you—not just during the easy miles but especially during the tough ones—is what makes those big goals possible.

Structure, Accountability, and Flexibility

Ultra training requires a plan. I map out my week in advance, balancing work, family, and training. I figure out when I’ll run, how I’ll prep for it, and where I need to adjust around life’s commitments. That structure keeps me focused and ensures I stay on track.

But let’s be real: plans don’t always go perfectly. Maybe the weather changes, or life throws a curveball. I’ve learned to adapt, reprioritize, and keep moving forward because the path to the finish line is rarely linear.

Finding Joy in the Journey

Running ultras has also taught me the importance of finding joy in the process, not just the outcome. Whether you find yourself desperately negotiating with your legs for "just one more hill”, savoring a quiet moment on a long run, or celebrating a small win at work, those moments matter. They’re what recharge you and keep you moving forward.

So, whether I’m training for an ultra, tackling a big project, or applying radical prioritization to my life, the parallels are clear. It’s about breaking things down, trusting your team, planning with intention, and finding fulfillment in both the journey and the destination.

What’s your ultra-marathon—on the trail, at work, or in life? Whatever it is, remember: no one gets there alone, and the milestones along the way make the finish line that much sweeter.