What Is In Your Control? A Reflection

For the past few years, I have had the wonderful opportunity to take part in the Pittsburgh Marathon relay. Preparing for these races often brought moments of self-doubt, especially when I would compare myself to faster, more fit runners. Over time, I learned to focus on my own progress and celebrate my wins. After my latest relay, where I ran 6.5 miles, I decided to step out of my comfort zone and commit to an even bigger challenge: running the 2025 Pittsburgh Half Marathon.

?This decision was both exciting and daunting. I had never run more than 6.5 miles at once, and the thought of 13.1 miles felt overwhelming. How would I train for such a goal? With the help of a running plan and coach, I began building up through different training runs. Each run became a mix of physical effort and mental discipline. Yet, there were moments of doubt when I noticed others running faster or covering longer distances, and I would feel discouraged, questioning whether I could achieve my goal.

?In these moments, I realized I had a choice. I could expect failure—injuries, exhaustion, or the possibility of not finishing—or I could choose to believe in my success and approach the challenge with positivity. Expecting success was not just optimistic and necessary, it was practical. A positive mindset enhances performance, shapes your reality, and aligns with personal growth.

?This mindset shift reminded me of the Stoic principle: focus on what is within your control. Marcus Aurelius once wrote, “You have power over your mind—not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.” I could not control how far or fast others ran, nor their opinions about what makes a “worthy” challenge. What I could control was my effort, my attitude, and my decision to celebrate progress instead of comparing myself to others.

?Stoicism teaches us to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Seneca said, “Difficulties strengthen the mind, as labor does the body.” Training for a half marathon embodies this principle. Each run, especially the tough ones, is a chance to develop resilience and mental fortitude. It is not just about reaching the finish line; it is about who you become along the way.

?Leadership principles also played a significant role in my journey. As John Maxwell emphasizes in The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth, leadership begins with self-leadership—intentionally guiding yourself toward growth through discipline and optimism. The decisions we make in moments of self-doubt—choosing perseverance over negativity, positivity over discouragement—set a foundation not only for personal success but also for inspiring others.

?Leadership is not just about commanding others; it is about leading yourself with purpose and determination. When you approach a daunting task like running 13.1 miles, your ability to stay focused, optimistic, and resilient sets an example. It shows others that success is less about the size of the challenge and more about the mindset you bring to it.

?In Stoicism, obstacles are seen not as barriers but as opportunities. Similarly, Maxwell’s Law of the Mirror teaches us that we must see value in ourselves to add value to our efforts. These principles connect beautifully in the context of running. Every challenge, whether it is a hill on the course or a moment of doubt, is an opportunity to gain experience, become more focused, and more resilient.

?As I continue preparing for the half marathon, I remind myself to reclaim my “remote control” and focus on what matters: my effort, my growth, and my joy in the process. Running this race is not about competing with others. It is about honoring my journey, pushing my boundaries, and celebrating every step forward.

?Each mile stands for a choice: to focus on what I can control, embrace challenges as growth opportunities, and lead myself with intention. By weaving Stoic principles and leadership values into my training, I am not just preparing for a race, I am becoming a better version of myself. This journey is proof that progress is worth celebrating, resilience is worth cultivating, and every step, no matter how small, is a victory worth savoring. No matter what goal you are pursuing, it is about celebrating this journey in life.