102. What I talk about when I talk about Running

The prolific memoir by novelist, Haruki Murakami.

When I mention this book to people often they’ve never heard of it or vaguely recognise the author from his fiction titles.

It made its way to my top five books of 2021 and speaks of much more than simply running.

Going back to it now months later, I will continue to recommend it as a deeply thought-provoking and inspiring read.

If you are not yet convinced here are my key takeaways and learnings:

• Everyday actions can become contemplative and meditative through consistency.

• “The hurt part is an unavoidable reality, but whether or not you can stand any more is up to the runner himself”.

• Running is both an exercise and a metaphor. Each time elevates yourself to a new level.

• “I run to acquire a void”.

• Emotional hurt is the price a person has to pay in order to be independent.

• You need a period of experimenting, learning, and being open. It can’t be forever though.

• You really need to prioritise in life, if you don’t get a system by a certain age, your life will be out of balance.

• Make your philosophy and stance clear cut. You can’t please everybody.

• “The most important thing we ever learn at school is the fact that the most important things can’t be learned at school”.

• “It’s pretty thin, the wall separating healthy confidence and unhealthy pride”.

• Certain types of processes don’t allow for variation, just turn up day in and day out.

• When the going gets tough remember your reasons why, and “keep those few reasons nicely polished”.

• Talent, focus, and endurance are the most important qualities for novelists.

• “Most runners run not because they want to live longer, but because they want to live life to the fullest”.

• To understand yourself more you have to do some wacky stuff.

• The bad news is more common than good.

• Doubt doesn’t disappear but you get more comfortable with your character.

• As you get older you learn to get what you need and throw out what should be discarded.

• You learn your good points and get by with what you have.