As the year comes to a close, it’s tempting to rush straight into new goals, plans, and promises. New mileage. New races. A “better” version of ourselves.
But before you do any of that, I want to invite you to pause.
This year, one of my biggest lessons with running has been learning to truly listen to my body – without guilt. If I’m tired. If my energy is low. If it’s that time of the month and my legs just don’t have the spark – I no longer force it.
Some days, kindness looks like a rest day.
Other days, it looks like starting with a walk and seeing how I feel.
Sometimes it’s a short, gentle jog… and sometimes that jog turns into something more.
And sometimes it doesn’t – and that’s okay.
Running doesn’t have to be all or nothing. You don’t lose fitness or identity by easing off. In fact, learning to respond instead of react is one of the most powerful skills you can develop as a runner.
So many women I have spoken to have:
- come back from injury this year
- started running later in life
- rebuilt confidence after burnout
- or simply learned to enjoy movement again
And that deserves recognition.
Before you plan what’s next, take a moment to reflect:
- What did running give you this year?
- When did you choose compassion over pressure?
- How did you grow — physically or mentally?
Progress isn’t always louder, faster, or further. Sometimes it’s quieter. Softer. More sustainable.
As we step into a new year, remember: kindness isn’t weakness. It’s the foundation that keeps you running for years to come.
