Galen Rupp follow up

It occurs to me that I never followed up with the conclusion of Galen Rupp's record quest.  I wish I could report that he had broken the record as planned, cementing his place in the indoor record books.  Unfortunately, this is real life and despite evidence to the contrary, Rupp is only human.  He pulled out of the record attempt due to nagging injury in order to save himself for indoor nationals and worlds. 

I have to admit feeling a little disappointed for him.  He was running so well, I figured the record was a given.  And I'm sure he was disappointed too.  But I also see several positive lessons in this experience.  

First, there is no shame in living to run another day.  One bad race, or workout, or day, does not define a career. It is better to accept a minor setback, recover, and then press forward full steam ahead again, instead of just plowing ahead recklessly.

The second lesson is that sometimes, despite our best laid plans, life interferes.  Even if he was doing amazing workouts and eating right and sleeping right and everything, Galen still got injured.  It happens. We have to be flexible enough to change plans midstream sometimes. 

Third, recognize the difference between short term and long term goals. If the goal of his entire season had been to set the record, then it would've been worth it to run and risk injury.  But if the goal is to place at world championships, it is an easy decision to pull out and train for that instead.  It is important to see that a change in plans doesn't mean failure, it just means a new focus.  

My take home message is to set high goals for yourself.  Go for the records.  But don't feel like a failure if you don't get them.  Just refocus on another goal, regroup, and run another day. Happy running.