Running a marathon, like growing your career, requires determination, rigor, patience and also the ability to take time off, to let things cool down. To run a marathon, you need to train consistently for months, if not years. Similarly, building a successful career takes time and dedication. You need to invest time in developing your skills, building your network and gaining experience. It requires commitment to stay focused on your goals and make the necessary sacrifices to achieve them. And above all, it takes patience to navigate through setbacks and challenges, and to keep moving forward.

A long way to go

Running a marathon is a long-distance race, and building your career is a long-term pursuit. It takes time and effort to progress from entry-level positions to leadership roles. You need to set your sights on the long-term and keep pushing forward, step by step, to get closer to your objectives. It’s not always easy, but if you stay focused and committed, you will eventually reach your destination.

Keep your eyes on the finish line and stay motivated to achieve your goals.

Better when shared

Running a marathon is an individual pursuit, but it’s also a community event. The energy and support of the crowd can help you push through the tough times and make the experience more rewarding. Similarly, building a career is not just about personal achievement, but also about the people you meet along the way and the relationships you build. It’s important to seek out mentors, peers and colleagues who can support and guide you as you progress, as well as help you gain new insights and perspectives, find new opportunities, and support you through the ups and downs of your career journey.

“Fall 7 times, stand up 8”

A marathon is not easy. The journey is often fraught with obstacles. Not every runner finishes the race, and not every career move is successful. It’s ok to fail as long as you get back on your feet. Always try again if you experience a setback or face challenges. The key is to pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and keep going. Learn from your mistakes, and use the experience to grow and improve.

Start halfway, then go bigger

Finally, anyone can start training, regardless of their fitness level, and work their way up to the distance. Just like a runner who starts halfway and goes bigger progressively, you don’t need to have it all figured out from the beginning of your career. You can start in an entry-level position and work your way up, gaining new skills and experiences along the way. Each step you take will help you build a solid foundation for your career and prepare you for bigger challenges in the future.

Building something that matters is a marathon, not a sprint.

(Quote by Dragos Bratasanu)

In summary, the journey towards a fulfilling professional life shares a lot in common with running a marathon. It demands unwavering dedication, time, and perseverance, but success is attainable through a strategic mindset and approach. Maintaining a high level of motivation, seeking collaboration with others, embracing failure as a learning opportunity, and steadily working towards your goals are all essential principles to keep in mind. By adopting these practices, you can set yourself up for a successful and fulfilling career. So lace up your shoes and get ready for the long run!

Did you like this article? Read also: “How to skyrocket your career with a career plan?”.