I am not a runner. In the summer of 2022, I began running a few times a week to improve my cardiovascular health. But I am not a runner.

Meaning: it’s not a natural skill, it feels effortful, I don’t especially enjoy it, and I don’t think I make it look particularly easy.

However.

The way my schedule works, most of the time, I run early in the morning or late in the evening. It’s usually dark. I wear reflective gear, but I run — in essence — anonymously.

This is an unexpected gift. I have no pretense. I am not self-conscious. I’m only focused on the task of moving at a pace that stretches my current benchmarks.

Over time, I’ve gotten a little better. Nothing spectacular, but a little better. For me.

The principle is this: find ways to improve, incrementally, without the worry of what others think. Like running in the dark. Or writing anonymously. Or reading books on a new subject. Or practicing a musical instrument when no one is around to listen.

A little better, a little at a time. No judgement. No pressure.

Just a steady, self-driven pace.

It works.