Be someone's push to run 12km

This morning, I went for a run. At 8km, I was exhausted. My legs felt heavy, my mind was negotiating with me, and I was ready to stop.

And then, out of nowhere, a man passing by said: “You’re doing great. You should be proud of yourself. Just don’t give up.”

That was it! Just a few seconds and a few words, but it was enough. I ran another 4km.

It made me think about how often we underestimate the power of small encouragement. Sometimes we don’t need a grand opportunity, a major breakthrough, or a life-changing event.

Sometimes we just need someone to say, “Keep going.” This applies far beyond running.

In our careers, especially in the early years, there are so many 8km moments. Times when we’re tired, doubting ourselves, questioning if we’re good enough, wondering whether to stop pushing.

And sometimes, all it takes is one person:

A mentor who says, “You’re ready.”

A colleague who says, “I see your effort.”

A friend who says, “Don’t give up.”

We all have the ability to be that small push for someone else. A comment, message, word of belief. It might feel insignificant to you but might mean everything to them.

If you see someone trying, let them know.

If you see someone growing, acknowledge it.

If you see someone struggling, encourage them.

You never know who’s at their 8km mark. And you never know what your few words might help them achieve.