Earlier this year, I wrote about my experience with running and how my mindset often feels like the biggest obstacle to achieving my goals. After adjusting various factors—training methods, volume, and nutrition—I felt I was on the right track. However, a few months ago, I developed knee pain that forced me to pause. Initially, it felt like another frustrating setback, but I approached it differently this time.

For most of my life, I considered running easy. My overall fitness and background in sports allowed me to head out whenever I felt like it. Running seemed straightforward—it doesn’t require much equipment or time compared to cycling, yet it clears my mind and sparks creativity while moving my body. Competing in small races or half-marathons required little preparation to achieve good results. But then the first issues started. The impact of running too much, too fast, and without enough pre- and post-workout care began to take its toll, making it less and less enjoyable. I found myself caught in a cycle of taking breaks, starting again too quickly, doing too much—and then back to taking breaks. Through it all, I kept thinking, “This is crazy; running has always been so easy.”

This time, I acknowledged that running isn’t easy—whether you’re a beginner or an experienced runner.

When I stopped taking running for granted (even though I had to learn this the hard way), I was able to give it new meaning. While sports have already taught me so much, shaping my perspectives and experiences both personally and professionally, I realized there is still more to gain. Loving and enjoying running doesn’t mean it has to be easy—just as your dream job is still work and can be challenging at times. Setbacks in running mirror setbacks in life, raising the same questions: How do you handle them? What do you learn from them? What drives you to get back up and try again? Are you motivated by achieving a fast marathon time or simply by being a little better than yesterday?

Coming out of my break, I adjusted my training. Since running isn’t easy, I sought advice from others to learn through their experiences. Once again, the parallels between sports and work became clear. Consistency and finding joy in hard work—whether in sports or professionally—form the foundation of any kind of progress.

Running is hard, and it’s always easier not to run.

Merry Christmas.