The days I fear the most—the chaotic days, where I feel like I’m losing grip and control —often turn out to be the ones where I truly enjoy the chaos of life, the unexpected twists and turns.
We often fear chaotic moments because they make life seem overwhelming when too many things are happening at once. We feel like we’re losing control, but maybe we’re only losing the illusion of control, and that’s what truly frightens us.
It’s the realization that we were never really steering the ship, just drifting along, that can be both unsettling and liberating.
For me, this is about letting go, seeing where the ride takes me, and enjoying the chaos and the unexpected.
In running, especially in trail running, ultras, and mountain running, we always try to control the variables as much as possible to perform better.
But there are days, especially in the wild terrains of trails and mountains, where unexpected elements arise that we didn’t anticipate.
Embracing the chaos means accepting that uncertainty is a part of life. In running, just as in life, we can’t control every aspect. The weather might change, the trail might be rougher than expected, or our bodies might not perform as planned. It’s in these moments that we learn the most about ourselves.
Learning to navigate these uncertainties in running has taught me valuable life lessons. It’s about finding a balance between preparation and adaptability, between control and letting go. It’s about understanding that while we can’t control everything, we can control how we respond to the chaos.
Just like in life, running teaches us to embrace the unknown, to face our fears, and to find joy in the unexpected. When we let go of the need to control everything, we open ourselves up to new experiences, new challenges, and ultimately, new growth.
Disclaimer and notes on this series:
This blog series is a collection of my musings on philosophy as it relates to my passion for running. It's not a how-to guide or a set of rules. These are just my daily thoughts and questions, not my final answers.
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