innocent drinks’ Post

In 25 days I will be running my very first marathon. What a gift that it will be at the NYC Marathon. My running journey started in Jan. 2022. I was burnt out, overworked, and just not in a good place physically or mentally. Aside from working and running a small business, I was homeschooling my kids and carrying much of the burden at home as a military wife. I needed an outlet. I decided to pick up running because I was too self-conscious to pick up weights in a gym full of people. I also started running because I love being outdoors. I started with no real goal other than to keep moving and have a few precious moments to myself. There was no real plan to run any races, lose a certain amount of weight, or even be fast. But, as time went on, I felt like I needed a challenge and to work towards something specific so that I would remain consistent. I signed up for the Dec. 2022 OUC Half Marathon in Orlando. Most of training I did alone. I started off with the shoes I had and my Apple Watch. I didn’t even own headphones at the time, so I would borrow my husband’s. I downloaded a free training plan from the Nike Run app. I didn’t know much about pace and running zones, or to carry gels or some kind of fuel for longer runs. I started with what I had and my knowledge base grew over time. The day of my first race I was sick. I had flu-like symptoms. Any normal person would’ve been smart enough to sit it out. I decided to still run, feeling like I had put in too much work to not see things through. Having also struggled my entire life feeling like I never have something to show for my hard work, I felt like not running the race was not an option. So I ran. It was difficult and not pretty, but I ran the course and crossed the finish line. The recovery afterwards was brutal and I will never run another race sick again, but I learned something that day for the first time at 33 years old: I can do hard things. I am capable of more than I give myself credit for. Running has been an incredible gift. The sport and its community has enriched my life in ways I never imagined it would. I am healthier and stronger, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally as well. Not every run goes according to plan, but the work is never ever wasted. If you’ve read this far, thank you. I share all of this because one way I have chosen to pay it forward is by running with Team for Kids at the NYC Marathon. I committed to raise crucial funds that support vital running and community programs for youth in underserved communities. As a mother to 5 boys, I know all too well the massive financial commitment it takes to have kids in any kind of sport. While my family is fortunate enough to have the means that allow my kids to have access to these opportunities, not every family can say the same. I am just over 12 hours away from my fundraising deadline. I am not giving up yet. Please consider donating via the link below. Thank you in advance for your support.

Below is an article on our upcoming Guinness World record attempt to raise funds for the MitoCanada charity! If you are able to donate to this important cause, please find link in comments below. Thanks for your support! Fluid Projects Consulting

I'm delighted to be running the London Marathon for...   Nah, despite over two decades of talking a great marathon in a professional context, I haven't ever completed that distance in one go, and will not be joining the ranks of contacts in your LinkedIn feed seeking sponsorship as 21 April draws inexorably closer. We exist in a sector echo chamber where everyone taking part in a mass event is supporting a cause they're connected to, skilfully sharing charity stories and distributing links to online fundraising pages. The reality - as shared by massive (ltd)'s latest Mass Participation Pulse Report - is that less than a third of people at any given marathon, half marathon, 10k, triathlon, or swim are raising funds for charity. The warm and fluffy motivation of supporting good causes is way down the list after fulfilling personal goals and getting fit. So, when someone does choose to participate for a charity it makes them VERY SPECIAL INDEED. Yet in fundraising teams across the land, the familiarity and usual-ness of dealing with event participants means we treat them less like the magical unicorns that they are and, frankly, more like sheep. Mass emails are sent greeting a "dear supporter," incoming queries are passed around internal teams taking days to recieve a response, the same tired case studies and shopping lists are trotted out again and again, and the vital act of saying thank you is entrusted to operational teams (or even outsourced entirely). Thing is, it's cheaper and easier than you think to make supporters feel special. I may be giving away valuable IP and consigning myself to a life of unemployment here, but it's this simple: 1. Draw the supporter journey and have colleagues (or even better, supporters themselves) tell you where it's broken 2. Identify the quickest easiest fixes and do them 3. Repeat If you'd like some help with that give me a shout. In the meantime, there's heaps of great insight in the Massive's Mass Participation Pulse Report and it's free, so go and grab it here: https://lnkd.in/ecxBwsyA ___________ A white cartoon unicorn has big friendly eyes, a pink snout and hooves, a twirly straight horn, and the most magnificent rainbow mane and tail. It's galloping across a white background, leaping into the air. It came from clipartbest.com.

🏃♂️ Just Crossed the 14K Finish Line! 🏁 👋 Today I finally completed my first long distance race this season. 🎉 After a season of ups and downs, battling injuries and health challenges, I'm proud to announce that I successfully completed a 14K long-distance race! 🏅 Overcoming obstacles is a fundamental part of life's marathon, and pushing through these challenges has been both humbling and empowering. 💪 Each step today was a testament to resilience, determination, and the support of those cheering me on. This run had a special purpose— #portathon was a Charity Run for a Cause organized by WAIA, a fantastic NGO championing various impactful initiatives. 🌟 The beauty of these runs is that you can choose to run for a cause close to your heart. Whether it's fitness, education, supporting differently-abled individuals, or raising awareness on critical issues, every step counts. As I crossed the finish line, I couldn't help but reflect on the broader significance of running for something beyond ourselves. It's a reminder that we can use our passion for a purpose greater than our own achievements. So, here's to pushing limits, overcoming setbacks, and running with a purpose! 🚀 Let's keep inspiring positive change, one step at a time. 💙 #RunningForACause #asanify *** Hey 👋 - thanks for reading! I post content related to Simplifying Work. ➕ Follow me and hit the bell 🔔 icon on my profile to be notified of every post

🚴♀️✨ From Triathlon Coach to Community Hero! ✨🚴♀️ In an incredible display of generosity, former Sanford Triathlon assistant coach and competitor, Hannah Droge, recently turned the page on her competitive streak to write a new chapter centered on giving back. Hannah's decision to donate bicycles to a youth program in Sioux Falls not only exemplifies her passion but also leaves a lasting impact on the community. Having immersed myself in the world of triathlons, I know first-hand the discipline and dedication these sports require. It's more than just physical endurance; it's about mental strength, community, and, most importantly, the spirit of support and encouragement among competitors and coaches alike. Hannah's gesture goes beyond mere philanthropy; it's a powerful testament to the values instilled through sports like triathlon – resilience, community, and upliftment. 🌟 These bikes will do more than just provide transport or a means to compete; they promise new opportunities for growth, learning, and maybe, future champions! Why does this matter to us? 1. It's about recognizing the power of community support in shaping the futures of young individuals. 2. It serves as inspiration for each of us to consider how we can leverage our own passions and skills for a greater good. 👏 Have you ever considered turning your passion into a pathway for others' opportunities? Let's celebrate those who pivot their focus from personal achievements to fostering growth in others. Share your stories or thoughts on how sports have shaped your perspective on giving back! #GivingBack #CommunitySupport #Triathlon #YouthDevelopment #Sportsmanship #Inspiration Discover more tips, insights, and resources by visiting our site at https://lnkd.in/ghiaSxpx

🌟 Embracing Change: From Running to Volunteering 🌟 As someone who's dedicated years to pounding the pavement in several marathons, half marathons, and countless 10k runs, I've experienced the thrill of pushing physical limits firsthand. 🏃♀️💨 But life threw a curveball when arthritis in my ankle sidelined my running days. Instead of letting this setback define me, I chose to pivot and channel my passion into supporting mass sporting events through volunteering. 🤝 You will find me at the London Marathon's green start, surrounded by club runners and Guinness Book of Record breaking runners, also marshalling Ride London, and yesterrday on the start waves at The Big Half. I am easy to spot :-) I wear many hats or flowers at these events: photographer capturing the spirit of the day, headmistress blowing my whistle to keep order on eager competitor's, chief cheerleader, and tour guide help supporters safely navigate the event. Volunteering has taught me resilience, empathy, and the power of community. It's a reminder that our journey evolves, but our ability to contribute positively to others' experiences remains constant. 🌟 Remember, it's not about the miles we run but the impact we make along the way. Let's continue to support each other, whether on the track or from the sidelines. The Para Olympics demonstrates just how much can be achieved and how lucky many of us are. Together, we can achieve greatness in ways we never imagined. 💪 #VolunteerSpirit #Paraolympics #SportsCommunity #Resilience

Last January, in a howling gale I started a solo 100-mile run for the wonderful #JDRF charity around our local park in support of their research into Type 1 diabetes. When the idea first emerged, I spoke with a friend (a proper athlete) who explained that I would be a different person afterwards and to only begin training if I was ready to change. Despite this being a bit vague, it was a trigger, and from that point on I was all in. 19 months later, I completed the event and it turned out to be as physically grueling and mentally demanding as I had anticipated. I hoped upon hope that it would be worth it. I longed for the change. A short time after the run had ended, I spoke with my friend and explained that aside from the jubilation in finishing, I felt just the same now as the day before the run had started. I was disappointed. He explained that each day during the preparation - the discomfort, the sacrifices, the endless miles and resisting the desire to quit - through all of this, tiny changes had occurred. And then it struck me. Everything else now felt easier, I was a happier person because without realizing I’d developed an increased resilience and an ability to cope better with the obstacles that life throws at us. These tweaks were incremental and too small to recognize, but they add up to something life changing. So, no lightning bolts, miracle moments or sudden transformation but instead, a gradual growth, an increased appreciation of our fragile environment and a full understanding of why people set out to do hard things. To the point. If you feel stuck in a rut or things are getting on top of you, then get outside this weekend. Walk, ride, run - it doesn't matter what, but try doing something that will test you. Start small, but get a bit uncomfortable and see if it leaves you wanting more. No guarantees, but there’s a strong chance that it could set you on a different path and make your life more enjoyable. 😊 💚   " The prize isn't the medal at the end of the race but the person that you become along the way" - William Goodge #exercise #wellness #wellbeing #nature #charity #work #running #personalgrowth #parkrun #peace

Step 1: Decide to do something to raise awareness and funds for mental health and suicide in Australia Step 2: Run 29 marathons in 29 days Grateful for all of the support provided on this journey so far! A grim reminder that just under 9 people fall victim to suicide each day in this country. The first step to fixing this is to raise awareness.

The #marathon is a race full of more human interest #stories than any other. It’s one of the few events where recreational #runners can live up with elite #athletes. This week’s #Chicago Marathon showed that - from the women’s winner shattering the #worldrecord, to a 60 year old who gave up a life-saving liver #transport to run the race, to the participants who run to raise money for #charities such as the Christopher #ReeveFoundation, having to raise no less than $1,250 (USD) to compete while the race winners get paid in excess of $100,000, to of course the often over looked #wheelchair racers. https://lnkd.in/ermqh4Zz https://lnkd.in/eVjEw_-6 celebrates-second-chance-at-life-with-another-finish/ https://lnkd.in/eNBpJk9F https://lnkd.in/er7s5u8S

As someone who has previously run two half marathons and is training for a full marathon in April, yesterday I embarked on my longest ever SOLO training run since I started running (off and on) 10 years ago 🫠 getting up at 7:30 on a Sunday to fuel before lacing my trainers up and getting out for 8 miles alone might not be everyone’s perfect Sunday morning, but man did I feel good after 🤩 Whilst I was alone with my thoughts for over an hour, I got thinking about lots of things. What am I having for dinner? Can I be bothered to wash my hair after this? But, it also got my thinking about work too and what this (and many more) solo training runs can teach about working too… 1) You’re never going to achieve your goals if you’re not believing in yourself, and backing yourself all the way. I’d never gone for a run that far alone, because I didn’t think I could, but yesterday I decided to back myself and it paid off. The same goes for work, you have to back yourself and trust you can do things, even the tough stuff. 2 It is great to be part of a team, they can guide and support you when going gets tough and allows you to pull on each others strengths BUT sometimes you have to do things alone and put in the work if you have goals to achieve 3) Do not let yourself be swayed by what everyone else is doing. What is it that YOU want to do? For example, I’m running the marathon with my family members, who have all already clocked up more miles than me in the training. That’s fine, because it’s only going to be me that gets me across that finish line and I can’t be sidetracked by everyone else, because they have their own goals. Just because your work colleague wants to do this specific thing, is that what you want? Does it fit your own goals? 4) Remember YOUR why when the going gets tough. As I was finishing my run yesterday uphill, I was struggling but I remembered WHY I was doing this, WHY I was running a marathon and raising money for charity. The same goes for work. When you’re tired from putting in the extra work and doing what you can to show your full potential and giving everything extra effort, remember your WHY and how good it’ll feel when you achieve that work goal. 5) You are never going to be perfect at something first time, but progression comes from consistently putting in the work to improve. With so much of 2024 ahead and still in goal setting mode, it was great to have that moment to think through goals and what I want out of 2024. Exciting times ahead, and who knows what wisdom I come up with on the next upcoming long run on Sunday! 🫣 P.s if you’d like to sponsor me for running the London Marathon in April 2024 to raise money for PSPA in memory of my late Grandad, you can donate via my JustGiving page. Thank you x ⬇️ https://lnkd.in/efntNNJh