Even in hard times there’s a light in the darkness. When you cannot do what you usually do, do something different. You can always find something positive to focus on. No one can really predict anything. Well, what this year has taught me is foremost that you cannot take life and things for granted; it is better to live in the present as much as possible. When things do not turn out as planned, I choose to make the best of the situation. Difficult times can make you more creative. When all races around the world were cancelled, we ran virtual races. Not the same as a real race but something different and a new way of challenging yourself. Some of us were lucky to run a marathon, a real one.

My year has had its ups and downs; it has been a different year where I have learned a lot about myself. Spending a lot of time alone has given me the possibility of contemplating things that have happened in my life, before and during the pandemic. I am grateful for everything I’ve been going through; it has made me stronger and hopefully a little wiser. I wish to inspire people and for me physical exercise is the key not only to survive in this crazy world but also to feel true happiness.

My year as a runner

In 2020, I have run more than ever. In March and the following months, when everything changed, I was affected more than I understood and would admit. I had time to run but I felt tired and in no good shape. In July, I was physically exhausted which was a mystery to me. Eventually, I realized that certain people were draining me of energy. It’s funny how the body reacts; how it tells you when something is wrong. When I finally got in control of my life, my physical fitness became so much better. I started to believe in myself and my capabilities. It has been a period of enlightenment where self-respect has been the key to freedom.

Ultra-running, marathon, and social running

I discovered the joy of running many kilometres in one day. Twice this fall, I have run 50 kilometres (31 miles) in one day and this is thanks to my fantastic runner friend Ingrid who has taught me that anything is possible. Running in a slow pace, enjoying the surroundings and the beautiful views, talking, laughing, taking coffee breaks, well, that’s life quality to me.

We also both ran an organized marathon with only 42 participants. The route was a loop of approximately 4 k 10 times which was actually not that bad. Mentally, it was easier to know that you “only” had some loops left. No spectators except for the organizers, and a big part of the race I ran alone which was challenging. No one to encourage me and no one to stay behind in the head wind. Still, I ran my best time in years (3:38:55). Ingrid did a really awesome race and became Nordic champion with her time 3:13:24 in age group K60! She is such an inspiration to me!

During the summer and early fall, the running club started up again and we had some weeks of great social running. But with the new restrictions that decreased the gathering of people from 50 to 8, these running activities stopped. Now, I run alone or with one of my great runner friends. Luckily, we can meet, run and talk and be together (at a distance).

Be nice to yourself and others and have fun!

So, this year did not turn out as planned; it turned out differently and I feel lucky despite everything. Of course, I wish this virus situation to end; I long to meet and hug my family and friends and to run with the club but meanwhile, I choose to make the best of what I can.

• Do something that makes you laugh
• Be lazy now and then
• Use your imagination
• Do something new – I have started doing yoga!
• If you love someone – tell them
• Be honest to yourself and to others
• Write down your thoughts; it can help you get perspective but it’s also good to just get it out of your system
• Write to someone you love – and send the letter
• Write to someone you don’t love – and burn (or delete) the letter
• Remember that physical exercise gives you energy

Happy New Year everyone! Let’s make the best of 2021!