Chapter 1: The Unexpected Benefits of Running

Many of my most productive moments and creative breakthroughs happen while I'm out for a run, including the writing of this very piece.

Running is widely recognized for its positive effects on our physical health and overall well-being. It's common knowledge that it helps maintain fitness and supports weight management. However, an often-overlooked advantage is its impact on productivity, a sentiment echoed by fellow runners I’ve spoken with.

It's easy to perceive running as time taken away from our daily responsibilities—time that could be spent grocery shopping, bonding with family, or working at our desks. Yet, running can actually enhance our ability to tackle these tasks. By dedicating time to run, we can channel our mental energy into resolving challenges across various aspects of our lives. This is why I assert that “I do my best work while running.”

Writing While Running

There’s a unique synergy between running and the creative process. The way our minds function during a run seems to facilitate innovative thinking. As I jog, my thoughts can flow in a guided manner, allowing me to explore new ideas and perspectives.

Frequently, I find inspiration for my writing while running—sometimes through deliberate contemplation, other times unexpectedly as I navigate a challenging trail or tackle a steep incline. When a promising concept surfaces, I don’t meticulously outline every word. Instead, I sketch out a rough framework or jot down key points to explore later. Rather than sitting at home, staring at a blank screen, why not take a run and return with a structured outline?

Coding on the Move?

When I'm not engaged in writing, I work in software development. You might think it impossible to code while running, but you'd be surprised. Writing software shares similarities with the writing process. While there are moments when ideas flow seamlessly, much of the work involves problem-solving and strategic planning. From conceptualizing product designs to determining architecture and ensuring all components fit together, each aspect demands thoughtful consideration.

Just as I create an outline for my writing, running allows me to reflect on overarching tasks and formulate actionable plans. Often, when I’m stuck on a coding issue, clarity strikes during my run, enabling me to find effective solutions.

Embracing Discomfort

It’s no secret that running can sometimes be uncomfortable or even painful, especially during intense training or long races. Strategies for coping with discomfort often fall into two categories: association and dissociation.

With association, we focus on the sensations of our bodies and the discomfort itself, while dissociation involves redirecting our attention to other thoughts to mitigate discomfort. Despite their opposing natures, both approaches can be effective—sometimes even within the same run!

For me, the most powerful form of dissociation occurs when I immerse myself in work-related challenges. Ironically, it's often during the toughest parts of my run that my mind wanders most freely to workplace topics.

Finding Balance in Running

You might wonder if merging work with running detracts from the enjoyment of running itself. It’s a valid concern. However, for those logging significant miles—40, 50, or even 60 a week—there’s ample opportunity for both work-related and personal reflections.

I don’t approach running as a task to be accomplished; rather, I let my thoughts roam within the realm of work problems, allowing for creative exploration.

Running as a Source of Inspiration

It’s often said that running inspires creativity, and I can attest to its truth: running provides a mental landscape where I can explore ideas and address challenges. While some may use running as a means to escape daily stresses, I find it an ideal setting to confront and navigate those very challenges, whether related to work, family, or other aspects of life.

Jonathan brings over 20 years of engineering leadership experience in both large and small startups. If you found this article insightful, consider joining Medium to support Jonathan and countless other writers.

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Chapter 2: Real-Life Insights from Runners

This video discusses the challenges faced by runners balancing demanding jobs, offering insights into maintaining productivity while staying active.

In this video, Courtney Lazar shares her journey of creating a successful business while raising a family, emphasizing the importance of time management and self-care.