I enjoy running. I don't think that I can claim to "love" running, but I enjoy it. I never enjoy the first two miles; they are usually full of self-doubt. But once I get in the zone, I feel as if I could go on forever.

I enjoy the low barrier to entry in running. Shoes and legs are all that's needed. Some technical apparel is nice, but it's not required.

I enjoy the broad application running provides. There are few things where the ability to run faster and farther are not beneficial. And times when it is not beneficial, it is rarely disadvantageous.

I enjoy the meditative mindset that comes from running's rhythmic nature. The rhythm of my feet hitting the ground, the rhythm of my breathing. It gives my mind space to think, space to focus.

And, finally, I enjoy the metaphor. Running is just putting one foot in front of the other. If it gets difficult, slow down, just keep putting one foot in front of the other. This is life. It gets hard, it gets complicated, but usually all that's needed is to keep going, to do the next step. It's certainly true in my work. Sometimes I feel like I'm banging my head against a wall with a problem, but if I keep banging, I know, eventually, the wall's going to break. It's the same as a parent and husband. I have no idea how to be a good father to my children or good husband to my wife, not in the high-level, rest of my life perspective. But in this moment? I have a good idea of what I need to do, and once I'm done with this moment, I'll deal with the next. Sometimes I mess up, sure, but that's only slowing down. I just need to focus on the next step. One moment at a time. One step in front of the other.