A couple of months ago I started Parkrun – the Saturday morning 5km community running event.

But I don’t run (because I’m not a runner) – instead I walk.

If I’m honest I’ve always been a bit put off by Parkrun by the fact that it has the word “run” in it. I don’t much like running (I find it hurts). I much prefer walking – it’s more me.

The thing is I just assumed everyone who goes to Parkrun, runs.

Well it turns out they don’t – there are lots of walkers too.

I was beyond happy at this news. It suddenly opened up a whole new world to me.

No longer did I need to feel like I wasn’t good enough or to feel embarrassed by my lack of running skills.

And I was welcomed by all the lovely and warm people into the Parkrun family. (Ah gratitude).

As one man said: “5km is 5km regardless of how you do it.”

This is interesting when I reflect on it.

Self-doubt, feeling not good enough and expectations/assumptions are some of the top reasons why we hold ourselves back from going for things we’d like to do or try and from going after our dreams.

But “going for it” doesn’t have to be prescriptive or pigeonholed – like me thinking I can only do Parkrun if I run or doing what I think everyone else thinks I should do.

More often than not, when we are going after our dreams or creating the life we want, we can do things our way – like walk or take small steps or try a bit of everything, or move sideways, or u-turn or change your mind.

Bottom-line: you do what works for you.

Because there is actually no right or wrong way. Just different.

Or more importantly: Your Way.

And that makes showing up and taking steps towards that dream that much easier.

#ownyourawesome

PS – Got a goal or a dream but can’t get off the start mark? Let’s chat and clear up what’s holding you back so you can move forward and do what you’re meant to do.

PPS – If you know someone who might benefit from coaching or this post, please share!