Regardless of what I am doing, I try and find the value in it. Some things, admittedly, are easier than others. When I left the corporate world and started working at the running store, I imagined my days filled with talking about running, with runners, and providing them with all of the essentials that they needed to achieve their goals. And, that definitely is a part of what I do every day.
However, I also clean the bathroom, vacuum the carpet, take out the trash, wipe the windows, dust the shelves and merchandise, fold apparel, etc. Honestly, the list goes on and on. Some people think that leaving a high paying job to do all of that is absolutely crazy, but to me, it’s a dream come true. How, you may ask, do I see that as a dream come true? It’s all in my perspective and keeping the bigger picture in mind.
There is a story, I’m at a loss for the origins, about three bricklayers. It goes that a man comes across three bricklayers on a job. He asks the first what he is doing to which he replies bluntly, “I’m laying bricks.” He asks the second the same thing, and his reply is a little cheerier, “I’m building a wall.” When he asks the third, the man breaks in to a smile and says, “I’m building a cathedral.” Same job, very different perspectives.
It’s my belief that no matter where you are or what you are doing, you have the opportunity to help make someone’s day a little better. You don’t need to be a titled leader to lead, and you do not need to be in a position of power to make a huge impact. Yeah, I might be cleaning the bathroom before the store opens, but it’s part of the bigger process of helping people achieve some pretty massive goals, such as running a marathon.
In fact, two thirds of the people that I help, aren’t runners at all. They are simply in pain and looking for help that will literally improve the quality of their life. How amazing is that? Every day I have the opportunity to help someone live a better life simply by helping them with shoes, inserts, compression, etc. More than once, I have had a complete stranger hug me because they hadn’t been able to walk pain free for years, until the moment they came to see us! I didn’t get many hugs like that as an Operations Director.
Whether I’m helping an elite athlete compete at the highest levels, or helping a grandmother go on a long walk with her grandchild, I’m truly living my dream. And, if part of that dream includes a toilet brush and a squeegee, I’m ok with that. I’ve never been afraid of hard work and building cathedrals every day has its perks. My soul is full of joy. This is how I am leaving my mark…
If I can help you on your journey in any way, please reach out to me.
For behind the scenes photos and comments on my training and personal life, follow me on Instagram: joe_the_runner Strava: Joe Randene YouTube: Joe Runner Facebook: Joe Randene
Questions, comments, feedback? Please leave them in the comments section BELOW and we can have a discussion!
I can attest to your help. Your positivity and contagious smile has helped and encouraged me. The mental lift your encouragement had given me has been more helpful than I can say in my journey of running. So sending a monster hug and my gratitude to you. Thanks for being there for me.
Terri, you are so very welcome. All of us runners are brothers and sisters, a family. We should always be there for each other. I’m proud of you and I love seeing your runs on Strava! Peace. Joe
“Bloom where your planted”….be the prettiest, fragrant, and healthiest flower you can be ? wherever you are, for as long as you can…? Keep us positive Joe!
Mom, I wonder where I learned that from? Yes, I am positive and happy, and I’m happiest when I am helping other people! Love ya! Joe