Don't compete

I like the idea of long term in the marathons.

But still, there are competitors in the marathon.

which makes it a competition.

this hit me recently when i saw there is results hierarchy in marathons.

this makes you judge yourself based on others, compare to others -> ruin your happiness.

its to show people/yourself "hey i did smth difficult" to earn respect. to prove smth

Thats why almost no one runs marathon distances by himself, without others knowing.

Because it is not natural milestones you put without outside pressure.

being healthy for example doesn't require that at all.

So that's why i have a saying "The best reason to run a marathon is not to run a marathon(networking. charity, travel instead)."