Adapt and Persevere

The Boston Marathon is the world’s oldest annual marathon. Since I like to apply lessons from sports to regular life, here are 3 lessons from the 126th Boston Marathon to bring to our financial wellness.

1. Adapting strategy might be required.

I loved hearing the story of Val Rogosheske. She was one of 8 women who ran the Boston Marathon in 1972, the first year women were officially allowed to compete. At age 75, she ran the race again. This time she used a technique where she ran for 30 seconds and then walked for 30 seconds. She did this the entire way! She said if she just ran, it wouldn’t feel like her old running, and the new approach expanded the distance she could go. Amazing.

Sometimes what works for us in our financial journey at one time does not work when we’re in a different season of life. By staying aware of how money is moving in your life, you can assess and decide how you might want to adapt your strategy as things change. f

2. Accomplishing goals takes discipline.

It takes a lot of training to prepare for 26.2 miles. It might include training in the snow or maybe in the dark. And there's a good chance you’d rather be watching reruns of The Office at least once when your calendar tells you it’s time to hit the pavement.

Reaching your financial wellness goals similarly requires consistent attention. It might seem like a slog at the time, but your future self will probably thank you.

2. Collaborate with a partner. You’re not alone.

Boston Marathon Bombing survivor Adrianne Haslet returned to the course for the 126th event. Haslet, who lost her leg in 2013, teamed up with Olympian Shalane Flanagan to run the race. Last year Adrianne said she “got really brave” and asked Shalane “to join me, side by side from Hopkinton to Boston, as my teammate, my coach, and my support runner.” They crossed the finish line together beaming with smiles! So inspiring.

When it comes to tackling big challenges (including financial ones) knowing you're not alone can make a huge difference. And you're not alone.