Running a business is like running a marathon

Bear with me on this one. 

If you’ve never run a marathon or half marathon, you probably know someone who has. 

It’s not just about race day. The runners you see crossing the finish line have spent months preparing. They’ve logged countless training miles, fine-tuned their nutrition, and surrounded themselves with running buddies and cheerleaders. 

I am one of those cheerleaders, and I know how much we do in the background to help our marathon nutters to be ready for the big day. I also know how much work goes into training for a big race, having done a half marathon myself (albeit 20 years ago!). The memory stays with you.

Now imagine trying to run 26.2 miles with no training plan, no fuel, and no support crew. You probably wouldn't make it. 

That’s what running a business without support feels like.

Too many business owners try to shoulder everything themselves—strategy, operations, finances, sales, people management. At first, the adrenaline carries you. But eventually, without preparation and backup, you hit “the wall.” Energy runs out. 

Clarity fades. Growth stalls.

Every runner knows:

• Preparation determines performance.

• Support makes the impossible possible.

• Going solo makes the race harder than it needs to be.

And the same is true for business owners.

When you bring in the right second-in-command, build systems, and create a support network, you don’t just survive the marathon of entrepreneurship—you find the stamina to keep going.

You wouldn’t run a marathon without training or support. Don’t try to run your business that way either.