This is Why I Post on Social Media

I was caught up by the topic of a TV talk show that was on air the other day: The four hostesses were discussing how people usually find it annoying when runners brag about their accomplishments on social media. I immediately thought of myself, of course, since I have this blog, and also, I usually post on Facebook a comment or two after running a race.

I listened carefully to what they were saying. Their discussion points were the following:
•A real runner does not have the need to tell the world about their accomplishments.
•Only those with a low self-steam have the need to be recognized for what they have accomplished.
•Get a life.
•Other people don’t care about what you do. If you actually do it for yourself, keep it to yourself.

This was basically it. I know it sounds somehow shallow, but what if people really think that of us, runners, who share our experiences on social media?

I thought about it while walking my dogs and here is my response:
•What is a real runner? Is it just an Olympic runner? Well, when you are a runner you know you are as real as any other runner in the world. The fact that some runners win races, get medals and prizes does not make them more real than me. I run, I train, I take it seriously, and I race.
•I follow “real runners” blogs, so guess what? They also post about their experiences and share with the running world lovers their opinions and perspectives.
•We don’t post to get recognized (at least I don’t). I post because I feel proud of myself, the same way someone that just baked a cake posts its picture on Instgram, or when someone feels proud of their son’s soccer game, they put it up there as well. We all want to share with our friends those things that make us happy.
•I have a life, and running is a big part of it.
•I think running is such a big accomplishment, and it requires so much determination and strong will, that those who don’t do it feel intimidated.

When I go out with my no running friends on a Saturday night and I call it an early night they all ask me why. I first say “oh, I have to run tomorrow so I want to get a good sleep.” They usually tend to answer “well you don’t have to run in the morning, you sleep in and then go for a run. What are you running, 5k?” Then I have to say “I have to run in the morning because I train with a group and no, I am not running 5k, I am running 22k. That is why I have to do it early and with my running group, otherwise I won’t be able to do it by myself.” They are usually shocked after I say 22k, or 20k, or 18k and I am not saying this to brag, I am saying this so they get why I actually need to leave early. I actually need to get a good sleep.

Answering with the truth when others ask is not bragging, it is just being honest.

My Animal Lover Note: