5 ways running makes me a better designer

I’ve been a runner for 10 out of the 12 years I’ve been a designer. I started running while on staff at Cornerstone University. I would escape the pressure of work during lunch breaks and run 2 or 3 miles. At the time I ran purely for therapeutic reasons – I needed the release that being physical offers.

Over the years I’ve added several more reasons to run and keep running. I still run for the therapeutic reasons – the runner’s high is addicting, but now I run for a variety of health reasons, to stay fit, to stay disciplined, and to become a better designer.

I know, running to become a better designer sounds like a stretch at best, but here’s what I’ve been able to take away from running and apply to being a creative.

1. The fresh air, heart rate thumping, and the body moving in unison creates an phycological environment to focus. The elevated levels of oxygen running threw my brain are just the boost I need to stay sharp.
2. Being surrounded by out of the ordinary smells, textures, sounds and sights, I’m exposing myself to new input I can build on in other ways. If I block out the endless conversations running threw my mind I’m able to see a world of elements that grow me as a creative.
3. Running offers a very physical and tangible situation to push through adversity. The practice of “pushing through” is a 99% mental game, and it has paid off countless times when faced with a creative dilemma. There is something to be said for building mental stamina, will and a determinedness to push through – despite the pain or frustration I’m facing.
4. I often run with headphones on – sometimes it’s just a musical piece and sometimes it’s a favorite signer. I’m the type that would have music on 24/7 if my wife could sleep with a piano in the background. Running and listen to music is a unique experience though. It’s often the only time I’m able to fully engage in what I’m listening to, and listening and exposing yourself to great art can only make you a stronger creative.
5. Lastly, the runner’s high is irreplaceable. After a good long run, I can’t even begin to tell you how much more clear my thought patterns are. I’m able to focus easier, solve problems quicker, and have a sharper mind overall. Irreplaceable.

These are some of the benefits I’m able to take from running and apply to being a creative, and the beauty of these perks is that they apply to pretty much every profession under the sun.

If you’re not a runner I would suggest giving it a try. It wont come easy though, and it will take you several weeks before you experience the full benefits of the sport – I think you’ll find that it’s worth it though.

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