I want to share something personal with you today, something that completely shifted how I approach life, my goals, and even my faith. You might not believe it, but I became a runner at 40 years old. I know, crazy, right? Up until that point, I absolutely hated running. It was not my thing.

Sure, I was already working in the fitness industry—lifting weights, teaching classes, doing all the things—but running? Nope. No, thank you. That all changed when I decided to run my first half marathon. Let me just say—it was an absolute disaster! I swore I’d never run again. But somehow, that experience hooked me. Fast forward, and over the next ten years, I ran 25 half marathons.

Yes, 25! 🏃‍♀️

But here’s the thing: It wasn’t just about running. Those years taught me something much deeper. Running became a metaphor for how I approach everything in life. I had to learn how to pace myself and finish strong—two things that I’ll admit didn’t come naturally to me at first.

I’ll never forget one race in particular—a 5K in New Orleans, known for being “the longest 5K in the world” (it’s actually 3.5 miles, but let’s not get technical). It was hot, humid, and packed with people. I followed my usual strategy, saving my energy for a strong finish. I love that final push, passing people who don’t even realize we’re in a race!

But I miscalculated. I didn’t pace myself right, and the heat got to me. I pushed hard as I neared the finish line, and the next thing I knew, I was throwing up right after I crossed it. I could barely stand, ripped off my shoes and shirt, and collapsed on the nearest piece of cool concrete. I was completely drained.

But I finished.

And in that messy, exhausting moment, I learned something powerful: Resilience comes from pushing through discomfort. Even when it feels impossible. And finishing strong isn’t always pretty, but it’s always worth it.

Finishing Strong—In Life and Beyond

I’m reminded of that race often, especially when life throws its own challenges our way. It’s not about winning against others—it’s me vs. me. Life is the same way. It’s never about comparing yourself to anyone else. It’s about showing up, every day, committed to being the best version of yourself.

So, how do we finish strong, not just in a race, but in life? There are three key things I’ve learned from running (and from life):

1. Commitment

This isn’t just about setting a goal and hoping for the best. It’s a daily commitment to excellence. It’s showing up even when you don’t feel like it. It’s fighting those negative thoughts and pushing through the doubt that creeps in. Every day, you have to choose to demand the best from yourself.

2. Energy

Finishing strong requires energy, but not the kind that just “shows up.” You generate energy by staying focused, by being disciplined, and by keeping distractions at bay. When you focus on the right things, you build momentum, and that momentum drives your energy forward.

3. Effort

Here’s the truth, and I know you’ve heard this before: You can’t wish for change. You can’t just dream about it. You’ve got to put in the work. Growth takes effort, plain and simple. The more effort you invest in your goals, the better your results. If you’re not putting in the effort, you can’t be upset about the results you’re not getting. (I know, I’m preaching now!)

Pressing Into the Next Season

Life is always full of transitions—whether it’s a new season, a career shift, or simply the changing pace of everyday life. And with each transition, we’re faced with a choice: Do we stay comfortable, or do we push ourselves to finish strong?

It’s not just about physical strength. It’s emotional strength. Mental strength. Spiritual strength. The Bible tells us to be strong and courageous, and I believe that now more than ever, we need to step into that calling.

We can’t do this alone, though. That’s why I created my Walk Worthy Mentorship—a safe space where we can push forward together. It’s a community of women who are committed to finishing strong, to supporting each other, and to building resilience in every area of life.

It’s not just about finishing this season strong—it’s about finishing life strong. Together, we can create a ripple effect that impacts not just ourselves but those around us. We’re going to run this race well, for the glory of God, in Jesus’ name.

Are you ready to finish strong?

If your heart is pulling you toward this, I want to personally invite you to join me and a group of incredible women inside the Walk Worthy Mentorship. You’ll get the support, accountability, and coaching you need to build the spiritual, emotional, and physical strength this season of life requires. There’s an urgency in my spirit to call us to be strong—to rise up and meet the challenges ahead with faith, courage, and resilience.

Let’s do this, Warrior. 💪🔥.

xo,

Amy

For more, please check out the following podcast episodes: