Wow...this is the first time I've heard someone explain why I run. I run for personal pleasure and pushing myself beyond what I thought my mind/body could handle. Intrinsic pleasure. I run 4 miles a day...everyday for over a year now. No races, no external pressure. I run for me. Thanks for the video.

"I didn't want to do it, I know I should do it, and then I did do it." This absolutely resonates with me. I never want to run, but I'm always glad that I did. Every single time.

Took up running five years ago after giving up alcohol. Running saved my life.

"If you want to win find a competition where you're the only one in it" god i love stoicism. New day new fantastic stoic quote

Running is about you vs you. It’s you for you. It’s just one step…. Then one more step. It’s life. All about living your life. I appreciate and grateful for any run.

Running makes me and everything in my life 100x better. I’m in a great place in life physically, mentally and spiritually and I thank running for most of that. 💙🏃‍♂️

There is no better glory than winning against yourself. ❤

Running is like meditating, dancing, and fighting all at the same time. Its beautiful

I’m running a half marathon tomorrow this video came at the perfect time, thank you Ryan

I was about to quit my 30 days 10k steps goal due to rain then I started this video and you said something like "I run, doesn't matter if it snowing" and then I wore my tennis shoes and made 5 km. Thanks man!

8:30 By owning the morning, you own the day.

A few months ago, I started viewing my daily activities through a stoic lens. As a runner, I’ve always struggled with that internal voice telling me to give up at the toughest moments of a run. Although I usually push through, these past few months I’m running further when changing that internal dialogue and viewing the struggle as a stoic opportunity. Appreciate the motivational boost!

Been outta shape for a long time, didn’t think I could run twice more than what I usually run, but somehow I did it. Sometimes your mind have to tell your body what to do and who’s in charge, and not being limited by your own physical reactions. We have power over our minds, not outside events.

Ran my first half marathon this past May. I know my miles/hour and finish time aren't great but at least I got started and have been running consistently since then. Will be running again in 2024, hopefully with a better finish time.

Ryan, your videos have helped me realize a MASSIVE problem: So many people, especially young men, are so taken by their emotions that they truly do not leave room for rationality. It's great how you distill the Stoic thinkers into these great videos that open people's perspective beyond the way they feel in any given moment. You've actually been a huge inspiration for me and what I talk about on my own channel. Thank you! Marcus would be proud.

You have some crazy spots to run on! Having that mindset of just not comparing yourself to others is so great! Small steps everyday is great! Running or weightlifting for me personally is a magic pill, the pain you are going through really grounds you and stops depression and anxiety in the moment and even after for a while.

One big benefit of Running i know is "Runners High". Every true runner can relate to this. Its like an equivalent to pain killer.

This. This is me. I run for myself, to experience that unadulterated joy that I've beaten what it thought I could do. Running, mountain biking on super-sketchy trails or making my own, or any physical chores. I could not care less about winning a race against other people, the race is in my head, to win the challenge i give myself; making it to the next streetlight in the next 10 seconds, or the top of the hill before whatever time. In group race situations that I've been in, I just feel bad for the people I "beat". Injuries have been tricky to deal with, but ultimately I get frustrated with myself for allowing them to happen. Unless it was a crash following something dangerous I chose to do, which is then just learning. Maybe I'm a stoic thinker, who knows. Love this channel, really opening my mind.

Thanks, Ryan. Really appreciate your daily reminders.

I quit running 10 years ago , running was my passion since I was a little boy, always running everywhere . During that 10 years without running I was seeking for another workout, I did CrossFit and gym but month ago y realized that y was getting disconnected from a goal and a I said to me “is this what I want to do for a long period of time “…. After think in and thinking I talk with my best friend and couple ❤ and she have me an extra push and remember my childhood and what I love to do . I canceled my gym membership and bought a tenis shoes and get back to the place that I love so much , for me running is my spiritual space .

I have been running every single day from past 4 months. It’s great and really helps with my anxiety. Thanks Ryan

I’m never more philosophical then when I’m running!! And nothing like the Stories of the Stoics as my running companion on Audible too (if I listen to anything at all) I’ve noticed a lot of running B-roll throughout all of your videos, was super excited to see a whole episode on it! I also think a Stoic Approach to weight loss would be a hit. “Suck it up and skip breakfast! “ You’re an inspiration to this entrepreneur!

I have been reading 'The Daily Stoic' book, and I am currently halfway through it. I find your videos to be incredibly helpful in supplementing the wisdom from the book. Your personal life experiences of stoicism shared on this channel have been truly inspiring. Thank you!!!

I started running for this reason two years ago, and I am still doing it to this day. Thank you for the content and inspiration. It helps me to keep going.

You’re a solid guy Ryan. These videos have got me through a lot

Honestly, I needed this I use to love running every day because it pushed me and it sucked but afterward I felt great and it got me In great shape ima run again now thank you!

Thank you Ryan for all the work you do. I've been practicing my stoic philosophy for the last 6 years and I'm much more disciplined and loving and effective and peaceful because of it. I gave a reflective sermon at my church yesterday about stoic philosophy and the Seven Unitarian Universalist principles. There's a lot of overlap. Indeed Western society and the enlightenment itself owes a great deal to the stoics. Rock on! Also, I'm a huge Iron Maiden fan and it makes me smile to see you wear those shirts.

Hi Ryan, what is so great about running or physical exercise is the personal reflection time, you have a chance to think deeply with no distractions, good for the body! Yes! But Magnificent for the mind! Self conversation is the most powerful time we can have, we just need to converse with ourself before we lose our time to others throughout the day.

Thank you for this video. For me- Hoka is the best and running literally saved my life when I was struggling with depressions...✌

Thank you Ryan! I run 40 miles a week currently. This video hit the nail on its head. I loved the book you wrote by the way. "The Obstacle is The Way" definitely in my top 5. Thanks!

Been a LD runner for 17 years. It's definitely my "secret weapon".

I love this video ryan you're definitely a great example of a stoic. I can only work to be more like you it's very inspiring I'm going for a run🏃

Daily morning exercise definitely is a game changer to consistently and ensuring you have a moment of own mental time and clarity every day ☀️😊

So interesting and mind opening. Thank you!

Herb Elliott of Australia, the only runner to retire undefeated in the mile and 1500 meter once said, "I train for the mental toughness and not the physical development." The physical development will take care of itself if one would apply mental exercises such as making yourself get out there and run when you're feeling lazy, and for competition; making yourself run harder in a workout when your body wants to slow down. This, as Herb Elliott noted, "Builds uncrushable self-confidence." Elliott regarded himself as a (Stotan) which is a combination of (stoic) and (Spartan).

I love Hoka shoes! I wore Hoka's in the fall when I hiked the Camino. 550 Miles of some pretty tough terrain, Loved them!!! I had to throw them out when I returned home, but you better believe, I bought another pair! I am in massage therapy school, lots of standing. My Hoka's are fantastic to help me do my thing!

When my dad died, one of the biggest urges I had was to run. Yes, thoughts of running away and leaving everything behind, but really I just wanted to run. A chance to be free from the grips of my mourning family as we walked and cried down that hospital hallway. Families turning to look at my mom, sister, and I as we walked to see my dad’s body as he lay dead on the hospital table, and I just wanted to run away from it all. He had been pronounced dead at our house, I later found out. The memories and feelings of that day are still extremely vivid for me, even 20 year later: I was at my neighbors house and we were about to go to the movies. I was going home to ask my parents if I could go, as i was walking down the street, I hear sirens going off, and my mom runs outside and starts yelling, “tell them that your dad is upstairs and he is not breathing!” I instantly had a huge rush of adrenaline, and I remember yelling at the paramedics that he was upstairs and not breathing. I then ran in my house, up the stairs, and to my parents bathroom where I see my dad lying on the ground, pale and blue, gasping for air. I lean down to see him, and he looks at me, and tries to say something, I like to think he said he loves me, but honestly I don’t what he was saying. At that moment the paramedics come in and ask me to leave. I sat at the end of the hall, completely disassociated with everything as they walked him down the stairs and into the back of the ambulance. I could feel that he had died, and I knew it. I refused to go with my mom and sister in the car to the hospital bc I didn’t want to go and get told what was happening. I wanted to run away then, and my neighbors dad actually forced me to go to the hospital (he is great man who was a big father figure me). Much of this time at the hospital was a blur, a preacher came in to pray with the family, several family friends came in and out, but the memory that stands out is the one that I mentioned at the beginning. On the way home, fireworks were going off all around bc it was 4th of July. And I remember crying in my friends moms car as she drove me home. I can’t point to any single thing as my what helped me through this. Truly, the only thing that helps is time. But running has always been my connection with my dad bc he was a runner. Today, I remembered being in that hospital hallway with the urge to run, but this time I was running. I cried on my run as people probably thought I was crazy seeing a 30 year old man with a beard running and crying haha. I probably need therapy, running doesn’t replace what a professional can help you sort you through, but it can help you battle past your demons. Sorry for the long post. Your content is truly refreshing.

Purchased Hokas a few months ago. By far the best running shoe I have ever worn. I run because I find it hard. For years powerlifting was my thing, but that was easy as it came naturally to me. Running on the other hand is tough and makes me push my mind and body every day. Enjoyed the video, thank you!

I do not run every day, I feel better running every other day, sometimes 3 days in a row, for the last 15 years. I never feel tired at work or on my daily routine. In times of high stress in my life or after suffering personal losses, long runs have helped me tremendously.

Very motivating, thank you so much.

Your podcast with Jocko was awesome. Loved it.

This is spot on! Own the morning and you will own the day. Do something every morning.

Started running during pandemic up to now. And I wanted to do running for the rest of my life as long as I can. Feel good and my body transform to better shape. I love it. I'm 57 years of old and still running. Rainy, sunny it doesn't matter haha

Epictetus: "Freedom is secured not by the fulfilling of one's desires, but by the removal of desire."

Love the Musonius Rufus quote. Such a great reminder. Thanks

Hey Ryan, just found your channel. Just started my journey running, and so far really enjoying it. Really enjoyed your video. Hope to watch a lot more. Also realized you are from Sacramento by your Kings shirt. So am I. Keep up the great work!! #sacramento proud and Go Kings!!

I needed this thank you!

Thank u very much sharing absolutely love the messages thank u

It is the best way stoic explained here. I can relate it with my life. I liked it. Thanks. I will apply this in my life.

Hey Mr. Holiday, I am currently reading Lives of the Stoics and just finished Porica's chapter. I started journaling in August 2022 inconsistency but started doing it more consistently in March. Next week I hit Journal #100, also I started working out and running, this past Saturday I hit my first 10k (for me it's a big milestone since I wasn't able to stand up for more than 5 min) I've lost 178 pounds since August of 2022. Though I am struggling to apply stoicism in my everyday life, I believe I am on the right path to achieving it some day. Your videos and the book helped a lot. If you see this thank you! p.s the book atomic habits helped a lot.

I just found this video then subscribed to this channel now I just bought one of Ryan’s books. Thank you 🙏

I used to live in GR! I’m over on the East Side now but travel back sometimes. Great video!

Really Enjoy listening Daily to your Wisdom and Knowledge. It Helps me stay Grounded and present..Thanks Ryan☯️✌️😎✌️☯️

Being rigorous with your body isn't easy. If it was easy, everyone would do it. "Well being is achieved with small steps, but its no small thing." These things remind me that the path less traveled, at least in the case of personal improvement, is usually the correct path. Thank you Ryan.

You are right. Simple sacrifice consistently brings joy and success.

I always get asked why I run, but I have so many reasons, and I don’t think people want to hear all that, so I always try to simplify it and keep it short. But these all are the reasons I run almost daily, great video!!

This video is so timely! Today’s my running day! I’ve been running 3 days a week for about a month now and feel so calm and happy whenever I’m in the middle of it or when I’m done

❤ Big THANK YOU. For Resilience I Learn From You here and Book.

I didn’t realise this was a thing I thought it was just me! When I started running a couple of minutes was my maximum literally. My only rule is I ALWAYS follow a running plan and I NEVER allow myself to fail/stop on any run. The key is to build up slowly so it’s always physically possible so it’s just your mind you’re fighting! I can’t just go for a run because I’m weak and I’ll quit when my mind says so but if I’ve got a 10 mile goal that day I WILL do it and NOTHING will get in the way. I’m 54 next month and can now run a sub 1:40 HM and I’m well aware it’s a mid life crisis 😂 but, there’s not many things I can think of that would be better to be fixated on 👍

I love Hokas. They are great!

Thank you. Love the lessons here. You are competing against yourself.

As a failed college student, I haven’t read books in a few years… since 2023 I’ve started reading books… after my 5 book this year I wanted something challenging. I found a good reviewed book on Amazon. Called the meditations, with Gregory Hays… he made everything fairly easy to understand… and with your advice I’ve started writing it in… and something you’ve said really helped me emotionally… the book was only what $15 or less … and we read these books you think what am I gaining from this? And you said anything. And that really encouraged me as I read, If I learn anything then I’ve already won. So I’ve feed off that mindset and kept reading more and more researching so much and learned so much about a subject I’ve hardly even heard about. Wow, philosophy is actually dope. I just like to take the thinking aspect and bring them to other subjects… and sit around and ponder things that are of the same importance to myself

I can't wait for 5am to go out and jog. (currently 11pm).

I hate waking up early and I hate running. So I’ve decided to wake up early and go for run to train my mind. Every morning I go to a battle with myself. It’s been 28th day of winning that battle.

tomorrow I'll be turning 32 and thanks to your video I've decided to get up earlier and jog every day starting tomorrow. It was already my goal to loss weight and get into the best shape ive ever was till im turning 33 but now i got something to add to it and hopefully it helps me to bevome more motivatet every day by starting into the day with a new habbit

I agree with all your points. Those the exact same insights I’ve come to from running everyday.

I deleted all social media years ago and now I exercise for me and me alone. It’s private time for reflection and therapy and doesn’t need to be shared with others. It’s extremely freeing

I practiced Stoicism without knowing it. I'm 78 and I ran for forty years. I was never any good, heavy legged thing I am, but I made myself do it. At this age running is no longer practical, you need to understand limitations.

Glad I found this video

Love my HOKA's - one word to anyone reading this, I have been a long distance runner for most of my life, but sadly following the come back post chest infection earlier this year suffered my first deginatrive meniscus tear. My response was to keep walking four to five miles every day, and seek treatment on the knee such as massage, strength stuff, and other alternative treatments - I am not running yet. But. Realising this was one of many long term lay offs that have beset me since my mid forties - usually IT Bands, or Plantar issues - I bought myself a Wattbike Nucleus. Well what a revelation - according to my Apple watch several months in, I may not be running, but I am banging in far more exercise than I usually do. And my knee is recovering gently, I hope to run in the fall - even short distances. (I have new HOKA's awaiting that moment 🤣)

I dropped 50lbs and ran a Spartan Super with my 14 year old. 50 more and we are going Trifecta. This feed is new for me and spot on for the future.

Own the morning and own the day. Sounds good ❤

What a hero.

I have to say, the clips of you running are very motivating to me. You don't just talk the talk, you walk the walk.

Hi Ryan, do you realise. You have changed people for the better. Thank you from all of us.

I'm a runner too, this is perfect.

Starting to run again after a loooooong break, years. I feel more alive than ever. I’ll never stop a daily run at this rate, no matter how slow.

I found you after reading book ego is the enemy and you changed my life thanks Ryan 🔥

I just wanna say thank you 😊😊

Welcome to GR Ryan I live near by hope you had a good time in GR

I learning lenguaje . I need to keep learning and don’t give up on me . Get up and do it!!

Auto generated subtitles would have you believe that Ryan enjoys the works of the great stoics Santa an Marcus Cereal. This has inspired me to dust off those old running shoes. Thank you Ryan.

Subscribing just off the strength of this video. Thanks!

When the student is ready the master appears is so true. This been my life recently.

Running can be very tough on your knees. Luckily this advice is useful for any kind of exercise or physical challenge. That's the real point here, being in control mentally over the physical discomforts of exercise or any temporary physical discomfort. That kind of discipline carries over into every discomfort, from stressful mental work to motivation to take risks outside of the "comfort zone". Thanks for this!

My problem is that I like to run. I'm 55 pounds overweight and I still like to run.

Wow thanks

Subscribing to the daily stoic Email has made my mornings better, Thank you Ryan.

what matters is that, i didn't want to do it, i know that i should do it, and then i did do it. - Ryan Holiday, on Running.

Hoka shoes are fabulous.

I ran everyday for about 12 years, usually about 5k, until I realised it was holding me back from progressing with my running. Now I do some cross training on days I don't run.

Hi Daily Stoic, what is the longest run you have ever been on?

I feel better during and after I run. The thought of running is the hard part for me. It's a weird type of anxiety I don't really understand, because I know EVERY time I run I will enjoy the act and the consequence. The feeling of anxiety before I run is similar to letting go of something, kind of like the moment before you jump off a ledge on a zip line, but more prolonged, less acute. I think mainly it's the opportunity cost, that I should somehow be doing something other than (selfishly) running.

Running saying "on the other side of the hurt locker is transcendence". Memento Mori.

Now I want a pair of Hoka’s and I want to run! ❤

I'm pretty sure I saw Ryan running on Grand Ave. near Lake Merritt in Oakland a few weeks ago.

There have been runs where I’ve said in the middle of the run, “shit, I forgot that I didn’t want to do this.” I’m finally at the point where putting my running shorts on is a habitual as having coffee in the morning-just part of my routine. 5, 10ks, just a number.. weird feeling. It’s significant to me because I was 80lbs. overweight about seven years ago.

Running is the shit. I do it everyday but even if I’m feeling down or something I’ll immediately go for a run and it just resets the mind. But it is about pushing yourself. If I do a measly run that wasn’t hard at all it doesn’t make any difference at all in my state of mind.

You are amazing. I wish I could be half the man you are..

Now this is the things I like to listen in KZfaq