Finding Purpose in Running: Dylan Roche’s Journey

Dylan Roche, an accomplished runner and writer, started his running journey in 2005 to cope with stress and anxiety. Over nearly two decades, he has conquered marathons, ultras, and even a 100-miler. In this story, Dylan shares his story, revealing how he is finding purpose in running. Dylan discusses how he got started, the lessons he has learned, and how his experiences can inspire others.

The Beginning: Finding Solace in Running

Dylan’s running journey began on his first day of college. He recalls, “I came home from my first day of class at college, and I was just so depressed. I was anxious, and I didn’t like the way life was going. There was all this nervous energy, and I just pulled out a pair of athletic shoes. I don’t even know why I owned them because I wasn’t athletic.”

With a pair of gym shoes, a single pair of gym shorts, and a cotton T-shirt, Dylan ran three miles. “I hated it, and it sucked,” he admits. But despite the initial struggle, he found a sense of accomplishment. “When I got over the, ‘Oh my gosh, that was so hard,’ I was really proud of myself. And so I just stuck with it.”

The Catalyst: Running Away to Find Strength

Running became a means of escape for Dylan. “I wanted to run away from my problems,” he says. However, it quickly became more than that. “I realized I was excited about my own strength and my own ability. I could do something I had never done before.”

Dylan’s motivation to continue running was driven by the desire for a positive change. “Maybe there was a small part of me that wanted to do something that was challenging and fulfilling. Running was a good challenge,” he reflects.

The Therapeutic Power of Running

Running provided Dylan with more than just a physical outlet; it offered therapeutic benefits. “It helped me feel better, There is always so much going on but running gives me peace.” he confirms. As he continued running daily, it became a stabilizing force in his life. “When life gets a little tumultuous or stressful, I know that I can always count on running to be that consistent thing that gives me strength day to day.”

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Embracing the Challenge: From Running to Racing

For nearly ten years, Dylan ran without participating in races. It wasn’t until a cousin suggested a 10K that he considered racing. “I had no interest in racing,” he recalls. But after completing the Chesapeake Bay Bridge 10K, he was hooked. “I thought that was fun. I’m going to do a marathon because that’s the natural next step.”  Dylan said with a huge smile and a laugh.

Despite the initial struggle of his first marathon, Dylan found pride in completing it. “It sucked. I hated it. But I finished it. And then I got the racing bug,” he says. Since then, he has completed 15 marathons and eight ultras. Finding purpose in running went beyond being therapeutic to a way to grow.

The Dual Role: Running and Writing

Running has also played a significant role in Dylan’s writing career. “Running is my brainstorming time. It’s my way to think through stuff,” he explains. It provides the structure and routine necessary for his creative process. “When I come home from a run, I feel like my blood is pumping, and I’m ready to sit down at my desk and focus.”

Running has taught Dylan that he is capable of overcoming any challenge, which has bolstered his confidence in his writing endeavors. “Running really teaches you that you can do anything you put your mind to,” he says.

Finding Enjoyment: Advice for Aspiring Athletes

While Dylan loves running, he acknowledges that it may not be for everyone. “I hear from so many people who say, ‘I would love to start running, but every time I try, I hate it.’ If you hate it, you don’t have to stick with it. Find something else that you enjoy,” he advises.

Dylan emphasizes the importance of finding an activity that brings joy and fulfillment. “Maybe you are a cyclist. Take up cycling, take up swimming, take up any number of physical activities that feel good for you.” Dylan found purpose in running but believes others may find their purpose in other endeavors and promises to root for you regardless of where your passion takes you.

Finding Purpose in Running: Lessons from Dylan’s Journey

Dylan Roche’s journey from a non-athletic college student to an accomplished runner and writer shows us what running can do to change our lives. Through his experiences, he has learned valuable lessons about strength, resilience, and the importance of finding joy in physical activities. Dylan is an example for others to pursue their goals, embrace challenges, and find purpose in running, or writing.

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