What If You’re Not Stuck—You’re Just Running With Too Much Weight?

Once Upon a Time, I Loved Running

Once upon a time, I loved running. I still do—though the pace of nearly every area of my life has slowed considerably. Funny enough, the thing about running for me has never been the miles or even the mindset. It’s the shoes.

I cannot stand anything heavy on my feet. Chunky, trendy running shoes drive me bananas. Historically speaking, they’re also some of the biggest contributors to running injuries. Thanks, Nike. Circa 1970.

These days, I run in zero-drop soles. When the weather allows, I run barefoot. Heavy shoes feel like running through sludge. They throw off my stride and make something that should feel free feel unnecessarily hard. Maybe it’s sensory. Maybe it’s wisdom. Either way, I need to feel unhindered.

Why Weight Changes Everything

That need to feel unhindered is probably why I’ve always loved the passage in Hebrews that urges us to:

“Throw off everything that hinders us, and the sin that so easily entangles, and run with perseverance the race marked out for us.”

That verse is actually what sent me headfirst into emotion coaching. Over time, I began to notice how many believers are trying to run their race with unnecessary weight strapped around their ankles—wondering why they feel stuck at the starting line.

There are plenty of teachings on this passage that focus on comparison or staying in your own lane. Those matter. But they often skip the most compassionate instruction in the verse: Throw off everything that hinders.

Runners Know This—And So Does Your Nervous System

When you’re running, anything that weighs you down affects your stride. That’s why runners are particular about what they wear—shoes, socks, shorts, shirts. Not for style. For freedom. So nothing interferes with the run. The same is true emotionally and spiritually.

Some of the things that slow us down today were once the very things that helped us survive. They aren’t sins. They aren’t failures. They’re adaptations. But survival tools are meant to be temporary. When they outstay their purpose, they quietly become weights.

The Weights Many Are Still Wearing

As you look toward 2026, see if any of these feel familiar:

• Staying busy so you don’t have to feel

• Being “the strong one” who never needs help

• Over-explaining yourself to be understood

• People-pleasing to keep the peace

• Emotional numbing to avoid pain

• Hyper-vigilance—always scanning for what might go wrong

• Harsh self-criticism disguised as motivation

• Controlling outcomes because trust once felt unsafe

• Avoiding conflict to prevent fallout

• Carrying responsibility that was never yours to hold

  
  

If one or more of these once helped you survive a hard season—honor that. Truly. Honor the fact that your wise self found ways to keep you standing. But also notice whether it’s now weighing you down. Slowing your stride. Tightening your chest. Keeping you stuck at the starting line.

Before You Run Into 2026, Pause

Before you charge forward, pause long enough to ask yourself: What am I still wearing that makes the run harder than it needs to be? What once protected you may no longer be required. What you release may be the very thing that allows you to run freely again.

That’s the work I walk people through—gently, safely, at the speed of peace. Not forcing weight off, but helping you recognize what you’re finally allowed to set down.

Embracing Change for a Lighter Future

As we approach 2026, consider the changes you want to make. Embracing change can feel daunting. However, it can also lead to a lighter, more fulfilling life. Reflect on the habits and mindsets that may no longer serve you.

The Journey Ahead

Running is not just a physical activity; it’s a metaphor for life. Each step we take is an opportunity to shed what no longer serves us. By letting go of emotional weights, we can move forward with clarity and purpose.

The Importance of Support

As you navigate this journey, remember that support is crucial. Surround yourself with people who uplift you. Seek guidance from those who understand the importance of emotional freedom. Together, you can create a community that encourages growth and resilience.

Finding Your Pace

Everyone has their own pace. It’s essential to honor yours. Don’t rush the process. Allow yourself the time to reflect, release, and rejuvenate. This journey is about finding what works for you and embracing it fully.

Conclusion: A New Beginning

As you prepare to run into the new year, remember the wisdom of Hebrews 12:1: “…let us throw off everything that hinders…” Some things were once survival tools. Now, they’re weights. Letting go can be liberating. It’s time to run freely again.

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