Phone Calls on Runs

Sometimes when I am out on a run (usually also out of breath and wheezing!) I get a phone call from a client.

After greetings, it’s “Are you OK?” “Should I call 911?”  “Are you all right?” “I can call back.”

I explain I am just out running. I tell them I am __ miles into a __ mile run. Then, it’s “You run?” “You’re kidding…right?” “Wow.” “You do this often?”

Now, here’s what interesting. After the disbelief is suspended, clients often become quite appreciative and impressed. There is a noticeable shift from “client” status to “friend and partner” status. The business relationship is now a relationship built on respect and mutual engagement for success.

Sometimes those conversations turn into a 20 minute walks with a friend covering a wide range of topics. Sometimes those conversations are cut short because the client is not sure what to say/do next… but they always call back within five minutes and the conversation continues.

Then there is my daughter Kelly. I confess that I often schedule a run in her neighborhood just because I know what she will do. I will drop by, leave my car in the driveway, and take off on a run. If I am gone more than an hour, she will inevitably call. “Where are you?” “Are you ok?” “Are you coming home?” “You’re where?!” “Don’t over tax yourself!” “Do you have enough water?!” “How are your knees?” “When will you be back?”

I love it. I love hearing her voice. I appreciate her concern. I always look forward to when the call comes. And sometimes I lengthen the run, just to make sure I get the call.  Is that wrong?

I am truly blessed with family and friends. Some live in my house. Some live across town. Some live half way around the globe.

Sophie is on the right side of the guy in the yellow shirt!

I got a call today on Skype from Sophie Huang from Shenzhen China. “Sophie” is a very bright, energetic, and competent young adult with whom I had the pleasure to meet while working with study groups on college campuses in Nanchang China. She wanted to wish me happy birthday and to know how the Stockholm Marathon went and if she could contribute to the cause. (She can’t send money over the internet, but wanted to mail me yaun, RMB in an envelope!) and yes, the call came during a run… and her first words were, “Are you OK? Are you running!?”