World’s Fastest Runner: "Why Chasing Success Feels Empty" - Do This Instead To Find Joy & Meaning

Running a Beautiful Race: Beyond Winning and Records

Eliud begins by redefining what success means in a race. For him, the goal is not merely about finishing first or setting records but about running a “beautiful race.” This concept embodies starting and finishing with integrity, respect, and the spirit of humanity. He emphasizes that crossing the finish line is not just a physical act but a mental and emotional accomplishment, a testament to enduring the entire journey with consistent values. Regardless of position or time, a race is beautiful if run with respect for the sport and fellow competitors.

When asked about running with the values of humanity, Eliud explains that it means honoring respect, integrity, consistency, and love—values that should guide all seven billion people on the planet. These principles, he believes, are essential not only in sport but in life, fostering a fruitful and meaningful existence.

The Role and Limits of Goals in Running and Life

The conversation delves into the complex relationship between goals and the joy of running. Eliud acknowledges that setting goals is important as it provides focus and discipline, but warns against letting goals become limiting or overshadow the process. He likens goal-setting to planting a seed: the visible outcome (the sprout) is preceded by unseen, challenging growth beneath the surface. Similarly, achieving a goal requires preparation, planning, consistency, and discipline—ingredients that often go unnoticed but are crucial.

Eliud stresses that while goals help keep one on course, the real value lies in appreciating the journey—the 119 days of preparation before the race, for example—not just the race day itself. He encourages embracing setbacks and learning from them, viewing failure not as an end but as a stepping stone to growth. This mindset, he says, is vital for both athletes and anyone facing challenges in life.

Embracing Change and Nurturing the Next Generation

At 40 years old, Eliud reflects on his evolving role in the sport. He no longer sees himself as part of the “next generation” but as a mentor and father figure to younger athletes. His mission now is to nurture and educate the upcoming runners holistically, ensuring they surpass his achievements not just physically but mentally and ethically. This nurturing approach stems from a deep sense of responsibility to the sport and humanity, aiming to build a united, respectful community.

He attributes this collective mindset to his upbringing and personal reflections on his legacy. Eliud views running as a movement that can carry messages of unity, respect, and love across the world. He believes that sport should transcend monetary gain and competition, serving instead as a platform to touch lives and inspire positive change.

The Power of Belief: No Human Is Limited

One of the most compelling themes Eliud shares is his unwavering belief that “no human is limited.” This conviction was solidified during the 2017 Nike Breaking2 project, where despite missing the sub-two-hour marathon by 25 seconds, he realized that human potential is boundless. He challenges societal and scientific narratives that impose limits on what people can achieve, encouraging everyone to dare to try and push beyond perceived boundaries.

This belief extends beyond elite athletes to everyday people facing struggles. Eliud shares his personal story of being raised by a single mother and encourages single mothers and others facing adversity to break free from limiting mindsets. His message is one of empowerment, resilience, and hope, emphasizing that limitations exist only in the mind.

Marathon as a Metaphor for Life

Eliud eloquently compares running a marathon to navigating life’s challenges. Both require endurance, resilience, and the ability to face “potholes” and “bumps” along the way. He explains that setbacks, whether in sport or life, are inevitable but not definitive. The key is how quickly and effectively one recovers and moves forward. This philosophy was tested during the 2024 Olympic marathon in Paris, where Eliud faced an unprecedented challenge by not finishing the race.

Despite the disappointment, he views this experience as a profound learning opportunity. It taught him humility, acceptance, and the importance of waking up and moving on after a fall. Eliud’s response to adversity exemplifies his broader life lesson: success is not just about victories but about how one handles setbacks with grace and determination.

Discipline, Trust, and the Mind-Body Connection

Throughout the conversation, Eliud highlights discipline as the foundation of freedom. By consistently following a training plan and honoring commitments, he builds trust in himself—a trust that becomes crucial during races and in life. This trust is a sacred bond between intention and action, and breaking it can undermine confidence and progress.

He also stresses that running is not just about physical strength but about the heart and mind. The mental control and emotional investment in the sport drive the body forward. Cultivating a positive mindset, managing self-talk, and internalizing one’s goals are as important as physical training. Eliud’s approach to mental discipline is deliberate and practiced, reinforcing that mindset is a skill to be developed, not an innate gift.

Community, Humility, and the Team Spirit of Running

Contrary to the common perception of running as an individual sport, Eliud insists that it is fundamentally a team sport. He has trained with the same coach and team for over two decades, emphasizing trust, mutual support, and shared goals. This community approach fosters motivation, joy, and resilience, allowing athletes to push beyond their limits together.

Eliud’s humility is evident in his participation in everyday team duties, such as cleaning toilets and communal chores, regardless of his status as a world record holder. This groundedness and lack of ego create a powerful example for younger athletes and fans alike. He believes humility connects people and is essential for genuine leadership and lasting impact.

Redefining Success and Longevity in Sport

Eliud challenges the notion that athletes should retire “at their peak.” For him, longevity in sport is a sign of success because it allows continuous learning, growth, and contribution. Success is not measured solely by wins or records but by the positive influence one has on others and the values one upholds.

He encourages athletes and individuals to ask themselves what legacy they are building and how they are inspiring others. This perspective shifts the focus from fleeting glory to meaningful, sustained impact.

Running as a Movement for Global Healing

Eliud envisions running as a unifying force capable of healing divisions in the world. He points to the record-breaking number of marathon finishers as a hopeful sign of growing global participation. Running, he believes, fosters community, dialogue, and mutual respect, offering a platform for people to come together and collaborate on shared goals.

He urges everyone, regardless of fitness level or body type, to embrace running or walking as a way to improve physical and mental well-being and to contribute to a healthier, more connected world.

Final Reflections: Humility, Ego, and the Pursuit of Meaning

In closing, Eliud offers profound advice on humility and ego. He encourages people to set aside ego, which he sees as a barrier to true connection and growth. By focusing on one’s own journey and responsibilities rather than comparing or criticizing others, individuals can cultivate peace and authenticity.

He reminds listeners that life is finite and that true success lies in the contributions we make to humanity and the planet. His parting challenge is for everyone to consider their legacy over the next 15,000 days and to work towards making the world a better place.