Discovering Purpose and Passion Through Running: A Journey of Self-Discipline and Inspiration
Thursday, October 3, 2024
Interview with Dillan Haviland by Nicky Tamberrino of the podcast Maybe Running Will Help
In a world where many of us struggle to find our path, Dillan Haviland has not only discovered his passion for running but has also made it his mission to inspire others along the way. Dillan’s journey began at a young age, and what started as a simple gym class activity eventually grew into a lifelong pursuit of self-improvement and discipline.
Dillan’s story is one of determination, resilience, and the constant drive to push beyond perceived limits. After graduating from college with a degree in marketing communications and a minor in digital marketing, Dillan now juggles working for his family’s electrical business with his goal of becoming a professional runner. However, Dillan is quick to point out that his journey is not just about setting records or achieving fame—it’s about the process and the personal growth that comes from pushing oneself daily.
Dillan’s love for running began in eighth grade, sparked by encouragement from friends and mentors. Over time, running became a discipline that taught him the value of perseverance and the importance of setting and surpassing personal limits. For Dillan, the satisfaction of breaking a record is secondary to the thrill of discovering new capabilities within himself. “It’s about knowing my limits and pushing past them,” Dillan explains. “Every time I achieve something I didn’t know I could do, it’s a powerful reminder of the discipline and effort it takes to keep improving.”
Discipline is a central theme in Dillan’s life. He believes that self-discipline is the strongest form of self-love, a concept he frequently shares with his growing community on Instagram. “Being disciplined means respecting yourself enough to put in the work, even when it’s tough,” he says. This mindset has not only driven his athletic pursuits but also deepened his spiritual journey, where faith plays a significant role. Dillan quotes Psalm 119:32, “I run in the path of your commands, for you have set my heart free,” as a guiding principle in his life.
Like many of us, Dillan faced challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when he briefly lost touch with his running routine. However, this period of uncertainty only reinforced his love for the sport and his belief in its power to transform lives. Through running, Dillan has learned valuable lessons about patience, humility, and the importance of staying grounded in the face of success or failure. He emphasizes that running, like life, is not about the destination but the journey—about taking things one day at a time and consistently showing up, regardless of the circumstances.
Looking ahead, Dillan has set his sights on ambitious goals, including the dream of competing in the 2028 Olympics. Yet, even as he pursues these lofty aspirations, he remains grounded in his mission to inspire others. Through his social media presence, Dillan shares not just his achievements but also his struggles, reminding his followers that running is as much about community and shared experiences as it is about personal success.
Dillan’s message to others is simple yet profound: “Keep going.” It’s a reminder that no matter the obstacles or setbacks, the key to success lies in persistence and the belief that every step forward, no matter how small, is a step toward a better version of yourself.
In a world where it’s easy to become discouraged, Dillan Haviland’s journey serves as a beacon of hope, illustrating the transformative power of running and the incredible things that can happen when you combine passion with discipline. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or someone just starting out, Dillan’s story is a powerful reminder to embrace the journey, trust the process, and keep moving forward.
This podcast episode is inspired by the latest installment of the Maybe Running Will Help podcast, hosted by Nicky Tamberrino, also known as @1classy_motherunner on Instagram. In this episode, we dive into Dillan Haviland’s inspiring journey of faith, discipline, and running toward bigger goals. Tune in on your favorite streaming platform to hear the full conversation, and be sure to follow @mayberunningwillhelp on Instagram for more motivation and community updates.
We’re proud to sponsor this podcast and support its mission to inspire runners and build connections. If you enjoyed this episode, use the code Nicky10 for 10% off apparel and accessories, both in-store and online. Please note, this offer excludes Garmin, Theragun, Shokz, and footwear, and cannot be combined with other promotions. Stay tuned for even more exciting offers, including special race-day discounts!