It was early January 2022. I’d just returned from Lagos after experiencing the dirtiest of Decembers. Trust me, I’m no stranger to the Lagos December scene, but this one was different. It was my first as an “I just got back” (IJGB), even though I’d only been in the UK for four months. My friends Seyi Akano, Topinjay, Richard, and Sodiq made it unforgettable.
I came back to Bristol with an extra 10kg—not in my luggage but on my face and tummy, the two places I hated most. That morning, I tied my shoelaces sluggishly and looked in the mirror, feeling defeated. The weather begged me to stay in bed, but after much deliberation, I stepped out for a run. It was painfully slow—until something unexpected happened.
A dog started chasing me, its owner struggling to catch it. Adrenaline kicked in, and I ran faster than I’d ever imagined possible. While catching my breath, I realized I’d been running for years without intention—just for fun. That day, I saw I was capable of much more.
Motivated by the experience, I committed to running 100km every month. In five months, I lost over 14kg. That single run sparked a mindset shift that brought purpose to everything I do.
I learned the power of showing up. You don’t need to be at your best to make an effort—you just have to start. If I hadn’t shown up that day, I would’ve missed the dog that sparked the change in my life.
I’d been running for years, but that day’s run was unlike any other— Consistency, I found, is often clouded by doubt, worry, and the tempting comfort of a warm bed. But the key lies in pushing forward and trusting that small, consistent efforts will lead to meaningful change.
Everything happens for a reason, even if it’s not immediately clear. That run transformed me, reminding me of the adage: “If you hang around the barbershop long enough, one day you’ll get a haircut.”
Think back on your most memorable road trip.
Michael Okunloro | Elevate Your Style 