I began running in high school when I went out for cross country and from that it has become a lifestyle. I find that running is one of the most social sports that you can participate in and be competitive at the same time. I was never a top runner but I was lucky to be on my high school team with a great coach and multiple state individual and team championships. I was always active in sports but running became my sport of choice. I continued to run and would do races occasionally in my post-college years. I have tracked my mileage and race times for years now, not to set PRs but to see how I was doing against myself from the previous year. As the saying goes, Father Time Always Wins. As technology has grown, there are online running apps and groups that you can join and share your running experiences. I say that if you find something that makes you a better person, feels good and you can share with others, go for it. That is where social comes into running -- being with others while doing something that is so individualistic.
Flash forward and now I do races all that I am able to - 5ks are my choice as I can find one almost every weekend. It's not to set the record or get a medal, but to participate and see friends. Runners are a unique brand -- putting yourself through pain to go and run X miles, but it's a lifestyle and ultimately is an awesome experience. Being able to run and participate in all the fun is all worth the waking up early, going out when it's too hot or too cold or you're just too tired. There can be unlimited excuses. Don't find the reason not to do something- go do something!
What I would say to anyone who's thinking of running, just started running or been a life-long runner -- Stay with It. Do what you like. Be Social! There are so many good people out there participating whether you race every weekend, do one race a year, or no races.. You don't have to run a 5 minute mile and you don't have to do 60 miles a week -- do what you can, but do something. Be a part of the social team that is out there and running. Local running stores and websites can connect you to people who are like you (slower, faster, bigger or smaller).
When at a weekday run or a race - give a High Five, Wave or Hello - we are all doing this thing we love. My mantra at any start line is Race Hard, Have Fun! See you on the roads!