Road to Marathon #4: How to Build a Running Routine (and Actually Stick to It)

Hi FOMO friends,

Mariona here! For the ones that know me, one of the questions I get all the time is: "How do you find time to run every day while working full-time, creating content, going to events, and still having a social life?”

Here’s the truth: I’m not a superhero. I just built a system

I’m currently working full-time at Delivery Hero, creating content part-time, showing up at networking events, and staying connected with friends and family. I’ve had to figure out how to squeeze training into a schedule that barely has breathing room. If you’re on your Road to Marathon, you’ll need this skill too.

It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it 🙌 So today, I want to share the strategies that helped me build a running routine that sticks, even on the busiest days.

Let’s dive in.

1. Stop Relying on Motivation

Let’s be honest: motivation is a liar.

If I only ran when I felt like it, I’d probably never train.

Running is like brushing your teeth. You don’t wake up thinking, "Am I motivated to brush today?" You just do it. It’s part of your day.

I treat my runs the same way. I don’t debate it, I just go.

When marathon training starts stacking up long runs, early alarms, and tired legs, you can’t leave it to chance.

2. Progress Over Perfection

Some days I can crush an intense track workout. Other days, I’m just jogging 5K after a full day of meetings and events.

And that’s okay.

Because showing up consistently beats going “all in” for one week and disappearing the next.

On your Road to Marathon, there will be slow days, skipped intervals, and runs that feel like a slog. That’s part of the game.

Focus on progress, not perfection.

Remember: a slow run still counts. A short run still counts. Just. Keep. Going.

3. Stop Seeing Running as a Punishment

I used to think I had to run to make up for “lazy” days when I didn’t feel productive enough.

That mindset? Toxic.

Now, running is my time for me. It’s where I clear my head after a chaotic day, process my thoughts, and sometimes, create my best content ideas while on the move.

When you start viewing running as a privilege, not a punishment, your entire relationship with training shifts. Marathon prep will push you to your limits, so enjoying the process makes all the difference.

4. Find Accountability: Run Clubs & Friends

One of the biggest reasons I stay consistent?

I rarely run alone.

Joining a run club (check runningfomo.com for a quick overview) or scheduling runs with a friend will instantly help you show up on days you’d rather not. When someone’s waiting for you at the start line, it’s harder to hit snooze.

Accountability turns running from an individual sport into a community experience, and honestly, that’s where the magic happens.

5. Set Realistic Goals

If you’re juggling a marathon plan, a full-time job, side projects, and life’s curveballs, you can’t do everything at 100%.

And you don’t have to.

Set goals that match your life’s current capacity. That might mean aiming to run four times a week instead of six. Or choosing a “finish strong” goal over chasing a PB.

When your goals are realistic, you’re more likely to stick to the plan and avoid burnout.

Final Thoughts: It’s About Building a Lifestyle

Consistency is what got me to where I am — and what’s taking me to the marathon start line.

It’s not magic. It’s not about always feeling hyped. It’s about building a routine that fits your life.

So as you continue on your Road to Marathon, remember:

👉 Show up.

👉 Stay consistent.

👉 Trust that it will pay off.

And if you ever need someone to run with, you know where to find me. 😉