Applications for the 2026 London marathon ballot have hit a record high so if, like those people, you were inspired by the recent London Marathon, maybe you’ll recognise the hurdles involved while running your franchise. I know I sympathise with them, now having secured my place for London 2026! So, let’s look ahead at the goals approaching and how I relate them to my franchise.
Training – I’m inspired, I’m excited, I can’t wait to get going and raise lots of money, but I need to be prepared. I have a gait analysis booked and have ordered the right headphones and running gear to get going. This should be like your market research and that’s whether you’re looking to franchise your business or buy into a franchise network.
Be fully prepared for what you’re getting into and assess if it’s right for you. Like a commitment of 26 miles with months of training ahead, you’ll be committing a lot of time and money to this and also to a minimum amount of running.
Step-by-step
So, let’s break down the 26 miles into steps and describe the ups and downs the rollercoaster brings.
Step by step – the training should also be paced. Once you’ve decided this is the right decision for you then you need to train with consistency while building up to race (launch) day. Take everything in bite size chunks, don’t rush each step. You can then build on your knowledge like you build up your stamina.
Race day – you’re ready to launch, you’ve done your training, you’ve pushed your fundraising, marketing/promotion and now it’s time to see if it all pays off.
Mile 1 – launching anything can be exciting but pace again is key, you don’t want to start off too fast and have no energy left to carry on. You don’t want to sell out, turn people away, not cope with demand or find that your systems simply aren’t for purpose.
Miles 2-10 – now I’ve never run a marathon before, however in my mind I see this as the fresh moments, you’re feeling positive, physically and mentally you’re doing well, the crowds are cheering you, you’re soaking up the atmosphere and this decision was a brilliant one. The balance feels right and you can plough forward with your business.
Bumps in the road
Miles 11-20 – now these are where the bumps in the road can come in, the different surfaces and ground you didn’t expect crop up, walls appear you feel you hit and can’t get through, you have to dig deep, trust your training and the model you have created. Physically you’re hurting, sales may have dipped, the initial adrenaline and excitement isn’t getting you through the down days, which every business has and certain miles feel dark like tunnels with no light in view.
Miles 20-26.2 – Somehow you’ve got through, something deep inside showed your true grit and determination. Your drive and passion for the commitment you have made got you to the light and your consistency and patience paid off. It isn’t suddenly easier it’s just steadier, the pain doesn’t feel like a shock now, you’re expecting it more, you’re prepared and ready to push to the end. You’ve kept consistent with your hard work; you’ve trusted the process and continued to be proactive.
The finish line – well there isn’t a clear-cut comparison in relative time lines here until you’re ready to exit and sell on. However, each year or even each week you achieve in business can feel like that finish line! Make sure you celebrate all your wins, tell others about it so they can be your cheerleaders, keep a list of every win however small and put yourself up for every award going!
And most importantly?
Ensure you tell yourself!
