Charm City Run: “The Marathon Mindset — What Running Taught Me About Reaching Financial Goals”
July 8, 2026 • By Rita Cheng, 2025 and 2026 Charm City Run Race Team Member
“It’s a marathon, not a sprint.” We hear that phrase often, but in both running and finance, that mindset is key. Progress takes patience, planning, consistency, and a clear finish line.
When I meet with clients, I see the same pattern: they’re not just chasing numbers; they’re building futures. I see real people with goals, dreams, and the stories behind them.
That’s why financial planning, for me, is as much about connection as it is about money. And it’s also why I connect so deeply with running.
My sister Diana and I share that passion for the sport. Years ago, we made a pact to race on every continent. Lofty? Absolutely. But that’s the point. Each year, we choose one or two races depending on schedules and location. This year we met in Cape Town, South Africa, and while the race itself was unforgettable, what mattered even more than the miles was the shared experience and the memories we brought home with us.
- Define Your Goals: Crossing the finish line in Capetown was a milestone, but it all started with a clear goal. We didn’t pick South Africa at random. It was a chance to check South Africa off our global challenge (My sister is ahead of me, while I’ve still Antarctica to go) while enjoying everything that the Mother City had to offer: the beautiful beaches, the vibrant culture, and the energy of the city. In finances, it’s the same. The first step is knowing what you’re aiming for. Is it saving for a home? Paying off debt? Retiring comfortably? Whatever your “finish line” looks like, define it clearly and then build a plan to get there.
- Create a Budget (and a Plan): As a runner and a CFP® professional, I know that success doesn’t happen by chance; it takes planning. Before Cape Town, I mapped out everything: training schedules, hydration, travel logistics, even recovery time. I booked a night flight so I could sleep on the plane, used the Memorial Day weekend to limit time away from work. That same mindset applies to your finances. A budget isn’t about restriction; it’s about being intentional. Just as a smart training plan gives you the freedom to show up strong on race day, a thoughtful budget gives you the freedom to spend or save in ways that align with your bigger goals. Knowing where your money is going is what allows you to move forward with confidence.
- Track Your Progress: Training for a marathon takes time, consistency, and patience. You don’t just wake up one day and run 26 miles; you track your mileage, pace, and recovery. You do long runs, tune-up races, strength workouts. And when your body gives you feedback, you don’t ignore it; you adjust. Your finances deserve that same attention. Track what’s coming in and going out and pay attention to patterns. Start small: try saving $25 a week and make it a personal challenge. You’ll be surprised how quickly small, consistent steps build momentum, just like marathon training.
- Be Kind to Yourself: This might be the most important part of all: give yourself grace. Whether you’re chasing race records or saving for a big goal, reward yourself along the way. Celebrate milestones, even the small ones. In Cape Town, I signed up for the marathon. I experienced significant flight delays. One flight was delayed six times, so I ended up missing the connecting flight. I arrived late Thursday evening, rather than Wednesday morning. My training, travel, and timing are always carefully planned around what works best for me. And that’s exactly how I approach financial planning with clients: it must work for you. Running and money may seem like different worlds, but they share the same foundations. Or the
four P’s: Purpose, Planning, Patience, and Progress tracking.
Most importantly: Both running and money require a mindset built for the long run. Whatever your goal, whether it’s financial stability, finishing a race, or both, don’t forget to enjoy the journey along the way. Abbott World Marathon Majors announced that Cape Town will now form part of the journey towards the next Major milestone. The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon will join the series in 2027 to become the eighth member if the Abbott World Marathon Majors. Being part of the celebratory journey was definitely MAJOR.