I'm sure you are probably familiar with the song "Shake it off" by the artist Taylor Swift. The chorus uses the line "Haters, gonna hate, hate, hate, hate, hate." Well, this is the general topic of this article. While perusing the Internet the other day I found an article that was bashing the use of the common running bumper stickers such as 13.1 or 26.2, which signify that the driver has completed at least one half or full marathon distance. It went on to explain that most runners choose the sport as a way to parade themselves on the roads to look superior to others and are constantly patting themselves on the back for their accomplishments.

Yes, yes, there are certainly people like that out there. For example, when I fly to Boston for the marathon, about half of the plane is adorned in a race shirt, clutching their water bottles while reading a running magazine. I purposely do not do this and my husband, routinely looks at me with a half rolled eye because every overheard conversation on the plane is about personal bests, chafing, energy gels, etc. And I get it. . . .but this article got me thinking; don't most of us have something that we are passionate and proud about that we want to share with the world? And what if the flight were going to Indianapolis for the GenCon? Is there any doubt all of the conversations would be about gaming and wizardry? 😄 People with common hobbies find it interesting to share their experiences with like-minded people regardless of the hobby, right?

Just look at Facebook. Open up ANY of your friends' pages and I am willing to bet you will very quickly find out what drummer they beat to. Whether it be a proud parent, a cat lover, an avid traveler, a musician, a selfie junkie, or (god forbid) a runner, it is quickly apparent of his or hers lifestyle. Why is posting a picture of your child holding a sign about starting Kindergarten any better than someone sharing a finishing photo of a race? Both are positive accomplishments and it should just be left at that. Yes, a small minority can get arrogant about their athletic abilities but I assure you this isn't the norm. As the saying goes, "one bad apple can ruin the bunch".

As for the bumper stickers; why is it worse to have these stickers than any of the following?

• A cartoon decal of an entire family
• Political statements/preferred candidates
• Religion
• Whether or not one likes the NRA
• If a child made the honor roll
• A favorite music group
• Vegan or vegetarian
• What kind of pet you have

I read a few reactions to the article and many people said that the stickers actually help to motivate them to get or stay active. I have had many clients that worked really hard to earn a sticker such as these so I don't blame them for choosing to use them. There are A LOT bigger problems to worry about than someone giving themselves a small pat on the back for completing a goal. Honestly, those that are bothered by them should buy one of the stickers that read "0.0" to express their opinion. I have seen several of these and they make me laugh!