You get better at running by running. The same applies to writing, public speaking, coding—anything. You don’t improve by just reading or watching. You can’t just sit on the sidelines. You improve by doing.

I was reminded of this today after a call with a few university friends. We’ve started a monthly project where we each present a short PowerPoint on something that interests us. The goal is simple: get better at presenting by actually presenting.

Our first session just ended. Everyone had different topics, styles, and levels of preparation, but that was the point. None of us are experts—we’re just showing up and practising. Beyond improving our presentation skills, it’s a great way to share ideas we might not otherwise discuss.

For my first presentation, I gave a talk titled Why I'm Here, explaining why I’m excited about this project. The main points were straightforward: I want to improve by doing, commit to challenges, and share ideas. Each of these reasons ties back to something I’ve learnt: growth only happens when you take action.

I talked about improving by doing, emphasising that nothing beats hands-on experience. For example, I’ve read and watched videos on public speaking, but I know it’s only through giving talks that I’ll truly improve. The same goes for running—showing up and doing the work is key.

I also spoke about commitment and accountability. I almost cancelled the session because I didn’t feel prepared enough, but I realised that committing to this project meant committing to my friends, too. That accountability pushed me to follow through, even when I didn’t feel ready.

Finally, I spoke about the power of sharing ideas. Bouncing ideas off friends brings creative energy and helps everyone grow. Ideas feel more alive when shared.

Even after one session, I could feel the impact. I was nervous at first, but once I started, it all felt more natural. It wasn’t perfect, but perfection wasn’t the goal. The goal was simply to show up and do it.

In the same way that you improve your running by taking one step after another, you improve anything by showing up and putting in the work—again and again. It’s not about waiting for the perfect moment or feeling “ready.” It’s about committing to the process, knowing that every step forward makes the next one easier. And that’s how you get better at running.