Endurance entrepreneurship: Running a marathon and running a business

At the Asset Finance Connect UK Summer Conference 2024, Nathan Mollett, Head of Asset Finance at United Trust Bank, spoke to AFC’s equipment finance community head, John Rees, on the profound connections between the extreme endurance required to complete the Marathon des Sables (MDS) and the resilience needed to succeed in the business world.

Mollett’s participation in the 2024 MDS, which is renowned as the ‘toughest footrace on Earth,’ provided a unique framework to explore these parallels.

In April 2024, Mollett achieved an extraordinary feat by completing the gruelling multi-stage ultramarathon, running a total of 250 kilometres over six days through the unforgiving Sahara Desert in southern Morocco. Battling blistering temperatures ranging from 40 to 50 degrees Celsius, he completed the race in 42 hours and 8 minutes.

Mollett called the MDS, “a once in a lifetime experience that was utterly brutal and beautiful in equal parts.”

His motivation for undertaking such an arduous challenge was twofold: raising over £14,500 for the South East Cancer Help Centre and Wings for Life, and personal fulfilment through extreme endurance.

“The course was extraordinarily demanding, sometimes almost unbearably so because of the heat – particularly on the longest day – but raising money for two charities close to my heart made every step worth it. It wasn’t just about finishing the race, it was also about helping others,” he added.

Endurance and entrepreneurship: The strong ‘why’

Although he admitted his reasons for running the MDS were somewhat selfish—enjoying the process and the sense of accomplishment, and finding a release from work-related stress—the underlying principle is universal. Whether in a marathon or a business, a clear and compelling reason helps navigate the inevitable difficulties and maintain focus.

The importance of preparation

Preparation is critical in both extreme sports and business. Mollett highlighted how his physical training routine was integrated into his daily life, such as running half-marathons to work. Similarly, business leaders must find ways to weave preparation into their everyday operations.

Mollett’s experience underscores that thorough preparation and routine are essential, yet one must also be flexible enough to adapt when plans inevitably change.

Relentless forward motion

A key parallel Mollett drew between the MDS and business was the concept of relentless forward motion. In both contexts, it is crucial to keep moving forward despite setbacks. “There will be external factors that are going to derail your plans, and you have to be able to pivot and, in real time, create a slightly different plan but keep moving forwards,” Mollett noted. This resilience is vital in business, where challenges and failures are part of the journey to success.

Mental fortitude

Mollett stressed that mental strength often outweighs physical endurance in ultra-marathons and business. During the MDS, runners face moments where their minds urge them to quit. Overcoming these mental barriers is crucial.

Similarly, business leaders must navigate periods of doubt and difficulty, relying on their mental toughness to persevere. However, Mollett also warned of the dangers when the mind pushes the body beyond safe limits, a lesson that applies to maintaining balance in business endeavours.

Support systems and team dynamics

The camaraderie among MDS participants parallels the importance of strong support systems in business. Mollett shared how the sense of community and support from fellow runners, including a 76-year-old tent mate, was instrumental in his success.

This mirrors the value of having a supportive team and a network of trusted advisors in business. A cohesive senior management team and a broader support network can provide invaluable guidance and encouragement, much like the bonds formed in extreme endurance events.

Legacy and continuous growth

After completing the MDS, Mollett experienced mixed emotions—pride in his achievement and the funds raised, yet a sense of emptiness. This mirrors the journey of many business leaders who, after reaching significant milestones, find themselves searching for the next challenge. Continuous growth and setting new goals are vital for sustaining motivation and fulfilment in both personal and professional realms.

Conclusion

His insights from the race highlight essential lessons in preparation, mental fortitude, relentless forward motion, and the importance of support systems. By drawing these parallels, Mollett provides a unique perspective on how the challenges of running a marathon can inform and inspire the journey of running a successful business.

Watch the Endurance Entrepreneurship AFC conference session in full here.