Optimized Asset Performance: The Runner’s High

At Janus, we love a good sports analogy—apologies to those who don’t share our enthusiasm. During the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, we found ourselves particularly inspired by the endurance sports, which, while less flashy, carry deep lessons about reliability and consistency.
Reliability isn’t about shaving off milliseconds, showcasing great feats of strength, or achieving pinpoint accuracy. It’s about having a solid plan, being disciplined and consistent, and keeping a vision of the distant finish line while focusing on the steps directly ahead.
In marathon running, people often talk about the “Runner’s High”—that elusive, euphoric state where the body enters a flow, and what once felt like deep pain becomes almost effortless. This state isn’t achieved through a single sprint, but through consistent, long-term dedication, where the body gradually adapts and becomes more efficient over time. Interestingly, this high often only comes after 30 minutes or so into the race.
Similarly, in industry, reliability programs aim to create systems that run smoothly and efficiently, almost effortlessly, by minimizing breakdowns and maximizing performance. We all strive for Optimized Asset Performance, which is akin to that Runner’s High. Just as in running, these programs often start off tough—the finish line feels far away, it may seem like it’s not working, and resources may appear insufficient. Yet, with persistence, discipline, and adherence to the right plan, operations can enter a state of flow, often referred to as operational excellence. This is where the true rewards are felt—Reliable, Cost-Effective, Safe Operations.
At Janus, we believe that when a company invests in its reliability programs, it’s like a runner investing in their training—a key factor in long-term success across any industry. We’d love to be part of your company’s journey (Reliability/Asset Management-wise, that is—please don’t ask us to run in your next charity marathon event).