Ramana Nallajarla

The picture you took with "Negative Split" written on my arm means more to me than most people probably realize. I first heard the term about 5 years ago during Covid from a friend, who is an avid marathon runner. In running, a negative split means completing the second half of a race faster than the first. The moment I heard it, I loved the idea. Over time, it became much more than a running term—it became a philosophy for how I want to live my life. Most people expect life to move in the opposite direction. As they get older, they expect to slow down, become weaker, less curious, less patient, and sometimes even less kind. I want the opposite. I want the second half of my life to be better than the first—healthier, wiser, kinder, and more meaningful. Looking at that picture, one thing I could have done better is smile a little more. I may have looked serious, but that wasn't because I was unhappy. My intention was to reflect my commitment to becoming a "negative split"—someone who continuously grows intellectually, physically, and emotionally. That idea has profoundly shaped who I have become over the last three to four years. One thing that is important to me is that this philosophy is not about comparing myself to others. The only comparison that matters is with my younger self. Am I learning more? Am I healthier? Am I kinder? Am I a better husband, father, friend, and colleague than I was a few years ago? As I approach 50 this year, I can honestly say that I am happier than I have ever been. I feel stronger and healthier, but more importantly, I am trying to be more thoughtful and compassionate. I want to keep learning, be nicer and kinder to people around me, deepen my relationships with family and friends, stay curious about the world, and leave a positive impact wherever I can. I don't know how long the race will be, but I hope my life remains a negative split all the way to the finish line. I hope the best version of me shows up in the second half.