So I haven't written in a few says, after saying I would post more often. I haven't done any training since my last run. I haven't really told anyone, but I did today. This training is reminding me a lot of my last one...yes, I may have finished 4 halfs, it doesn't mean I trained properly.
I'm currently experiencing the same feelings I did the first time around...fear. I'm not sure if it's a fear of failure or a fear of success. But it's gripping me and keeping me from going out on a run. They're not even "real" runs; they're run/walks. There's another problem. How do I not consider myself a real runner yet, after so many years? It's as if I try and undercut myself. I don't know if many runners feel this, or athletes in general.
I have a training plan in place. I have a good support system. Including a great coach down in Atlanta (yes, she's my coach from this far away. Check out her blog; it's good: http://running-on-eb.blogspot.com/). And friends training up here. Who are inspiring since it's their first half.
How do you get out of your own head? What do you think about when running? Especially to keep you going?
I'm glad you're back! I know this is something you enjoyed before & I think it will bring you a lot of happiness this time around, too!
ReplyDeleteI seriously struggle with my thoughts when running. I started running near my apartment complex, and I have been going without music since there's traffic, some sections without sidewalks, and other distractions. It is so tough!! The first couple times, all I could think about was how hard it was. Now my mind just wanders. I think about school, work, memories, and mostly food. As in, "If you finish this run, you can eat Fritos!" I never actually eat what I think about, but it keeps me going.
Today I did laps around East Campus while listening to a Spotify playlist. It felt so much easier! I don't want to rely on it in the future, but I really enjoyed it. I also had a couple fun interactions with other runners that kept me going. There was a group of very attractive guys working out in the grass, and that also helped.
Here's the playlist I was listening to (http://open.spotify.com/user/fitsugar/playlist/67gdEu2Y77okNbabIwyfhD). That account has some good stuff! I like listening to music I don't know very well because I'm not impatiently waiting for the end of every song.
See you bright and early! <3
I think everyone struggles with the concept of failure. When you work so hard for something, it's easy to fear not obtaining that goal. The key is making the best attempt at achieving that goal, and then working again if you don't achieve it. Making the commitment to starting is the biggest step. Being honest with yourself is the challenge. I have more than once not trained to my best and then relied on the concept of "oh, well, I didn't really train." This time around, I want to do it right and train to what I know I can do.
ReplyDeleteStick with it. Good things are to come. And if they don't, I'll come up there and drag you through a race (kidding). Patience is a virtue. Not my favorite one, but one import for running.