Got out for my first run this morning from our new home in North Carolina. It’s a beautiful area and just a half mile away is a trail that connects to other trails. Despite the beauty it was a bit of a slog. I’m not sure a 5k has ever taken me so long.
But I’m moving faster than those on the couch, right? Right. However, it’s so hard when I used to be so much faster.
For various reasons in 2019 and 2020 I had taken a break from running. Oh how silly of me! It has been quite a process getting back into a groove again!
A body in motion tends to stay in motion. I think most runners can relate to that. Once you get in a routine and have some momentum it’s easier to continue running versus when you take a break and then have to start over again. Frustrating. Defeating. Two words that come to mind in this process.
However I am telling myself I will not be defeated. I love running. I definitely may get frustrated at times. So I’m focusing on the enjoyment I get from running, regardless of the outcome. Wait, what did I just write?
Focus on the enjoyment, regardless of the outcome. Again, for the people in the back. Focus on the enjoyment, regardless of the outcome.
What a concept?! That is certainly easier said than done, especially in the running world. We talk about paces and goal times. Our conversations start with “what was your time from that race?” and “what pace are you running today?” You probably are still wondering from my first paragraph what my time was for my 5k today, weren’t you?
But what if we changed that? What if there was something you’d enjoy doing but maybe aren’t that good at? And what if you just did it anyway because you love it? Just imagine how that would make you feel.
So here’s to getting started…again. Or, just starting that thing YOU love. And, focusing on the enjoyment, regardless of the outcome.