I have many faults – we all know that! However, lack of motivation is not one of them. For some reason I have no tolerance for making excuses, not honoring commitments, complaining and playing the victim. We have all had our share of ups and downs in life. We all have reasons that we think we can’t run (But, I don’t have the time! But, running is hard! But, it is too hot/cold/rainy/windy! But, I pee myself when I run!).
I don’t buy any of it. If you really want to run you will find a way. If you simply hate it beyond words or it hurts your body, then find something else. But, don’t sit around rationalizing why you aren’t doing something you’d really like to be doing.
If you need an extra kick in the butt, or just some suggestions for how to get your running mojo back, consider these 6 tips to help you revitalize your relationship with running.
1. Think Small – If you have been sitting on the couch since December, do not expect to hop up and go run 10 miles. Many people get stuck and self-sabotage by biting off more than they can chew. Then, when they are unable to reach their goals, they quit. Pick a manageable goal. Tell yourself you will run 1-2 miles a few times a week. Or, if you are new to running, try walking for three minutes, then running for three minutes and do that 8 times. Work up from there!
2. Pick Something – While starting off small is important, I also am a huge believer in having a “carrot” to motivate your training. For me, this usually involves signing up for a race in the near or far future. Something happens mentally when you make that type of commitment. You become more invested in the process. You don’t want to waste your money. You don’t want to have to save face when you tell everyone you signed up for that 10K and then pussied out (I’m pretty sure “pussied” is a verb).
Use this race calendar from Running in the USA to find the right race near you. Just don’t do it while you’re drunk.
3. Make Some Music – I know many of you run without music. I happen to love listening to tunes when I run. It inspires and motivates me. If music is your thing, make a brand new playlist and “let” yourself listen to it only when you run. For running playlist favorites, go HERE. Here’s a peak at part of my long run playlist (get your magnifying glass):
4. Ignore the Voices – My greatest bit of advice for you – and I know you will be shocked as hell - is to shut up and run. Shutting up and running means that you stop buying into all of your excuses and you stop playing the victim. If you have a body that can move then you are luckier than millions of other people. The moment you engage your brain and listen to why you shouldn’t take a run, you might start to believe it. When I am getting ready to go on a run and I have the slightest thought that I don’t want to go, that is the exact moment when I spring into action lacing up my shoes and hauling ass out the door.
5. Go to Netflix – Movies can motivate. Seeing and learning about someone else’s story and how they persevered is relatable. Use the energy and inspiration from those who have worked hard for their goals. The Spirit of the Marathon is a favorite of mine because it highlights the elites, but also us normal Joes and Josephines (You can watch on Hulu HERE). Here is a list of running movies available on Netflix.
6. Outfit Yourself – Not to be shallow, but sometimes having something new to wear gives you that extra boost. If buying a cute new running skirt is the thing that is going to get and keep you out the door, do it. You don’t have to break the bank on this one. Get creative! Just today I bought a brand new (yes, there are some things you do not buy used – swimsuits and underwear) Nike swimsuit from eBay for $23 (goes for $70 at the Nike site). Look for coupon/promo codes, go to consignment shops, even ask companies if they might let you review one of their items. This was a favorite outfit a couple years ago:
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What is your favorite running movie? Run Fat Boy, Run is a good one if you’re looking for a bit of humor (which I usually am).
Best running song on your iPod right now? I still like Timber.
What’s the next race on your calendar? Bolder Boulder 10K in May.
SUAR
