Trail Running, much like golf, is an individual sport. The difference is that in golf most competitors say it is really about them vs. the golf course. Although running races could be considered you vs. the race course or possibly you vs. other competitors, I think it is really about you vs. yourself. You win either way! Go You!
I’ve said before that running is 90% mental, well I lied. When competing in a race running is 100% mental. Once you get to that starting line you have a your personal maximum ability based on your training and natural strengths; however, only you can attain that level. No matter what the course, weather, or other runners are doing, you have to focus on yourself and not worry about external factors. You must keep yourself accountable. You are the only one that can determine how you finish the race. The fact is, no one is going to make you run faster. No one is going to tell you that you could have pushed it a little harder. Only you know what you are capable of and what you can accomplish.
Be proud of what you’ve done and how you are finishing your everyday personal races. If you are losing money in the stock market, obtain more information to make better decisions; then go for a run to think about your next financial move. If you are not moving forward in your career as quickly as you want, start working harder, find a way to get noticed, and start running at the end of your work days to reflect and decompress. Maybe you’re unhappy with your body shape, that’s easy, just start running…anywhere at any distance.
Try to push yourself and take accountability for how well you deal with external factors. This race is 100% mental.
Tags: mental toughness