Welcome to my running journey

Finding Motivation When It's Lost

Some days I wake up ready to run; other days, not so much. I occasionally struggle with motivation like most runners. Over the years, I’ve implemented several methods for finding motivation when it's lost. Let’s be real, there is no one-size-fits-all solution to staying motivated all the time. However, maybe some of these tips will be helpful the next time you are debating whether or not to skip a run.

Look for Inspiration

I am often inspired by other athletes. Learning about other people’s achievements and seeing excitement for our sport reminds me to celebrate my own successes.

1. Podcasts and books: There are so many running-related podcasts that are both informative and entertaining. My favorites are Marathon Training Academy and Trail Runner Nation, though I listen to many more. Books written by or about athletes are also inspiring. I’m following a plan from Run Less, Run Faster by Bill Pierce, Scott Murr and Ray Moss. I’m about to re-read Endure by Alex Hutchinson.

2. Use social media: I follow several running communities and athletes through my ambassador programs on social media. Watching people hit PRs, complete a new distance or participate in interesting races is inspiring. Encouraging others and being encouraged feeds the flame. 

3. Join a run club: There are lots of run clubs in my area and I’ve always found one (or started one) where I’ve lived. Until we can participate with our run clubs, follow them online. I’ve met life-long friends, learned training tips and have been pushed outside of my comfort zone.

Create Motivation and Celebrate Progress

Motivation can be internal or external. Sometimes it’s about making progress toward a goal and other times a trick is needed to create motivation.

1. Key words and mantras: Inspirational phrases or even a single word can be motivating. My word for the year is “strong” and my mantra is “Think Strong, Be Strong and Finish Strong.” Meditating on a key word or phrase can provide the spark you need to get out the door or to finish a challenging run or training session. 

2. Fundraising: Helping others is also encouraging. This year, I’m fundraising for the Fxck Cancer nonprofit. I’m driven when I think about my family and friends who have had their lives turned upside-down battling cancer. Even wearing my “Fxck Cancer” shirt motivates me to stick to my training program or keep moving when I’d rather stop.

3. Seeing progress: Whether it’s improving speed or distance, seeing progress is highly motivating. Progress isn’t a daily or weekly trend and it will absolutely go up and down. I envision where I could be in a month or year from now if I keep moving forward.

Be Committed to Yourself and Your Goals

I’m quick to commit to something and pretty stubborn-headed about seeing it through. I am committed to staying on my running journey for a number of reasons, but here are some other ways to use commitment to achieve goals.

1. Register for a race: Having an event on the calendar, and paid for, is the epitome of commitment. No one wants to waste money, plus planning a fun race or race weekend is something to look forward to later in the year. 

2. Follow a training plan: Training plans provide a defined program to simply follow. Removing the daily decision about what to do or how long to run also removes the option to skip. Look at the plan and do what it calls for – run day, cross-training day or rest day.

3. Schedule training: We usually do everything we need to do on time – work, school, friends, and other appointments. Be on time for training! Schedule runs and cross-training like any other important appointment.

My biggest tip for finding motivation to run is to define your ‘why’ and stick to it. Why do you want to run? Are you running for health or to achieve a new goal? I’m still training for my 50-miler, though it was postponed for next year. I’m also still fundraising for Fxck Cancer throughout 2020. These are very important goals for me and I’m committed to succeeding with both of them. What motivates you to get out the door each morning or to achieve goals? Share your tips and be the inspiration for another runner!

We are all focused on the Covid19 crisis and economic consequences. I realize extra money may not be available. Even so, cancer waits for no one and nothing, not even Covid19. A friend has recently been diagnosed with cancer. Luckily it was detected early which potentially improves outcomes. Another friend is finishing up a final treatment, winning that battle with cancer. Another person in the running community, that I didn’t know firsthand, recently lost her battle with cancer at the young age of 39. If you can’t donate today, then please bookmark my personal Fxck Cancer donation page for later. Any support you can offer now or later will be greatly appreciated by so many people. Thank you!