Lessons From the Pavement/ Part 2

The temperature had to be already in the 80s this morning at 6:15 when I stepped outside to run.  They are talking record highs for today (95 degrees).  I missed a run last week, so I had to make up for it this morning.  No excuses.  Thankfully, my little alarm clock (the one who requires a feeding) went off at 6:00, so I was up anyway.

As I was running, a girl ran past me, going fast.  I had a revelation at that moment, Oh, so that's what running looks like.  Not sure what to call what I was doing.  It wasn't walking, but I guess it's not exactly running either.  Anyway, just as I was about to beat myself up for being a slow runner and compare myself to the blur that flew past me, I stopped myself, and lifted my head and saw this girl now a block ahead of me, and I became inspired and encouraged.  I knew that I couldn't run as fast as she was going, but I also realized that I could run faster than I was going.  I didn't think I could.  I thought I was going as fast I could go.  It was hot.  I was just plodding through the 4 miles I set out to complete.  But, it challenged me to push myself a little more.

It's important not to get caught up in the comparison game-no matter in what situation you find yourself.  It won't help your progress in the least if you do.  But, instead, focus on your goals that you set out to achieve.  Your goals will look different than someone else's.

My goals were as follows:
Get out of bed and go running.  Check
When you feel like stopping, keep going.  Check
Run (jog or whatever it is) for 4 miles.  Check

P.S.  I did sign up for a half-marathon (13.1 miles) on Sept 2nd.  I have never ran more than 4 miles!  So, I have my training schedule and I'm sticking to it.  My goal for the race is to "complete" it not to "compete" in it.  You have to be realistic about your gifts/talents/and goals.