Its been over 30 days since I last posted, my bad. I did complete my bike "race" which was more of a ride. I decided a week before the race to not attempt the 100 miles and focus on completing the 34 mile ride. I knew I had not properly prepared for a 100 mile distance and did not want to risk injury. I have to say that was one of the best decisions I have ever made. The course was fairly challenging with lots of hills. I don't mind the going up, as much as I mind the going down, that is terrifying....
Now to focus on my first marathon. Its July 11th in Missoula, MT. Twenty-four days and counting. I have to admit I am pretty excited for this race. Not that I will have some stellar smokin fast time, but that I will have accomplished something I thought was pretty much impossible for someone (me) who is labeled "not a runner".
I have been thinking about that label I gave myself, "not a runner". Why would I do that??? Hmmm, because its easier to believe the bad rather than the good? Because its easier to believe that something that is challenging is impossible?
Over the past few months as I started running consistently I have learned about perspective and what we tell ourselves. First the amount of negative self talk that happens in my head, wow, let me just say is just annoying and soul crushing. I have found that while running I must stay present and be my own best cheerleader, tellling myself that I can do this, to stay with it, ignore the tiredness, etc. I realize now that I am a "runner". Perhaps I will never be smokin fast, but that is okay. What I have gained is a realistic perspective that if you put fear and negativity aside and focus on the present, the positive, and investing in yourself the impossible becomes possible.
