I know that we are all talking about how to find motivation to start/stick with a training program... but, my struggle this week has been putting it aside. I have been sick
(103 fever) since Monday. My doc thinks it's just some funky virus that's going around, but it's knocked my socks off. My little nephews get temps that high - but, as a grown up, it's a lot. And, I find myself so sad that I can't run. And, I feel like all the training I've done is going out the window. I have my first 15k race on Feb 16 and I'm not sure when I'm going to be able to get to the gym again. When my friend called to check on me and I started crying because I couldn't train, she's said "Oh Dear, YOU ARE A RUNNER!" (sue runs marathons) So that's my personal challenge at the moment. I'll keep you all posted.
As for the topic at hand, I think humiliation is a good motivator. I also have told every single person in my world my training schedule, so, they know if I'm skipping running and it's really important to me that people know that I've made this change to be a runner - and it's forever.
As for the actual act of running, the first mile for me is tough. And, I just tell myself, settle in, relax, pretty soon: autopilot. Then, for the next seven miles, I just think. I remember marines cheering me in the 10k and giving me water. I remember running with a marine who had lost his leg in iraq - well i ran with him for a minute then he said he was resuming his pace and left me in the dust. I think about every single problem I have - work, personal - and I sort stuff out in a way I never have before. It's a clarity that I find addictive. I run for this feeling.
I also run because I do a lot of little races, so I like this advice for your friend, C. There is a tremendous feeling when you cross that line. I usually try to save a little bit so I can sprint across the line. Most people don't - so you feel like a superstar and the crowd goes wild! You also get t-shirts from the races - and I think there's a validation in wearing those to the gym. It screams to me, to others, I'm a runner - this is what I do.
V - you crack me up - I laughed outloud for the first time this miserable week imagining you 1)unwrapping a starbust 2) chewing it 3) chewing it and 4) chewing it!!! And, I bet you were doing it all at a 5 minute mile...! Stay well people. Cathy
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I'm so sad you're still sick. I'll try and give you a call later tonight. It's snowing (again, *sigh*) so we're stuck in the house (again, *sigh*) They boys' fevers have gone down but we're now left with that horrible hacking cough. Just gross. Fred and I are on meds to keep us healthy and my arm is sore from getting my flu shot yesterday. By the way the packers come on Monday.
I know how you feel about trying not to let all that hard work go down the drain. Fred's been swimming laps at the indoor pool here since he can't run outside and hates the treadmil. Maybe that's an option for you since running might a little to much right now.
You're a tough girl, Cath! Tougher than you think :) I just wish I could make you some soup and help you feel better. Miss you lots! Get well soon!!!
I like the quote at the top of the sidebar because it relates to your situation, and all of us at one time or another. When you start up again, you'll be "coming back" and life (illness) has simply gotten in the way. It's just a pause, not a stop, so hang in there and you'll be back in no time!
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