I can relate! I got to 90.3 miles in December. Not quite there. And the elation/lack of I noticed after the half we were training for in November.
I did the 13.5 and was like "is that all there is ?" I think too it was more evident because I ran it alone😥. However, the journey is often more rewarding than the actual destination. Unless you're having a baby! 🤸♀️😍😍
Great article, enjoyed reading the comments. After having run for years, for some unknown reason reason I have hit a low motivation point in my journey. I’m still running 4 times a week, 18 or so miles each week because of the health benefits, but I’m simply not enjoying it as much. I’ll get through this as I can’t bare the thought of not running. But, I’d love to hear from others who have been in experienced this and what they (you) did to get back that passion.
Thank you, Ken! To be honest, I think a lot of us are struggling with motivation right now. I think we all go through seasons in our lives, and depending on where you live, the weather might be playing a role in how you're feeling about running right now. (Who wants to run outside consistently when it's gray and dreary outside?) Taking a break can work -- that's helped me in the past, for sure. Or getting together with friends to run, though I know that's not workable for many of us right now.
Thank you for the encouragement Terrell. I only got 42 miles in as I ended up with a bruised body and ego from falling off my treadmill early December. Im back at it this month and signed up for virtual long distance race called Race across Alaska. There are different goals available. I signed up for a total of 350 miles (all activities count) by March 20th.
I can also relate. I have a dream destination on my bucket list, but I know it won't be the idyllic paradise I fantasize about. Part of me wants to keep it a dream
great article today terrell! i hadn't really examined the lyrics before....makes ya think! and you have plenty of time to make that goal. let us know when it happens!
Terrell – Someone you already acknowledged in previous posts—James Clear—in his 2018 book ATOMIC HABITS talks about the three layers of behavior change…outcomes, processes, and identity. In his depicted “target” figure the identity is the bullseye, processes next, and then outcomes in the next outer circle. Clear says, “Outcomes are about what you get. Processes are about what you do. Identity is about what you believe” (30-31). He adds, “Many people begin the process of changing their habits by focusing on what (what is in italics) they want to achieve. This leads us to outcome-based habits. The alternative is to build identity-based habits. With this approach, we start by focusing on who (who is in italics) we wish to become” (31). I think that falls in line with what you were saying with “It’s what the aiming does to you that counts — how gathering and focusing your energy makes you better, regardless of the outcome.” In a recent podcast by Craig Groeschel (84: YOUR MOST FOCUSED YEAR YET) he makes the point, “Obsess about the process, not the results.” It is about “becoming” rather than mere achieving. Thanks for keeping us inspired, Terrell! Howie
Yes, Terrell! This so perfectly captures something I’ve been thinking about a lot lately.
I was just remarking to my husband this morning that I’ve been in a great mood this weekend, and when I stopped to examine why I realized it’s because I just mapped out my training plan for a fall marathon. After months off, I have an aim, a plan, a just-for-me purpose. It’s not obtaining the goal that brings that spark, it’s having something to try for. (Sometimes I find actually achieving a goal can bring an almost grief in its wake, as we let go of that aim and the space it held in our lives.)
And that song is often on my running playlists, too! Such a good one.
I totally, totally agree with you on that, Caroline -- there can be a huge letdown after something big, it's ironic in a way, but I remember seeing U2's Edge in an interview talking about this, about the band's career, and especially their early days, when they were always focused on the next big thing, whether that was an album or a tour. I'll never forget what he said about journeys, destinations, and the like: "you don't really want to get there." Meaning, the stretching yourself, the aiming, is what's fun and fulfilling.
So glad to hear about your marathon this fall! 26.2 is such a huge goal -- which one will it be?
Ohhh, that quote is going to stay with me. It’s so true. (And perhaps is why if we do get “there,” the human impulse is just to shift the goalpost again.)
Running NYC for a third time if all goes well…because I am a masochist for bridges or because I had a guaranteed entry that feels too precious to waste (or maybe a bit of both).
love this!! Thanks so much Terrell for sharing, inspiring, and motiviating. Classic song, I love the version in the gospel church. I am motivated to run because it prepares me mentally for the day. Not sure why, but I am better emotionally when I run. Here is that link to the gospel version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M8Wt3dhF4fU
Another timely article! I actually exceed the 100-mile goal by default, more than by design. Being outdoors, hiking, walking and running is my therapy during this pandemic, so although I achieved the goal, the mileage would have happened anyway just because I needed to be outside moving.
Terrell - thank you for all of your effort to pull together our running community. Your words hit home for me, “how gathering and focusing your energy makes you better, regardless of the outcome.” It is the experience of the challenge that is most rewarding. Everyone’s definition of that outcome is different and personal to them. I really enjoyed seeing posts from others on their progress along the way and sharing words of encouragement. Admittedly, I didn’t have the confidence in being able to hit the 100 mile goal. But I gave it a try and succeeded. I’m grateful for the support from others! The challenge was a fun experience for me 😊!
This makes me incredibly happy to hear, Donna! I'm so proud of you!! I totally agree -- everyone's definition of success is so different. Did you run every day? Or pick certain days to run? What was the longest mileage you ran at once? I love hearing the different ways people approach things like this.
Thank you Terrell! I certainly wouldn’t consider myself a model to follow - I’m really bad at being consistent with a training plan because of my demanding work schedule. I didn’t run every day. I’m consistent with Long runs on Saturdays though. The other days that I ran was contingent on my work schedule and unfortunately I didn’t schedule a set number of miles on each of those days. I know it’s not a great answer, but I try to fit in what I can. My longest run was a virtual Half Marathon at the beginning of the month so, that did help 😊. I continue to review your tips and determine how I can approve - thank you for the ongoing guidance!
Another awesome essay! Thank you! I figured out that I enjoy the training for a race far more than the race itself. (With the exception of one or two races in unique locations.) You are right though. We are still looking & still running. That is what keeps life interesting & keeps us going.
Hi, Terrell,
I can relate! I got to 90.3 miles in December. Not quite there. And the elation/lack of I noticed after the half we were training for in November.
I did the 13.5 and was like "is that all there is ?" I think too it was more evident because I ran it alone😥. However, the journey is often more rewarding than the actual destination. Unless you're having a baby! 🤸♀️😍😍
Happy Hump day, everyone!!
Yes, the journey! Especially since that is 99% of the running; the race is a blip in time.
So true!
Btw, Love this song!!!!🎶🎶🎶❤
Ha! That is so true too!
Great article, enjoyed reading the comments. After having run for years, for some unknown reason reason I have hit a low motivation point in my journey. I’m still running 4 times a week, 18 or so miles each week because of the health benefits, but I’m simply not enjoying it as much. I’ll get through this as I can’t bare the thought of not running. But, I’d love to hear from others who have been in experienced this and what they (you) did to get back that passion.
Thank you, Ken! To be honest, I think a lot of us are struggling with motivation right now. I think we all go through seasons in our lives, and depending on where you live, the weather might be playing a role in how you're feeling about running right now. (Who wants to run outside consistently when it's gray and dreary outside?) Taking a break can work -- that's helped me in the past, for sure. Or getting together with friends to run, though I know that's not workable for many of us right now.
Here's a great piece from Runner's World that might help too: https://www.runnersworld.com/training/a20814665/12-habits-to-keep-up-your-running-motivation/
Very intuitive, I reside near Seattle Wa. Thank you for your comments and suggestions!
Thank you for the encouragement Terrell. I only got 42 miles in as I ended up with a bruised body and ego from falling off my treadmill early December. Im back at it this month and signed up for virtual long distance race called Race across Alaska. There are different goals available. I signed up for a total of 350 miles (all activities count) by March 20th.
Yikes, Avi!! I hope you’re feeling better now. I’m going to look up that challenge 👍
I can also relate. I have a dream destination on my bucket list, but I know it won't be the idyllic paradise I fantasize about. Part of me wants to keep it a dream
I hear you on that, Ruth! When we're past the whole coronavirus thing, maybe it can be.
Loved this. Likewise I hadn't considered those lyrics before. Really wonderful.
Thanks so much, Edith!
great article today terrell! i hadn't really examined the lyrics before....makes ya think! and you have plenty of time to make that goal. let us know when it happens!
Thanks, Kel! I definitely will -- thinking February, as I'm still recovering from Covid right now. I'll definitely keep you posted 😃
Terrell – Someone you already acknowledged in previous posts—James Clear—in his 2018 book ATOMIC HABITS talks about the three layers of behavior change…outcomes, processes, and identity. In his depicted “target” figure the identity is the bullseye, processes next, and then outcomes in the next outer circle. Clear says, “Outcomes are about what you get. Processes are about what you do. Identity is about what you believe” (30-31). He adds, “Many people begin the process of changing their habits by focusing on what (what is in italics) they want to achieve. This leads us to outcome-based habits. The alternative is to build identity-based habits. With this approach, we start by focusing on who (who is in italics) we wish to become” (31). I think that falls in line with what you were saying with “It’s what the aiming does to you that counts — how gathering and focusing your energy makes you better, regardless of the outcome.” In a recent podcast by Craig Groeschel (84: YOUR MOST FOCUSED YEAR YET) he makes the point, “Obsess about the process, not the results.” It is about “becoming” rather than mere achieving. Thanks for keeping us inspired, Terrell! Howie
Thanks so much, Howie! I’ll definitely check out that podcast!
my absolute favorite quote from Fitzgerald!
Love that!
Yes, Terrell! This so perfectly captures something I’ve been thinking about a lot lately.
I was just remarking to my husband this morning that I’ve been in a great mood this weekend, and when I stopped to examine why I realized it’s because I just mapped out my training plan for a fall marathon. After months off, I have an aim, a plan, a just-for-me purpose. It’s not obtaining the goal that brings that spark, it’s having something to try for. (Sometimes I find actually achieving a goal can bring an almost grief in its wake, as we let go of that aim and the space it held in our lives.)
And that song is often on my running playlists, too! Such a good one.
I totally, totally agree with you on that, Caroline -- there can be a huge letdown after something big, it's ironic in a way, but I remember seeing U2's Edge in an interview talking about this, about the band's career, and especially their early days, when they were always focused on the next big thing, whether that was an album or a tour. I'll never forget what he said about journeys, destinations, and the like: "you don't really want to get there." Meaning, the stretching yourself, the aiming, is what's fun and fulfilling.
So glad to hear about your marathon this fall! 26.2 is such a huge goal -- which one will it be?
Ohhh, that quote is going to stay with me. It’s so true. (And perhaps is why if we do get “there,” the human impulse is just to shift the goalpost again.)
Running NYC for a third time if all goes well…because I am a masochist for bridges or because I had a guaranteed entry that feels too precious to waste (or maybe a bit of both).
I love and appreciate the way your mind thinks...and we’ll, U2 is just golden! Thanks!!
Thank you so much! You are very kind 😃
You are speaking my language! u2 is my most favorite band...love this
Mine too! I've seen them 10 or 11 times -- did you get to see them on their most recent tours?
reminds me of my favorite poem, maybe too long as a "comment" but I think worth the share...
ITHACA
When you set out on your journey to Ithaca,
pray that the road is long,
full of adventure, full of knowledge.
The Lestrygonians and the Cyclops,
the angry Poseidon-do not fear them:
You will never find such as these on your path
if your thoughts remain lofty, if a fine
emotion touches your spirit and your body.
The Lestrygonians and the Cyclops,
the fierce Poseidon you will never encounter,
if you do not carry them within your soul,
If your heart does not set them up before you.
Pray that the road is long.
That the summer mornings are many, when with such pleasure, with such joy
you will enter ports seen for the first time;
Stop at Phoenician markets,
and purchase fine merchandise,
mother-of-pearl and coral, amber and ebony,
and sensual perfumes of all kinds
as many sensual perfumes as you can;
Visit many Egyptian cities,
to learn and learn from scholars.
Always keep Ithaca in your mind.
To arrive there is your ultimate goal.
But do not hurry the voyage at all.
It is better to let it last for many years;
and to anchor at the Island when you are old,
rich with all you have gained on the way,
not expecting that Ithaca will offer you riches.
Ithaca has given you the beautiful voyage.
Without her you would never have set out on the road.
She has nothing more to give you.
And if you find her poor, Ithaca has not deceived you.
Wise as you have become, with so much experience,
you must already have understood what Ithaca means.
-Constantine Cavafy (1863 - 1933)
I absolutely love this, Stephanie! Especially this couple of lines:
"Always keep Ithaca in your mind
To arrive there is your ultimate goal.
But do not hurry the voyage at all."
Just a beautiful way to put it -- the whole poem. Thank you so much for sharing 🙏
I'm so glad you do. I carry it around with me and read and reread it often!
This is amazing. Sharing now with my daughter who is recovering from ACL surgery. I know she will appreciate it.
love this!! Thanks so much Terrell for sharing, inspiring, and motiviating. Classic song, I love the version in the gospel church. I am motivated to run because it prepares me mentally for the day. Not sure why, but I am better emotionally when I run. Here is that link to the gospel version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M8Wt3dhF4fU
Thanks! I love that version too, by the way!
Another timely article! I actually exceed the 100-mile goal by default, more than by design. Being outdoors, hiking, walking and running is my therapy during this pandemic, so although I achieved the goal, the mileage would have happened anyway just because I needed to be outside moving.
Thank you, Belle!
Terrell - thank you for all of your effort to pull together our running community. Your words hit home for me, “how gathering and focusing your energy makes you better, regardless of the outcome.” It is the experience of the challenge that is most rewarding. Everyone’s definition of that outcome is different and personal to them. I really enjoyed seeing posts from others on their progress along the way and sharing words of encouragement. Admittedly, I didn’t have the confidence in being able to hit the 100 mile goal. But I gave it a try and succeeded. I’m grateful for the support from others! The challenge was a fun experience for me 😊!
This makes me incredibly happy to hear, Donna! I'm so proud of you!! I totally agree -- everyone's definition of success is so different. Did you run every day? Or pick certain days to run? What was the longest mileage you ran at once? I love hearing the different ways people approach things like this.
Thank you Terrell! I certainly wouldn’t consider myself a model to follow - I’m really bad at being consistent with a training plan because of my demanding work schedule. I didn’t run every day. I’m consistent with Long runs on Saturdays though. The other days that I ran was contingent on my work schedule and unfortunately I didn’t schedule a set number of miles on each of those days. I know it’s not a great answer, but I try to fit in what I can. My longest run was a virtual Half Marathon at the beginning of the month so, that did help 😊. I continue to review your tips and determine how I can approve - thank you for the ongoing guidance!
Another awesome essay! Thank you! I figured out that I enjoy the training for a race far more than the race itself. (With the exception of one or two races in unique locations.) You are right though. We are still looking & still running. That is what keeps life interesting & keeps us going.
Totally agree, Corrina! (And thanks so much!)
U2 is one of my fav bands! Saw them in concert back in the day. Love that song!