Sharing this so you can (hopefully) learn from my mistakes.

From my personal experience, the biggest barrier to enjoying running was the constant pressure I put on myself to hit perfect times and metrics. It felt like a race against my own watch, turning every run into a stressful performance review rather than a pleasurable activity. I found that stepping back from obsessing about PRs and using my running watch sparingly helped me reclaim the joy of running. Another mistake I made was overcomplicating the logistics of running — worrying about perfect weather, timing, and fueling. This mental overload made running feel like a chore instead of a break from daily stress. Once I stopped trying to control every variable, I could simply go out and run, no matter the conditions or timing. I also realized that picking a training plan that worked for my goals rather than what genuinely excited me was a big mistake. Not every runner needs the same approach, and forcing myself into a plan that didn’t align with my interests led to burnout. Choosing a flexible running routine that matched my lifestyle and preferences made a huge difference. If you're struggling with running burnout, my advice is simple: run for enjoyment first, not just for speed or numbers. Use technology moderately, focus on consistency over perfection, and remember that every run doesn’t have to be a flawless, high-performance session. Embracing this mindset transformed running from a source of stress back into a rewarding and uplifting part of my routine.