Not a runner
I never considered myself a runner. In fact, I hated running. But it’s the activities we hate that we should conquer. Why? Because it pushing the spaces in our lives that probably need coaching. I looked at it as a project. So I studied it. Listen to podcasts, read about the tips and tricks, and set up to run a half marathon.
I didn’t sign up for the half marathon. I merely made it to 8 miles. However, I opened my adidas running app and saw progress. It’s important to celebrate the wins that did happen. That I started.
Otherwise, I’d be still saying I wanna start. The foundational work is there. Now I have to actually finish it.
Starting a running journey when you’re not naturally inclined can feel overwhelming, but embracing it as a personal project really changes your mindset. I found that breaking down the process into manageable steps—like learning from podcasts, reading expert tips, and tracking progress using apps like adidas Running—helps keep motivation alive. The key is to focus on progress rather than perfection; even running 8 miles instead of completing a full half marathon is a huge achievement worth celebrating. Tracking your runs and seeing your total mileage accumulate, like reaching nearly 60 miles over 20 runs with over 17 hours of running time, shows tangible evidence of your growth. This data serves as encouragement and a reminder that consistent effort pays off. It’s also important to acknowledge that the internal challenge of pushing through discomfort often leads to personal growth in other areas of life. If you’re hesitant to start, remember that the foundational work is more than half the battle. Developing a habit through gradually increasing distances or alternating running with walking can build stamina safely without burnout. Listening to your body, setting realistic goals, and celebrating milestones—no matter how small—create a positive relationship with running. Ultimately, perseverance is key. When you think about quitting or saying ‘I want to start,’ remind yourself of the work already done and the progress logged. Completing the journey to a half marathon is not just about crossing that finish line, but about building confidence and embracing growth through overcoming what once seemed like a daunting challenge.