SNAPSHOT
Events got canceled but running is never canceled.
DIGGING DEEPER
On my run today with my high school sophomore son (yes, I guess I am still normal enough to be seen in public with him) we discussed why we are running even though our seasons have been canceled. The writing is on the wall for his high school track season to never resume. And with my high school coaching and spring trail races canceled, I am floating aimlessly. So why were we still out on the trails running when our goals, expectations, and hopes are dashed, delayed, and non-existent? His answer was, “We are investing.”
We don’t put money in the bank in order to every 6 months withdraw every cent. We plan portions for immediate use, special purchases, emergencies, and another for long term. So your immediate use portion of running fitness is for the daily ability to complete workouts. The special purchases are the goal races, yearly marathon, and team relay races. An emergency portion is for a good immune system in order to keep you healthy and happy. Then there is that long term category. It is the portion that takes discipline with regular additions, and no subtractions. That is the running you can be banking now.
Invest Long Term
With every step you run your body is becoming a more efficient machine, adding strength, changing cell structure, and building mental endurance. When you meet those runners who have been running for decades you are interacting with long term investment. You look up to their resilience, calmness, and confidence. They didn’t get there through only running because of goals, or special purchases. They got there because they kept investing in their 401K running bank.
HOW to Run Without Goals
Value Long Term Investment - Add up your miles for the year, remember each mile or dollar matters.
Consistency- Get accountability, routine, plans, encouragement in order to run often
Get connected to the Feeling of Running- Slow down, feel the rhythm of movement, smile
SOLUTION
Running is never canceled. Invest today.
Quote below is from the morning shakeout newsletter by Mario Fraioli — excellent, subscribe!
“Be patient and tough; one day this pain will be useful to you.” by Ovid
