Every now and then, when I get to share my journey of running everyday with people, I often get asked, how did you manage to run for 442 days in a row? How do you manage to stay consistent for so many days?
To that, I always try to point the multiple factors involved, but for some reason people just want the best, the biggest reason, the fastest way.
And whenever pressed in that manner, I tend to find there is one that really plays a big role, and that is to: JUST SHOW UP.
When I do, it's almost like 50% is already done just by the fact of being there, ready to go; and everything seems to get taken care of by itself.
It's a surreal experience. It almost feels like I don't really have to do anything. My body knows what to do and it takes me places.
But how do I show up?
I get dressed, I get my headphones, I get my keys, I start my music and out the door.
I'm walking to the beach, listening to music, the weather doesn't matter, nothing is on my mind, I start warming up and getting ready, I'm start my time tracking app and there I go -I'm running one more day.
And then magic happens, whatever minutes later I find myself on the other side -sweaty, happy and... I'm done.
But none of this would be would be possible if I would not show up.
And although showing up supposed to be easy, It's a lot more complicated especially when I start to think about things.
"Look, it's raining. Should I make a coffee first?"
"I have a client in the morning. Maybe I should run a bit later after the session."
Showing up is very easy when you don't think too much, but the moment you start to negotiate with yourself -everything goes.
And that's because going through the motions like getting dressed, getting your keys and getting out, takes a lot more time than just coming up with a reason why you should do it later.
It literally takes a split second for you to invent the perfect reason why you should not do it now. And we are reason.making.machines!
So one of my mantras in the morning is : don't think, just do it.
The moment I notice myself going down that route , I say nope, stop thinking, let's do it now.
And then, I show up.
Ps: I strive to create high quality content, if you like or find it useful, please consider supporting my work and why not reblog or share this; If you click follow I will give you a virtual hug.
I plan to write an article every day this year so thank you for your support.
Alin.
You show up, you run. 442 and that's pretty amazing. I am following you on Hive. I think you will post everyday for a year. And based on what I have read so far, the posts will be good quality posts. Thanks for sharing and inspiring me. I stopped running about two years ago, I am not going to think about it, just do it!
Oh I'm so happy to read your message. Also run an accountability group if you would like to join. But that's only if you want to start sharing your journey. If you want let me know and I can send you the link, it's absolutely free.
Please send me the link. Thanks!
A shortcut to our fb group: http://Proj.es
Join only when you're ready to start posting.