Tonight I retroactively appreciated my scenic runs from the weekend and from last week. Most likely my retroactive appreciation stemmed from the fact that I just wanted to keep going and everywhere I turned there was a stream of traffic or mob of people preventing consistency in pace or direction.
On the bright side, running the city streets creates an unintentional game or challenge. With each changing traffic light I am able to change my route and essentially run wherever the wind takes me. Yet, despite this fun little unintentional game, nothing kills my running mindset quite like the “talk-to-the-hand” bluntness that I encountered at ever other block.
Although tonight was not my favorite run, and certainly not my best, I had an unrelated epiphany about my lack of training before this plan. I am thoroughly enjoying getting out almost every day to run. What’s more is that I am even thoroughly enjoying sticking to a schedule and training plan. So why did I not want to train before? I’m starting to realize that it is because when you do not train you do not have as much to lose. The thought of 26.2 miles can be daunting in and of itself. The thought of running 26.2 miles in the amount of time that you want is even more challenging. However, if you do not train for it, and do not complete the race in the time that you wish for, you have the simple excuse of the results being a direct effect of the lack of training. So because I did not train for my two prior registered marathons I am able to say that a five hour and forty-five minute marathon isn’t bad considering that I didn’t train. If I train and get a less than desirable time, what will my excuse be and how will I feel? Surely, I could be disappointed, but by trying to do better I will. I am determined to succeed, so I will. Success could be relative, but overall, there really is only success or failure.
I’m going to have to take one from Yoda tonight and realize that “do or do not, there is no try.” I understand. I will succeed. I am determined.
What I’m running to: Whistle- Flo Rida
Fueled by Endorphins 