I am less than two weeks away from my second full marathon (in three months). To say that I am excited is an understatement. I am excited to test my body to running another 26.2 miles… and equally excited to take a break from the long distance training. With those honest feelings exposed, I am finding myself in a pickle with the taper. I need to choose positivity instead of focusing on the self doubt.
My thoughts have been overwhelmingly negative and full of self doubt. I am confident that I will be able to complete and run the race. I even have a glimmer that I can finish stronger and faster than when I ran my first full marathon. But there is always the what if that remains uncertain.
I am on the ASICS Blogger Team for the LA Marathon, and I get the privilege of working with Coach Andrew Kastor. He sends out weekly inspirational emails and is even available to chat via phone if the need for a coach pep talk is necessary. After the less then stellar past few weeks I have been having, I emailed asking for a pep talk. He obliged, and even called me on his daughters birthday (also my precious P’s birthday too).
Our phone conversation was encouraging and reminded me how far I have come. He encouraged me to not compare myself to the other athletes running. I am running my race for me. The time has come to start visually preparing myself for the race, the finish line, and more. I must start speaking positive thoughts to myself regarding my training and the race. I have put in the miles and effort… now trust the training.
I am in (and enjoying) the taper… and love that his timely weekly encouragement helped get me off the ledge… and reminded me to think positively. Our thoughts are powerful.
…we were graced by the presence of three-time Olympic Race Walker Philip Dunn. Philip spoke about his training and Olympic experience to a very captivated audience at Westminster Avenue Elementary School on Saturday morning, post-workout. One story that I found particularly riveting was about when he was trying to qualify for the 2004 Athens Olympics. Long story short, Philip said that he was unprepared both physically and mentally for the qualifying race, but decided to do it anyway, just to see what would happen. As he neared the 3Ž4-mark in the race, he began to fatigue, greatly. He started to feel sorry for himself, wanting to simply slow down and eventually stop, to end the suffering. But rather than just giving in to the negativity and giving up, Philip chose “positivity.” He blocked out the bad thoughts by repeating “I choose to go to Athens” over and over in his head, all the way to the finish line, earning himself a spot in the Olympics.
I encourage all of you to try and use a positive affirmation during your next long training session. Here are a few examples: “I choose to finish the marathon,” “I’m strong and powerful,” “I am a marathoner,” “I’m light and fast,” or “I am a Kenyan!” Repeat them until you believe them!
Allow yourself to spontaneously come up with a positive saying that truly speaks to you, personally, during one of your workouts or races. This positive phrase should penetrate each and every cell of your body, allowing you to believe what you’re telling yourself, right down to your DNA. Remember: The more you believe the affirmation, the truer it will become.
The bold emphasis in his quote is mine. Again, it just emphasizes the power of the mind. The next two weeks are what many call the taper crazies. It is when we get all crazy and mental. Doubting our training and our ability to accomplish the goal set out before us. I know that I have been combating this issue for a few weeks now. But it is time to stop that negative self talk. Choose joy and positivity.
What I tell myself every day will either lift me up or tear me down. I am going to focus on positive thoughts. I choose positivity. Trusting in my training. I am more than a conqueror. I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me. This is the ultimate me time! I am a marathoner! I paid for this race. Embrace the suck! Those are just a few of my mantras I will be reminding myself as I run the LA Marathon.
Choosing positivity may not come easy to some, while it can be second nature to others. When life gets hard or we come across an obstacle that forces us to choose negative or positive. What will you choose?
Carson says
This made my day. Thank you so much for sharing 🙂
Yvonne says
Love it .. I am already starting my mantras too ..
You’re going to do great friend xoxo
Melanie says
This morning’s motto was a more positive paraphrase from Th Little Engine that Could…. “I know I can, I know I can…..”
Janice says
I’ve been struggling with being positive lately – my last few workouts and runs have been tough because of the weather, however today I kept your words in my head and had a fantastic run. Thank you!
Ja @Ja on the RUN says
That was a good read this morning. Thanks! 🙂