by Paul W.

I recently read Running Within by Jerry Lynch and have now developed my “running statement.”  I have done this to build a more positive AND ENJOYABLE attitude toward running.

Approach Thought:

I have always considered myself a slow runner, but this just addresses competing against someone else.  This is an attitude I need to change.  I need to think about running within myself  . . .  for myself.  It does not matter where I finish with respect to anyone else, it only matters where my personal mindset is  . . .  where my personal effort is  . . .  and how I think about that personal effort.

Primary Objective:

I want to find enjoyment in my running, and not racing against some external goal, a certain time, another runner.  I enjoy walking, hiking, being outdoors.  I enjoy getting my body into better physical condition.  I do see how running can bring these aspects to my life, and I need to approach running as providing me a wonderful means to experience these aspects.

Positive Affirmations and Thoughts to Build Into My Mindset:

• Running is the journey I enjoy.
• Control what I can control.  Change “I can’t” to “I can.” “I can” is more mental than time specific.
• Reality does not change, what changes is how I view the fact.  A fact is a fact – how I look at it and how my mind perceives it are what make the difference.
• My running will build my leg strength and my conditioning.
• It takes time and practice to become an accomplished runner.  Enjoy the practice each day and each run.  Each run is a journey, and each journey is to be enjoyed in and of itself.  I want to run for the enjoyment of running, not for the goal of winning, or the goal of hitting some specific time.  As I grow in this journey, I most likely will consider my times, but this always will need to take a back seat to the enjoyment of the run itself.
• Running affords the opportunity to bring the body  . . .  the mind  . . .  and the spirit all together.
• Running provides that fresh air, an outside opportunity that conditions my moving body.
• Running is my guide to a healthier, happier life.
• RUNNING IS THE JOURNEY I ENJOY.