Purpose. Sound intangible? Even a little woo-woo? It’s not. Purpose can infuse balance into your day-to-day, help you understand what really matters (and learn how to say no to what doesn’t), and leave you more time for those just-because passions. Plus, a growing field of research finds it is also a deep driver of both physical and mental health. Living a life of purpose can quite literally change the way genes are expressed in your body for the better.
"Running with Purpose" can mean many things. Let me start by saying that having a purpose in anything you do is one of the most contributing factors to overall success. Having purpose in running puts training in perspective. It’s present when you need to be reminded of your goals, whatever they may be.
Everyone has their ‘why’ that inspires them to do something time and time again. Purpose and action go hand in hand to create something meaningful.
In order to become a better runner and get the most out of your training, it’s important to understand your ‘why’.
Many people battle against themselves to establish healthy habits or achieve their goals. Inner conflict can be largely avoided if you work with, rather than against your personality and preferences.
A lot of new runners go with what they think they should be doing instead of going with what feels right for them. Getting to know yourself better can truly empower you to become a better runner and succeed.
Running shouldn’t feel like a chore. Be clear about what’s in it for you. Once you find your why, this will be a huge motivating factor for you to run time and time again. Whether you want to get fit, lose weight, meet new people, get outdoors more, clearly articulating it will help to maximise your motivation.
If you can’t immediately find a powerful ‘why’, dig deep and ask yourself why you want to run.
I want to run to because…
Running is important to me because…
Running makes me feel…
It’s important here to be honest with yourself.
Find your energy
Running can be a solitary activity or an extremely social one. Most people fall into one of three categories: introvert, extrovert or a bit of both.
Whilst introverts draw resources from solitude, extroverts prefer being around people to boost their energy.
Do you prefer to run alone? Do you prefer the company of a single running buddy or the buzz of a large running group? Perhaps you like a mixture of all three?
Tap into your energy and make it work for you and your training schedule.
It’s not always possible to go for a run when you feel like it. Ask yourself: When do you feel at your best? Would getting up early to run fit with your natural inclination?
Be aware of your demons
Each of us has our own particular demotivators and distractors. What are yours? Are you too busy to run?
Perhaps you talk yourself out of running. The pressures of work and family life often come first. There is certainly no avoiding these, but don’t let them derail your original intention of getting out the door and going for a run.
“When you dance, your purpose is not to get to a certain place on the floor. It’s to enjoy each step along the way,”
said motivational speaker Wayne Dyer.
Purpose-filled runners are prepared to do what it takes to get to that finish line. Rain; Cramps; Aching feet—Each a symbol of meeting pain head on and continuing on anyway because at the heart of any run is the spirit-lifting journey that lies between the start line and the finish line.
Finding self-worth, putting oneself out there and risking all is the hallmark of runners who don’t need praise to feel life’s purpose because they live it every minute. Your muscles and stamina are constant reminders of the efforts you put forth each time you run and nothing clarifies purpose more than a clear mind capable of making healthy decisions.
Find peace, meditate, de-stress, reflect, escape. Something troubling you? Use this alone time to be with just be still with your thoughts. It’s amazing what happens when you allow yourself to just let go. Remember what you’re capable of achieving and embrace the beautiful version of who you are when you run.
What purpose does running serve in your life? I would love to know the answer to this probing question and invite you to share with me.
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