For many people, running is nothing more than a monotonous chore. And I get it, it’s hard, it’s time consuming, and sometimes it just plain hurts. You put in your headphones, drag yourself outside, begrudgingly grit out a couple of tough miles, and move on with your day. Somewhere along the line, I started putting in a lot of miles on a regular basis, and at first it was tough. It took so much time out of my day and it was hard to stay motivated. I realized that if I wanted to keep running like this, my perspective was going to have to change. It took time, but eventually I was able to develop a more positive attitude towards running and appreciate all of its benefits.
Here are a few things that helped me to see running as one of the best parts of my day instead of something that I simply had to get through:
1. Playlists
The number one thing that I look forward to on a run is getting to listen to all of the songs that I’ve put into my running playlist. I’ll listen to pretty much anything on my runs, from fast motivating music to slower acoustic songs, it really just depends on what I’m feeling. A lot of people listen to audiobooks or podcasts on their runs and, while I’ve always prefered music, it’s definitely worth a try.
2. A Change of Scenery
After a long day of homework or classes, all I want to do is get away from the library and out from behind a desk. A good run can take you to all sorts of places if you’re willing to be adventurous, and a change of scenery can be rejuvenating. That’s why I always prefer to run outdoors instead of on a treadmill, because running is a million times more enjoyable when you have beautiful views to keep you busy.
2. Do it for how you feel, not how you look
Viewing running exclusively as a workout can make it seem daunting. Many people use running as a way to lose weight or to stay in shape, but that’s not the main reason that I do it. For me, running is mostly about my mental and emotional well-being. After I go for a run, I feel less stressed, less tired, and I can go through the rest of my day with a clear mind. Focus on the ways that running positively impacts your mood instead of getting stuck on how you look.
Endorphins are key!
Ultimately, running is whatever you make it. You decide what your run is going to be. It doesn’t need to be a million miles long or super fast. Even jogging a mile can make a huge difference in your mood and your mindset. Putting unnecessary pressures on yourself to hit certain times or run a certain distance is the surest way to ruin the fun and enjoyable parts of running. So the next time you’re lacing up, remember that you’re doing it for yourself! Keep a positive attitude, give yourself a break, and make every run a good one!
Cover Photo: http://www.lovemytri.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/race-bib-2-version2-732×380.png
Source 3: https://www.active.com/running/articles/how-to-make-the-most-of-the-fall-running-season?page=1
Source 4:
http://runmainia.com/articles/mentalhealth/