You cannot stop a runner
Their body may be beaten, their lungs fatiguing, and their mind fuzzy, but a runner will not stop. There may be miles ahead, and countess behind; no food or water, an unrelenting sun, frigid wind, rain, snow, or something in between, but a runner will keep going.
Try to tell a runner to stop, just try to tell them to slow down. Tell them that there is no reason, that their pursuit is pointless. Tell them that there is no more finish line, that there are no aid stations, that no one cares about their journey. A runner will not care. They run for themselves, for their small community, for the pure love and sake of the sport.
There are days when a runner feels unstoppable and strong, some call this pure joy and ease in running a flow, others say they hit their stride. Some don’t name this feeling, they just are as they fly through the trails or down the road. It are these runs that inspire the runner to be a better human, a kinder and more gentle soul.
Other days, the run is long and tedious, it breaks the spirit and the muscles. It tears the runner down, but only to let them grow stronger. Because of these days, a runner becomes tough and resilient. They lean into the hardship and discomfort to come out stronger and aware of their capabilities.
There have been no shortage of obstacles to get in the way of running. Mounting excuses not to run, not to practice the craft. Runners, do not give into these temptations. Running will not save the world. It might not change anything outside of the individual, but the joy a person brings themselves can make a difference. The world is in need of strong, introspective, and fearless citizens who know how to fight through tough times.
Things to do if you are losing motivation to run
1) Make an appointment with yourself. Put it in the calendar, send a reminder, and hold yourself to that appointment.
2) Make a new playlist, or exchange playlists with a running buddy. The extra motivation and change might add some spring to your step.
3) Write a list of reasons why you enjoy running outside of racing. It does not matter if your race was canceled if running is something you truly love.
4) Make yourself a special treat for when you return from your run. Set aside your favorite fruit, bake some cookies, have some cold refreshing ice water ready to go once you return.
5) Allow yourself to not look at your watch, or perhaps even forgo recording the run, and enjoy the day. Stop to take pictures, enjoy the sunshine or clouds. Just be glad to be out.
6) Make a goal of smiling and waving a certain number of passer-bys. Smiling releases endorphins, which will give you a nice little boost as you spread joy along your route.
7) Write a list of affirmations to yourself as an athlete.
8) Call or text a running buddy or coach and let them know you need some motivation. This will give them the opportunity to do the same, or reach out for their own support.
9) Race yourself. Visualize your strongest self running just out of reach, slowly working on moving ahead. Run smart and strong, just as you would in a race.
10) Get silly before the run. Put yourself in a good mood. Dance around to music, listen to a funny comedy routine, watch a goofy video. Just like smiling, laughing increases endorphins and prepares the mind and body for a run.