The spring edition of Race Pace Training Diaries follows Jackie, a Race Pace Runner, on her journey of acheiving a big half marathon PR this spring. Learn more about Jackie and her goals here.
Recently, Jess was quoted in an article on Active.com about what motivates runners. In the article, she discusses the difference between extrinsic and intrinsic motivations, and reading her words got me thinking about what really drives me to lace on my sneakers every morning and hit the pavement (or treadmill!). Since this is my first big race in several years, I knew I wanted to line up a lot of outside motivators to get me going. And I have plenty of them, like a crazy fast goal time, a coach to provide a weekly training plan, and my family and friends to support me. I feel really fortunate to have so many people cheering me on and encouraging me, but at the end of the day, those outside factors only go so far. It’s my intrinsic motivation, my plain and simple love of running, that really helps me stay focused and determined. My goal time is just a number and my friends and family will still love me no matter what, so it’s entirely up to me to hold myself accountable for each workout. Running is a choice, and I’m grateful to be in a position to make that choice every day. Even though some days I may not feel like it, when I get back home after a run all sweaty and red-faced, I’m always glad I chose running over not running.
Because here’s the thing: running sucks. It’s hard and painful and some days it doesn’t go well. Some days you struggle through three miles and wonder how you’ll ever do 13.1. But other days you feel great through five miles, or ten miles, or twenty, and you think, I can do this. Yes, running sucks, but not running sucks even more. As Jess said in the article, “If you love running, it will always be a priority,” and I couldn’t agree more.
Three weeks to go!
I couldn’t agree more, either! I love running despite the pain and struggles on some days. I think the rough runs make the good runs all that more awesome!
I def think that tough runs make the good runs that much sweeter!
Thanks for sharing when keeps you motivated! If there’s ever a day I don’t want to go for a run (and boy am I good at excuse making!), I just remind myself that I always feel better after a run than I did before…that usually gets this body moving 🙂 Good luck with your upcoming race!