That’s it. First run done in preparation for the Round Sheffield Run in June.
It’s been over two weeks since I decided to sign up; and I haven’t been for a run yet.
Why…? I was away for a few days, I didn’t want to take my running stuff with me because I was travelling on my bike and it’s too much luggage to carry…. and a million other excuses that I could think of, but that’s okay.
Because I clearly wasn’t feeling ready. And it’s a fine line, isn’t it – between listening to that inner critic that tells you that you have to get on with it. Do it right now. You’re such a failure. If you don’t do it you’re weak. You’ve given up too easily.
The alternative being that if you always go easy on yourself you’ll never get anything done, you’ll always be making excuses and never, ever achieve anything at all.
But I did it, when I was ready. I allowed myself the days off, came back replenished and got on top of planning for the month, then went for a run. I’ve started easy as it’s been a while – I’ve gone back to the Couch to 5K app. It is such a great way to ease yourself into running if you’re not confident, or it’s been a while.
One thing I know about myself is that I am pretty resilient, I can do the difficult stuff – but I’ve learnt over the years that I don’t have to always do it the difficult way. It doesn’t need to be difficult to be meaningful. Sometimes it is okay, perfect even, to start easy and let other people help and support you.
Okay, Sarah Millican might not actually be supporting me in person, but letting her voice guide me is a great way to get started. It’s the easy way, and it is more likely to keep me focussed towards my goal and enjoying the journey along the way.
What first steps can you take along the easy way?
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/running-and-aerobic-exercises/get-running-with-couch-to-5k/