Let's Run About It // Thoughts on New Goals
Monday, November 27, 2023
On NYE 2022, our running club had a resolution run. Afterward, we set goals for the year and wrote them on our shirts. My two goals were: 1) Run 350 miles total for the year and 2) Run a half marathon by the end of October. With my schedule, I wasn’t sure if either of these would be doable. However, by September I ran my first half marathon distance (non-race). And by the end of October, I had surpassed my 350-mile goal. While I know those aren’t the highest numbers or biggest challenge - they were each something that I worked hard for, and I’m really proud of.
Since then, I’ve been taking it pretty easy. Mostly due to a busy season. Then wedding stuff. And somewhere along the way, I lost the motivation to finish strong at the end of the year. I’ve been averaging about 5-7 miles a week. Those miles usually happen on Saturdays. I’ve also stopped going to the gym - which I really need to pick back up again. And while there are times that I’ve felt a little disappointed with myself, I’ve also tried to give myself some grace. Because sometimes, you NEED to scale back. Sometimes, you NEED a break. And sometimes you just NEED to run without any kind of goal or challenge so you can remember what it’s like to run for FUN. For your health - both mentally and physically. So, that’s what I’m currently doing. And honestly, it has been great. It’s been enjoyable. And also, freeing. This unexpected scaling back has reminded me of why I love to run. And I'm super grateful that this is even something my body can do.
Now, with this year coming to a close, and our next resolution run happening in 5 weeks I’ve started to think about what I’d like to achieve next year. What kind of goal do I want to set and work toward? I’ve tossed a few ideas around, briefly considered an insane one, and then thought about timing-related achievements. I probably won’t decide anything until we’re closer to NYE, but the wheels have been turning. I’m also open to suggestions or recommendations. And while I have taken a bit of a step back from running, I’m actually pretty excited about what this next year will hold for me. So, here’s to new running goals!
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