It’s back. My motivation. My mojo. My discipline.

*insert back flip here*

Yes, I’ve incorporated healthy habits into my lifestyle, but like anything else there are highs and lows. I, too, sometimes slip into a running rut.

I have those times when I’m super focused and I’m really able to stay on task like during marathon training and my 40th birthday goal. Then of course there are those times when my willpower takes a leave of absence and its a struggle to keep my hand out of the cookie jar or jog that extra mile.

I think that’s normal. I LOVE when I’m on a high and I’m grateful they’re lasting longer and longer. I’m also grateful that I’m learning to push through my lows. Here are few things I do when my motivation is missing and I find myself in a running rut:

Remember It’s Only Temporary. It won’t last. This too shall pass. Yup, I actually say those things to myself. I don’t claim it, instead I tell myself this is NOT my norm and I know I’ll get back on track soon.

Celebrate Successes. What better time to pull out all your race bling and remind yourself of the amazing things you’ve done. Whether its 1 mile or 26.2, if you took that step and succeeded it’s worth celebrating. I use my past accomplishments to fuel my future ones.

This is one of my FAVORITE running pics. It was the Savannah Rock n Roll Half Marathon – my fastest yet. I was actually yelling to my sister, “I’m PR-ing!”

Surround Myself with Positive People. Watching others succeed and cheering them on in the process is something I love to do all the time, and it’s especially motivating when I’m struggling. Success is contagious. Encouraging others and receiving positive encouragement is powerful.

Set a New Goal. Or, dust off an old one. I love setting goals and having something to train for. The thrill and competition of working toward something normally gets me going. Sure, I’ve set a few that have yet to be met, Ahem, but its never too late to make it happen. (I’m going to get those abs!)

Challenge Myself. I cut myself some slack because I’m human. Mistakes happen. Nobody’s perfect. Cliche but its true. Then I challenge myself to Do Better. I know I can step up my game and no one but ME can really hold myself accountable.

Winks & Smiles,