Consistency in Running: Keys to Success

Running isn’t just about fitness; it’s about transformation. It teaches us about resilience, mindset, and the transformative power of consistency. Each step forward is a declaration against self-doubt, each mile a testament to the strength within us. Have you ever faced something that felt impossible—an overwhelming challenge where self-doubt took the wheel?

Breaking Free From Excuses

When I first started running, my biggest obstacle wasn’t physical—it was mental. Excuses flowed easily: I’m too tired, I don’t have time, I’m not fast enough. But as David Goggins says, “You are in danger of living a life so comfortable and soft that you will die without ever realizing your true potential.” That struck a chord. I realized the excuses weren’t barriers; they were chains of my own making.

Taking the first step was a rebellion against the whispers of doubt that told me change was impossible. It wasn’t just about running; it was about proving to myself that I could take control.

Reframing Challenges

The pivotal moment came when I reframed the narrative. Instead of asking, “Why me?” I started asking, “What can this teach me?” That shift in perspective transformed running from a chore into an opportunity—a chance to prove to myself that I could change, grow, and persevere. Life, like running, is about perspective. “Where attention goes, energy flows.” By focusing on solutions instead of problems, I found strength I didn’t know I had.

Consistency: The Key to Growth

Progress isn’t built on monumental achievements but on showing up, day after day. Mo Gawdat’s insight resonates deeply: “Happiness is equal to or greater than the events of your life, minus your expectations of how life should be.” By releasing unrealistic expectations and embracing small wins, I found joy in the process.

Consistency became my anchor. Whether it was an easy jog or a challenging run, each session was a brick laid toward a stronger foundation. “Let’s get you that PR!” isn’t just about running; it’s about the personal record in life—improving every day.

Letting Go to Move Forward

Holding onto negativity—resentment, self-doubt, or fear—only drags us down. It’s like Anne Lamott’s poignant analogy: “Not forgiving is like drinking poison and then waiting for the rat to die.” Running taught me to let go of what I couldn’t control and focus on what I could: my attitude and effort.

Lessons from the Journey

Push Through Resistance: When your mind resists, it’s a sign of growth ahead. The hardest runs often lead to the biggest breakthroughs.
Train Smarter, Not Harder: Adopting the 80/20 rule—80% of runs at an easy pace, 20% at high intensity—helped me improve endurance while avoiding overtraining.
Self-Compassion Fuels Resilience: When you fail, it doesn’t define you; it teaches you. As runners, we’re not perfect, but every stumble is a step toward progress.
Focus Forward: Life is like driving a car—you can’t move forward if you’re staring at the rearview mirror. Let go of past mistakes and embrace the road ahead.

Each mile wasn’t just about the finish line; it was about silencing that inner critic. Every time I doubted my ability, I remembered Goggins’ words: “Push through the pain—the other side is growth.”

Facing the Wall

Every long-distance runner encounters “the wall.” For me, it wasn’t just physical; it was mental. My legs screamed for rest, my mind doubted my ability, but I remembered Goggins’ mantra: “Push through the pain—the other side is growth.”

At those moments, recording my excuses and replaying them to myself became a tool. Hearing my own voice full of doubt motivated me to prove it wrong. What would you hear if you recorded your excuses? Would it push you forward?

Change and the Bigger Picture

Real change requires consistency and courage. It’s about silencing the ego, stepping out of comfort, and embracing the unknown. As I reflect on my journey, I realize that the same lessons apply to all areas of life. Whether it’s pursuing a career goal, rebuilding relationships, or improving your health, the principles remain the same:

Start Small: Begin with manageable actions and build momentum.
Stay Accountable: Share your goals with someone who supports you.
Track Progress: Celebrate milestones, no matter how small.
Be Kind to Yourself: Progress isn’t linear—give yourself grace.

What I’d Do Differently

Looking back, there are things I’d change. Strength training earlier in my journey would have prevented injuries. Better fueling strategies could’ve sustained me during long runs. But these lessons were invaluable. They’re reminders that growth often comes through trial and error.

Would I change the journey? Not a chance. Every stumble and struggle taught me to adapt, persevere, and believe in myself.

Your Reflection

This isn’t just about running—it’s about life. What excuses have held you back? What goals feel impossible right now? If I could go from doubting myself to crossing a marathon finish line, what could you achieve with the right mindset and consistency?

That first step is a declaration of defiance against doubt. The journey isn’t easy, but it’s worth it. Take it one step at a time, and remember: “I didn’t come this far to only come this far.”

What’s holding you back right now? What excuses are keeping you from starting your journey—whether it’s running, a career change, or another goal?

The first step is the hardest. But that step is a rebellion against doubt, a move toward possibility. When I first started, running even a kilometer felt impossible. But I showed up, pushed through, and eventually crossed a marathon finish line.

“I didn’t come this far to only come this far.” Neither did you.

Actionable Takeaways for Change

Know Your “Why”: Identify why your goal matters and hold onto it.
Start Small: Manageable actions build momentum.
Track Progress: Celebrate every milestone.
Be Kind to Yourself: Setbacks aren’t failures; they’re lessons.

Running taught me that nothing is impossible with the right mindset and consistent effort. What challenge will you conquer next?