How Do You Do It?

The latest issue of "Running Times" has a terrific article by Eric Grossman which deals with developing intrinsic motivation. In the article he details 12 steps to help with motivation. His article is in the Trails Section, but I believe it can be expanded to any running. There is no link, so I am going to list the 12-steps(paraphrasing Grossman's article):

1) Dismiss distractions - whatever may be distracting you from running - dismiss it(easier said than done at times).

2) Observe yourself and accept what you see - work on accepting who you are. If you carry extra weight, ask yourself why and accept it.

3) Continuously re-center your story - what do you say about yourself? Who are you in the story of your life, and how is running involved?

4) Allow others to observe you - links to #2. Don't wear baggy clothes. Be yourself. Don't get in shape first then run with others. There are so many shapes and sizes out there. Go be a part of it.

5) No excuses - period.

6) Plan for improvement - answer the question "How can I do better?"

7) Observe others - what is that person doing? Can I learn from him/her?

8) Don't let others off too easy - if a buddy skips a run, or is running slower than normal - call them on it, and they will do the same in return.

9) Acknowledge effort - we can all do better, give yourself and others credit for the attempt.

10) Give yourself no choice - do it no matter what.

11) Be attentive and responsive, not passive and reactive - get engaged with life, running, don't sit back and observe.

12) Make friends with time - enjoy each run. Reflect. Watch others and revel in their accomplishments, and they will do the same for you.

This list is going on my fridge.

Charlie