Running long distances transcends psychological boundaries and the further you reach inwardly, the further you can run outwardly. Running may be physical in its most literal form, but literalism lacks meaning and it is meaning that provides purpose.
Running in the woods has heightened my sense of belonging like nothing else.
I run because running it by its very nature creates an exceptionally rich setting for focusing on the present moment. Our lives become much more meaningful when we realise that we will never get to experience the same moment twice.
Sadly, a lot of people lead lives of quiet desperation and go to the grave with their song still in them because they are stuck in the past or the future. There are only two days in a year where nothing can be done. One of them was yesterday, the other is tomorrow.
Aspire to continuously be present in the moment — not last weekend; not two years ago; not ten years from today. There is only now. Do not merely exist in the space you occupy, live your life intentionally.
Nothing is boring when you are curious
Boredom is just a lack of attention.
As an endurance runner, you learn that it is possible to give attention to one thing for an extended period of time without becoming bored. Putting one foot in front of the other for hours on end can be outright therapy, a very calming experience.
Nature is our greatest teacher and our greatest tool with which we can build resilience.
I run far because I am afraid of complacency and mediocrity, both of which happens when you become too comfortable. I am not saying that running is uncomfortable, but it can be. When you are on your third, fourth or even tenth hour, your mind will likely start to wander and wonder why on earth you are purposely putting yourself through this silly, now painful, activity, when you could be doing something else that you enjoy.
Do not get fooled. Your brain is wired to keep you from discomfort. I dare you to look for peace in the pain. Use it to transcend limitations and explore the world beyond hurt — surpass your perceived limits. Notice how it initiates growth.
Silence is not empty, it is full of answers
I run further because I thrive in solitude. Running is a very personal activity and it can therefor be lonely, but I think loneliness is one of the best qualities in the sport because it strengthens our incentive to motivate ourselves.
The only barriers that exist are self created in the mind. You can only run as far as you believe. If you think you can run a marathon, you will run a marathon. If you think you can run 50 miles, you will run 50 miles. If you think you can run 100 miles, you will run 100 miles.
Joy and suffering are maxed out emotions on the same plane. Your thoughts either can empower you or enslave you. The choice is yours!
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