Every day, we are bombarded by messages from society urging us to be better, go faster, and push harder. We often internalise these messages and find ourselves stressed by the intense pressure to meet specific benchmarks and standards. This is as true for running as for anything else. However, for many runners, it may be healthier and more rewarding to approach running with lower expectations and less guilt. Liberating oneself from the often exhausting quest for perfection can lead to a more enjoyable, sustainable passion for running.
Get the Right Clothes, Not The Most Expensive Clothes
Running doesn’t always require high-end trainers or flashy workout gear. You’ll get just as much out of a decent pair of women’s running shorts as you would from pricey designer gear. Often, it is easier to start with what you have, gradually adding to your kit as your commitment deepens.
Instead of purchasing expensive equipment, focus on developing a running habit. It will not only save you money early on but can also prevent the pressure associated with a large initial investment.
Psychologically, you don’t feel the nagging (and counterintuitively demotivating) requirement to run purely because you’ve spent a good deal of money on dedicated running gear. Instead, you’ll be running for yourself – which ultimately sets up a much better relationship with the road.
Stop the Performance Pressure
If you feel like every run needs to smash a personal best or adhere to a pre-determined standard, you are setting yourself up for disappointment and guilt. Allow for flexibility in running periods, speed, and difficulty. Some days you might run three miles up a mountain with ease, and other days just getting past one mile seems torturous. Adopt an understanding and patient mindset towards your running journey. Every run is unique and provides its own set of invaluable experiences, so savour and appreciate them all without pressuring yourself.
Measure Success in Your Own Terms
Success is subjective and can mean different things to different people. It’s important to establish personal benchmarks and celebrate small victories along the way. Be sympathetic to yourself when you don’t meet an expected goal – remember, success is not linear, and the journey is as important as the destination. Reference your own progress rather than comparing yourself with others.
Embrace the Joy of Running
Believe it or not, many people really enjoy running! So, try to shape your mindset with the understanding that running can be fun. Instead of thinking of it as a chore or a mission to lose weight or tone up, think of it as a form of self-care or ‘me-time’. Use this time to connect with nature, listen to your favourite podcasts or songs, or simply enjoy the rhythm of your footsteps and the sound of your breath. This shift in perspective can significantly reduce the guilt associated with running and make it a more enjoyable experience.
Gather a Supportive Community
If you’re the type that finds encouragement in community, gather a group of companions with whom to share your running journey. You could rope in friends and family, or join a running club – whatever works for you! The right supportive group will provide motivation and encouragement, as well as offer a safety net for when you’re feeling down or not as strong. Make sure, however, that the culture supports and encourages running as a personal journey rather than as a competitive sport.
Embrace Rest
Lastly, permit yourself to rest without guilt. Rest days are crucial for your body to recover and gain strength. They prevent burnout and injuries, and while it may seem you are not making progress when resting, in truth, your body is silently working on repairing, strengthening and growing stronger.
Final Thoughts
Embarking on a running journey with low expectations and less guilt does not mean neglecting goals or slacking off in discipline. Instead, it means fostering a more forgiving, understanding, and sustainable relationship with running. By consciously choosing to let go of perfectionism and high-pressure expectations, you can create a running routine that truly aligns with your lifestyle and personal needs. Remember, the goal is to create a love affair with running that will last a lifetime, not a whirlwind romance that burns out quickly.
