Turning the Confidence Corner

I thought it was a bunch of malarky, but confidence in yourself and a positive attitude can propel you farther and farther. A mere few weeks ago, I never thought I'd be able to run more than 10 miles. Yesterday, I ran 16 and felt pretty good doing it.

My sisters repeatedly scolded me for my lack of confidence and fear of long runs. And I was afraid. I'd spend the evening before building up dred about the morning's run. As a result, I didn't fully enjoy the run and appreciate the investment I was making in me.

But yesterday I turned the confidence corner. I ran 16 miles without a walk break and felt fairly strong (if even somewhat sore) to the end. I was in tune with my body and my mind,

I was aware of when I was in the zone and on cruise, or when I was expending energy for a hill or needed to push through fatigue. I was also keyed into how I was feeling mentally - allowing myself to feel good and acknowledge it. That is what helped me turn the confidence corner - I knew I was feeling good and running well and was going to finish without limping or gasping.

Confidence in myself and my ability powered me through 16 miles, and I know it will continue to power me through my training this summer, because it's only going to get more intense.

Never underestimate your own internal power.