One of the goals I set myself for this year was to finish a half marathon in December. I’m sure you notice that I wrote “finish”. I will be happy with finishing!
Of course I started training in January along with two friends. At first when I tried to run I would tire very quickly, but as of today I am covering at least 4 miles, five days a week. Some of it is jogging, most of it is walking.

It is so interesting to see the parallels with life. I realize that this is a big challenge for me, but anytime I do something difficult I realize that’s how I grow. What I’ve learned is that I am most successful when I prepare physically by eating well and getting enough sleep. What is just as important is the mental preparation. When I envision myself going through my workout before I actually do it, I am much more successful than if I just show up and start exercising. Imagination is so powerful, and when I can “see” myself succeeding before I actually do it, then it is somehow easier. The life lesson here is that we can do exactly the same with our lives. Take the time each morning to imagine your day going well, imagine it going just the way you want it to, or if it doesn’t, imagine yourself handling all challenges with grace and calm. Will you take a few moments in the morning to imagine your day? It can make all the difference.

Another interesting thing I learned while working out with my friends, is how important they are to my success. It is so much easier to do the hard stuff when you know you’re not alone. Knowing they are counting on me to be there every morning is a great motivator for me. We support each other and cheer each other on. Isn’t it great to have a team who is there for you and keeps you strong when you want to give up?

My friends and I jog at different speeds, and that’s OK, we all get there eventually. However I did notice something interesting one day as one of my girlfriends jogged beside me, we were in step for a few minutes before she went out ahead. While she was beside me it was a boost for me, I felt her energy and it helped me. It struck me that so often in life we do walk (or run) beside each other and lend our energy and enthusiasm. How much better to be thought of as the one who is an energizer rather than one who sucks the life out of you. Which one are you?

So I’m training for a half marathon, but more importantly I’m learning about life and how much we depend on one another.

P.S. I’ll keep you posted on my progress with the training 