You ever go for a short run and start thinking, I could go further than this if I had the time? Yeah, I do that sometimes, too. On a really good day, as I am running a really good run, I start thinking about those crazy Ultra-marathoners... you know, those nut-jobs who run MORE than 26.2 miles? I start eyeing up the 50K races, 31 miles, just 4.9 miles past a marathon... I could do that. But what would be next? 50 miles. Then what? 100 miles? What would be the ultimate distance to say that I have pushed myself beyond what I thought possible and have accomplished something beyond comprehension?
I have debated this since I learned that "Ultras" existed. On great running days, I think I can do it- on poor running days, I thank the good Lord that I haven't tried. But, really, what is preventing me from trying? Time is an issue, as is conditioning, these are related because I know that without a long enough time allotted to running that I can't be conditioned enough. This seems like a trite concept, because honestly, I don't really need to run an Ultra to feel complete; there's a point to this.
One of the biggest obstacles in anyone's way is time. You and I both know that food preparation and physical fitness takes time. I have stated in a previous post that you cannot have a good goal without a plan, but the plan required to complete a goal takes time from your daily life. I also know that some of you who read this are stay-at-home moms or dads and darting out the door for a run is usually not an option. I also know that those of you who work are reluctant, if not hampered, to get into an exercise routine because of your duties at home as a member of your family.
These issues are compounded if you are in an unsupportive environment that is not conducive to exercise and eating healthy. I know that I have, on many occasions, recommended that you tell your family your plans and that you need their support. But what if they will not support you? This is a real issue and, to be honest, I don't know exactly how to respond.
I do know that good friends exist. Good friends can help. The first major piece of advice I would give is to find some good friends. Tell your friends what your goals are. See if any of them would be willing to be a part of accomplishing that goal. You'd be surprised at how quickly people are willing to help watch the children or help you eat healthier. You might also be surprised at how many people share your same struggles and would join alongside you in your journey.
Ultimately, you are in charge of you- no one else is. If you want to, you can do whatever is necessary to accomplish any goal in front of you. You will have to adapt your plan to whatever your situation is, but ultimately it is you who will have to do this. Your friends can't do it for you. The fact is that not everyone wants the same things, and that's OK, but we need to learn how to stand up for ourselves and be a little selfish sometimes. Your plans and your goals are important. My advice today is simple. Pray. Ask for help. Stand up for yourself. God is with you.
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