Run Your Own Race

?“ Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has overcome." - Booker T. Washington

It was once believed that a human could not run a sub-5-minute mile. This year we will celebrate the 70th anniversary of this groundbreaking feat. Roger Bannister defied the odds in 1954 running the first sub-4 minute mile and 23 days later Diane Leather was the first woman to run a sub-minute-5 mile. What is so special about Diane's record was this was achieved during a time when running was thought to be detrimental to women's health and women weren't allowed to race further than 200m in the Olympics. Diane was not celebrated like her male counterpart, many don't even know her name. However, both of these athletes challenged the status quo, stretched the imagination, and redefined what was possible. This history should serve as a reminder of how far we have come.

The 2024 Summer Olympics made history with gender parity, with the first numerical gender-equal games. We witnessed many firsts and amazing feats from some of the most decorated athletes in history. However, we didn't see the prior four years, and, in many cases, the lifetime of preparation. While most of us will never be able to understand the rigor and determination it takes to become an Olympic champion or world record holder, we can all relate to the need to find the motivation to do what we said we wanted or feel called to do, when the stakes are high.

The Olympics has had me thinking a lot about motivation. Specifically, the origin and the maintenance of motivation. I have been challenging the notion that motivation is what gets you started. I am of the mindset that habits are what get you going, most habits we fall into. I think we give ourselves a lot of credit assuming most habits are intentional or productive.? According to a study performed by Wendy Wood, people are 43% habitual, meaning nearly half of a person's day is driven by habits. What comes first habits or motivation?

?I think back to Diane, how did she even know more than 200m race was available to her? She had a coach who noticed her ability, and then they began training her and encouraged her to race the mile. Maybe running isn't your jam, maybe sweating isn't your thing, and perhaps there isn't a boss or coach who is tapping you on the shoulder nudging you to do more. Where can you start?

Here are some creative ways to cultivate a habit of motivation. Hopefully, you might find these ideas helpful:

1. Set specific, achievable goals: Break your larger goals into smaller, more manageable ones. This can help you stay motivated by giving you a sense of progress and accomplishment as you work toward your ultimate goal.

2. Create a motivating environment: Surround yourself with things that inspire and motivate you. This could include motivational quotes, images, or music that uplifts you.

3. Reward yourself: Give yourself small rewards for achieving milestones or completing tasks. This can help keep you motivated by giving you something to look forward to.

4. Use visualization techniques: Visualize yourself in reaching your goals and experiencing the success that comes with it. This can help keep you focused and motivated when faced with challenges.

5. Find a support system: Surround yourself with positive and supportive people who can encourage you and help keep you motivated.

6. Try new things: Keep things interesting by mixing up your routine and trying new activities that challenge you and keep you engaged.

7. Practice self-care: Make sure you're taking care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally. A healthy lifestyle can improve your overall motivation and energy levels.

Remember that motivation can fluctuate, so it's important to find what works best for you. Be patient with yourself as you work towards your goals. Run your race and find your pace.