Ok. I know it's kind of ironic that I am writing this as a coach right, but actually getting folks to take a step back and press reset is something I am working with folks to do all the time. Many of my recent run clients are working towards running a marathon. A marathon is not a distance to go trot every weekend, its a big deal, and ideally takes several months to build up to. Factor that in with just being a parent, having a full time job, or being a spouse or caregiver and your plate is full!
Let's take a moment and give our body the credit for the amount of stress we put on it and on top of that the expectation to perform at top level when we do so. Don't you feel better already for acknowledging that!
I guess this topic comes fresh to mind for me as I have taken a break myself from running. I know..I know....yes I have taken a break to focus on myself. So much of my work and athletic career has been go go go and I finally just said to myself I am going to give myself some grace and take a break until I start my training for Boston Marathon in the new year.
If I'm being really honest. Well I've had some major life changes and I'm still processing them. My mother passed on January 15, 2023 and as I type this my eyes are welling up. It's almost going to be a year and I feel like I'm finally coming out of my turtle shell. So much good is happening and this site being a part of that, but I can't help to be so grateful for this opportunity because of my mom.
You see I was a caregiver for my Mom up until she passed. Not full time as we did have help, but I stayed nearby her to be close and convenient. I stayed in Atlanta and in jobs that gave me flexibility to be near her and I'm so glad I did. My mom was not mentally well. She struggled with depression and bipolar disorder a lot of her life. For my brother and I we took on the role as a parent a lot sooner then I wish on anyone. But this has always been a driver for me and why I have been working on a sports mindset coaching side of my business I will launch in Jan 2024.
As I look back I realize that running was a driving force that kept me well through all the years. I was able to take care of myself because I was running and I was better able to care for her because I was running and ultimately love others better too. Amidst all the pain over the years watching my mom suffer, I some how still managed to chase a passion of mine and while at many times it was not the most profitable direction, what I learned and the relationships I made along the way were worth so much more than the title or pay.
So as I come out of my shell here soon and press reset on my running I remind you all that it's ok to take a break. To let your body heal and repair and even remind yourself why you do it. For me it's not about the time or the award anymore. It's about giving back and keeping going just as I'd imagine my mom would want me to do! This next chapters for you Mom and I miss you every day.
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