So I was reading an article that talked about the importance of having discipline when it comes to running and workouts – and for some reason this really struck a nerve with me. How many times do you just wake up to get in an early morning run and just NOT FEEL MOTIVATED?! You know those days where you are really just not having it. Whether it be due to a stressful week or just whatever randomness is going on it would just be so much easier to mash that snooze button and roll right back over. I know I have days like that quite often. I also have days where I am super duper motivated. But when it boils down to it – discipline and the act of getting it in, wins over being “motivated” every single time. So…here are some ways to increase your discipline…when it comes to training and running.
–Do it until it becomes a habit. This for me is especially true when it comes to morning runs. I have many people that ask me- how on earth do you just get up for these crazy early mornings and get it done?! Well…that is because I have been doing it now for years and years. It is not something that is just a whim or a feeling. It is a true HABIT for me. And when I don’t do it…my body knows it. Like clockwork. So, whatever time you run…be consistent with it. Do it until it becomes like breathing to you. Trust me it will pay off when it comes to race day.
–Envision yourself finishing that run and feeling on top of the world. Every time I get up and am feeling like I already want to throw in the towel…I think about myself being very proud that I got it in and got it done. My everything right now…has been running in the mornings with my friends. Seriously having friends to run with in the summer has kept me so accountable and helps me stay disciplined. I just love it.
–It isn’t always going to be pretty. Know that some days your legs will feel like lead, it will be blazing hot (especially if you are in the south I feel your pain)…humid, you will be sweating buckets. That is where your mental strength lies. When it sucks. When it’s not all “you crushed it” or “that was amazing”. Frankly it doesn’t always have to be amazing. Embrace the fact that it will suck sometimes. But, guess what? You got out there…and you did it. Despite your feelings.
–Know that the secret is in merely SHOWING UP. Day to day. Feeling good or feeling crappy. Show up, meet up with your friends at the crack of dawn. Even if your friends are Pitbull and Rihanna on your music player (I’ve had those days too). That is half the battle. That’s where you will find your discipline.
What are some ways you stay disciplined as a runner?
thedancingrunner 
I definitely utilize those tips, plus sometimes I make sure I have something really fun planned for after:)
Yep…fun is where its at!!
2 things I do now that keep me showing up. I often run with others, usually 3 days a week. And now have a coach for accountability.
Excellent! Keep it up!!
Did you write this for me??? Seriously, I’m struggling right now and I think reading this will help. Thanks 🙂
Ha!! Love that! I actually wrote it for me and anyone else reading! I was inspired because I almost cussed out my alarm clock this morning. LOL But got it in!!
Love it. This applies to EVERYTHING. We have to keep on keepin’ on if we’re gonna keep on keepin’ on ❤️
Xo Charlene
https://thingsimthinking.blog
Yes absolutely!! Oh so true 🙂 🙂 xoxo
I commit to a race! I had to reduce my goal of doing a half marathon to a 10 km because I don’t think my body can handle it…
Do what you can do!! That’s amazing and wishing you lots of happy training to come! 🙂 Thanks for reading!
I often have to remind myself of the many versions of “showing up” mantra. 70% of the battle, etc. Definitely helps when bed feels oh so comfy!
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http://www.areweadultsyet.com
Yes for sure I hear you on that one!!
I definitly need motivation. 😊
We need them both! Discipline, motivation and being a badass go hand in hand! Happy training!
Ty same to you
Thanks boo!
Yvw 😊
Just knocking it out after making it a routine part of your life. Feeling and loving life is big motivation for me and is the reason I stay disciplined. Good blog post!
Thank you sweetie!
Great Tips! I agree it all comes down to discipline. I will utilize these objectives when it comes to running more because I know I need to. Thank you!
Absolutely anytime!!
“Do it until it becomes a habit.” I guess this tip will prove to be the most helpful in my case. I have super motivated mornings for two weeks and snoozes for the rest of the month. Discipline is indeed the key.
Amen and amen!!! 🙂
Awesome post! Definitely making a habit of it is crucial. Our minds crave routine; it’s just a little stubborn when there’s sweat involved haha.
Indeed!