I’m sitting in the Oakland Airport waiting for our flight to Portland. I got a horrible night’s sleep last night because I couldn’t stop thinking about the race! This is the first time (granted, I’ve only ran 3 races) that I’ve felt nervous for a race. It’s pretty clear that that’s because this is also the first time I’ve had a goal to hit a certain time. I brought the book “Born to Run” and a copy of Runner’s World magazine (the Boston edition!) along with me to keep me motivated. If you haven’t read Born to Run, it basically tells the story (true, by the way) of some crazy runners. Ultra marathon runners. I’m talking 100 miles in 125 degree heat. Who are these people and what possessed them to want to do that?! Maybe the same thing that possessed me to run a marathon. I’m not quite sure I can pin point it. All I know is, it’s a physical and mental challenge unlike anything I’ve ever faced before. The moment you cross the finish line is indescribable. There is so much joy, pride, along with exhaustion and pain…it’s really pretty unique!
I’m trying to calm my nerves a bit by repeating affirmations. This sounds a little crazy and a little cheesy…but it also sort of works. Because I’m good enough, I’m smart enough, and doggone it people like me! (I hope you get the SNL reference…I don’t actually talk like that).
But I do talk like this:
I am a runner.
I am strong.
I am an athlete .
I am a fighter.
This is a little weird, but I think it’s a great quote. Oddly enough it’s from an Eminem song…. (I know, he’s so wise).
“So, here I go it’s my shot, feet fail me not, this may be the only opportunity that I got.”
Maybe Eminem wrote this when he was training for a marathon? Or maybe it was for a movie… Either way I think it’s a great line. Literally, feet please do not fail me! Not now! Anyway, I gotta run to the next flight! I’ll update you all soon!
You’ll do great and I think the affirmations are great. Sometimes you just need to hear the words and have your mind process it. Good luck girlfriend! 🙂
Hey you’re like so close to me right now, or you were when you were in Oakland anyway. Channel the nervous energy into positive, excited energy! 🙂 You can do it!!
You’ll do great and we love you regardless of how you do in the race. You have such drive and energy. We’ll be there to cheer you on. All our love and the best of luck.
I think affirmations and mantras are a great strategy when it comes to distance running. Sorry you got a bad night’s sleep, but hope you can make up for it tonight!
I need to read Born to Run. I’ve heard SO much about it. It’s time to hit the bookstore, I think.
I agree with Dorry…affirmations and mantras can work wonders for getting your head in the game and calming nerves. Good luck sleeping well tonight!