the power of positive thinking

I did it! I did it! Successfully ran my first 5k that is. To some, running 3.1 miles may seem like a walk in the park, but for me, someone who struggles with running & a usually poor mental attitude about it - this was a very, very big deal.

Prior to the race starting I was a little nervous - I had signed myself up as a timed runner, even though this wasn't that big of a deal (not a marathon or anything) I was surrounded by people who looked like seasoned runners. As I was trying to not let this get to my head, we were off! The first mile was actually the toughest for me - I just kept chanting in my head "you can do this, you can do this." Also, my music was a huge source of inspiration and gave me surges of motivation when I needed it the most.

I had slowed my pace (was still running though!) and was feeling pretty tired, but I willed my body to keep pushing through and that's when I saw the 2 mile marker - a smile creeped across my face and I knew I could do this. I picked up my pace a little and once I was nearing the end it was so motivating to see all the supporters cheering us on, yelling out encouraging words - it was a powerful moment.

Once I crossed the finish line, the sense of pride and confidence I had in myself was unlike anything I have ever felt for myself before. And it was me, only me who did this. I was so thankful for my strong legs, heart & lungs to get me through this - it sounds so cheesy and cliche but I felt so connected with myself. Needless to say, this 5k was definitely the push I needed - I have the motivation to keep running, do more 5k's and maybe even build myself up to longer runs (10k anyone?).

I don't even know if I should say it, but I think this 5k turned my love/hate relationship with running to just a love one (and you thought you were done with the cheesiness). :)

Me (#986) with some co-workers after the run!