It was one of those days; average, normal, unremarkable. So, it really stands to reason that my evening run would be the same. If there is a unicorn run out there then this was the donkey.

It is easy to justify a bad run. I was overheated, probably didn’t drink enough water all day, had Thai food for lunch, wolfed down a granola bar right before running, I haven’t been getting much mileage, blah, blah, blah. I gave up at mile 2 contemplating my life choices.

Physical therapists, chiropractors, stretching, strength, cycling! I put hours upon hours into making it so my body can run pain free. And to that end, I’m getting there! But it’s it all worth it? Why am I working so hard to be a back of the pack runner?

I love being a runner.

If something is important enough to you, you will put in the behind the scenes labor to make it so you can enjoy whatever it is you are trying to enjoy. Especially when you have obstacles. When you conquer your road blocks you are winning. Even though performance will ultimately take a back seat, the fact is that the setback is temporary. Listen to your body, take care of yourself, build from the ground up and performance will follow.

Motivation is a tricky thing. Maybe even another unicorn. Don’t let the donkey keep you down.