Through my experience running consistently for five years today, I know that it’s not every day that you will be motivated to run. Some days, you will even question why you run at all.
That’s why you need a compelling, fulfilling reason to get you up and out on the trails even when you don’t feel like it.
Here are reasons why I run that have helped me maintain my running consistency, and I know they will help you, too.
- Run to Become Self-Aware
Self-awareness is having a deeper understanding of yourself.
Without self-awareness, you consistently feel stuck and disconnected from yourself and others.
Do you know that most people live long lives and die without knowing who they are?
When you run and go further and harder than you thought possible, you break boundaries and unlock new dimensions within yourself that help you know yourself better and deeper.
This leads to what we’re calling (drumroll, please) self-awareness.
2. Run to Start the Day with Yourself
Running in the morning helps you start the day by taking care of yourself first, before other things.
It is your quiet time alone with your thoughts and feelings.
Having this time every morning helps you have a positive and productive day.
Related: How to Wake Up Early For a Morning Run
3. Run to Become One with Nature
Nature is a powerful healer.
According to this article published by the Yale School of Environment, time in nature is an antidote for stress. It can lower stress and blood pressure, reduce anxiety, improve mood, and increase self-esteem.
Related: 7 Ways Forest Trails Are Helping Runners Lead Stronger and Healthier Lives
4. Run to be a Part of Something
Running is a powerful force. It doesn’t even matter how fast or slow you are. As long you get out there and run, you are part of a community of runners.
So, if you’ve been feeling self-conscious about running, start with running races.
Among other like-minded people, you will experience a sense of belonging and love for running like never before.
Related: Annual Trail Running Events in Kenya Supporting a Good Cause
5. Run to Set a Good Example
Run to empower your loved ones. Especially if you have children, let them learn the essence of self-care and leading a healthy life through you.
You will be amazed at how quickly they will adopt that lifestyle all because of you.
6. Run to Feel Good
Running is one of the best hacks for feeling good.
When you run, your brain releases wonderful neurotransmitters, including serotonin, which regulates happiness.
Also, running regularly gradually improves your physique by reducing fat and toning your body, which helps you feel good and confident.
Related: 7 Amazing Ways My Confidence Has Increased Since I Began Running in 2019
7. Run to Step Out of Your Comfort Zone
Running helps you engage in physical activity, meet new people, and see new places. These experiences help you grow into the best version of yourself.
8. Run to Inspire
It’s not just about you and your loved ones, you know?
It’s also about people miles away who don’t even know you.
Run to inspire them, too, by talking and posting about it.
9. Run to Appreciate Your Body
Your body is the only one you have, and it does so much for you without asking for anything in return.
Why not appreciate it, too, by running to help it function better?
When you run, blood circulation throughout the body increases, improving the health of your heart, lungs, and blood vessels.
In conclusion, there’s a trending audio on social media that fits so well with this article. It says, do not run to lose weight, for a six-pack, or a big booty. Run:
- To carry your groceries comfortably,
- For good posture,
- To walk up the stairs by yourself,
- To sit and stand without anyone’s help,
- To prevent injuries,
- To walk without a cane when you’re older and,
- To manage your anxiety.
Now I’d like to hear from you.
Which other reasons help you stay motivated to run?
Please comment in the comment box below to encourage other runners.
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