So, I've got a bit of an issue with self-confidence.... the issue being that I entirely lack it. Thankfully I can hide behind words. And that I'm a good faker-- but I don't think I can fake believing in myself for 100 miles. So as I'm getting my legs and life back, enjoying some free time (what do you do with all this time when you're not running?! I'm starting to fall in love with TV and sleep.) my thoughts are naturally turning from fear to terror as I taper for my first 100 mile race.
Terror isn't good for a hundo. I've done the physical training, I've got the pain tolerance, now I just need to trust it all, and start thinking the good thoughts.
Everyday for the next 10 days I'm going to post a positive affirmation. Or a reason why I know I can run 100 miles. Perhaps if I brainwash myself, and really focus in on one each reason each day til race day, then when the doubts fly in I'll have reasons to push them out.
As always, I have stellar running friends who can use my affirmations (since I know they don't only apply to me) for themselves. With that said, let the brainwashing begin.
AFFIRMATION #1:
My muscles are bigger, stronger, and more ready than they've ever been before. See, I used to have a pair of "skinny" jeans that I bought a bit too big and they were baggy, especially on my tiny little calves. They've gotten tighter on my legs here and there (thankfully not the waist, I've got enough of a gut already...) and I put them on yesterday for the first time in a few weeks.
I could hardly get them over my calves and quads! This made me so happy I wore them all afternoon, enjoying the fact the my calves felt like they were going to break the seams of the pants.
I've finally gained a bit muscle. I've been trying to beef up my legs for years!
muscle mass = ready
Keep at it - you're on the right track to convince your brain that you can do this!
ReplyDeletethanks! hopefully it will work... or at least get my appetite back...
DeleteAwesome! We could all use the affirmation just to keep putting one foot in front of the other. You know you've got some climbing legs so that HAS to be muscle in there. Plus, your jeans must be size 6X (youth size). :-)
ReplyDeleteJen, we all know I am utterly terrible on the climbing... but that I can hopefully even it out with what makes me happiest (going back down). thanks!!
Delete