Me vs Me Mentality
It’s my anniversary…well, almost.
As I start a new school year — and my second year as a — I have so much to be thankful for, both as a leader and as a runner. This time last year, I had just been named the lone finalist and was training for a half marathon in preparation for my first full marathon. There was a LOT happening in my life, and so many transitions. I felt like I was in my prime and had accomplished so much personally and professionally leading up to this move. I was so thankful then — and I still am. But this past year has brought “a few” things my way that I’ve been reflecting on and want to share with you.
When I first started my running journey, it grew out of my desire to build strength, gain muscle, and lose weight. And it worked — I made progress, and I was proud of my physical and mental growth. Over time, I have shared that this journey has had its highs and lows, but one thing I’m proud of is that I’ve stayed consistent. My workouts and training are nonnegotiable — it’s part of who I am — and will be until I can no longer physically move. Period.
What’s harder for me is fueling my body well. I know what to do when it comes to food, but sometimes I just don’t make the best choices. (I am sure some of you can relate.) Yes, we struggle — but we can reset and begin again. Our lives depend on it.
Ok, so I digress. What I really want to share is about sticking with the “Me vs. Me” mentality.
I’ve mentioned before that I have a milestone birthday coming up at the end of the year, and I made a list of goals I want to hit before then: run four half marathons, complete my second full marathon, and beat last year’s time. This Saturday, I’ll run my third half marathon of the year — and I feel excited and ready.
However, this journey has not been the smoothest ride. Over the past few months, I hit a wall. I was chasing PRs, constantly thinking about my body weight (and yes, moving to a new city where everyone shows their love with food did not help!). Somewhere along the way, I lost the joy of exercising. I was just going through the motions and mentally beating myself up when I did not hit a new record or bounce back like I used to. It stopped being fun — and I realized I was doing it for the wrong reasons.
Then I read an Instagram post from a runner I admire — a mid-sized, plus-size athlete — who shared her own struggles with finding joy in running. As I read her words, I saw myself. I had lost my own “why.” She reminded me to go back to basics: stop comparing myself to others, stop chasing the person next to me, and stop criticizing my body. All of that was weighing me down and distracting me from what really matters: “Me vs. Me”.
I chose running because I wanted to be healthier — inside and out. I chose this lifestyle because I know that, in order to lead and serve well as superintendent, I have to take care of my mind and body. This is my self-care. This is how I create boundaries that allow me to show up strong for the work I get to do every day.
So here’s my challenge to you — and to myself: reset your goals and your focus. Step outside, move your body, breathe deeply, and remind yourself that you get to do this. You get to take care of yourself
When I run, I remind myself every mile that I am not in competition with anyone. I get to move my body. I am simply trying to get 1% better every day. I can do hard things.
As we move into fall, I encourage you to find time for a walk, a run, a bike ride — whatever moves you. Make sure you do this one thing for YOU.
Let’s continue to #InspireExcellence
#RunningSupt
