Lost motivation: Seriously lacking motivation to... - Couch to 5K

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Lost motivation

Charlottetrip profile image
CharlottetripGraduate
24 Replies

Seriously lacking motivation to go out for a run.

Had two weeks off due to having a poorly little boy and then I hurt my back. And since then I've lacked motivation to get back out. Only done one run a week as opposed to 3, and both those runs have only been 20 minutes.

What do you guys do when you are lacking motivation to get out there?

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Charlottetrip profile image
Charlottetrip
Graduate
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24 Replies
Oldfloss profile image
OldflossAdministratorGraduate

Pick up the running shoes..it is where the mojo and the mind gremlins hide out... when you lift the shoes, they run for cover :)

Seriously, you have had a time with a sick small one...and then yourself.... but... if you just make that first effort to head out.. you will feel better for it :)

Just don't have any plan... choose a route you enjoy and head off.. slow and steady and try to relax into it... try and land gently and lightly... be kind to that back...enjoy the feeling of just running and let some of the stresses of the last two weeks float away behind you :)

Go on... and post your run please:) I can't get out today.. as it is simply pouring... really heavy rain... take me with you please :)

Charlottetrip profile image
CharlottetripGraduate in reply toOldfloss

The times I've been out I've been fine it's just getting outside that is the problem/getting out of bed to go.

He is much better thank you!

IgaT profile image
IgaTGraduate in reply toCharlottetrip

My tricks that usually work:

1. Post here ;) for motivation boost and kind of promise that I will go out

2. Set up your running gear nicely to jump in in the morning or straight after work (leave oher stuff hidden)

3. Figure out reward - nice long bath, new gear equipment, film you wanted to see, etc.

Good luck. I'm kicking my a$$ today as well to get out there and run.

IgaT profile image
IgaTGraduate in reply toCharlottetrip

You could also make an appointment with jogging buddy or friend who will join your trip (can be on bicycle next to you if it is someone who doesn't run).

But the best way is just put your gear on no matter what and then decide. I never dress out without at least going out and doing the best I can, even if it wasn't the run from the program.

I still struggle with this point. But we can go our 'together' :) My plan was morning, but I overslept, so I will go at around 4.30-5pm

Oldfloss profile image
OldflossAdministratorGraduate

PS

Hope the small one is recovered now too :)

misswobble profile image
misswobbleGraduate

I just go. It's so much easier than the angst I get if I don't

Charlottetrip profile image
CharlottetripGraduate in reply tomisswobble

Very true more worries not going

I agree with Oldfloss (always)

Don't over think it. You have no choice, just do it and you will feel better. Then timetable the next one and again no choice . I expect to see your dunnit post later🏃👋🏃

Charlottetrip profile image
CharlottetripGraduate in reply to

I will just timetable it and have to go like going to work.

IgaT profile image
IgaTGraduate in reply toCharlottetrip

Just remember to enjoy it ;) Smile to it :D

Sillyyak13 profile image
Sillyyak13Graduate

I always think the hardest distance for a runner is the one to the front door. Get that bit out the way and once you get going you'll feel great. X

Charlottetrip profile image
CharlottetripGraduate in reply toSillyyak13

Exactly just need to push myself out the door! Haha

Angela962 profile image
Angela962Graduate

I read a runners story years ago, she said she never regreted going for a run. I have def regreted sitting around too much. So like a famous advert says, Just Do It, and your running mojo will catch up with you

Charlottetrip profile image
CharlottetripGraduate in reply toAngela962

Excellent way of thinking!

pollyp1 profile image
pollyp1Graduate

My current mantra is 'focus on what you can do, not what you can't': you HAVE had two runs, doesn't matter how long they were. I've had (am having) times when I've not run as often as I want, in fact I can't remember the last time I ran 3X a week and the longest break I've had is 23 days. But, as somebody said (I forget who, sorry) 'I want to be a runner' and as many others have said sometimes it's a case of 'just do it'. Don't put so much pressure on yourself: just run...

Charlottetrip profile image
CharlottetripGraduate in reply topollyp1

Thanks for that, something is better than nothing.

Maddee_6333 profile image
Maddee_6333Graduate

Does is look like it might rain later? Quick! I'd better stop procrastinating and get out there before the skies open!

Does it look like it might be sunny?

Quick! I'd better get out there now before it's too hot for me to walk let alone run!

Hope your son is all better now. Is he old enough to enjoy a run in the park with his mummy? Just dashing up and down with him, just for the fun of it - rather than 'going on a run' might put you in a better mindset for actually getting out there again.

Charlottetrip profile image
CharlottetripGraduate in reply toMaddee_6333

He is better now. And he's the reason I started running so I can catch him when he runs off haha! 2 year olds are quick lol! I ran around the park the other day with him actually.

Maddee_6333 profile image
Maddee_6333Graduate in reply toCharlottetrip

They are! I have one 18 month and one 21/2 year old grandsprocket. They are super speedy and love to run 😀

webleys profile image
webleys

It's always the feeling of satisfaction that I get after a run that gives me motivation and seeing how far I've come. Keep at it, you'll be so proud of yourself in the end x

Charlottetrip profile image
CharlottetripGraduate in reply towebleys

This is true I wouldn't have even done two runs this time last year lol

I do what you've just done I write a plea to some good buddies who remind me of some of the things I already knew.

Mojos are fragile creatures, don't be the runner who neglects yours!

whibbles profile image
whibblesGraduate

How much time do I spend on the Internet ? - too much ! so I reason that a 30 minute run isn't actually that much time doing something that is good for me. I must confess that sometimes I don't enjoy all my runs, but I nearly always feel better afterwards. Was doing park runs and then injured my back and achilles, so after a rest, restarted C25K at week 3 and about to start week 7. When its difficult to go out, I use the mantra "anything is better than nothing" and say to myself I'll go out for a ten minute run and then see what happens. If all else fails, I have to promise myself a treat - carrot(cake) and stick motivation ? Good luck

IgaT profile image
IgaTGraduate

Did you go?

I'm on my cool down walk. Partially thanks to your post, as it reminded me what I should / want to do if I want to run after break :)

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