First run post-graduating - only managed 20 minutes :-(

[PurplePanda42]

First run after graduating on Saturday.

Only managed 20 minutes - had woken up later than normal (having rolled over when I heard the rain earlier!), thought about going on the pavements as the park would be muddy and felt braver - until I got onto the streets and saw loads of people so felt anxious again. Went the the park where it promptly started raining again. More dog walkers and runners as I was later than usual so altogether couldn't run any further as was just too anxious.

Had been hoping to keep going to get to 5k, but just couldn't do it.

I know I'll run again on Wednesday, just wasn't the first run as a proper runner that I'd hoped for! Might mix things up and go the opposite way round the park for a change!!

[PurpleWalter]

A.. Don’t feel too downhearted! Main thing is you got out there!! That’s an achievement in itself if the rain with you is anywhere near what it’s like here! 🙈 There is always next time 😊 xxx

[Mobiliseandmove]

Hey PurplePanda42 ,

Let's reframe this. Instead of 'only managed 20 minutes', let's say 'I'm proud of myself that I managed a 20 minute run today, even though it was raining and it was busy'.

Running for longer times or distances is cool, but not necessary. Sometimes we just have to listen to how we feel and dial it back a notch. Always striving for more is admirable, but never possible without being disappointed.

So think about this. Let's say I complete my 30 min runs in Week 9. Every time I go for a run that is less than 30 minutes, is that a failure? Is that me not doing enough? Is that me not being capable of doing more?

Then, let's say I manage a 40-min run one day. Does a 30 min run become not enough?

We can't be capable of our best performance every time we step outside. I'm proud of you for getting out there today, even if was 'only 20 minutes'.

Take care and be kind to yourself!

Adam

[PurplePanda42 Graduate in reply to Mobiliseandmove]

Thank you for your reply - I kept thinking of it as I ran this morning - I'd ideally like to be able to run 5k so that I can do parkrun when it starts up again, but completely get that actually just being out there running is such an achievement for me! I guess I'll aim for about 30 minutes each time as that fits in well (and hopefully will do once term starts again!) but will be a bit more gentle on myself!!

[Mobiliseandmove in reply to PurplePanda42]

Love it - don’t forget how far you’ve come! Rooting for you to complete your goal of completing a 5k!