For the last few weeks, I’ve been running. And it’s been hard. I’m only up to 3-point-something miles per run, and I’ll let you in on a little secret: by 2.5 miles, I’m ready to give up. My head tells me that it’d be sooo much easier if I just walked for a couple minutes. Or that I can just make the turn towards home instead. But something is keeping me going instead of giving into those thoughts.
This post isn’t really about running though. I have felt like giving up in many aspects of my life over the years. When things at work get really challenging, or when marriage doesn’t feel effortless, or the kids are driving me insane, it’s so easy to just be like…I. AM. DONE. I need a break from this! But then I remember the truth—I don’t give up. On anything. Ever. I’m sure my dear husband will back me up on this 😉
So, here’s some strategies I use to get through the tough stuff.
1. Remind yourself you’ve been here before
When my legs are burning and I want to just start walking, I remind myself this is not the first time I’ve felt this way. I tell myself that I feel like this every single run, and I always keep going, and I always make it through. If I’ve done something before, surely I can do it again. And eventually, I’ll do it better.
- Channel your inner Rachel Hollis/Jasmine Star
Don’t know who I’m talking about? Go follow them on Insta. These women HUSTLE. When I’m like, “I don’t want to write a blog post,” or “I can’t run another centimeter,” I actually remind myself that women like Rachel and Jasmine don’t give up…wouldn’t tell ME to give up…and try to hear their actual voices yelling at me. Lame? Maybe. But it’s working. If you need to find your own Rachel and Jasmine, do so immediately!
- Think of something that was even harder that you accomplished
Ok, so this for me is really powerful. While running, I literally tell myself that if I can BIRTH TWO CHILDREN, I can certainly train for a 10 mile run. Running 10 miles must surely be easier than pushing two children out, right??? Or another less graphic example, when things at work feel impossible, I just remember that I’ve gotten through way worse days at work, and gotten through worse JOBS before, so obviously, I’ll make it through the current challenge.
- Talk to your “people”
I could NOT handle my life without my people. One great thing about having my husband/parents/friends/family, is that everyone has a different perspective and a different life experience. This means that I can get lots of thoughtful advice, wonderful encouragement, and tough love from people who truly know me and care for me. Sometimes, someone else has been through the exact same thing, which is helpful of course. But even if not, talking to those who love me is really helpful. They motivate me to do my very best.
- Read a book
Now that I’m all in on this blogging thing, I’m finding a great way to stay motivated is by reading books about it! When I’m reading about how to start a blog/develop content/build a community, it’s hard not to get excited about all the new things in store for me! And when I’m excited and can see all the potential, it helps in the motivation department. When I don’t want to read about how to be a blogger, there are so many other great books to help keep me motivated! Andddd to backtrack to #2 for a moment…if you haven’t read “Girl, Wash Your Face” by Rachel Hollis…you totally should.
- Talk to God
Last but certainly not least, I rely on my Savior. When I “just can’t,” it’s so amazing to remember that I can’t…but Jesus can. When I don’t have the motivation and want to give up on whatever task is at hand, I only have to ask Him to give me strength. When everything seems hard and I don’t think anyone can understand, I still have someone who does. That is the ultimate motivation: I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13).
So, tell me, what works for you? Are there other things I should be doing to get my motivation on???
Such great tips!!
I just love your insight and wisdom!