4 Tips to Help You Find Joy in Running

Trying to get into a running routine but having a hard time with the motivation aspect? These tips might help you get over the edge.

I love running. It can be painful, exhausting, and challenging, but I love it! Over the years, people look at me and they wonder how I could possibly enjoy a sport that is absolutely “boring” and painful. I used to be a long distance runner. Each night I was excited to go to sleep, just so I could get up the next day and go for an early morning run when everyone’s asleep. Some of you think I’m crazy, and I probably am, but there’s something about running that makes your life so much better.

It wakes up every cell in your body. The constant movement of your legs, where after a few miles you forget you’re even moving, becomes so automatic that it feels like you’re just being carried away. The first few rays of sun on your face while you drip with sweat listening to your favorite soundtrack or just silently listening to your breath—beautiful! Now I want you to enjoy what I enjoy. How? Here are a few tips to getting your running mojo on!

Don’t Worry about Looks

If you’re new to running, you may be hesitant because you think you look like a joker and you don’t want to embarrass yourself, or you think you can’t do it, so you might as well not try. Truth is, every runner at some point is going to look crazy. We may get tired and not have a clue what we look like, but the point is: who cares? You are doing this for yourself, so do it anyway! Trust me, no one looks an elegant deer or a powerful cheetah on the road.

Spare Even 30 Minutes

Some of you don’t have the time or schedule, and planning to go for a run can be stressful. This is when time management comes handy. You don’t have to start running for 60 minutes or 10 miles. Even 30 minutes can make a difference. Get up 30 minutes early and hit the road, or go for a run during lunch or late in the night. Whatever works for you, as long as you make it!

Music to the Ears

Some people love music, and some may just hate playing DJ and want to simply run. Figure out what works for you. If you’re a music lover, create a good list of music: slow, hip hop, rock, or even classical. Play the list depending on your mood. If music isn’t your thing, run in silence and enjoy each breath.

Listen to Your Body

Once you have all the basics of mood, time, music, running gear ready, the last and most important thing is to take it day by day and listen to your body. Running is a joy when your attitude is right. View running as a gift; not everyone can run and is gifted with what you have. Embrace this gift and make use of it, don’t let it go to waste.

Also learn to take it easy; if you need to walk in between, it’s okay. If you want to push yourself, it’s okay. If you want to take a day off from running or if you want to run a marathon, that’s also okay.

The Bottom-line:

Running is a reflection of your attitude—that’s what makes it challenging, beautiful, and intimidating.

Running is a mirror that shows you who you are that day. Pick what you want to see on the mirror. Enjoy every step and every breath!

Take a look at some fun competitions, equipment advice, and more tips for running!