Sunday, November 04, 2012
Going back to the start
I dropped out the Glen Ogle 33 yesterday after 4 miles. An embarrassing performance. A little more than 24 hours on, I'm feeling it was a pretty defining moment in my running career. I stopped because I seriously couldn't be bothered - one of the most classic cases of CBA you are likely to see. I can't remember feeling quite like that before. So what now? For the last few years I've been busier and busier at work, at my voluntary work (Scottish Athletics chairman, West Highland Way Race Director) and at home, and I don't think I can do the running at anything like the same level as I used to. I really enjoy doing all the work and non work things but my running is suffering. It's very frustrating. Maybe I need to accept I'm now an 'administrator', rather than 'runner'. Doesn't sit entirely comfortably, though.
I've decided to step away from running ultras for a while (at least for a year) and see if I can get back to some decent times at 5k, 10k, half marathon and maybe even marathon. And then if I get a bit more time (i.e. if I win the lottery and can retire) I'm sure I'll feel a lot more motivated and might be able to come back to the ultras. Let's see how it goes. One thing is for sure; at the moment it isn't happening on the running front.
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8 comments:
Life gets in the way of life sometimes. Just make sure you make some time for yourself which helps you chill out and makes you happy in amongst your busy life!
Karen D X
You have been spreading yourself thinly and something has to give. Never say never, just take a break, enjoy your running without the pressure of time or distance. Just get outside for the simple pleasure of running.
If I have learnt anything in the past 12 months it's that there are more important things in life than running. It sounds like you are doing the right thing - ultras are a big commitment and you have enough commitments to cope with at the moment. Enjoy your running and enjoy finding a happy life/work/running balance. Be kind to yourself and the joy will come back.
Vicky
Nothing to prove mate. Do what feels right. Nuff said.
Firstly it's great to see a post on your blog! I'm surprised you remembered the password to get back in!!
Secondly as we well know so much of ultra running is in the mind and if your mind is not there then it's a long way.
I hope 2013 rekindles your love of running and you enjoy some shorter races.
The ultra races will be there when you are ready and if you never run another one you have the satisfaction that you have encouraged so many and will continue to do so.
See you soon
PS it took me 5 goes to prove I wasn't a robot!!
Ian
There is no doubt that life, age and work in particular have a major impact on running. I travel pretty much all the time for work and constantly have to fight the CBA feeling both for training and racing. I've recently taken a leaf from Fiona R's philosophy and decided that my objective for longer races is simply to enjoy the experience and the people.
I'm sure you'll get you running MOJO back, in the meantime..... enjoy
How did I miss this post?!
I recommend you read a book called The Chimp Paradox. I've just finished it and it's very interesting x
Looking forward to seeing you getting back to some good running next year Ian. I'm sure you are doing the right thing
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