Have you ever had to start over? A few months ago, while talking with my good buddy Mar, I decided that I needed to hit reset on running. With that in mind, training for the Publix Savannah Women’s Half Marathon quickly became the target on the calendar. But, I needed to face the reality of pressing the reset button. Since moving to Georgia, I haven’t found a regular running routine. And, that is in part because military moves are really, really hard.
I talk about it a little bit on this space but there is so much time and energy that goes into each move. While it is always an exciting adventure to move to a new state, this relocation wiped me out. To be honest, I think it has everything to do with moving twice in one year (NY –> KS –> GA). I left a job I absolutely loved and the breakneck pace of this installation is tough on our family. Then, there are all the super minor things but things nonetheless. Think about new jobs and establishing yourself in the workspace, a new home, neighborhoods, schools, routines, deployments, friends, doctors, babysitters or lack thereof, HECK, even a new grocery store. Although, I am now a regular Publix shopper – woohoo!
While I allow myself the grace to put running on the back-burner while I adjust, I hate putting running on the back-burner. It truly is the one thing that centers me and allows me to be a better mom, professional, wife, and overall person. So, back when I had the heart to heart with myself, I knew that if I wanted to find my groove and train for the upcoming Publix Savannah Women’s Half Marathon, I needed to start back at the basics. So, I threw all of the ideas I had about pace, previous personal records, where I should start with mileage, and my ego right out the window.
And, I am happy to report that running is on the upswing! January was about finding time for 3-4 short runs a week with no mileage goals. In February, I set a small goal for myself to run 20 miles a week. Yea, that sounds super easy for the “old Lisa” that liked to run all the races. But, with work, a crazy commute, and a deployed husband, I needed to set a realistic goal for myself. Yep, that key word is realistic. Since moving, I realized a pattern of getting frustrated with myself for not sticking to a training plan. But, it wasn’t realistic!
My life is full right now and I need to stop trying to be my former self. I need to not care about what other bloggers are doing or running. It turns out that I needed to find a little more time for some meaningful miles. Guess what? It’s working. So, February was a success! I ran 81 miles for the month! Now, I’m really looking forward to diving into March with a slight uptick in mileage and the re-introduction of speed-work. Plus, I know that I will absolutely have the confidence to run a solid race at the Publix Women’s Half Marathon. I might not set any world records but I plan to be there with a great foundation, run with friends, enjoy the weekend, and use it as a catalyst for more running plans this year!
How are your goals shaping up this year? Have you ever had a difficult finding space for running in your life?
Lisa
PS. It’s not to late to sign up to join me at the Publix Savannah Women’s Half Marathon! As a 2018 race ambassador, I have a discount offer for you! Register using the Discount Code ‘LISA18’ and receive 15% off your registration! And, be sure to check out all the details and events that weekend!
Honestly cannot even imagine having to uproot and move so often. It is so much work! Giving yourself some grace sounds like the perfect gift. I am glad to hear that you are back running and feeling good. Have a wonderful week!
Deborah Brooks recently posted…Beet, Goat Cheese And Hummus Sandwich- Your New Favorite Lunch
Thank you! Training is still moving along. I am so happy we don’t have to move again this year. It is a major mojo killer!
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I bet that you are going to have a great race. I look forward to reading about your training.
Thank you! Training is still going well. Fingers crossed! I hope to post another update soon 🙂
Lisa recently posted…Nourish Savannah: Natural Bath Products