Since the seventh grade, I have never not loved running (there are some exceptions to the double negative rule). I have, however, stopped enjoying it on occasion. The first time I recall feeling burned out is my junior year of high school. I dreaded track practice in the afternoons; bitterness set in; progress was negatively affected. I remember thinking to myself, "I don't want to quit, but I need a break."
That season ended with nothing to be proud of, no excitement. I took about a week off for the summer, and then relearned how to enjoy an early morning run. The next year of running would come to be my favorite and most successful (though it ended in some disappointment).
My first year of college depended on cross country and track. Having something to do in the afternoons and on weekends helped to take my mind off of homesickness. It was my worst year of running yet, but I appreciate it like a blind dog appreciates odor. Slowly, though, I've become a bit burned out again. More than a bit, actually. I want to run, and I want to win; I love a good run and a good sweat. But I am not looking forward to this upcoming season. There are other things I'd like to do instead, other priorities that I want to move to the top of the list, but can't because of a contract. It's been a struggle to stay positive about my situation, but I have to trust that, even if I don't enjoy a minute on the course or road this season, I have some purpose there. More importantly, I am trying to re-spark my passion for running. That is one reason I started this blog, to be honest. Running has become a way of life for me, as it is for many runners. I neither want to give up on it, nor continue down this road without even enjoying the smells.
Gotta run...
No comments:
Post a Comment