Some "Hump Day" Inspiration

While I was stalking my facebook feed this morning, I noticed a post from the Houston 1/2 Marathon. They asked, "What race tip would you give to someone who is running our marathon or half marathon for the first time?" Most of the time I don't scroll through and read all of the entries, but I had sometime to burn before work so I snuck a peek at what had been posted. I was sort of curious at what people were saying since I will be running their 1/2 Marathon for the first time this January. I think that it is always good to have a little insight from people who have ran races before that I am not familiar with.

I came across this post from one of their fans and it really struck a chord with me and I wanted to share it with everyone.....

"It's your race, not the guys who took off at the same time as you and is running a different pace. Never compare yourself to any other person- you don't know their story. Make it your race and have fun."

I have been thinking about what this means to me. In the past I have always struggled with comparing myself to other runners. In races, I have struggled with having the confidence to make the race my own and not the person who is running next to me or passing me. I am sure that everyone has been there at some point. In the past, I would defeat myself before the race even started- I would give up on myself before I even gave myself the chance to try!

The Helvetia 1/2 Marathon this year was a huge breakthrough for me and gave me the boost of confidence that I have been searching for. It was the first time that I didn't defeat myself before the race started and it was the first time that I felt like I deserved to be there competing. I made Helvetia "my" race. More importantly I had fun. I ran the whole race with a smile and with the confidence that I have been lacking for so many years.

I feel like I have grown so much as a runner and an individual over the last 10 months. I am giving myself credit when due and I am not comparing myself to anyone anymore. For the first time in my life, I actually feel like I am worthy as an athlete.

--Tasha