No matter whether you are a beginner or seasoned runner, highs and lows are experienced by all; lows need to be overcome. It is an integral part of the journey.

The inevitable lows are to be accepted as part of the running game and turned into an advantage, as an opportunity to learn and improve.

Failures, if accepted and faced, will greatly assist in making progress. Unfortunately, those who cannot accept setbacks experience self-doubt and soon retire back to the comfort of their couch with their ambition shattered.

“Things happen: things, which are neither good nor bad. It’s just running!”

We need to accept this fact and learn from it.

By doing so, we can adapt and enjoy the feeling that comes with becoming a better runner and a more confident person.

The more challenges overcome, the more new skills developed and honed.

Some of these roll over into other areas of life, providing strength in facing up to whatever challenges may be encountered.

Sometimes I will have a really bad run (meaning it will be really hard, and I will not feel good at all), and instead of judging it as a ‘fail’ session, I will make up my mind to learn from the experience.

I will instead ask myself:

• What did I eat and drink the night before?
• How did I sleep?
• Am I stressed?

Making appropriate adjustments to lifestyle will greatly improve the probability of success.

Remember, every challenge is an opportunity to grow and become a stronger, more confident runner.

Embrace the journey, learn from the setbacks, and keep moving forward.