Go. Go. Go. That’s life. We’re always on a mission to jam-pack as much as possible into our daily routines. It’s like racing – the gun goes off and our goal is to get to the finish as fast as we possibly can. We’re flying down the course, and many times we miss so much. Some of the most amazing people. Some of the most amazing stories. We’re totally oblivious because we’re so focused on one thing – getting to the end. All that busy-ness and all that speed we’ve created in life is definitely challenging but sometimes…just sometimes…it’s important to create space.
Creating space doesn’t always mean clearing out your schedule, though it can. To me, the most important type of space we can create is within the mind. How many times do we get into a run or a workout and instead of focusing on our breath or our form, we're focused on the next 4 things on the to-do list for the day? Sound familiar? Yeah, you’re definitely not alone. We flaunt the “busy brain” like a badge of honor, but in reality, it’s so hard to maintain and can steal the joy out of almost every experience. There’s always a sense of dread or worry hanging around because that laundry list of life-chores, just never goes away.
Well, this is your chance to change it. I’m a running coach, but my 2016 challenge to you is more about mental fitness than the physical side. Take time this year to carve out moments to really clear your head and think. Focus on exactly what you’re doing at the exact moment and the results may blow your mind. When you’re out on a run, focus on your breath, your steps, look around at the amazing world you’re running by mile after mile. Be present and allow what you’re doing to truly sink in. Ditch the distractions and create some space. Consider it a life-changing gift to yourself in this brand new year.