The past couple of days have been tough.

The enjoyment of my morning runs has been declining.

It’s harder to get out of bed in the morning. It’s dark and cold outside. We put the flannel sheets on the bed this weekend so I’m perfectly comfortable when then alarm goes off at 4am. It’s too easy to roll over and fall back asleep – something I’ve done the past two mornings.

I’m past the “getting better” phase of my training. I’ve entered the “don’t screw up” phase and it’s a struggle to put on my shoes to go for a run.

Even now, I should be stretching for an easy 5-miler, but I’m waiting a few more minutes for the rain to stop. A month ago, I’d already be 15 minutes into the run and loving it.

Self doubt
My run yesterday was filled with thoughts of “if I was on mile 21 right now, how would I feel?” I couldn’t shake the nagging doubts that I wouldn’t be up to the challenge. I know that it’s all mental at this point.

Physically, I can do this. All of my miles are in the bank. I’ve had long runs of 18, 20, 21 and 23. I’ve put in the speed work. I’ve averaged 45 miles/week for the past 3 months. My legs are as strong as they’ve ever been. I received a clean bill of health from the doctor yesterday.

I can do this