It happens more often than I would like to admit. But alas, I too am human.
I too have periods where I struggle to get out the door and run. Motherhood definitely affects this. Life is crazy, sleep is not always my own, my schedule is not always my own - and sometimes I just need a BREAK.
I used to really struggle with this idea. I used to think well, this is it. The end of my fitness era. But it wasn't. By listening to my own needs and following my own tips, I have been able to stay in my fitness era for years.
So, what do I do?
1. I Rest. And am Kind to myself.
I struggle the most when I am tired. When I feel like I can’t get out the door, it’s usually a sign that I need rest. So I rest. This could mean sleeping in, taking a nap, reading a book, letting my kids watch a little extra TV and more. And I give myself some grace and speak kindly to myself about it all.
2. I shift my mindset.
Instead of berating myself for missing a workout, I applaud myself for listening to my body. I am grateful for my ability to run and I take the time to remember that. I remember that this is an up and down process and if I go with the flow, things will go up again. I remind myself that the goal is to continue to love and enjoy running. I remind myself that while I have periods of wanting to push for that PR, the periods of just wanting to enjoy running for the love it matters just as much.
3. I focus on fuel
My lack of oomph usually comes from exhaustion. More sleep is first. But next I think about hydrating and ensuring that I am taking in enough energy and nutrients to actually assist my body in all that it is doing. As a Mom I go way too often without a real meal or water. It's not on purpose, it's just crazy life. But all those missed snacks and meals can add up and leave me feeling depleted. I may not always feel hungry, but when I lose my go-get-em I try to refocus on fuel.
4. I reach out to a friend
Running with a friend helps me get out the door. It helps me to be accountable and to take the too-serious-ness out of it all. And reaching out to a friend who I know will talk to me kindly about how I’m feeling, will support me in the long run. (hehe see what I did there)
5. I make a realistic plan
I take stock of my next week or two. I listen to my energy level, I look at my other stresses, I look at my schedule, I look at whatever else is going on in life. I make a realistic plan for myself that doesn’t feel overwhelming. My fitness schedule may have to go on the back burner for a bit, I may need more rest days than initially planned, but I know this moment will pass and I need to give myself the break to continue on for years to come.
Don't get me wrong, this didn't come natural or easy for me. Like most things in running, it took time to come upon this mindset. Of course I want you (and me) to keep putting one foot forward, but give yourself the space you need in order to make it a lifestyle and not an era.
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