What’s a story you tell yourself over and over that’s just not true?

The first one I can think of is that “I’m not an athlete.” Then I look through my life and see, football, baseball, wrestling, rock-climbing, mountaineering, alpine skiing, telemark skiing, ski-touring, track, marathon, ultramarathons, road races, oh, and almost forgot the years of Karate and Judo.

Create space outside of your sport. Find time to connect with friends that aren’t your ‘running friends.’ Find time to work on the other parts of yourself - for some that may be art, music, or spending time with your family. Even just a little investment will help you prevent that foreclosure on on your identity. It will help prevent burnout, help you recover, and help you when times get rough.

While the thought crossed my mind for a few moments to not compete as I knew there was a certain risk (of severe injury or worse) I also knew that I could be composed enough to not ‘race,’ take my time navigating terrain that was above my ability, challenge myself in other areas, grow as a rider and get stronger, preparing for races later in the season.

The opportunity was in the mindset.