TeamworkTwo months ago I set a goal to run sub-5 in the mile before year end. Last year my goal was the same, and I ran 4:56 on December 22nd. It was hard, and this year the goal felt even more challenging because (unlike last year) I currently run solo 99% of the time and (like last year) am still self-coaching. So in order to keep myself motivated and accountable, I invited a friend to join me in training for sub-5. She lives 2 hours away. We never run together. But we’ve compared our workouts every week. I also asked my former coach for his advice and met up with him for a track session to get ready for my attempt. Spoiler ahead… I haven’t run the mile yet and I’m currently sick. I’m running out of time for the “year end” part. However! I’m pleased to say the outlook is good for the sub-5. For the past two months, sharing the goal with my friend motivated me to actually run hard workouts. Some days I didn’t even care about sub-5 but I really wanted to give a good report at the end of the week. And working with my coach again was a reminder that it always helps to have good advice and direction. For anyone else in the goals and resolutions mode, here is my encouragement for you: 1) Invite others in - people who understand what it takes to reach your goal! Who can offer advice as well as support. 2) Don’t be overly strict with timelines 😉. Sincerely, Nicole
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