Why run 100 miles in less than 31 days?
Well, my competitive self could not resist a good challenge. A challenge that would test both mental and physical strength, while also raising money for the advanced research and programs at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
For the past 3 years, I have participated in CHOP’s 31-Day Challenge held in May. And, while every time I set goals to reach a new running PR and raise as much money as possible…I have found that what truly fuels my fire to run 100 miles is the gratitude I continue to feel towards being able to jump out of bed each morning.
The perspective that each mile provides a new journey, challenge, and reason to be thankful was what motivated me. While some miles felt like a breeze, others felt more like a climb up a large mountain. During those more difficult miles, the feeling of gratitude helped me to re-focus and bring to surface the little things I am thankful for. For example, jumping out of bed each morning (as stated before), sharing a smile with neighbors walking by, feeling the sun [sometimes rain] on my skin, breathing, feeling a rush of energy through my body [that second wind], and simply feeling alive, feeling well. Just having the time to be present and to appreciate/reflect on these little life pleasures that others may never experience was also how my gratitude supported my running goal.
Moreover, everyone’s health and wellness journey is unique and filled with various obstacles. Having just a little bit of gratitude towards the things and experiences in your life will take you towards your goals and much farther beyond 100 miles. It is okay to acknowledge the things in your life that may be making you unhappy, however it is not okay to let those things keep you from being the best version of yourself and keep you from your health and wellness goals.
So, I challenge you to make a list (mental or physical) of the little things that you are thankful for. And, the next time you feel like giving up on whatever health/wellness/self-care goal you have set… to think of your list…your why.
***Side note: Participating in fundraisers has always been one way I give back to the communities around me, and help me to feel a greater sense of purpose. So, I always highly recommend getting involved with your local communities for inspiration and motivation.***
Love ya, doll!
The Health Seed 