I’m well seasoned when it comes to setbacks and have experienced my fair share both in running and in life. I’ve handled some setbacks better than others and have grown to realize that it is far better to acknowledge the setback and analyze where you’ve landed and why in order to make an affective plan for a great comeback.
Some setbacks come in the form of injury or perhaps an overwhelmingly busy schedule that may prevent you from walking or running for a season. But in order to get turned back around it’s important to recognize that both success and failure happen on the same path. It’s also important to celebrate effort and not just the end result. You can be grateful for setbacks in life when you use them as opportunities to grow, learn and to self correct. Setbacks are normal and are to be expected. They help us develop resilience and personal growth, so go easy on yourself. I know this is a tough one but our inner critic can be loud when we feel like we have gotten off track. Learning to replace the critical voice with a kinder more compassionate one can opt to be a more effective option. When people treat themselves kindly, they are more likely to believe they can improve, correct mistakes and re-engage with their goals. Whereas, self-criticism is linked to procrastination, rumination and stress – none of which are motivating.
After experiencing a setback it is important to make a plan to get back on track. I’m not suggesting a detailed or rigid plan that beats yourself up but instead try one with lots of flexibility and room for trial and error. Brainstorming ideas and making a plan can be key to making lasting changes in habit and behaviors.
When you experience a setback as a runner I recommend the following; reimagine your goals, learn from the setback, seek support, and remember what you love about walking and running. Whether that be time to yourself, being outside with nature or that feeling of accomplishment when you are finished. I am so very thankful for my setbacks and struggles because without them I wouldn’t have stumbled across my strength. Let’s turn our setbacks into comebacks and keep moving forward together!
Connect with us on Facebook @CoastalRaceProductions @RunCRP I would enjoy hearing from you – please share your comeback story with jojo@coastalraceproductions.com