The Question Every Runner Should Ask

A few years ago I heard this question that stuck with me. I try to ask myself everyday. But life has had a way of throwing noise and drama in my way so it has slipped my mind. Today I was in my head and I couldn’t remember the last time I took stock with the introspective query. 

The question? 

What have you done today that has helped you reached your goal? 

It’s one of those simple, to-the-point questions that can stop you in your tracks. It can apply to anything – career, diet, running, relationships or whatever. I tend to ask it about EVERYTHING. The answer can be humbling and it can also lead to other questions. (Particularly if you’re a journalist who asks questions for a living.)

Am I working hard enough? Why not? Am I taking it easy because I’m afraid to fail?  Am I afraid of success? Am I a fu*king idiot? What the hell is wrong with me? 

Sigh. I get reflective when I’m alone on the trail. I think it’s one of the reasons I escape to the mountains whenever I get the chance. I like to sort my shit out in the warm embrace of Mother Nature. 

The snow had fallen over night covering the dry bits. I had followed the tracks of some fat bikers for a few kilometres until the trail went cold. Then I traced the tracks of some deer, a moose and bear. Funny thing is later on in the day, I ran into the fat bikers who confessed that they were following my footsteps. 

I had a long week. This morning I just wanted to stay in bed and cry under my blankets. I promise I am not that crazy. But I knew I had to get my sorry but out of bed and embrace the day. Life is too short to be hiding under the covers. 

I’m not sure I sorted out my stuff today but I feel like I’m headed in the right direction.

What have you done today to help you reach your goal?

Peace.