On Tuesday I sent you an email about Diana Nyad, the 64 year old woman that swam 110 miles from Cuba to Florida. If you missed the email, you can see it here–> Diana Nyad
Diana was the first person to make this swim without a shark cage, or any other source of protection from the elements. 110 miles in 53 hours… after having failed at it three times over the span of 35 years.
I ran 15 miles today in preparation for the Spartan World Championships in Vermont on September 20th and it was a tough one. More mentally than physically.
As soon as I started running, I became negative. The following thoughts came in and out of my mind:
- I am not going fast enough
- 15 miles is too far
- I am getting too old for this
- I am going to look stupid if I get on TV- I still need more votes. Please vote here: http://pages.spartanrace.com/profile.php?spid=2767
- It’s too hot
- This is taking forever (I got this from my kids 🙂 )
- When will I be at the half way point
- I shouldn’t have done that boot camp yesterday
- My body is tight
- My foot hurts
- My knee hurts
- I should have made the time for a massage yesterday
- I could have eaten better this week
- I am dehydrated
Wow! That is a big list of negativity. I actually didn’t realize it was as bad as it was until I wrote it down. When you run 15 miles there is plenty of time on your hands.
After about mile 6, I got tired of hearing my own negative thoughts. I changed my pattern by thinking about how grateful I was. The following thoughts came rushing in:
- I am grateful to be able to have the time to run 15 miles
- At least I am not working 🙂
- I don’t need to go fast
- I have beautiful scenery running on Canada Road from San Mateo to Woodside and I should stop complaining and take it in
- It’s okay to walk
- I’m almost there
- I am going to feel great after I accomplish this run
- I have the rest of the day to spend with my family
- I have come a long way with my running and I still have lots of time to progress (World’s Toughest Mudder is in November and our goal is to complete 60-70 miles + obstacles in 24 hours)
After I stopped the negative self talk, my body relaxed and became more efficient. The run became less painful, my breathing was less labored and my core temperature was lower. The run was more enjoyable.
As stated in the Diana Nyad article, “Often times we’re our biggest enemies when it comes
getting what we want out of life.The negative self talk that takes place in your head has probably stopped you from accomplishing so many of your dreams.”
Many of you come to me to reduce fat, pain and stress.
Fat Loss Tip #40 is Reduce the Negative Self Talk– see the other Fat Loss Tips here–> Fat Loss Tips
My negative self talk almost stopped me today. It certainly created anxiety and stress for the first 60 minutes of my run.
Tony Robbins says you can create change in a second. It doesn’t have to take weeks, months or years.
Take some time to reflect on your day.
Did you have challenges?
What are you grateful for?
Did you have negative thoughts during the day?
Take a look at Fat Loss Tip #28–Be Grateful! You will see my daily gratitude exercise that has made me more aware of my thoughts, challenges and things I am grateful for.
Change your thoughts…change your life!
If you haven’t voted for me to be featured on TV, I could really use your vote. The voting should end at any time given the race is September 20th. If I am picked I will be able to share my story of obstacle training on an NBC reality show. Please vote here: http://pages.spartanrace.com/profile.php?spid=2767 You can’t vote on your cell and your email will not be used for anything other than voting. Thank you for your support!
“Don’t ever let yourself get so busy that you miss those little but important extras in life- the beauty of the day…the smile of a friend…the serenity of a quiet moment alone. For it is often life’s smallest pleasures and gentlest joys that make the biggest and most lasting difference.” –Unknown Author
Your friend & coach,
Brien
P.S. Please share my educational content with your friends and family and help me reach my goal of 10,000 subscribers.
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I work with those who desire weight & fat loss, pain reduction and stress management through comprehensive exercise, nutrition & lifestyle strategies. My dream is to coach those who seek my help live their passions with happiness & love.
Thank you for allowing me to help you.
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Check our life-changing fitness and nutrition programs to help you live your healthiest, fittest, and most energetic life ever!
Brien Shamp BS CSCS CMT CHEK NLC II
Personal Trainer, Nutrition and Lifestyle Coach
www.BrienShamp.com
www.Shamp’sBootCamps.com
www.10 DayDetox.com
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650-654-4604
