Pressure is building

Pressure, why is it that we let it control us like nothing else in our lives. Why do we allow the pressure of a race or event dictate the outcome. We do it because we don't know any different. We assume pressure is a normal part of a race. So much so that we equate it to nerves. Well this may be news to some, but pressure, unlike nerves is something we can control and something that we bring on ourselves. When I line up at an event for the first time, or even the hundreth time the nerves will always be there. However by rationally thinking about the event, being prepared for the distance and setting reasonable expectations you can eliminate any pressure.

Many people I know are six days away from the one of the biggest events of their lives, the Boston Marathon. Thousands of others I don't know are also preparing for what very well can be a life changing event. And one thing that all these people have in common is the undue pressure they are going to put on themselves. Now their is absolutely nothing wrong with having a goal and going after it.However allowing that goal, wether acheived or not, to lessen the moment is a real shame. Last I checked neither you or I will be listed in the Herald the day before as a race favorite. There will be no laurel wreath placed on our heads or microphone shoved in our face. However what their will be, is a huge crowd of people who will be there to cheer you on regardless. The medal you receive will weigh the same as the Kenyan that will probably win the whole race. And most important you will have run a marathon.

20 years from now when our grandkids as us about these things they will be no less impressed if you say you ran sub 3 or sub 6. Times and race results will always be there for comparisons, however aside from winning or not even trying, the only thing that truly matters is the doing. Being on that start line, regardless of being a qualifer or a charity runner at the end of the day all that will matter is how you feel you did. To often people allow the pressure they place on themselves to cripple them and not let them enjoy the event. Chances are you are not running a 2:05 and just by being there you have beaten everyone on the DID NOT START list. So stop, take a step back and get rid of the pressure you are putting on yourself. It is one of the few things in a race that you can control. Allow it to control you and you will never enjoy something that should be enjoyed. You are running. Not working or dealing with life's endless stresses. There are few things in this world that are as empowering as being able to self power your way 26.2 miles. Most people complain about driving that far and you are about to run it.

So before Monday comes and the inevitable race nerves hit, stop, take a deep breath and leave the anxiety for the next guy. Worry about what you can control, do your best, leave no stone unturned and cross the finish line. If you are not going to enjoy the fact that half a million people are going to line the race route to cheer for a bunch of everyday folk then what can you enjoy. It is your chance to shine, your day to put all those training miles on the pavement. Remember to smile, for a bad day running is better than a bad day at work. And for gods sake remember to cover your nipples.

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