Potential

[ShoppinShannon]

Okay, so let me set the scenario up.  There I was this morning sitting in my robe, just got my son off to school.  I'm not feeling so motivated.  In fact, I'm still a little sore from Sunday, I didn't have my Tim Horton's and my Aunt Flo arrived (ladies understand who she is).  I know,  Wah wah wah...Anyways, yesterday, I told myself that today I was going to do something different.  I was going to pick an unmarked route and run.  No watch, no distance markers, just run.  I wanted to see how far I could go.  So, out of guilt I dragged myself off the couch, (only because I indulged at the Pampered Chef party the night before and somehow one of Jacob's Halloween treats made there way to my belly) and put on my new Asics long sleeve shirt  and new hat (recently purchased at Tri and Run Sports).  No, I didn't go out the door with just that on....ha ha.  So, I go out the door, and it starts to rain...ugh...what next right?  I know "suck it up buttercup".  Unwavered, I start off up Curtis, Sydney, then I approach the hill at Hamilton road.....I thought to myself, what the heck, get up there, I'll kick myself if I don't at least try....
I did it!  While I continue up to RCAF road, I was reflecting back to Sunday, and thought about what allot of women said to me.  Someone told me that the 7K trail was almost like running a 10K.  Then another person said, that once you hit 7 or 8, you can keep going. By the way, I was so inspired by so many of you women out there.  Your stories truly motivated me. 
So, I began to think about my potential.  Let's keep in mind, I only just started running in April, and only just three weeks ago, I accomplished running up to 7k on the base trails. 
Could it be possible that I got hooked up on distance and time?  I would always just stop at my 7k marker, thinking that, that was all that I had in me.  Was I scared of?
Another question, is it strange that I don't swing my arms when I run? LLLLLLLLLL
One more question, why were my fingers swollen like sausages when I got home?
Anyways, today I found out that I ran just over 8K, and felt wonderful.  Now I believe I can do anything I set my mind to, I just have to believe that I have the potential in me to do it. 
Just thought I'd share, wondering maybe other newbies out there think of the same.

Living one day at a time and loving it.
Shannon

[Heath]

Way to go, Shannon!  What an accomplishment!  That hill is not easy to run all the way up and you should be proud!  Challenging yourself is a great way to stay motivated.  Congratulations on your 8K!

[Sandy]

Well that is a very motivating story on a grim, rainy Wednesday.  Think big, believe big, act big and the results will be...big. Sometimes we do get caught up in the "result" and forget to enjoy the process.  I think your biggest accomplishment today was enjoying the simple act of moving your body forward, kudos to you.

You do have a low arm swing but it's not strange.  To work on this, run with your elbow bent to 90 degrees and practice swinging them from the shoulder as if you were elbowing someone behind you.  Keep your hands relaxed and thumbs pointing at the sky.  When you go up a hill punch your hands forward to assist your legs, but never allowing your elbows to straighten.

Sausage fingers are swelling obviously and usually a bi-product of dehydration or low blood sodium.  Try monitoring your fluid intake for amount and what it is you are drinking.

Thanks again for sharing Shannon and remember your potential is unlimited!

[Janet]

Hey Shannon,
  Thanks for the great story.  It's nice to hear about race accomplishments, which sometimes makes us forget about the challenges to do those little accomplishments that got us to our final goal in the first place.  Kudos to you for reminding us all that we do all have tough to get started run days, where sleeping in, staying all wrapped up in a blanket on the couch would be so much easier.  Isn't it great that what looked like it was going to be a not so stellar day turned out being something to be proud of.

Way to go
Janet

[Robyn]

Truly inspiring, Shannon.? Keep up the good work and you just have to believe anything is possible.? When you feel like you can't take another step, just tell yourself you can do a few more, then a few more, and then a few more.  Before you know it, you've covered more distance than you ever have before.  Somethimes getting out the door is the hardest part.  And don't forget to celebrate your accomplishments.   :yeah: :hello2:

[ShoppinShannon]

Well, thank you all for your kind words, you guys are the fuel for my motivation. Again.....Thank You.   :icon_sunny:Have fun on the trails this weekend, unfortunately my work prevails, I'll be looking forward to my next trail run!

[Jane]

Now I believe I can do anything I set my mind to, I just have to believe that I have the potential in me to do it.?

You said it all right there, Shannon!  You have to believe in yourself.  It can be as much about the mental as the physical.  If you think you can't do it, then you probably won't. 

See you next time you can get out!

[Elizabeth]

Congratulations to your Shannon, the best is yet to come!

Elizabeth