Three Simple Steps to Mental Strength

You already know mental strength is important.

You know it sets the badass ultrarunners apart.

And you know you should be doing something about building it.

You’re smart and a hard worker - you’re sure you can.

It’s just…how?

Good news - this is one of the most essential skills I coach on.

I remember getting frustrated with that same question decades ago - how? - before anyone was even talking about mental strength.

It’s why I coach on the answer today.

These days, you can’t escape hearing you should be focused, consistent and mentally tough but when you dive in, there are a million opinions about how to do it and as many quick hacks that don’t stick.

You try and still end up back at that same question - how??

So I’m going to save you time and overwhelm with three basic steps you can start today.

If you do nothing but practice these a little every day, you’ll become one of those badasses.

First, look at what you’re thinking and feeling.

Why: you can’t change what you don’t admit is there.

Sounds obvious, but it actually takes attention to notice the background thinking you usually tune out.

Worries, fears, doubts, and judgements you’d rather avoid, like, “I’m scared I’ll give up when it gets tough and drop from the race.’

Write it all out, no judging, no censoring. You’re human and it’s ok.

Second, pick a thought that’s stopping you and challenge whether it’s a fact.

Why: The only thing you know for sure are the facts - and you get to decide what you make them mean.

Is it a fact you’re going to give up when the going gets tough and drop from the race?

No. The race hasn’t happened yet, so it literally can’t be a fact. It’s only one possibility among many.

The only fact here is that you’re entered in an upcoming race of a certain distance. That’s it. Anything else is the story you tell yourself about it.

Third, ask what other possibilities could be true.

Why: A positive story is just as true and will free you to run your best instead of dragging you down.

Brainstorm as many options as you can from as many angles as you can. Be relentless.

There’s no rule - be as pie-in-the-sky as you want because at this point, the race hasn’t happened and everything is possible…

“It’s entirely possible it’ll actually be easy to keep going - no drama, no big deal.”

“I’ve done so many tough things in my life I didn’t think I could do - no matter how tough this gets, I can keep going.”

“No problem. I don’t quit on myself - it’s not who I am any more.”

Pick one that feels better and believable, and make it the story you tell yourself over and over instead of the ‘quitting’ version. It’s just as legit…and far stronger.

That’s it.

Three simple steps everyone can do to up their mental strength. Practice them every day on everyday life - you don’t even have to wait for a run.

This is all you need to get started but like learning anything new, it’s easier and faster with someone by your side to help you get the hang of it…and master it.

I’m here to help you do exactly that.

Use this link to schedule a consult call. Let’s look at how coaching can build your badass mental strength so you’re ready to run your best.