This brings us to our topic for this week. Mindset is the attitude in which we view the world around us. Our mindset is heavily influenced by our biases that we have developed over our lifetime. Take for example, when you order a pizza. Would you order a Hawaiian pizza, you know the one with ham and pineapple? About half of you will say yes and the other half will protest that this is some type of sin to have pineapple on a pizza. Have you ever actually tried it? Why are you against it?
Running for many of us was fun as a small child but as we entered school and (possibly) sports our attitude changed. This is because running was presented to us less as a tool to make us better but rather as a punishment when we did something wrong. If you were late to practice, messed up a drill, or didn't move fast enough running drills were the coaches' method of correction. If you were not an athlete growing up then you may have developed a mindset that running is hard and stupid.
If our experiences and biases affects the way we view the world around us and shapes our mindset, then the question is- can we change our mindset? The answer of course is yes. Mind over matter is a common phrase for a reason. If we actively think about the positive and less about the negative we will be more receptive to positive events around us and less about the negative experiences. Maybe the book, The Secret, is on to something. Positive thoughts bring positive experiences.
So instead of looking at running as a punishment, or as something you just have to do, think of it as something you get to do. To help find a running path or trail that has something interesting along the way. Think about the wonderful things you will get to see along your route. Also, celebrate your experience and work. Do not self-criticize your pace, time, or distance. You did great work. Think about what you have accomplished and all of those that haven't done anything all day. The more positive you look at your life the more likely you will continue your healthy habits.
So rethink Mondays. Instead of dreading them, think of them as the beginning of a new week of changes. You are going to be better this week than the last. You are going to be a little healthier, a little faster, or a little bit stronger. Monday is another day full of goal
s to be accomplished.