Say It, Then Run With It

Three years ago, I started jogging on the treadmill at Orangetheory, even though I had never been a runner. I had never done any running or jogging before, but one day I decided to see if I could do it.

And I did!

Lately, I’ve started going to Tread 50 classes at Orangetheory. They are exactly what they sound like: 50 minutes of jogging or running. I’ll admit I was intimidated. I wasn’t sure I could do it, and the classes were at 7 a.m. on Saturday mornings. Yikes.

But the alarm rang at 6 a.m. that first Saturday and I dragged myself to the gym. I told myself I didn’t have to do it. I told myself I could choose to walk instead.

When I saw the program, it was 8 minutes at a push pace, which for me meant jogging, followed by 2 minutes of walking. Then we would repeat that four times before the cool down and stretch. I had rarely run for 8 minutes at a time, but I started.

Two minutes became three, then four, and suddenly the first block was done.

Then I did it again.

By the third and fourth rounds, I needed a couple of 30-second breaks, but I stayed with it.

Now this Saturday morning class has become my habit. Somewhere along the way, I decided I am an early-morning runner. So, when the alarm goes off at 6 a.m. and the old doubt whispers, I can’t do this, I answer back: I can run. I can do this.

And before I know it, it’s 8 a.m. and I have done it again.

Try this ONE thing

So much of life depends on what we tell ourselves. I told myself I could run on Saturday mornings, and now I do.

For the next week, notice the story you keep telling yourself. If it starts with I can’t, try changing it to I’m learning to or I can. Then choose one small action that proves the new story true.

What are you telling yourself right now? Is it a story about what you can’t do, or a story about the person you are becoming?

Let’s Connect!

If you’re ready to talk about creating a better, more joyful life—or if you simply want to share your thoughts—leave a comment below, repost this blog, or reach out to me directly. I’d love to hear your story, answer your questions, or help you take the next step toward the life you want. Sometimes, one conversation is all it takes to spark real change. Reach out to karen.laidlaw.theONEthing@outlook.com. Until then, enjoy the blog and keep moving forward.