The mind, when faced with physical challenges, often looks for shortcuts and distractions to avoid the present moment's discomfort.
But, instead of fixating on the destination, I chose to silence this illusion and live step by step; to be present and simply exist in the moment.
And, almost instantly, everything changed.
I concentrated on my breathing, the rhythm of my steps, and the feeling of the ground beneath my feet. Despite the mental and physical fatigue from the miles I’d already logged, I felt a profound sense of calm and peace.
At the point where I felt mentally weakest, this was a reminder to enjoy the process.
All of the motivational carrots I’d dangled in front of myself throughout the run had disappeared. The only thing left was to just be—and, surprisingly, my last mile turned out to be my fastest.
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