What if pursuing your running goals could coexist seamlessly with the simple joy of the run itself? Join me, Bridget, as I share my journey of balancing the thrill of chasing a sub-two-hour half marathon with the pure pleasure of following a unique "dogs per mile" approach. I unpack the internal tug-of-war between staying goal-oriented and embracing the joyful moments that make each run special, all while striving to find a harmonious middle ground. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, I invite you to explore how acknowledging this balance can enrich your running experience, whether you're aiming for a personal best or simply savoring the scenery.

We also shine a light on the challenges runners often face, from societal pressures to fit within a specific brand identity to the often idealized portrayals of running on social media. By discussing these topics, I emphasize the importance of authenticity and staying true to oneself. Together, we navigate the complexity of the running journey, celebrating the freedom to be both a serious competitor and a fun-loving runner. So, whether you're counting your pace or counting dogs, this episode encourages you to embrace all facets of your running adventure.

Takeaways

• It's important to find a balance between joy and performance in running.
• Having performance goals doesn't negate the joy of running.
• Authenticity in sharing running experiences is crucial.
• Runners can be both serious and fun at the same time.
• It's okay to not have everything figured out in your running journey.
• The running community is diverse and complex.
• Finding joy in challenging runs can enhance the experience.
• Sharing goals can help create a supportive community.
• It's normal for runners to wobble between different goals and joys.
• Embracing both aspects of running can lead to a more fulfilling experience.

Chat with Coach Bridget

HIGH FIVES, RUNNER! 🙌

Before you hit the showers, let's make sure you're part of our running pack:

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Until our next run together, remember: every step forward is progress, and every dog you see is bonus motivation. Keep running, keep smiling, and keep counting those dogs!