Don't Run away...run to...

I am afraid of running....

One if the biggest fears and insecurities I faced happened 3 years ago when I started running...

I know, most people are afraid of water, or snakes, or the dark....because of the unknown, the danger, the lack of control...But running?

It's a fear rooted in insecurity. It's a fear rooted in the fear if failure...fear of pain....fear of the unknown.

My excuse in New Orleans was that it was too hot...to muggy...I'm too busy.

So why did I start? Because deep down I really wanted to run...I really wanted to face the fear. I saw others do it and was inspired...but could I do it?

I decided when we moved to Cincinnati that I needed to start. My hubs took me to the running store, got me some awesome shoes...I got home and took off..one  mile!!!! I was so excited...so tired...so sore! Lol!

Then I started to build...little by little and conquer the fear.  Face the discomfort. And what did I love the most? How I felt when I finished. During that run I ran towards my goal. I ran towards my fear. I conquered that distance, and I talked out in my head all the things that hurt, all the lies I was believing, the pain and desire to quit... I pushed and pushed. 

From time to time I struggled. I didn't get out like I wanted because of the weather. Or I started to compare myself to others who were faster, in better shape, and could run farther. 

The hardest part was getting me out the door...I would get so nervous...I would be super snappy and cranky because that fear of failure would well up inside...

"It's going to be hard". " you can't do it". " you will never reach you goal" " why bother" " the kids need you" "your too slow". The list goes on...

To not push myself out the door is another type if run...it's a mental run. It's training my mind to run away from the things I want to do. The things I need to do. The things I'm called to do. 

Thankfully I have a wonderful hubby that knows this about me. He know how to push me. To talk me out of my tantrum. That way when I decide to run... I am running towards the goal...not away from anything....

What are you afraid of? What are you running from? I challenge you to take a step out of your comfort zone and run towards the freedom that awaits you at your finish line. 

You are not me...you are called to something meant for you...you know what it is ...seek it in your heart...Run Towards it !!! Not away from it! 

Please know as I train in these upcoming weeks for my half marathon I will lift you up...your fears...your needs...just share them and considered them prayed for! Please pray for me as I train and face this day by day, run by run!