· Set impossible goals. Running a Marathon looks impossible but, in fact, is only very hard.
· Persistence matters. Putting one foot in front of the other will move you towards your goals.
· Don’t start too fast. You have to manage yourself for the entire race.
· Don’t start too slow. Why give yourself a disadvantage at the start?
· Be adaptable. There will always be surprises no matter how prepared you think you are.
· Everyone can be a “winner.” There are other ways to “win” than being “first.”
· Don’t underestimate your opponents. You may get beaten by a 90 year old in a tutu.
· Applaud heroes. I ran several miles with firefighters in full gear including air tanks!
· Keep “self-talk” positive. What you tell yourself affects your attitude and performance.
· Hills are a part of life. Have a strategy to deal with them.
· Find joy in the journey. There is much to enjoy along the way.
· Having the best gear does not make you faster or better.
· Pain is not a reason to give up. The other guy is hurting, too.
· Encourage each other. You will both do better as a result.
· Don’t always run solo. The right partner will push you to higher levels.
· Say, “thank you” to those that support you along the journey.