Nov 29, 2023
Running Towards the Finish Line: Reflecting on the Year in Running
As the year draws to a close, it’s a perfect time to reflect on our running journeys and celebrate the progress we’ve made. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, running offers a multitude of physical, mental, and emotional benefits. Take time out in these final laps towards the finish line of 2023 to reflect, learn, and explore.
Reflect on Achievements
Take a moment to look back on your running accomplishments throughout the year. Did you complete a race, achieve a personal best, or conquer a challenging running route? Celebrate these milestones and acknowledge the hard work and dedication that went into achieving them. Reflecting on your achievements can boost your confidence and motivate you to set new goals and new inspirations for the new year.
Lessons Learned
Running is not just about physical fitness; it also teaches us valuable life lessons. Reflect on the challenges you faced during your runs and the strategies you used to overcome them. These lessons can be applied to other areas of your life, helping you develop resilience, discipline, and perseverance. Many of the lessons you learn in running can be a pivotal shift that you need in your career, financial, and personal life.
Setting New Goals
The end of the year is an ideal time to set new running goals for the upcoming year. Whether it’s completing a longer distance, improving your pace, or participating in a new race, setting specific and achievable goals can provide direction and motivation for your training. Break down your goals into smaller milestones to track your progress and celebrate each step along the way.
Embracing the Season
As the year comes to a close, the weather may change, presenting new challenges and opportunities for runners. Embrace the beauty of the season, whether it’s running through colorful autumn leaves or braving the winter chill. Adjust your training routine, accordingly, incorporating cross-training or indoor workouts to stay active and maintain your fitness level. It is true that winter can bring on the “Winter Blues” so challenge yourself during the variation of the season to stay innovative and inspired to get your run or workout in.
Gratitude for the Running Community
Running is not just an individual pursuit; it’s a community that supports and inspires one another. Take a moment to express gratitude for the black girls running community that has motivated and encouraged you throughout the year. If you’re new to the area, seek out running groups, participate in person and virtual races. Challenge yourself to be in a community. There is something about being together in not only community but also sisterhood that can help boost not only your physical health but your mental health.
Rest and Recovery
As the year comes to an end, it’s essential to prioritize rest and recovery. Give your body the time it needs to heal and rejuvenate. The end of the year doesn’t mean trying to get as many workouts as you can get in. It means taking time to reflect, to honor how far you have come, and to take time to assess the direction in which you would like to go in 2024.
So, as you go through these last few laps of 2023 take time to truly honor who you are today, how far you have come in 2023, the obstacles that you have overcome, the milestones you have made and the sisterhood and community that you have continuous showed up for.
You did it, SIS.
By: Felicia. R. Hall @feliciarhall
Felicia is an educator and motivator at heart. Felicia is a Certified Athletic Trainer, Corrective Exercise Specialist, Run & Fitness Coach, RYT 200 Yoga Instructor, Educator, and a doctoral candidate. She is a small-town girl who loves running, nature, and helping others become the best version of themselves.