Mental Toughness is key

When it comes to working out, whether you're training for a race, or just trying to stick to a consistent routine, self-doubt, lack of motivation, and negative feelings are sometimes inevitable. Learning how to manage your stress response can make a HUGE difference in how you perform, and what the outcome of your training will be. 

And remember: the mental demands of training are sometimes harder than the physical demands. Luckily, there are ways to become mentally stronger. 

Identifying your “why,” (“Why am I doing this?”), is one of the most important factors when it comes to developing ways to overcome self-doubt or lack of motivation.

Here are 6 steps that have helped me immensely when it comes to mental training. 

Tip: write down your responses to these questions. It will help you think through them! 

Step 1: Identifying what inspires you

What are 3 things that motivate you to keep pushing yourself? 

Example: embracing a challenge, showing yourself what’s possible, or proving you have what it takes. 

Step 2: Sources of inspiration

What 3 sources do you draw strength from?

Example: my ability to persevere, mental toughness, the people who support me. 

Step 3: Defining your purpose 

What 3 things give you the most purpose? 

Example: accepting a challenge, inspiring others, holding myself accountable. 

Step 4: Changing unwanted behaviors 

Identify 3 unwanted behaviors or emotions you want to work on. 

Example: self doubt, focusing too much on the outcome of a run, putting too much focus on “bad” workouts.

Step 5: Coping with negative emotions 

Identify 3 ways you can identify and respond to unwanted emotions 

Example: reminding yourself of you why, positive affirmations, focusing on the bigger picture. 

Step 6: Shifting focus 

When you hit the “wall” what are 3 things you do to push through?

Example: acknowledging emotions but not letting them consume you, flipping the script on negative feelings, fueling yourself and thinking about it as filling the gas tank.

And Remember...

Mental toughness isn’t built overnight - it’s built one workout, one challenge, and one mindset shift at a time. The more you train your mind, the stronger your body follows.