While positivity is a bit nebulous, I ask myself: Did I enjoy the run? Was I able to keep going and push through moments of difficulty when I wanted to quit? Was my run the mental break in my day that I needed to give me clarity, energy, and time to myself? If the answer to each of these questions is yes, then I know I succeeded in remaining

Enhanced performance is directly related to mindful and consistent efforts in all areas of our running. The next time you have a tough run or feel sluggish, forget how it felt; forget your time or pace. Ask yourself if you’ve been consistent that day (or week, or month), and focus on maintaining those regular habits.

At least a few times a month, decide what route you’re going to run, and then leave your watch at home. Other days, run wherever, guided by total time on your watch. The thing to mostly avoid is timing yourself over the same courses day after day. That way lies the madness of beating yourself up for running slower than you “should”