We all have supporters. Sure, we all motivate ourselves to do whatever it is we do: running, triathlons, writing, lawyering… you get the picture. But if you stop and really think about it, you also have a big support network to get you through, right?
That time you realised that your goal was bigger than you thought it was
And you flipped out and they were there to pick up the pieces.
I seem to have the yips…
When I was in year 12, this was my mum. I wanted a certain score, I wanted to get into a certain uni, and studying for my final exams, I would just break inside. There was no way I could get from here to law school.
Mum was the one who let me cry, made sure I had pain killers and support when I had stomach problems, and reminded me that I was fine.
Who’s that person who reminds you that it’s only week 8 of your training plan? That you will be able to run 40km? That you will be able to run the whole 5k? That walking is totally ok?
That time it was all too much and you just sat down and gave up
And then that person was there, giving you a hug, or reminding you why you started. Maybe they just sat with you for awhile, or maybe they talked it out with you over days, or in some cases, weeks.
A couple of years ago, I stopped. Everything. I didn’t study, I didn’t go out. I just stopped. Man did I need my supporters then. Mr The Rake was responsible for kicking me out of bed in the morning to make sure I at least got up. Friends I didn’t realise were such good friends convinced me to go out with them.
Who’s been there when you’ve been unable to continue. When you got to mile 15 and went ‘nope, that’s it’?
That time someone told you you couldn’t do it, and you believed them
Maybe it was a doctor, a nasty commenter or a well-meaning friend. They are doubtful that you will be able to meet your goal. And something in you wants to agree with them.
Who’s the supporter who reminds you that they’re wrong, that they don’t know you, that it’s ok to get a second opinion?
Last week I got an email from Dad:
Don’t worry about the running, just keep the fitness up. I know it can be frustrating
Sometimes, that external validation makes all the difference.
That time you got psyched out
Last night, a friend told me he was running doubles, just for fitness. I can’t run on consecutive days, let alone twice in one day!
GIFSoup
So here’s to our supporters!
Thanks guys.
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Great post! I think about my supporters a lot. It takes a lot of help so I can drop everything and run! I really do appreciate everyone that helps and encourages me along the way. Including my #planktweeps! I look forward to tweeting with y’all all day!
Haha thanks Holly! Same goes
Wonderful post! Great reminder to keep our supporters close and be grateful for them. One of my biggest supporters is my dad, love him for always encouraging and standing by me. SPA love xo
Yoli @ Tough & Tiny recently posted Why I Work Out in the Morning
Thanks Yoli! Your Dad sounds as wonderful as mine
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SUCH an important post and point…no one is alone and no one gets to where they are without having people who’ve helped along the way.
my mommy-o is a big supporter and so is my dad and sibs. i’m so happy u have some amazing people in ur corner. 
Yeah – I think I’m pretty lucky
. Actually, I think you may have got me thinking about this with a picture you had on facebook last week.
Loved this post! If my husband and family were not as supportive and tolerant of the running crazy there is no way I could keep going. I am thankful every time I see a friend or family member at the start or finish of a race. It makes it all the more special and reminds me that I am nothing without my support system:).
Bean recently posted So Sweaty and Foot Rubz
I agree x 100! It makes a race so much more meaningful to have a little bit of support from the people we love. So glad you’ve got some great supporters out there!