It's been a while since I've taken to social media to post running related content, so I thought I'd bring you up to speed.
When things are going well, it's incredibly easy to find flow and to 'love the process' - I've been incredibly fortunate in 2022 to have a pretty flawless 'run' of things, excuse the pun.
A personal best half marathon at Paddock Wood, followed 6 days later by a top 6 finish at Eastbourne Endurance Life Marathon. A podium finish at Isle of Wight at the end of April and finally a sub 20-hour finish at South Downs Way 100-miles in June.
Success breeds a type of allure. Satisfied but desiring more. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, until it becomes a bad thing.
I bounced back well from SDW100, and set my intentions on Race Across Scotland - a 215 mile coast to coast race. I began building towards August 13th.
I was loving long days on the trails. Back to back to back long runs. Time on feet. Preparing for the unknown. Soaking in the Great British summer.
But it was when I wasn't running that I recognised an unrest. A preoccupation.
I got into running because it added so much to my life. I have said many a time how running or rather smilinggg saved my life. Or at the very least, provided a deep sense of purpose and meaning.
This preoccupation. I was becoming a slave to the endeavour, the thing I loved so much. As soon as I realised this I had to take a step back and let go.
So here I am, sat on my sofa sipping a coffee, writing this with a light mind and greater balance with my approach.
I've rekindled my love for running, by complimenting time on the trails and roads with the Wattbike Atom smart trainer and Zwift - think interactive videogame for adults.
I'm gearing up for 2-months of training before toeing the start line at Gods Own Backyard Ultra 2022 on Saturday 5th November.
If you recall, I finished with the assist last year with 142-miles.
Last but not least, this event will be the Smilinggg Samaritans fundraiser for 2022. More details will follow.
I hope you're keeping well and thanks for taking the time to read this essay.
Steps 👣 + Smiles 🤗
Keep #Smilinggg 💛
