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Focus on progress over perfection by approaching goals with awareness.
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Accept ups and downs as part of the journey.
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Invest time in strength and mobility sessions to prevent injury, without neglecting recovery.
Sometimes, when setting ambitious goals, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by expectations, whether in sports, fitness or life in general. In such moments, the best way forward is to ease the pressure on yourself and focus on improving rather than achieving perfection. It’s not necessary to give 100% effort at every moment, this approach can even become counterproductive in the long run. What truly matters is your readiness and willingness to engage in the process. If you’re considering starting a new journey or taking the next step in an existing one, these three tips may be helpful to keep in mind.
1. Be ready to commit fully
If you’re thinking about signing up for a race, first ask yourself if you’re truly prepared to dedicate time and energy, both physical and mental. Time management is often the most challenging aspect of any preparation. Develop a strategy to organize yourself and carve out the necessary time. The success of your months of training won’t come from achieving perfection in everything, but from the dedication you bring to the process once you commit to this adventure. Tackling an experience with your heart and mind fully engaged will make it more rewarding and enjoyable, leaving you with a sense of accomplishment.
2. Physical and mental preparation
There is always excitement at the beginning: the body and mind are fresh and rested, ready to face the challenge. It is normal to encounter difficult moments along the way, workouts that seem more strenuous and taxing than expected, or days when motivation seems absent. It is important that you keep in mind that these feelings are completely normal, regardless of your level of experience. Accepting these ups and downs as part of the process will help you move forward smoothly. Knowing how to deal with even the less positive days will help you develop resilience and perseverance.
3. Prioritize recovery and cross training
Although it may feel like an additional commitment, dedicating time to strength and mobility training, as well as recovery, is crucial for long-term performance improvement and injury prevention. These elements can enhance your running economy, helping you use less energy, and reduce the risk of common issues like knee pain, calf strain, or hamstring injuries. Tools like foam rollers, kettlebells, dumbbells, and resistance bands can become your best allies. After all, no one wants to be sidelined by an avoidable injury.
Consistency matters more than perfection
Regardless of where your path starts, remember that the greatest value lies not in perfection, but in the effort you put into it. It is not necessary to be flawless every day; what matters is taking small steps in the right direction. Every action taken with awareness and dedication helps build your growth, day after day. Free yourself from the pressure of always having to give your best and focus on what makes you feel in harmony with yourself. In the end, what really matters is to keep moving forward, one step at a time.