Saturday, April 17, 2010

Asking for HELP!

One of my New Year's goals was to run the Country Music 1/2 Marathon. I even blogged about wanting to do it in October. Now it's 1 week away and I am really nervous. My training has been inconsistent up until about a month ago.

My biggest problem...I didn't ask for HELP! Why is it so hard for us to ask for help? Does asking for help make you feel weak? Insecure? Are you afraid of being rejected?

I felt insecure about asking for help. I thought no one would want to run with me because I am super slow and would hold them back. I was also afraid of being judged as a crappy runner or completely crazy for attempting to run 13 miles when I am not in the best shape.

About a month ago I finally met my friend SM in Central Park and it was great! In the last month she's had me running up and down hills, doing drills and speed work. Although I was nervous about my slow speed she was thrilled. She usually runs solo and was so excited to have someone to talk to (she's a talker) even though I couldn't talk back. (I cannot talk while running. It's either talk or breathe and I choose breathing!) After a month of working with her I feel a little more confident about the race. I do plan to continue our runs together after the race. We motivate each other and generally enjoy our runs, even if she is going at a much slower pace for my benefit :)

I often think about all the time I wasted by not asking for help. My friend never judged me, in fact, she has been extremely positive and motivating. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness and you should not be afraid to ask your friends and family for assistance when needed. Asking for help is a proactive and mature approach to problem solving. Next time I will not wait so long to get the help I need.

Next Saturday, I am taking the plunge and going for it. I imagine I will walk a lot of it which is ok with me. My goal has always been to cross the finish line. Wish me luck!!

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