Trust the Process

I began this year's training program excited. Excited to enter new territory. This is the first time I have created my own training program. In previous years I have found a race, researched books and websites, and found a cookie-cutter plan. While I've always finished, I've finished wondering what I could have done differently to finish stronger.

Like in previous years, life happened. A couple of work trips hindered my weekend long runs and I was stressing out. My race was getting closer and closer and I wasn't getting in the long runs I needed. I made some adjustments to my plan and the last couple of weekends I have been able to get some quality long runs in.

Life can change goals. Work, family, health, etc. can and will affect your training. Adjustments have to be made. That is the problem with cookie-cutter plans. They don't change if you get sick or if you have to work on a weekend.

This is where a coach earns his or her money. They can look at what you've done, where you're at, and where you need to be and adjust your plan. If you're starting to feel burnout, a coach is someone who has been there and talk with you. Maybe the original goal needs to be re-assessed.

A coach knows the process. He or she wants to see you reach your summit as much, if not more, than their athletes. Trust the process.