It was my second day running in a new environment. The humidity was as thick as molasses. I ran past several dog walkers, an occasional fellow jogger, and an intrepid walker wearing a mask. Some waved. Others made sure not to make eye contact.
The sun was rising. It was a great start to the day. I got some great photos of local flowers. It was much different from the day before.
Yesterday
- I ventured out two hours later
- The sun was blistering hot
- The road was busy with speeding commuters
- I ran out of water within two miles
- The end of the run couldn’t come soon enough
Today
- The clouds displayed pink and orange hues
- I didn’t feel the effects of the sun
- It was easier to find the flowers
- I ran two miles further
- I felt I could go another two miles
I had plenty of excuses the day before to wait.
- My daughter was going to work and she needed the bathroom
- My wife and I drove through the night to reach our destination
- My running shoes were tucked somewhere it the luggage and I didn’t want to make a ruckus while my wife slept
- I hadn’t figured out my route
My hesitation made for an unpleasant run. I was glad when it was over. The next day, I was glad I got out early and was ready for more. It was a great reminder for me that procrastination just makes a any task harder. It can even make an enjoyable activity more difficult.
Will I need another reminder of this in the future? Of course I will! Our feelings betray us many times. And there are times when it is okay to relax and not feel the pressure of getting out there. Still, if there is something I know I need to do, this day will be a great reminder for me.
What are you putting off that is only making a task more difficult? I urge you to take the reins and put yourself in control instead of letting your feelings make you miserable before and after a task.
