5 Tips to Help You Get Back in the Game
Written by Alex SinclairI am very proud to present this lovely guest post written by my daughter, Alex. It is her first guest post ever. She wanted to share a little something about her recent struggles with running.
I have been a runner for approximately 430 days. We have a love/hate relationship with each other – a perfect example of a bond that is sour one day and passionate the next. I first started running to become happier and healthier, but I have a knack for turning things into a perfect outlet for my daily teenage stresses. In short, I became stressed about my de-stressing technique, which is both a paradox and a silly, silly thing.
I dropped running a few times, and with that, it felt like I’d dropped all my hard work and my momentum. I found myself staring at my momentum in its paused state on the ground, even spitting on it and kicking it around for a bit. Although on the inside, I was really kicking myself for having dropped it so easily. Like a book or an old toy, my momentum was temporarily lost.
I have endured many tests, like being cut from a volleyball team I loved, and running seems to be the latest test. It depends on the day, the time, the substances floating around in my OCD body and my mood…which is totally unpredictable at times. What frustrates me the most when I lose my momentum with something that I love(hate) is that, in those moments, I believe that I have lost it forever and I’m never going to get back in the game.
I asked my mom to write a post how to pick up lost momentum off the ground, dirty and worn, and regain the strength you once found in that experience. She suggested that I write a post to help others with that problem, and in doing so, help solve my own.
5 Tips To Help You and Me Pick Up Our Dejected Momentum & Get Back In The Game:
- Don’t blame yourself. Be it a special occasion, a jam-packed schedule or a need for some couch time, don’t put the blame on you because then you might feel that you don’t deserve to re-gather your momentum. If you stop running, or whatever you’re currently gathering momentum for, then you were meant to stop.
- Make a list of things you love. This will help re-focus your momentum towards activities, people or knick knacks that you enjoy. If the item that you dropped into the theoretical mud is not on this list, then perhaps you shouldn’t pick it up.
- Enlist the support of others. If you have pals or relatives helping you out, then you might feel more motivated to start things up again. Just like bungee jumping, someone will be there to prevent the destruction of, well, you.
- Pretend you never lost a thing. If you tell yourself that something went wrong, you’ll believe that. Try telling yourself that it was a momentary pause and you got to that point from hard work and will, and you can get there again.
- Smile. Although it may not seem relevant now, my mother always told me to smile. It will lift your bad mood without you realizing it. If you grin from ear to ear, you just feel good. This will help with self-confidence and strength to gather up the items that slipped from your grasp.
As I started this post, I was seething at my runners lying there on the floor. I was pouting at my tired legs and blaming myself for being weak, when in fact, it was something that was meant to happen. I needed to reject my runners a couple times along the way in order to appreciate the strength that is required to gather them up again, put them on and get back in the game.
I hope that I have helped those of you who are both stubborn and motivated like me, to take a breath and gather up what has fallen through your fingers. Gathering momentum (and keeping it) is a long process: enjoy the adventure, rather than the outcome.
Happy gathering.
Alex Sinclair is a 17-year-old high school graduate, volleyball player and runner who plans to attend university next year to become an elementary school French immersion teacher upon completing her teaching degree.
26 Responses to “5 Tips to Help You Get Back in the Game”
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Alex, thank you for sharing this beautiful post with us. And thanks to your lovely Mom too for hosting it
I’m not a runner, but no matter what I’m aiming for, my momentum splats into the mud with regularity. That used to mean, ‘game over,’ for pursuing that particular passion, but by practicing tips like you’ve shared, I’ve learned that momentum can be regained.
What a treat to ‘meet’ you on here, Alex. I wish you every success with running, studying, and living!
.-= Jean Sarauer´s last blog ..How to be Your Own Blog Post Fairy =-.
What a great post! As a runner myself, I can definitely relate. I hope you have gotten your momentum back and hit the road running.
.-= Rachel´s last blog ..My Upcoming Guest Post on Simple Productivity Blog =-.
So well put AND well done! Every word rang true! Not surprising though, I always knew you were a wise one! So proud of you for “just doing it” and putting it out there!
Alex:
‘I needed to reject my runners a couple times along the way in order to appreciate the strength that is required to gather them up again, put them on and get back in the game’.
I love that! It’s so true. I took up running again awhile ago and find myself really enjoying it, but some days are easier than others to lace up the shoes. I really relate to your post and, like you, go through many of the same challenges.
Thank you for the helpful tips! Today, I’m consciously taking a break from running so both my body and mind can rest.
Oh my sweet and very talented god daughter, I could not be more proud of you!! You are a gifted writer and wise beyond your years. What a gift you have shared with your post! You have inspired me to share my favourite tool to keep my momentum going which also lends itself as a tool to let me know when I am craving a break from something. I have a daily ritual to write down 5 things I am most grateful for in my life, in doing so I never let the small stuff get in between me and the things I am most grateful for that day. Family and friends are a staple on my list but a few things vary but I always make sure running and/or yoga are on there as they keep me in touch with myself. The key is to make sure that you are authentic in your 5 things you are grateful for. That way I never feel guilty if running falls of my list for a while, it means I am focused on something else that makes me happy, but because running and yoga make me feel good, they always make it back on the list at some point. It is so easy to get distracted but I believe that “our actions and thoughts today define our tomorrow”, this belief makes it easy for me to focus my actions and thoughts around what I am most grateful for to make it grow.
Thanks for the wonderfully inspiring post Alex!
Love
Dawna
.-= Dawna MacLean´s last blog ..Part 4 of 7- Is Your Corporation Socially Responsible =-.
Dear Alex,
I really needed to read this today. It came at just the right moment when I was feeling down. Thanks so much for your words and wisdom. You are amazing.
.-= Linda Gabriel´s last blog ..Pamela Slim Asks- “Who Do You Think You Are” =-.
- Thank you very much Jean! I understand the momentum splat a little too well, but with my mom’s advice (and my own, I suppose) I hope to reduce the number of times I lose momentum. I’m glad that I had a chance to contribute to my mom’s wonderful blog. Nice “meeting” you too!
- Rachel, thank you. It’s nice to know I’m not the only runner who finds herself stuck once in a while. I hope to be back running once the heat wave in Ottawa subsides. Good luck with your running and other endeavours!
- Thank you Chantal, you are definitely wise as well! Good luck with your running, as I know we have similar emotions concerning running!
- Thank you Elana! Yes, some days are definitely harder than others. I like calling myself a “runner” and I will definitely attempt to listen to my own advice so I can call myself that forever! Glad you enjoyed my tips!
- Dawna, you make me feel so good every time I hear from you or see you! I’m glad you enjoyed my post, and I’m not surprised a creative and kind person such as yourself has already been using one of the tips in her every day life. Miss you! xox
- Linda, thank you very much for your kind words! I’m glad that I could at least help one person today, not including myself (who is currently kicking around her momentum in the mud). I hope you’re feeling better, and I’m sure you will pick up right where you left off very soon!
Alex how wonderful it is that you have the courage and passion to write this guest post. It’s a fantastic addition to this amazing blog.
# 3 & 4 are my favorite 2 tips.
To succeed we must have endurance and part of that is…getting back up again – that’s what I love about this “how to pick up lost momentum off the ground, dirty and worn, and regain the strength”
I can relate to your love/hate relationship. Ballet is a deep passion of mine and it’s a major struggle. It’s as satisfying as it is heart wrenching. As a dyslexic my motor skills are challenged, meaning I will never pick up a combination/choreography fast enough to not get cut from an audition. I confuse the pattern. Over the years I stopped a few times heartbroken, frustrated and angry – each time I put my pointe shoes back on again I fell in love. Over time I learned to be patient with myself, and know that I look like a fool with each new combination/piece of choreography – but once I brake it down and memorize it, it look so effortless and easy. It takes endurance, patience, self kindness. There are ways to keep going, like you said “enlist others” “pretend you never lost a thing” and “smile” – the rewards for sticking with it even after them momentum is broken, dirty, on the ground and torn up are… well, the rewards are tremendous.
I hope you keep us posted on your running adventures.
.-= Aileen´s last blog ..Have a Ball and Release Stress with This Simple Massage Technique =-.
Alex,
You’re one wise 17 year old! I think every tip was superb.
I especially like the one not to blame ourselves because sometimes things were meant to happen like they did. I totally agree.
I also love the one about smiling. I think smiling changes us from the inside out, plus I think it does something chemically to body to that helps lift our mood.
Thank so much for this terrific post!
To dear sweet Alex (who writes as beautifully, flawlessly and authentically as her dear mom), thank you for being such an example of wisdom and delight – I must have more conversations with teenagers.
Yes, we (you and I) are going to do exactly the same – my momentum with meditation and yoga comes and goes – and I love both to bits – sometimes “hate” comes in and stays for just a little while but mostly it’s love. It’s about making the commitment day in and day out for me….I have no doubt you’ll be running again. I just hope you remember these lessons later in life when they really matter (yes your running matters too but more serious things will come up and you’ll be the wiser for knowing these). As they say in Italy, Bravissimo!
Hello Alex,
Did writing about how you are feeling about your sometimes declining momentum make you feel better? Writing, for me, puts eveything into perspective.
It was lovely to meet you here today. I do believe you will become a very fine teacher, after completing your degree. I wish you well with your studies.
Make sure you mum keeps us all up to date on your future progress.
.-= Joanne Keevers´s last blog ..Happiness plus Gratitude Equals Overwhelming Joy =-.
Alex, Thanks for this great post – it is wonderful and wise and well-written. I needed a little pick me up tonight and this did it. Thank you! Cheryl
Nice post Alex…you come off as a very intelligent teenager…you may also consider starting your own blog…good luck with your studies next year and enjoy your summer…happy running
.-= ivan´s last blog ..Discovering Yourself Through Travel =-.
Alex, You Rock! What a great post. You have a future in writing along with your French stuff. Start a blog! I’ll sign up!
I started barefoot running about a month ago and love doing it except for the days that I don’t want to do it. I feel the love/hate thing! Those were great tips and very worldly for someone so young.
You’re gonna set the world on fire!
.-= Steve´s last blog ..The American Dream Is It Still Relevant =-.
Alex,
This is very great post for 17 years old, you seemed to have a steps by steps guide that not only will help you but help others in similar situation.
I think your mom Katie is great for posting this article and letting us get to you more. Great job!
.-= Preeti @ Heart and Mind´s last blog ..No Spend Month Challenge- Update 1 =-.
Hi Alex, Good post. I totally know what you mean–sometimes we just need to take a break. Love what you say about putting a smile on…yup, it works. Something to do with releasing endorphins, or one of those chemicals our body needs to feel happy–hey, I think it’s the same ones that are released during “runner’s high”…don’t know if you’ve experienced that, but I have while doing endurance inline skating. At about mile 6-7 or so, it starts feeling really good and can last all the way to mile 60.
I like #4 especially, though they’re all good. Instead of judging and saying things are bad or good, I just say “they are.” This is what I have to work with. Where do I go next? What is my next step? Why do I feel this way, what do i need? And if the answers don’t come right away, I know they will.
And I think the word “momentum” is going to be used in a different way–watch. If it’s not already getting used the way it’s used on this blog, it will be. I predict in about 5 years it will be as common as expressions like “no clue” and all that.
“Aw crap, lost my momentum today. How’s yours?”
Much luck–I mean happy momentum– with your French teaching goals! Wonderful–I’ve studied French since I was really young and continue to do so at home to stay fresh (with the Rosetta Stone program)…lifelong love
Hi Alex, I am stubborn and motivated like yourself so yes, you have helped me take a deep breath. I still stumble on #1 because there’s a side of me that likes to feel responsible for a lot of things; even those beyond my control. #2 is a great reality-check type exercise which is something I do regularly. #3, I admit I could use a little practice involving others because I believe that a lot of people truly do want to be helpful if we can remember to reach out and ask. #5 has to be the simplest, easiest and wisest piece of wisdom there is because it works.
And to your mom, what can I say, kudos on raising a lovely young woman!
Alex: What a great post and isn’t it amazing how sometimes the answers we need can come to us when we try to share information and help others. I think that was great advice your mother offered you to write this post and all the advice you are sharing is really great and helpful. When I was younger (much younger
) I was an avid tennis player and would say that I had a love/hate relationship with tennis at points like you shared. When I look back on my experience and the lessons I was meant to learn from them, you have captured many of them in this post. I think it is all about understanding that at some point life is going to throw you curve balls that will challenge your commitment and momentum, but those challenges are all perfectly designed to make you stronger …all you have to do is get back up, learn the lesson and keep going. Thanks for sharing the great post and your thoughts on this. Very much appreciated.
.-= Sibyl – alternaview´s last blog ..How To Ensure That You Get Out of Life Everything You Want =-.
- Thank you Aileen, and I agree that my mom’s blog is fantastic! I was happy that she wanted me to contribute. Your experience with ballet sounds both lovely and challenging at the time same – it reminds me of running. I will try to keep you guys posted on my running!
- Thank you so much Angela! I blush every time someone calls me wise. I think the tip that says to not blame yourself is probably the toughest tip for me to use. I blame myself for every bad thing that happens to me, and I guess I should take my own advice!
- Farnoosh your kind words make me so happy and thankful for my wonderful mother! I will try my hardest to reflect on these tips for all sorts of life events and I’m glad you enjoyed!
- Joanne, yes writing definitely helped me accept my temporary losses in momentum! I am very excited to be a teacher and share my tips with my students. It was nice meeting you too!
- Thank you so much Cheryl, I’m glad I could help! You and Annie are both wonderful additions to my (and my family’s) life!
- Ivan, thank you! My mom and I were talking about my own blog possibly occuring, although I might be busy with university next year! I’m flattered at the suggestion though, thanks again!
- Steve, you made me grin ear to ear! Thank you very much! How are you finding barefoot running? I would love to try that. Have a great summer!
- Preeti,thanks for your kind words. I think my mom is great too. Have a great summer!
- Leah, your writing style is great! Very captivating. I’m glad you like mine as well! Also, I totally agree with regards to momentums future…growth in momentum? haha. I am also very excited to be a teacher!
- Belinda, I’m glad I could help! And I must say my mom has shaped me more than I realized just yet! Both her and my father are very inspirational. Thanks.
- Sibyl thank you! Yes, I was hoping that I would be helped in the process of trying to help others! So far, so good. Your words are very kind and I agree with everything you said about learning the lesson and moving forward!
-
Why I find it right outside my door, Alex! Seriously, it is great. It is helping me recover from a knee injury. You step different barefoot, no heel strike, no injuries. Watch out for glass!
.-= Steve´s last blog ..Lifestyle Design- Getting Things Done- and A Talking Lion =-.
Oh, Alex needs a blog of her own! This post was wonderfully helpful and came at just the right time for me. Thanks for sharing with such grace.
Hey Alex—-
Running and I have the same relationship. All I can suggest is to just step out the door and let your body take you.
Dean Karnazes says that when you just think about taking 1 step, that it will be come 2 steps then 10 then 100 and so on.
Good luck.
David Damron
The Minimalist Path
.-= David Damron´s last blog ..The Only Way to Save Your Day =-.
Thank you all so much for your kind and encouraging words for my girl. She bravely stepped outside her comfort zone and has been embraced by the wonderfully supportive people that visit this blog. I am grateful and joyful for each and every comment. And above all, I am grateful and joyful for the enormous amount of love my child brings into my life each and every moment.
Thank you Alex for being my first “star” teen guest poster. Hopefully, you will write for me again very soon.
Alex did wonderfully and answered comments well too. I am quite impressed! Good luck Alex, I know you will be back in game and everything you will choose to be! I have that feeling.
Wow Alex you are much wiser than your age. Great advice. Thank you for sharing with us. You are as brilliant of a writer as your mother. I hope you continue to share part of your journey with us. Happy gathering Alex!
.-= Manal´s last blog ..Is It Time to Stop Playing Catch-up =-.
- Clearly Composed (which I’m sure is not the name on your birth certificate) thank you, I’m flattered by all of your kind comments! I’m glad I could help.
- David, thank you. I’m sure you understand all the troubles, and yet extreme joy that comes with running. Getting into the right head space is the hardest part for me. Thanks for your tips, and good luck with your running as well!
- Mom, right back at you. Thanks for letting my post and I hope I can visit these wonderfully supportive and lovely people on this blog again. xo baba.
- Manal, you are yet another person to make me blush by calling me wise. Thank you! I have learned from the best (thanks Mom and Dad for my genes and for being the best). I hope to write again for my mom. See you soon on the blog and happy gathering as well!