For the last 29 days we have covered a great deal of ground (sorry, I have an awful sense of humor!). From injury management to time efficiency to running technique, we have left few stones unturned in the quest to get you on the path to becoming a better runner. At the end of the day, however, I hold no illusions about the power of what I have written. Nothing here will make a lick of a difference unless you get to work.
You heard me. There are no shortcuts on the path to getting better. It requires work, focus, and dedication. Depending on your personal focus, it could take days, weeks or even months to see the results of your hard work. So while your focus can guide you, it doesn’t drive you.
Take a moment to lift up the hood and look at the engine that powers your running, that renewable source of energy that pushes you to lace up your shoes day in and day out. Are you motivated by something positive? Or is it negative? Do you run to find answers or to get away from it all? What makes it stronger? Weaker?
Whatever your source of energy, know that this is a finite resource. It’s fickle and unless tended well, could go away. Whatever you do, don’t take it for granted. Very few folks have this inner muse, and fewer still take the time to actually get to know what makes them tick.
For me personally, the motivation changes daily depending on my workouts and my energy level. My biggest stumbling block isn’t the act of running — I love running. For me it’s just getting out of the door. My personal battle then isn’t should I run, but rather how I go from doing “X” to actually running. Because the minute my shoes are laced up I am already gone.
And after 30 straight days of tips, I think it’s time for me to hit the road…maybe I’ll need to fire up a 30-day run challenge…thanks for playing, be safe out there, and check in next week for when I resume a regular writing schedule!
Hi, I'm Patrick McCrann. 
