Motivation - Part One

Why do we do the things we do? What is it that motivates us?

I run. But why do I run? 

Well there are all kinds of reasons. I run because I enjoy it. Because I feel better after a run than before (about 95% of the time). I like being outside. It's a good chance to escape the pavements and get out into the 'countryside' - or the local park at least. It gives me time by myself. It keeps me fit. It helps to maintain a healthy weight. 

Then there are the reasons that are more to do with preparation for something else. One of the things I enjoy doing on holiday, when we escape the city, is going for long runs - along the river; along the coast; through the woods; exploring new places. But to be able to do that I need to be fit to run - and that means putting in the miles on the pavements of N London.

Then there is the preparation for a race. One of the first things that new runners are encouraged to do is to enter a race. This focuses the mind and focuses the training. It gives you something to aim for. Going further. Going faster.


But what is it that gets me out of bed at 4.30am when it is dark, cold and wet, so that I can get in some miles before breakfast?

Because in that moment - when the alarm clock goes off - I'm enjoying the warmth of the duvet a lot more than the prospect of feeling good after a 5 or 6 mile run! After all, what harm can it do if I miss just one session? I know I'll feel better for having run - and I know I'll feel guilty if I stay in bed. But the darker, wetter and colder it gets the more often the duvet wins...so what is it that motivates us?