The Happy Running Habit

Book excerpt: In The Happy Running Habit, you’ll discover a step by step guide to embracing the dirt, sunshine, and smiles in every mile. Shift your mindset. If you’re a running veteran who just isn’t having fun anymore, you might be interested in starting with Part II: Happy Running Habit Philosophies, with strategies for turning your run into a source of joy. From finding green trails, to cloud gazing, to gamifying your runs, prioritizing these activities and concepts will help running feel intrinsically rewarding, and keep you coming back for more. Build your tools. If you’re new to running and are itching to know everything you need to get started, Part III: The Happy Runner’s Toolkit provides some beginner’s advice, as well as unconventional tools that can help you stay positive and motivated at any experience level. Including mantras, visualization, and even meditation, these tools are all about dialing in on perspective, and redirecting negative thoughts into positive ones. Dream big. Or, maybe you’re interested in tackling a big, exciting (maybe even a little intimidating?) goal. Part IV: The Happy Running Habit Journal has everything you’ll need to create a plan and work towards it through journaling. With scientifically-proven goal setting practices, we’ll think about why you want to run, what you’d like to achieve, and how you’ll get there. I’ll even include a printable journal to guide you in reflecting on your runs and tracking your progress. Grab a friend. Find a trail. See where it takes you. Running is a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be a chore. There is glory in the dirt, and miles of sweaty conversations ahead. Whether this is your first pair of training shoes or your 100th, it’s about time for a little bit of sunshine.