Going slow to go fast

Four years ago, I completed a 50km trail ultramarathon…. And did my wonky back in.

I rested, then trained up and a few months later did a 22 km run. And did my wonky back in.

Me, doing my wonky back in

Ever since then, I’ve been trying to get fit enough to run 5 km. My pattern has been to start slow, then when I see improvements, to ramp up too fast and get injured again. Five steps forward, fifty steps back. It’s been incredibly frustrating.

Now, I’m trying again.

I’m using a program* that progresses soooooo slowly it’s almost imperceptible. While my dominant feeling has been impatience with that, what has actually been happening is slow, steady improvement – thus far, without injury. There is plenty of time for my body to get used to each new, incremental challenge before it steps up again.

Sometimes, the right thing to do is go for quick, profound change. Jump in, no holds barred, and away you go.

Other times, going slow will actually get you further than going fast.

The challenge is knowing when to use which approach!

Until next week, take care of yourself and others

Madeleine

*If you’re interested, the program I’m using is None to Run. I’m not affiliated with them in any way, I just like the program.

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I work with clients from executive leadership teams to the front line, helping them to make clearer decisions about what they want, and adapt faster and more easily to change and transition. I use deep purpose as a key to unlock powerful thriving in work and life.

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