In high school, my indoor track coach always told our team to “get out of your comfort zones!” This valuable mental toughness training always reminded us that racing is certainly not comfortable…
And over the years, my ability to hone mental toughness into a skill to be used at will became easier and easier.
In the beginning, it wasn’t that way:
Even now, I have experiences that shake my sense of self-belief.
In 2015, I DNF’d an ultramarathon (my first and only attempt).
In 2019, I was disqualified for cutting the course (by accident) of a trail race.
These experiences shook my self-confidence and made me question whether or not I even possessed any mental toughness.
But I soon realized that I wasn’t approaching mental toughness in the right way. It’s not an issue of whether you “have it” or “don’t have it” – it’s an issue of, “are you working on it?”
That’s because mental toughness training is an ongoing practice that must be cultivated over time.
You’re never “done” with developing this valuable mental skill – just like you’re never “done” with workouts, long runs, or recovery runs as a runner.
This episode also includes an announcement about Mindset Mastery, our new coaching program. It's now open for up to 20 runners but registration closes on Monday, February 3rd!
Dr. Justin Ross' areas of expertise include:
He uses cognitive behavioral therapy, performance psychology, and mindfulness training to help athletes improve their inner self-talk and develop the mental skills to lead more productive and successful athletic lives.
Justin joins us on the podcast to discuss a wide variety of issues:
Every runner has struggled with the mental side of the sport: doubts, despair, boredom, anxiety, lack of confidence, and no motivation.
Dr. Justin Ross is here to help us conquer that inner critic, use performance psychology to stay motivated, and get in control of our mindset.