A lot of people run. We either run for fun or run competitively. But how many of us actually realize and focus on ourselves running. Most of the time we just run to a certain distant that we had mapped out previously or just follow our GPS watches. We drift off into whatever thought pops into our head. We zone out and focus more on what is on our minds instead of running. Next time you go for a run be more aware of how you feel and your surroundings.

Focus on your form. You’re form is so important when running. It gages how fast or slow you’re running. It also helps you grind through those tough runs. Feel each step on the ground. Feel your heart beating. Focus on the now. Focus on you running in that moment. It will help you gain control of your run and overtime perform better.

Focus on your breathing. Your breathing controls your speed and your feelings for the run. It helps determine if this run will be good or bad. So instead of doing quick bursts in your breathing, when you begin to notice yourself struggle slowly take in deep breaths during your run. Deep breaths help you regain control of your flow and helps you realize that you don’t have to breath as fast or heavily as you are.

Focus on yourself. Don’t worry if other runners pass you or if someone you know is faster than you. Focus on you. You’re the only person you should care about. This will take time. If you’re not as good as you would like to be then put more work in. Beat that person that’s better than you. But, at this point in time, focus on yourself in this moment. Don’t compare yourself to others. That just leads to disappointment and frustration.

Train yourself to be more positive while running. Instead of telling yourself how hard the run is or how bad you feel today transition to a more positive approach. Tell yourself you feel great, even if you don’t. Tell yourself it’s easy, even if it isn’t. I’m no guru in self talk or positivity but I have seen the positive effects of staying positive first hand. Even if you feel silly at first at least try it out. You’ll notice a difference over time.

Now do it all together. Focus on your form, breathing, yourself and be more positive. You will not only be more excited to run but you’ll become more confident in your running and yourself. You don’t have to do all four things at first but slowly add them into your routine every run. These will change the way you run and help you run more confidently for longer periods of time. Trust yourself and forget about everything else.