Running is 95% Psychological

I started couch to 5k last December, so coming up to a year now, I’m at a point where I run 5k 3 times a week and really enjoying it. I’ve realised that the mind plays a massive part in running and it is a constant battle. Here’s a little insight into what my brain goes through during an average run…

“You’re off to a good start, this feels good, might even beat my personal best! … Shit I’m feeling tired already, just keeping going though. There’s no way I’m gonna get through this. Don’t worry about your PB it’s more important that I just finish this. Slow down. OK hurting now, just stop, it’s so easy to just stop, no one will think any less of me? Think of it as a practice warm up run. Eurgh shut the f**k up and just keep going don’t be so pathetic! Legs are hurting, I think I should stop. Just make it to the next lamppost see how you feel yeah? No… finish it, you just need to finish it, forget about a PB just god damn finish it!!! What’s that smell? Is someone behind me? Why have I started running in time with the music? That’s gonna ruin any chance of a PB… should’ve had something to eat… my VO2 max better go up after this!! forget about that just finish it!!! I can’t do this… Just stop you’ve done enough - If I don’t finish this I’m gonna be in a mood all day. Oh I’m here? not far now, one foot in front of the other… just stop thinking and finish it. Oh nice, I’ve finished it, that was awesome… oh and I got a PB”

Rinse and repeat… every time! I hope I’m not alone - is there a way to clear the mind???