Start Your Thousand Miles

Step 1: Think

Was there ever a time in your life when you were happy? Happy with who you were and what were becoming? What if you haven't had that moment yet? What's to stop you from having it?

Spend some time thinking. What do you want? Where do you want to be? What do you want to be? Then, start running/walking to get there. I guarantee that after your thousand miles you'll look back and find yourself at the very least closer to that vision of yourself.

Step 2: Write

You won't stick with this unless you find ways to hold yourself accountable. Tell people about your goals. Ask them to help by asking you how you're doing along the way.

Yes, go build it, right now. You'll find that you're not writing for people's entertainment benefits, although you will entertain a few; you're writing because it's going to motivate you on the nights you just don't feel like taking another step.

  • Track your miles
  • Track your weight
  • Track your progress

Step 3: Let People Know

Tell your friends about your blog. Ask them to check in every now and then to see how you're doing. If you're too embarrassed to tell your friends, tell me. I'll put you on my blog-roll and check in on it and give advice if it'll help. Just let someone know.

Yes, it's scary to tell someone your goals but you have to because on the nights when you don't feel like going, and there will be many, the fact that you told someone is the only thing that is going to keep you lacing up when it gets tough.

Let me know that you're running and you're blogging; I'll list your blog on my site. Believe it or not, eventually you'll find that you're inspiring friends, family and even strangers to do the same thing. Think of it as a 'pay it forward' effect.

Some have asked why I'm doing this? The answer is simple. Running is one of the most rewarding things I've ever done. It has a transformative effect that can not only make you feel better about yourself, but it will change the way you approach life. I want other people to experience that.

Step 4: Run

Someone is waiting at the finish line of your thousand miles: the person you want to be. Go take your first step.