As part of the happiness project, the author (Gretchen Rubin) explores finding time to do things that make her happy. Like reading a book, writing, and exercising. Since I’ve ventured on the journey of becoming a happier, healthier version of myself – I took time to consider what makes me happy. And conversely what doesn’t make me happy.
Enter running.
When I started losing weight, I entered into this high school-esque relationship with running.
Please like me. Why won’t you be nice to me? I think you’re SO COOL. I mean, everyone is doing it, I wanna do it tooooooo!
I stuck with it. I persisted.
Really, I like hanging out with you (NOT).
I successfully ran 45 minutes in a row.
Wow, that was so much fun! Wasn’t that fun? (NO).
I waited and waited for that “runner’s high” that everyone rattles on about.
Oh em gee! Running, you are SO awesome! (PSYCH!)
For me, it never came. But I continued with my goal of being a “runner.” Because it seemed like all the fit people I knew, ran. It was like this super, special club that I really wanted to be a part of.
But when I started my happiness project – guess what I gave up?
Yup, you’re right. RUNNING!
And I am approximately 33% happier for doing it. Because now, when I go to the gym? I get to spend time doing the work outs I like – the elliptical, walking, the gazelle, weights… things that don’t make me curse and hate working out. Things I don’t dread like the plague. Working out is once again something that I enjoy because I am not putting myself under the pressure of becoming an elusive runner. So my “Couch to 5k” app? GONE. My goal of running a half marathon? GONE. Replaced with simply a goal of staying healthy and working out 6 times a week (cardio is cardio, man).
And oh my, it feels so good.
So running? I’m sorry, it’s me – not you. I’m sure you’ll find someone else. We just don’t click, and that’s ok. Goodbye!
