I still remember staring at my Strava screen after running an all-out mile in 6:43.
My title read: “How the F can someone run this lap in 5:25 (3:22 min/km pace)?”
I couldn’t imagine running any faster. That felt like my ceiling.
Just 18 months later… I had run several sub-5-minute miles and was racing Boston Marathon at 6:16 min/mile pace.
What changed? My mindset.
Here’s what I’ve learned after 17,000+ miles: Your mind often gives up long before your body does.
How many times have you told yourself, “I can’t run another step” at mile 2, only to finish strong?
I see this constantly in the Personal Best community. Sarah thought she was “too old” at 52, then dropped 45 minutes off her marathon. Mike was convinced he’d never break 4 hours, until he ran 3:48.
Here are three mindset shifts that make all the difference:
1. Reframe “Failure” as Learning
Kipchoge missed his first sub-2-hour attempt by just 26 seconds. Devastating? Most would think so. Instead, he analyzed what went wrong, made adjustments, and succeeded next time.
Stop seeing setbacks as proof you can’t do something. Start seeing them as data about what needs to be adjusted.
2. Focus on Process Over Outcomes
When you focus on the big scary goal, a bad day feels devastating… But when you focus on small daily actions, you can always win.
Can’t do your planned 2-hour run? Do 30 minutes instead.
Often, momentum builds and you surprise yourself by going longer.
3. Expect Discomfort
Most people hope their goals will be comfortable. When discomfort hits, they quit. High performers expect tough moments and prepare mentally. They know mile 20 will hurt, week 8 will feel boring.
Discomfort isn’t a sign something’s wrong – it’s a sign you’re growing.
Your mind is more powerful than you think Jean… That “impossible” goal might just be your next breakthrough!
What’s one running goal that feels just out of reach for you right now?
Cheers,
Floris Gierman
P.S. It’s easier to get out of your own head when you’re in a community of runners who understand the mental game. That’s what makes our Personal Best Program special, 1,200+ runners supporting each other through breakthrough moments just like Sarah and Mike’s. Learn more at PBprogram.com
P.P.S. Here are some links you’ll find interesting:
1. Watch the most recent episode of the Extramilest podcast, where I sat down with Jay Dicharry, one of the world’s top experts on running injuries. He shares practical, easy-to-implement strategies to not only rehab common injuries (like plantar fasciitis, achilles pain, calf strains, or hamstring pulls) but also prevent them from coming back, so you can keep running stronger and longer. His approach is simple, science-backed, and built for busy runners who want results without spending hours in the gym!
2. Save 10% on Path Projects Running Apparel here.
3. If you’re looking for an ice bath or sauna, check out my friends at Plunge and get up to $1500 off here. If you’re curious, I use the All In Tub for my cold plunges!
4. Get 15% off Nutrition and Hydration from Precision Fuel and Hydration with code FLO15.
