Today I ran across (pun intended) an article titled “6 Common Mistakes New Runners Make”. The article’s premise was that many beginners take up running without knowing what it takes to be successful. This causes them to fall victim to 6 common mistakes.
As I read the article I realized that these 6 mistakes are also common with people who are chasing a dream. Running looks to be a lot like trying to become a writer, an actor or someone trying to start a business.
Here is a look at the 6 mistakes the article mentions about running and how it applies to dreamers.
1. Doing Too Much
Dreamers try to take over the world in one day. This is why people who go to Hollywood burn out when they aren’t A-list celebrities the moment they arrive. Dreams take time.
2. Not Taking Rest Days
Much like #1, we can’t conquer the world all at once. Even the hardest grinders need to take time off. Step away and clear your mind and when you get back at it, you will be refreshed.
3. Not Wearing The Right Gear
As a dreamer, your gear may be a notebook or a laptop. Maybe it is your business card or headshots. It is important to recognize what gear is right for your dream. It varies based on what you are chasing, but you won’t get far without it.
4. Not Cross-Training
As I wrote a few weeks ago, achieving your goal takes hustle confusion. It is important to break up your routines occasionally so things do not become monotonous.
5. Running Through Pain
Runners can handle a little pain, but should shut it down when an injury becomes worse. Same idea applies to dreamers. What is important is to distinguish between pain and a crippling injury. It can be painful to have your business idea rejected, but that is not crippling. Something crippling would be like spending all your time working on your business that your wife leaves you. Don’t try to run through that.
6. Comparing Yourself to Others
You wouldn’t expect to run a 5 minute mile on your first day jogging. So why would you expect to write a best selling novel on your first day as an author? Just because someone else can run a 5 minute mile or write a groundbreaking novel doesn’t mean you have to be able to. Especially not on day one.
Click here to read the initial article about running.
Photo credit: Wikipedia
