Twelve miles. Before. And after. (newsflash—it’s hot in NYC in...
Twelve miles. Before. And after. (newsflash—it’s hot in NYC in August). Longest training run I’ve done yet for the New York City Marathon this fall—which will be my third.
But know this: I never ran ANYWHERE until I was in law school. Mostly, I drank and smoked three packs a day—Marlboro reds (yes, three—trust me it can be done).
These days, I no longer drink or smoke. Instead, I run. And I write. Those things—and the family I’ve made—saved my life.
As I ran today, I was reminded again how the lessons I learned from long-distance running are directly applicable to novel writing. (Also, by the way to quitting drinking).
1. Ignore people who do things differently than you. Same with writing–outline, don’t outline, listen to music, require utter silence. Wear a stupid hat. Do whatever you need to do to get the job done. It does not matter what anyone else does or what they think.
2. Don’t worry about mile 13 when you are at mile one. It’s just not helpful. Listen to the ever-so-wise Anne Lamott: Bird-By-Bird folks. It’s the only way to go.
3. The beginning will SUCK.
4. The middle will SUCK WORSE. This has no bearing on how the end will turn out.
5. Ignore people for whom it seems to come easier. Celebrate their victory. Or, if you are unable to do so, blame their longer legs, their better shoes, their years of tutelage. Baring that, convince yourself that—deep down—they are crying inside.
6. If a stranger offers you a high five en route TAKE IT. Even if its it is not meant for you and they try to dodge you. You NEED all the encouragement you can get. Even that which must be taken by force.
7. Do NOT stop halfway. Do NOT stop when you are almost there. You can slow down if you need to, catch your breath. I know, I know, just a little rest is all you need that little voice in your head is saying. Trust me, that is not your voice Trust me, that is not your voice you’re hearing, it’s the devil’s. And you have one option: RUN LIKE HELL.
(For #8-13 see my FB page!) (at The High Line)
https://www.instagram.com/p/B0tK0Htgune/?igshid=9zj8wew9wbbi
