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Question: I’ve tried setting goals, but I never seem to achieve them. What am
I doing wrong?
Answer: Try letting your goal be a beacon that keeps you on track to
something greater. Let your goal be your guide. If you simply can’t reach
your objective, re-evaluate your goal. This may not be the right time-perhaps
because of family or work commitments. Maybe your goal is too ambitious. Be softer
on yourself. Allow yourself to make and achieve intermediate goals along the way,
knowing that you’re moving in the right direction. Eventually you’ll get there.
Question: I’m 42 and started working out six months ago. I’m making good
progress, but I want to improve even faster. What can I do?
Answer: Congratulations on your great progress. But remember: It usually
takes four to five years for the body to adapt to any kind of training program.
To rush the process is to set yourself up for burnout—mental or physical—or
possible injury. Focus instead on gradual improvement. Listen to your body. And
remember this paradox: If you go slower, you’ll arrive sooner. When I got
back into running at a later age, I tried to push my training. I was forcing myself
to be in a place that my body wasn’t ready for. I got injured, which threw
everything off. I had to learn to back off and be patient. Within five years,
at age 41, I started running my fastest
races.
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