Show Doubt Who's Boss

Aubrey Stetter-Hesselberg
Sep 18, 2017
2 min read

As I was running the Mini Donut half marathon last weekend, I had my favorite jack-myself-up tunes bumping in my ears ('The Greatest' by Sia coming just when I needed it-- during the last quarter mile--YES!) and they seemed to be helping because my pace was swift and consistent. I was breathing right, keeping stride, and even passing some of the other participants (although I was honestly out there to compete with myself, no one else).

Around mile 5 I remember thinking 'I totally have this...I feel great... Almost to the halfway point!' Then, as I predicted, words/phrases of doubt started to creep in... 'You are ONLY halfway done... you have another 8 miles to go.... Your knee is already starting to ache... That person just passed you again... You haven't trained right for this race...' I vividly remember hearing and starting to FEEL these words. I could feel my emotional stability leaving. But, I kept going... I kept pedaling my legs with the same strong stride, the same intentional forward movement... consistently propelling myself in the right direction.

I recall feeling doubt and remembered how much those doubts used to control my actions. I remember how self-doubt used to nearly paralyze me from going full-force after what I knew, deep down, I could attain. Don't get me wrong- doubt still tantalizes me regularly. The difference now is I do not let it take hold for long. I acknowledge it and I acknowledge the negative impact it is having on my actions/existence. Then, I release it.... gently at first, but passionately shoving it away if necessary.

The most profound moment came not from the finish of this race but during those moments of doubt. I was reminded just how strong a role self- doubt can have on our existence. I thought about all the people who are running that same trail who are in the throws of self-induced discouragement at that very moment. My heart went out to them in such a way that I felt compelled to keep running for them. I knew I was stronger than I used to be and I prayed that they would feel that same confidence for themselves in those moments.

Put yourself in situations where you have to become stronger than you think you are... because you are, indeed, more powerful than you know. xo