435: The Paradox of Control: When Letting Go Helps You Run Stronger

In this week’s episode, Kevin and I dive into something that so many runners (especially my fellow Type A personalities!) will relate to — the paradox of control.As runners, we love our plans, our paces, our structure. Control helps us stay consistent and push toward our goals. But when that need for control starts to take over, it can also lead to stress, frustration, and even burnout — both on the run and in life.We open up about some personal experiences — from remodeling our bathroom (hello, chaos!) to grieving the loss of our sweet pet — and how those moments reminded us that not everything can or should be controlled. Sometimes, the best growth happens when we learn to let go and allow space for life (and training) to unfold.In this episode, we talk about: 🏃‍♀️ How control can be both your superpower and your stumbling block 🧠 Why surrendering doesn’t mean giving up — it means trusting the process 💡 The mindset shift that helps you find freedom and flow in your running 📓 A journaling prompt to reflect on where you might need to take more control… or where it’s time to let goIf this resonates, we’d love for you to take a few minutes to reflect and share your insights with us — or bring them to your next run and see what comes up.🎧 Tune in now and let’s explore what it really means to find balance between holding on and letting go.00:00 Introduction to the Paradox of Control09:35 Cross Country Team and Control12:34 Understanding Control and the Nervous System19:33 Effort, Consistency, and Mindset28:51 Shifting Belief Systems30:50 Grace and Patience with a New Dog33:03 Uncontrollable Factors in Running36:06 Hormonal Influences and Control40:05 Structured Flexibility in Training42:31 Balancing Control and Surrender52:03 Invitation to the Real Life Runners TeamGain access to my new secret podcast, Unbreakable: The Runner's Guide To Injury-Proofing Your Body After 40. Click here: https://www.realliferunners.com/secretJoin the Team! -->  https://www.realliferunners.com/team Thanks for Listening!!Be sure to hit FOLLOW on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player Leave a review on Apple Podcasts. Your ratings and reviews really help and we read each one!Come find us on Instagram and say hi! Don't forget: The information on this website is not intended to treat or diagnose any medical condition or to provide medical advice. It is intended for general education in the areas of health and wellness. All information contained in this site is intended to be educational in nature. Nothing should be considered medical advice for your specific situation.