440: Before You Set New Goals: What Your Running Year Actually Revealed

As runners, it’s so easy to look back on a year and immediately zoom in on what didn’t go as planned — the missed runs, the injuries, the goals we didn’t hit. In this episode, we slow things down and invite you into a different kind of reflection — one rooted in curiosity, compassion, and growth rather than judgment.We guide you through a thoughtful process to reflect on your year in running, helping you notice both the visible wins and the quieter moments that shaped you along the way. Instead of asking, “Was this a good year or a bad year?” we explore more meaningful questions like: What supported you? What challenged you? What did your body and mind teach you?You’ll be prompted with reflective questions designed to help you:Celebrate the wins you might be overlookingLearn from setbacks without attaching shame or frustrationRecognize patterns in your training, recovery, and mindsetUnderstand what truly helped you stay consistent (and what didn’t)We also talk about the importance of separating who you are as a runner from any single race, pace, or performance — and how identity-based intentions can create more sustainable motivation and joy moving forward.This episode isn’t about setting rigid goals or forcing a fresh start. It’s about integration — taking the lessons from this year and carrying them forward in a way that feels supportive, intentional, and aligned with the runner you want to continue becoming.If you’ve ever felt stuck, disappointed, or unsure about how to move into a new season of running, this conversation will help you reflect with clarity, confidence, and self-trust.🎧 Tune in, grab a notebook (or go for an easy run), and let’s reflect — together.02:10 Acknowledging Emotions and Comparisons02:59 The Impact of Aging on Running Performance04:40 The Role of Judgment in Running07:51 Reflection vs. Judgment11:38 Mental Load and Its Effects on Performance17:25 Integrating Reflection into Future Training22:30 Consistency and Success in Running24:14 Guided Reflection Questions for Runners24:41 Reflecting on a Challenging Year26:03 Adapting Training for Age and Health27:00 Learning from Personal Experiences32:16 Effective Training and Nutrition Systems34:21 The Importance of Reflection and Journaling40:16 Setting Intentions for the New YearGain 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.