The driving force behind my runs is a conscious awareness of purpose, centered on fostering personal growth and fulfillment. While I often start without a specific intention, I’ve learned that letting my mind wander too much can leave me feeling disconnected from the activity. When irrational thinking takes over, things can quickly spiral out of control. I’ve realized that to truly enjoy or challenge myself in any situation, I need to control my mind, and my body will naturally follow. In any task, we can be more efficient if we have a clear goal, focus on the present moment, and remain mindful of it.

At times, my intention might be to improve speed or endurance, so I push myself harder during the run. Other times, I aim to enjoy nature, relax, or have a meaningful conversation with my running friends. In those moments, I take a slower pace, paying closer attention to my surroundings.

More often than not, running serves as a way to clear my mind and destress. My intention is to let go of worries and enjoy the feeling of being connected with my body. There are also times when I challenge myself mentally by practicing mindfulness or focusing on my breathing, allowing my mind to work through problems or boost creativity.

By setting different intentions for each run, I engage both my body and mind in various ways, making every run unique to my current needs and goals. Intentional actions stem from a sense of purpose, and ultimately, we must not forget why we run. Embrace it, make the most of it, and be intentionally happy doing what you love.

With love and care, Francis.